Humboldt Research Fellowship 2027 in Germany: Fully Funded Research Opportunity with Monthly Stipend of Up to €3,600
The Humboldt Research Fellowship is one of the world’s most prestigious fully funded international research programmes, offering outstanding researchers the opportunity to conduct independent research in Germany. Administered by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, the fellowship welcomes applicants from all countries (except Germany) and supports research across all academic disciplines.
Whether you are an early-career postdoctoral researcher or an experienced academic, this fellowship provides generous financial support, access to leading German research institutions, and the flexibility to pursue your own research project with a host of your choice.
About the Humboldt Research Fellowship
The Humboldt Research Fellowship enables highly qualified international researchers to undertake a 6 to 24-month research stay in Germany. Fellows work closely with a host researcher at a German university or research institution while pursuing their own independent research agenda. The programme is part of the Global Minds Initiative Germany, supported by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space.
Beyond funding, the fellowship offers long-term membership in the prestigious Humboldt Network, connecting researchers from around the world and creating opportunities for future collaborations.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants receive an attractive monthly stipend along with numerous additional benefits.
For Postdoctoral Researchers
- Monthly fellowship of €3,000
- Fellowship duration of 6–24 months
- Fellowship may be split into up to three research stays within three years.
For Experienced Researchers
- Monthly fellowship of €3,600
- Fellowship duration of 6–18 months
- Flexible research stay that may also be divided into multiple visits.
Additional benefits include:
- Intensive German language course before the fellowship where applicable
- Family allowances for partners and children
- Travel expense support
- Subsidies for private health insurance
- Ongoing academic and professional support throughout the fellowship
- Access to extensive alumni programmes after completion.
Who Can Apply?
Researchers from all countries outside Germany and from all academic disciplines are eligible to apply.
Postdoctoral Applicants
Applicants should:
- Have completed their doctorate within the last four years (or be close to completing it before the selection meeting)
- Demonstrate strong academic publications in internationally recognised journals or publishing houses
- Meet all programme requirements.
Experienced Researchers
Applicants should:
- Have completed their doctorate within the last twelve years
- Hold an established academic position or leadership role
- Possess an extensive publication record demonstrating significant research contributions.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit their application online and prepare the following documents:
- Two-page curriculum vitae
- Five-page research proposal
- Complete publication list
- Selected key publications
- Doctoral certificate or proof of completion
- Language certificate (if required)
- Two confidential expert reviews
- Statement and research facilities confirmation from a German host institution.
Applications that are incomplete or fail to follow the prescribed format may be rejected without review, making careful preparation essential.
Application Schedule
Due to increasing demand, the Humboldt Foundation now operates three application calls each year, each with a maximum of 800 applications.
The next application call opens on 15 November 2026, with successful applicants eligible to begin their fellowship from September 2027. The current application round has already reached its maximum number of submissions.
APPLY ON THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE
Selection Process
Applications undergo several stages, including:
- Formal eligibility review
- Expert peer review
- Evaluation by specialist committee members
- Final decision by a multidisciplinary selection committee of approximately 60–70 researchers.
Selection is based on:
- Academic excellence
- Quality of publications
- Originality and impact of the proposed research
- Future research potential
- Feasibility of the research project with the proposed German host institution.
Why Apply?
The Humboldt Research Fellowship is widely recognised as one of the most competitive international research fellowships available. Besides generous funding of up to €3,600 per month, fellows gain access to Germany’s world-class universities, research institutes, laboratories, and international scientific networks.
For researchers seeking to advance their academic careers, establish international collaborations, and conduct cutting-edge research in Europe, this fellowship offers an exceptional opportunity to achieve those goals while joining the renowned Humboldt community.
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