phd in usa after masters in germany

Doing a PhD in Europe vs. the US

Are you thinking of doing a PhD abroad? There are some considerable differences between European and American PhD programs that you should know about before applying. Read on to determine which program is right for you.

Qualifications

It is often not possible to do a PhD in Europe without first earning a Master’s degree. In the US, many PhD programs accept applicants who only have a Bachelor's degree. Students usually earn a Master’s as part of the PhD program after they have completed a few years of coursework and passed certain exams. This doesn't mean that all doctoral candidates in American PhD programs have entered the program straight from undergrad. Several still choose to do a Master’s first before applying for a PhD. In some programs students who already have a Master's might not be required to take as many courses as students with just a Bachelor’s, but this isn't always the case. 

Time to Degree

European PhD programs are shorter than those in the US. For example, it takes three years to complete a PhD in France, Norway, the UK, and Germany. Across Europe, a three to four year PhD in common. In comparison, six years is the average time to degree in the US with many PhDs in the humanities taking seven or eight years to earn their degree.

Thesis Topic

PhD candidates in Europe must choose their thesis topic and supervisor during the application process. Students apply for specific vacant doctoral projects that are usually tied to a professor’s research. As part of their application, they must create a research proposal for this project. It is also possible (in the UK for example) to apply to a department rather than a specific position, but applicants must still include a research proposal and are advised to contact potential supervisors before applying. In the US, candidates apply to a department’s PhD program, rather than a specific PhD project. While they have to discuss their research interests and identify potential supervisors in their applications, students do not decide on their thesis topic until their second or third year. In fact, many science and engineering programs have students rotate between different labs in their first year before deciding on their supervisor and dissertation project.

Teaching Requirement

PhD candidates occasionally have the opportunity to teach in Europe, although teaching is not a requirement in many countries. In the US, PhD candidates are often required to teach undergraduates, often as teaching assistants for a large lecture class. A teaching assistant leads smaller tutorials for 20-30 students and grades their exams and papers. Most PhD students will TA one class each semester for two to three years. Several American PhD programs also have mandatory pedagogy courses for graduate students.

Many European PhD programs require students to do little to no coursework. Candidates start working on their dissertation projects right away. American PhD programs, regardless of the field, require students to take two to three years of courses and seminars about topics across the discipline before they being working on their dissertation.

Funding and Salary

In several European countries, PhD students are seen as employees and have work contracts. As employees, PhD students pay into health insurance, pension, and unemployment insurance. In countries where PhD students are not employees (such as the UK and Italy) students apply for university scholarships, external fellowships, or research grants for funding. Tuition fees are drastically lower in many European countries compared to the United States. Funding at American universities varies widely, as do tuition fees. Private universities have higher tuition than public state schools (though international students usually higher tuition at state schools). The top schools offer five-year funding packages which cover tuition and fees and provide a monthly stipend. They also often include health insurance and conference travel. At other schools, students must compete for fellowships at the university, state, or national level to fund their PhDs. In some departmnets students will be paid and receive partial tuition credit for take teaching assistantship or research assistantship positions.

Comprehensive Exams

Most European PhD programs do not require students to pass qualifying exams to progress through their PhDs. There are some notable exceptions, like Sweden, where PhD candidates do an oral and written exam at the halfway point of their PhD. In the US, students usually have to pass a series of comprehensive exams before they can start working on their dissertation. The exams test the student’s knowledge of the major fields within their discipline. While every university will have a slightly different exam structure, there is usually an oral and a written component. Sometimes students also have to orally defend their dissertation proposal. After the candidate has completed their coursework and passed all the required exams they are considered ABD (all but dissertation).

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• PhD in USA – A Guide for 2020/21
• Finding a PhD

A PhD in USA takes approximately 5 – 6 years of full-time study and can cost between $12,000 – $45,000 per academic year. PhD programs in USA differ from that in the UK and Europe in that students must first take taught classes, coursework and exams before starting their research project.

Why Do a PhD in USA?

The United States has long had some of the most distinguished universities and advanced PhD programmes in the world. Combined with curriculum flexibility, rigorous teaching methods, vast funding opportunities, breathtaking campuses and significant career prospects, it’s no wonder that it is one of the most sought-after study destinations for research students.

