Applications are now open for the Humboldt Research Fellowship 2027 for outstanding international researchers.
The Humboldt Research Fellowship is a fully funded international research program offered by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation. The fellowship enables researchers from around the world to conduct independent research at a host institution in Germany while receiving generous financial support, travel funding, health insurance, and family benefits.
Fellowship Summary
- Host Country: Germany
- Host: Alexander von Humboldt Foundation
- Category: Fellowships | Research Fellowships
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Reward: Monthly Stipend | Travel Grant | Health Insurance | Family Allowances | Research Funding
- Duration: 6–24 Months
- Deadline: Applications Open July 15, 2026
Fellowship Details
The Humboldt Research Fellowship 2027 offers researchers at different stages of their academic careers the opportunity to undertake fully funded research in Germany. Fellows are free to choose their preferred host institution and research supervisor, allowing them to work in an environment best suited to their research interests.
Funded by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, the fellowship is regarded as one of Germany’s most prestigious research awards. Every year, the Foundation supports more than 700 researchers from around the world, helping them conduct high-impact research while building international collaborations.
Over the years, the Foundation has established a global network of more than 26,000 Humboldtians across over 140 countries, including 49 Nobel Laureates. Beyond financial support, the fellowship provides researchers with access to an internationally respected academic community and opportunities for long-term professional collaboration and career development.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Humboldt Research Fellowship, applicants must:
- Hold a PhD or equivalent qualification completed:
- Within the last 4 years for Postdoctoral Researchers.
- Within the last 12 years for Experienced Researchers (up to 16 years may be considered with an outstanding publication record).
- Have a strong record of academic publications in internationally peer-reviewed journals.
- Obtain confirmation of research facilities and a mentoring agreement from a host researcher at a German institution.
- Submit two expert reviews, preferably including one from the doctoral supervisor.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English or German, depending on the research field.
- Have lived outside Germany for at least 12 months during the 18 months preceding the application.
- German nationals must have lived abroad for at least five years before applying.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants for the Humboldt Research Fellowship will receive:
- €2,670 per month for Postdoctoral Researchers
- €3,170 per month for Experienced Researchers
- Mobility allowance for conferences, research trips, and library visits
- Travel expenses (where not covered by another source)
- Medical and liability insurance subsidies
- Funding for an intensive German language course
- Language course support for accompanying spouses (where applicable)
- Family allowances for eligible accompanying family members
- Child allowance for single parents
- Europe allowance for eligible research stays in other European countries
- Monthly research cost subsidy for the host institution:
- €800 (Natural Sciences & Engineering)
- €500 (Humanities & Social Sciences)
Required Documents
To apply for this fellowship, applicants must prepare to submit:
- Online Application Form
- Research Proposal
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- PhD Certificate or equivalent qualification
- Academic Publications
- Host Institution Confirmation and Mentoring Agreement
- Two Expert Review Letters
- Proof of English or German Language Proficiency (where applicable)
How to Apply
To apply for the Humboldt Research Fellowship 2027:
- Visit the official fellowship application webpage.
- Complete and submit the online application.
- Ensure your host researcher submits the required host statement.
- Arrange for your referees to upload their expert reviews directly.
- Submit your application 4–7 months before your preferred selection round.
- Applications are reviewed by an independent academic committee, with selection meetings held in March, July, and November.
- Successful applicants may begin their fellowship on the proposed start date or defer it for up to 12 months.
To begin the fellowship application process, click HERE
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