The Humboldt Research Fellowship 2025 is a fully funded opportunity for international researchers from all fields to conduct independent research at top German institutions.
The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation sponsors highly qualified scholars for 6–24 months (for postdocs) and 6–18 months (for experienced researchers), offering generous financial support, research funding, family benefits, and networking opportunities.
With an acceptance rate of 20–25%, this prestigious fellowship is one of the best-funded research programs for international scholars in Germany. Apply now and take your research to the next level!
Quick Overview of Humboldt Research Fellowship 2025
- Host Country: Germany
- Host Organization: Alexander von Humboldt Foundation
- Research Duration:
- Postdocs: 6–24 months
- Experienced Researchers: 6–18 months
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Fellowship Amount:
- Postdocs: €2,700/month
- Experienced Researchers: €3,200/month
- Additional Benefits: Mobility allowance, family allowance, research funding
- Application Deadline: Rolling basis (applications are accepted year-round)
- Selection Rounds: March, July, and November
- Eligibility: Researchers from all countries (except Germany & Brazil)
Perks of the Fully Funded Research Fellowships in Germany
- Full financial support for research in Germany
- Monthly stipend (€2,700 – €3,200) plus travel grants
- Language training (2–4 months in Germany)
- Health insurance and liability coverage
- Family allowance for partners and children
- Access to world-class research institutions
- Alumni support and networking opportunities
Benefits of Alexander von Humboldt Foundation Fellowships 2025
- Fully funded research stay in Germany
- Collaboration with leading German scholars
- Generous financial benefits and family support
- Opportunity to divide research into multiple stays
- Access to an elite global research network
- Post-fellowship career support and funding
Exclusions of International Fellowships in Germany
- Not open to researchers currently residing in Germany (must have lived outside Germany for at least 12 of the last 18 months)
- Not available for short-term study visits, training, or conferences
- Previous Humboldt fellows cannot apply again
- Not open to researchers who have received other Humboldt Foundation awards
Eligibility Criteria for PhD Fellowships for International Students
To apply, you must:
- Hold a PhD or equivalent research degree
- Postdocs: Apply within 4 years of PhD completion
- Experienced Researchers: Apply within 12 years of PhD completion
- Demonstrate an outstanding academic record with strong publications
- Have a research project proposal approved by a German academic host
- Meet language requirements:
- Humanities & Social Sciences: Good knowledge of German or English
- Natural Sciences & Engineering: Good knowledge of German or English
Important Dates for the Fully Funded Doctoral Fellowships
- Applications Accepted: Year-round
- Selection Committee Meetings: March, July, and November
- Processing Time: 4–8 months
- Fellowship Start Date: Within 12 months of selection
How to Apply for Humboldt Research Fellowship
Follow these steps to apply:
- Find a German research host and obtain a mentoring agreement.
- Prepare your application and required documents.
- Submit the online application on the Humboldt Foundation portal.
- Request two expert reviews (one from your PhD supervisor and one from an external researcher).
- Wait for the selection committee’s decision (processing takes 4–8 months).
- Start your research stay in Germany!
📌 Tip: Applications are highly competitive! Ensure your research proposal is innovative, impactful, and aligned with Germany’s research priorities.
Required Documents for the Humboldt Postdoctoral Research Fellowship
- Curriculum Vitae (Max 2 pages)
- Research Proposal (Max 5 pages)
- Complete List of Publications
- Selection of Key Publications
- PhD Certificate or Proof of Completion
- German Language Certificate (if applicable)
- Mentoring Agreement from a German Host Researcher
- Two Expert Reviews (from previous mentors or collaborators)
Post-Fellowship Opportunities
After completing the Humboldt Research Fellowship, you become part of an elite alumni network with continued benefits, including:
- Funding for research collaborations with German institutions
- Return fellowships for continued research
- Travel grants for academic conferences
- Opportunities to mentor future fellows
For more details, visit the Humboldt Foundation’s official website.