In addition to comprehensive training standards, here are a few other reasons why a student may choose to undertake their PhD in the United States:

• Longer learning timeframes – A PhD in the US lasts longer than a PhD in the UK or Europe. This allows students to more confidently transition from undergraduate to postgraduate studies; more commonly referred to as ‘graduate studies’ in the US. This gives you the opportunity to learn more about your subject, research methods and academic writing in general before starting your research project.
• World-class universities – It’s no secret that some of the most well-known higher education institutions that continue to dominate global rankings are based in the United States. Although many factors go into determining whether a position is right for you, a PhD at a high-ranking American university will undeniably have many benefits, from excellent learning standards to access to innovative equipment and deep expertise.
• International network – The US has long been a popular choice among PhD students around the world. As such, the US hosts a diverse and multicultural learning environment in which many research students will quickly feel at home.
• Opportunities – With over 4,000 universities in the US, we can safely say you will have plenty of opportunities to find the ideal combination of project, supervisor and university that works for you.

Universities in USA

Universities in the United States can be divided into two types: public universities and private universities.

Public universities are financed by the state in which they are based. Because of this, public universities charge less for students from within the state and more for students from outside the state, including international students.

Private universities are not financed by their state, but by private donors, research funds and tuition fees. For this reason, private universities generally charge higher tuition fees than public universities and require all students to pay the same amount, regardless of whether they come from out-of-state or abroad.

According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2021 , eight of the top ten universities in the world are located in the United States. These are:

Method of Study

The main difference between a PhD in the US and a PhD in Europe lies in the program structure. Whereas a European PhD essentially consists of a single phase lasting three to four years , an American PhD consists of three different phases, each with its own time frame.

• Phase One – The first phase lasts approximately two years and focuses on building a basic foundation for the doctoral student. This phase consists largely of taught components such as lectures, tutorials and laboratory sessions, in which the student learns more about theoretical concepts and research methods within their discipline.
• Phase Two – The second phase can be considered an assessment phase, which runs both periodically alongside and at the end of the first phase. Here, students complete coursework and take exams on the basis of the material they have covered of which they must pass in order to proceed to the third phase.
• Phase Three – The third phase lasts approximately three years and resembles the European PhD structure. During this period, the student undertakes an independent research project, including forming a research design, conducting experiments, writing a thesis (more commonly referred to in the USA as a dissertation) and sitting a viva exam.

Teaching Requirements

Besides structure, a key difference between a PhD program in the US and in Europe is the focus on teaching requirements. In the US, doctoral students are expected to lecture, lead tutorials, host laboratory sessions, mark coursework and provide office hours for undergraduate students. Although students studying in European will likely contribute to these at some point during their study, this would normally be on a voluntary basis and involve less time commitment.

Research Flexibility

Another difference is project flexibility. In Europe, students typically apply to a PhD project predetermined by a supervisor, and although there may be some scope to adapt the project, depending on the funding provider , it will usually be limited to how the project is carried out rather than what it is about. In the US, however, a student applies to become a doctoral candidate within a department rather than applying for a particular research project. This is because students are expected to decide on their thesis topic (also commonly referred to as a dissertation research topic) near the end of their first phase after they have developed a better understanding of their subject and know where their interests lie. Therefore, research students in the US generally have more flexibility and influence in the direction of their research than students in the United Kingdom or Europe.

PhD Admission Requirements in USA

PhD admission into US universities can be highly competitive, both because of the limited number of positions and the large number of annual applicants.

The eligibility requirements for a doctoral program in the USA can generally be divided into four sections:

• Grade Point Average (GPA) – in the US, a scoring system known as Grade Point Average is used to measure academic ability. A student’s GPA is calculated as a weighted score of the subjects they study during their undergraduate degree; an equivalent score is calculated by universities for international applicants. Although universities rarely set minimum GPA requirements for doctoral study, it’s worth being aware that a GPA of 3.0 is equivalent to a UK second class honours (2:1); the typical entry requirement for UK universities.
• Graduate Records Exam (GRE) – most universities will require you to take a series of examinations known as Graduate Records Exams, which are used to determine your suitability for graduate study. GREs will assess your analytical, reasoning and critical thinking skills as well as your depth of your subject.
• Student aptitude – in addition to academic ability, US universities also look for characteristics of a strong researcher. These include traits such as engaging in the subject in your own time, e.g. by attending talks and conferences, demonstrating a high degree of independence and enthusiasm, and a general passion for your subject.
• English Language Proficiency – international students whose first language is not English must sit language exams such as IELTS or TOELF to demonstrate their English language proficiency.

International students will also require a F1 student visa in order to study in the US, however, you would typically apply for this after you have secured a place into a doctorate program.

