Germany is inviting internationally recognised doctoral researchers from around the world to apply for the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation Research Fellowship 2026. This prestigious fellowship supports scholars who earned their doctoral degree within the past ten years and have already demonstrated the ability to conduct independent research.
The fellowship enables researchers to pursue independently designed research projects in collaboration with German academic institutions for a period of 6 to 18 months. Participants will work with leading scholars in Germany while benefiting from generous funding and access to one of Europe’s most respected research networks.
The program is open to applicants from all nationalities (with a temporary exception for Brazilian researchers) who have established an independent academic career, often evidenced by roles such as assistant professor, junior research group leader, or equivalent scholarly achievements.
Scholarship Summary
- Host: Alexander von Humboldt Foundation
- Host Country: Germany
- Category: Fellowships | Research Fellowships | PhD Fellowships
- Eligible Countries: All Countries (Except Brazil currently)
- Reward: €3,200 Monthly Stipend | Travel Costs | Insurance | Family Allowances
- Program Duration: 6 – 18 Months
- Degree Level: PhD / Postdoctoral Research
- Deadline: Open (Applications Accepted Year-Round)
Scholarship Details
The Alexander von Humboldt Research Fellowship offers outstanding researchers the opportunity to conduct long-term research projects in Germany while collaborating with renowned academic institutions and scholars.
Fellows will work on independently designed research projects in partnership with a German host institution, strengthening international academic collaboration and knowledge exchange. The program allows for flexible scheduling, meaning fellows can divide their research stay into up to three separate visits within the fellowship period.
This fellowship is highly respected internationally and aims to support future research leaders, promote academic excellence, and build lasting collaborations between German researchers and scholars from around the world.
In addition to financial support, fellows gain access to the extensive Humboldt alumni network, which offers ongoing professional development opportunities and collaboration across disciplines.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation Fellowship will receive:
- €3,200 monthly stipend to support research activities
- Opportunity to conduct 6–18 months of research at German institutions
- Full health insurance coverage
- Reimbursement of travel costs to and from Germany
- German language support
- Family allowances for spouses and children
- Special allowance for single parents with children
- Possibility of extending the fellowship for fellows with children under 12
- Research allowance to support project-related expenses
- European collaboration allowance to facilitate partnerships across the EU
- Access to a large international alumni network
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Alexander von Humboldt Research Fellowship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Applicants must have completed a doctoral degree within the last 12 years
- In some cases, applicants with Master’s/Diplom degrees and significant publications may qualify up to 16 years after graduation
- Applicants must demonstrate a strong publication record in internationally recognised journals or publishing houses
- Applicants must secure a research host at a German academic institution
- Applicants must provide a detailed support letter from the German host institution
- Applicants must provide two expert recommendation letters, preferably including one international reference
- Applicants must demonstrate language proficiency:
- German for Humanities, Social Sciences, and Medicine (when required)
- English for Natural Sciences and Engineering fields
- Applicants must have spent at least 12 months outside Germany during the 18 months before applying
- German citizens may apply only if they have lived or worked outside Germany for at least five years
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
- Two-page Curriculum Vitae highlighting academic achievements
- Complete bibliography of publications
- Selected list of key publications
- Copies of major publications
- Proof of doctoral degree or confirmation of completion within six months
- German language certificate (if applicable)
- Host institution confirmation of research facilities and support
- Two expert recommendation letters
How to Apply
To apply for the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation Research Fellowship:
- Confirm that your doctoral degree was obtained within the last 12 years
- Ensure you meet the international research experience requirement
- Prepare a detailed research proposal describing your project
- Compile a complete and selected list of publications
- Identify and contact a German academic host institution
- Obtain their written support and confirmation of research facilities
- Prepare all required documents in electronic format
- Submit the online application through the fellowship portal
Application Timeline
- Applications are accepted throughout the year
- Selection committee meetings are held three times annually:
- March
- July
- November
Applicants will be notified by email after their application is reviewed.
To begin the fellowship application process, click HERE
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