Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
- DAAD Fellowship Details
- Funding Benefits
- Eligibility Requirements
- How to Apply for PRIME Fellowship
- FAQs
The DAAD PRIME Fellowship (Postdoctoral Researchers International Mobility Experience) is a prestigious, fully funded scholarship in Germany for international researchers. Funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), it supports early-career postdoctoral researchers with an 18-month program: 12 months of research abroad followed by a 6-month reintegration phase at a German university. This fellowship is designed to enhance global research collaboration while anchoring your academic career in Germany.
DAAD Fellowship Details
- Duration: 18 months (12 months abroad + 6 months in Germany)
- Host Institutions: German universities and international research centers
- Start Window: Between 1 June and 1 November 2026
- Application Deadline: 29 August 2025
- Eligibility: Open to researchers of all nationalities with a PhD completed within the last 6 years
Funding Benefits
- Salary: Based on German TV-L E13 scale (€5,000–€6,400/month pre-tax)
- Mobility Allowance: €1,500–€2,800/month during the research abroad phase
- Travel Allowance: Lump sum based on destination
- Social Security: Full coverage under German employment contract
- Additional Support: Up to €10,000 for family, disability, or chronic illness accommodations
Eligibility Requirements
- PhD completed no more than 6 years before fellowship start
- Strong research proposal with international relevance
- No more than 12 months spent in the target country in the last 3 years
- Affiliation with a German host institution (recommended but not mandatory)
- Previous DAAD funding does not disqualify you
How to Apply for PRIME Fellowship
- Visit the DAAD PRIME Fellowship Page
- Register on the DAAD “Stipendiendatenbank für Deutsche” portal
- Select “Programme für: Promovierte” and switch to English interface if needed
- Prepare and upload the following documents:
- Online application form
- Detailed project proposal (objectives, methodology, impact)
- Curriculum Vitae (Europass format optional)
- Host institution confirmation (if available)
- Proof of PhD completion
- Submit your application by 29 August 2025
- Results announced in February 2026
For more information Check the official source
FAQs
Is the DAAD PRIME scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers salary, mobility, travel, and social benefits for the full 18-month duration.
Can I get a 100% scholarship in Germany?
Absolutely. DAAD PRIME is one of the most comprehensive postdoctoral funding programs in Europe.
Do Pakistani researchers qualify?
Yes, researchers of all nationalities—including Pakistan—are eligible.
Is IELTS required?
No language test is required, but your host institution may expect proficiency in English or German.
What is the minimum GPA or academic requirement?
There’s no GPA requirement, but a strong research record and PhD completion are essential.
Can I apply if I already received DAAD funding?
Yes, previous DAAD funding does not disqualify you.
Is there an interview process?
Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for clarification, but selection is primarily document-based.
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