How to Apply for PhD in USA

When applying for a PhD position at a graduate school, the application process will differ between universities, however, they will all typically ask for the following:

• Academic CV – a short document summarising your educational background and current level of experience .
• Personal statement – a document which outlines why you believe you are suitable for PhD study and your passion for the subject.
• Academic transcripts – a complete breakdown of the modules and their respective marks you have taken as part of your previous/current degree.
• GRE scores – a transcript of your Graduate Records Exam results.
• Research statement – a condensed version of a research proposal outlining your general research interests, if required.
• Recommendation letters – references from several academic referees who endorse your qualities as a person, your abilities as a student and your potential as a doctoral researcher.

Application Deadlines and Fees

Since PhD programs in the United States have taught components, they commence at the same time as all other taught degrees, and therefore share the same application deadlines and start dates. This corresponds to an application period that typically begins in August and ends in February. Admission decisions are typically made in April, with successful students starting in August/September.

When you apply to a graduate school, you will be expected to pay a fee for each doctorate application to cover the school’s administrative costs for processing your application. The fee varies from university to university, but typically ranges from $50 to $100 .

Funding your PhD in USA

It’s very common for a PhD student to receive financial aid in the form of a PhD scholarship; in fact, this will be the case for the vast majority of students in the US.

PhD funding can be ‘fully funded’ covering the student’s graduate program tuition fees, accommodation and living costs, or ‘partially funded’ covering the student’s tuition fee only in part or full.

Besides funding, a graduate student can take on an assistantship, such as a graduate teaching assistant or research assistant, in which they take on a part-time salaried position at the university alongside their studies.

Due to the international and collaborate nature of American universities, there are also a number of international scholarships available, such as the Fulbright Scholarship and the AAUW International Fellowship .

PhD Duration in USA

In the US, a PhD takes approximately 5 – 6 years to complete if studying full-time, and 8 – 10 years if studying part-time.

If you already have a Master’s degree, your first phase can be shortened by one year at the discretion of the university.

Cost of a PhD in USA

The cost of a PhD program in the US can vary considerably depending on the type of university, i.e. whether it’s a public or private university, the doctoral course, i.e. whether it’s in a STEM subject such as computer science, engineering or a non-STEM subject, and whether you are a home or international student.

In general, however, the typical annual tuition fee for a PhD in the US is between $12,000 and $45,000 per academic year.

As with any doctoral degree, additional costs may include travel for collaborations, bench fees, accommodation and living expenses.

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Academia or industry? The time after your PhD

After your PhD you have different opportunities. Masoud shares his thoughts with us.

As an international PhD student, if you are interested in staying in Germany, you will be curious about job opportunities after your studies. The variety of job or research positions will be different for different studies and majors but in this article, I will share my thoughts and findings which I am dealing with right now. These are general thoughts about job market after obtaining PhD degree, engineering job opportunities and type of job opportunities. 

There is a main difference between having PhD degree compared to other university degrees (master and bachelor’s degree) and that is the opportunity of working mainly as a researcher in academia or research institutes. This makes a big difference when you as a PhD graduate looking for a job. Although, it will open a wide range of positions for you to work as a researcher and you will have more options in the job market, it will also make it difficult if you have not decided by that time which direction you want to pursue for your career.  

Industry jobs offer better conditions

Research jobs are generally appealing for most PhD students but why do most PhD graduates choose to go to industry? This can be simply because industry jobs are much more than research positions and also some industry jobs offer better conditions for their employees. This can be a permanent contract which is the main difference between industry contracts and research-based contracts. Research based (post-doc or fixed term researcher position) contracts are generally two or three years contracts with a possibility to extend. This Extension can continue until the funding is available from university or external funding organizations for research.

 It is obvious that here in Germany there are certain majors that graduates from these majors have more options than others and having more options becomes important when employers want to discuss the salary. The more options you have, the more you can propose your salary. Now, this can be the question, what is the pay scale and how much is the salary for a PhD postgraduate?

Well, as a general rule, the higher the university degree and qualifications you have got, the higher the salary will be. As a comparison, table 1 shows median and average of the starting salaries for three university degrees (source: gehalt.de).  But this difference is not uniform among different subjects. Table 2 shows that highest salaries are in computer science and engineering and lowest salaries are for humanities scientists and economy scientists.

Salary based on university degree

Source: website gehalt.de [DE]

Salary based on the subject

Maybe this question will be the biggest challenge after the PhD thesis you will be faced with! On one side, there is a lucrative job market for PhDs (depending on the subject) which can lead to management and leading positions in the industry and on the other side there is this dream of working as a researcher and ultimately, becoming a professor and conducting the research independently. Many PhD post graduates choose to go to the industry side because of a higher income salary in the beginning and getting a permanent contract after a trial period of about six months.

Federal Report Young Scientists 2021

The Federal Report Young Scientists 2021 [DE] on the percentage of the PhD postgraduates shows that most of doctorates leave the Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) or non-university research facilities in the post-doc phase.

