The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) is offering Research Grants in Germany for 2026, providing doctoral candidates and early-career postdoctoral researchers the opportunity to conduct research at German universities and research institutes. Sponsored by the Federal Foreign Office, this prestigious programme supports short-term research stays in Germany and strengthens international academic collaboration. Programme Objective The DAAD Research Grant enables researchers to carry out an independent research project in Germany during: A doctoral programme (outside Germany), or The early postdoctoral phase (up to four years after completing a PhD). The grant supports research at a state or state-recognised university or non-university research institute in Germany, in coordination with a German academic supervisor. Who Can Apply? Eligible applicants include: Doctoral candidates enrolled at a university or research institution outside Germany Postdoctoral researchers who completed their doctorate within the last four years Applicants are not eligible if they are completing their entire doctorate at a German university. Duration of Funding The funding period depends on academic status: Doctoral students: 2 to 12 months Postdoctoral researchers: 2 to 6 months The research stay must begin in 2026. The funding period cannot be divided or extended, and research activities in other countries outside Germany are not eligible. Scholarship Benefits The DAAD Research Grant provides comprehensive financial support, including: Monthly stipend: €1,400 Health, accident, and personal liability insurance coverage Travel allowance Research allowance (€460) for funding periods longer than six months Additional benefits (for stays longer than six months) may include: Monthly rent subsidy Family allowance for accompanying dependents German language course funding (before or during the stay) Reimbursement of TestDaF or DSH examination fees Green Mobility Top-Up or carbon offset reimbursement for climate-friendly travel In cases of disability or chronic illness, additional financial support may be granted upon application. Selection Criteria Applications are reviewed by an independent academic selection committee. The evaluation is based on three main pillars: 1. Academic Qualification Academic performance and GPA Academic progress Language proficiency Publications, conference papers, or scholarly contributions (if applicable) 2. Quality of the Research Project Originality, relevance, and feasibility of the proposal Clarity and structure of research plan and timeline Alignment with doctoral research (if applicable) Suitability of the host institution and academic supervision 3. Applicant Potential Career prospects and long-term impact of the research stay Motivation for conducting research in Germany German language skills (if required) Civic engagement and extracurricular achievements The selection process also considers equal opportunity principles. Why Apply for the DAAD Research Grant? Germany is home to world-class universities, cutting-edge research institutions, and internationally recognized scholars across disciplines. A DAAD-funded research stay offers: Access to advanced research facilities Academic networking opportunities International collaboration experience Strengthened academic profile and career prospects The programme enhances global academic exchange and supports emerging researchers in developing innovative, impactful research. Application and Contact Information Applicants must secure agreement from a German host institution before submitting their application. The funding must begin in 2026. For applicants in Southern Africa, inquiries can be directed to: DAAD Information Centre JohannesburgUniversity of the WitwatersrandJohannesburg, South Africa The DAAD Research Grant in Germany remains one of the most competitive and respected funding opportunities for international PhD students and postdoctoral researchers. Early preparation especially securing a host supervisor and refining a strong research proposal—is essential for a successful application. LEARN MORE & APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering that is offering this funding. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.