From 61.3 percent of the researchers or PhD students from HEIs and non- university research institutes, only 43.5 percent remain in the PhD studies and make it to the end and get their PhD degree (Figure 1). After getting the degree, this 61.3 percent percentage drops drastically within a couple of years to only 22 percent for the graduates who want to stay in HEIs and non- university research institutes. On the other hand, researchers from clinics and medical practices, private sectors and other public services, are willing to get PhD degree and keep going in their positions. The continues rising of the private sector graph, justifies the falling graph of HEIs and non- university research institutes and means that there is a continuous and big movement from academia to industry. Willingness to move to the private sector and industry doubles from 20.3 by the time of graduating to 44.5 percent over the course of ten years. This willingness to industry or any private sectors may be stemmed from the fact that approximately nine out of ten young academics are employed on a temporary basis.

How about the overall job market for doctorates in general or waiting time for PhD postgraduates to find full-time employment?

According to the Integrated Employment Biographies published by the Institute for Employment Research, doctorate holders have a very low unemployment rate, which seldom exceeds 2%. This means that those with a doctorate are almost entirely employed. Furthermore, the statistics demonstrate that one year after finishing their PhD, around four fifths of doctorate holders are employed full-time. According to the findings, doctorate holders have outstanding job chances in the job market.

In conclusion, there is no concrete answer that you should choose which path for your future or career. Everybody has his or her own preferences and unique abilities but based on the reports and statistics, there are some uncertainties in terms of duration of contract and future of staying in academia for doctorates than in industry. In addition, salaries can be higher, at least for certain subjects in industry for the beginning years or better than the post-doc phase.

The question is why a lot of post graduates prefer to stay in research in academia or they resist to move into industry? One possible answer can be the path back to the academia will be much more difficult specially if one cannot keep up with doing research and publishing in journals. Taking into the account that becoming a professor is a long way, and the average age of becoming professor is 41, most of the doctorates are not thinking to come back to academia once they are established their career in industry and got a permanent job contract.

March 14, 2022 4:21:33 PM

Dear Darko, It will take some time to find a job in Germany in the fields that are not extremely in demand (i.e. software, IT, mechanical and electrical engineering, …). Here you can find the jobs in demand according to the Deutschland.de. It will be easier to get a response if the job requirements and your qualifications are matching very well. You can use Linkedin’s job search and let it notify you for the similar job positions once they are posted. Link: https://www.deutschland.de/en/topic/business/jobs-in-demand-in-germany-and-job-seeking-tips

March 14, 2022 2:06:27 PM

Dear Behrouz, I would recommend you to search in different job searching platforms with the "PhD position", "doctoral candidate", "research associate" searching keywords in English and "wissenschaftlicher mitarbeiter", "Doktorand" or "promotion stellenangebote" searching keywords in German. Some of the famous platforms are: www.academics.de, www.xing.com, and website from www.daad.de with "PhDGermany Database" section (https://www2.daad.de/deutschland/promotion/phd/en/13306-phdgermany-database/) for detailed information about the positions. PhD position offers and advertisements are not limited only for these websites but these can be good searching platforms for you to start off.

January 30, 2022 10:29:21 AM

I live in Stuttgart and interested in a PhD subject. How should I start? How should I find an opportunity. I will be appreciated if you guide me.

January 28, 2022 11:01:45 AM Dear Masoud, Could you, please, propose some jobs for the man of my qualifications? Your proposal would be highly appreciated. Not actively applying but I can say that I have had difficulties to find a job in Germany for months. Something, definitely, discourages employers, even, from replying to my emails. P.S: Please, look at my LinkedIn-profile and give me an advice where to apply.

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The German doctorate enjoys an outstanding reputation. Germany’s universities, research institutions and companies welcome international researchers and offer excellent opportunities for doctoral students. Structured PhD programmes, for example, often have a strong international orientation with English as the team language.

More than 28,000 graduate students complete a doctorate in Germany every year – far more than in any other member state of the European Union. Every year, roughly 5,800 international scholars are awarded a doctoral degree by a German university.

8 steps to do your PhD in Germany

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International Programmes 2023/2024

Max Planck School Matter to Life – Five-Year Master's to PhD Direct Track Programme Max Planck School Matter to Life (Master of Science/PhD)

Heidelberg university • heidelberg.

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University of Göttingen, University of Bayreuth, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, RWTH Aachen University, Saarland University, Technical University of Munich, Technical University of Dresden, Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials at RWTH Aachen, the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), the Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies (HITS), and various Max Planck Institutes

The daily scientific communication at the institutions is in English. All courses are taught in English.

1 December 2024 for a study start on 1 September 2025

The Max Planck School Matter to Life offers an MSc to PhD direct track programme. Students receive their joint Master's degree in Matter to Life by regularly studying at the two teaching universities (University of Göttingen or Heidelberg University). Subsequently, the students pursue their own research in the PhD phase of the programme under the supervision of a fellow within the Matter to Life Faculty  with a matching research interest.

The joint degree Master's programme will be spent at one of the following two teaching universities, depending on your choice of focus:

• Complex Systems and Biological Physics (University of Göttingen)
• Molecular Systems Chemistry and Engineering (Heidelberg University)

The universities share a core curriculum with classes taught in connected classrooms. Laboratory rotations at associated institutions during the Master's phase of the programme are encouraged and the students are supported in building their own research networks in this highly interdisciplinary area. All students are given a buddy and a mentor to guide them through the programme.

After you have successfully completed your Master's, you can continue with a three-year PhD programme under the supervision of one of the school's fellows.

Voluntary preparatory courses in mathematics, chemistry and physical chemistry are offered prior to the start of the Master's programme.

• International guest lecturers
• Projects with partners in Germany and abroad
• Specialist literature in other languages

Six-month internship in collaboration with the fellows of the Max Planck School Matter to Life as part of the Master's programme

• Other (e.g. state level)

The semester contribution for Göttingen University is approx. 350 EUR (including a semester ticket) and approx. 170 EUR for Heidelberg University.

Between 800 EUR and 1,200 EUR, depending on the chosen living situation

The Max Planck School Matter to Life offers full funding in form of a generous scholarship that covers costs of living (including tuition and fees) as well as, if applicable, a subsidy for health insurance and material costs in the Master's phase and a contract according to the local wage agreement for public service in the PhD phase. This will allow you to fully concentrate on the research and develop your scientific and personal skills.

Applicants with

• a Bachelor of Science degree (e.g. in chemistry, physics, molecular biology, biochemistry, materials science, biotechnology) or
• a Bachelor of Engineering (e.g. in the subjects molecular systems engineering, bioengineering) or
• a completed course of study in a related natural science or engineering discipline in at least six semesters

are welcome to apply for the five-year Master's to PhD Direct Track programme of the Max Planck School Matter to Life. Applicants who already have a Master's degree are eligible to apply as well.

Very good English language skills are required. Proof of a successfully completed test is required when applying (must be submitted no later than 15 July of the year in which the programme begins). 

The accepted tests are:

• TOEFL paper based: minimum score 570 
• TOEFL iBT: minimum score 90 
• TOEFL computer based: minimum score 230
• IELTS: minimum band score of 6.5
• UNIcert®: minimum UNIcert® II with a minimum grade of 2.3
• NULTE: minimum B2+
• Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) – minimum score 173 points
• at least two years of relevant study or professional stay in an English speaking country or successful completion of an English-language study programme within the three years prior to the application submission

The link to our application portal will be available on our website .

The two teaching universities try to make it easier for students to find part-time jobs. As a result, students can benefit from job postings in information centres as well as an online job exchange.

The Max Planck School Matter to Life offers assistance with finding accommodation for the first semester.

A career service is provided at the universities.

• Welcome event
• Buddy programme
• Support with administration issues and enrolment
• Mentoring programme
• Skill courses
• Support on short notice for any topic by the coordination team
• Monthly coffee hour
• Support of exchange with MtL (Matter to Life) fellows (meet your future supervisor)
• Support of student to student exchange
• Financial support for conference participation

Heidelberg University

The Max Planck School Matter to Life brings together internationally renowned scientists from different locations across Germany under one scientific topic. The school offers an interdisciplinary and unique study programme within an excellent research environment to outstanding undergraduate students from all over the world.

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How to Find Your PhD Position in Germany

Are you looking for a doctoral position in Germany? In the DAAD databases, you can find open PhD positions in all fields and all over Germany. When you have found an offer that matches your interests you can apply online at the offering university.

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How to Apply for a PhD in Germany: Programs, Funding, & FAQs

If you’re considering advancing your academic journey with a PhD and have a passion for conducting research in your field, Germany could be an excellent destination for you. With its top-tier universities, exciting research opportunities, financial support, and diverse culture, Germany stands out as an excellent choice for PhD studies.

These are the main steps to doing a PhD in Germany:

Find a PhD Program and a Supervisor

• Decide Between Individual and Structured PhD Programs
• Meet All Requirements & Prepare Your Application

Apply for Doctoral Studies

Secure funding, get a student visa or resident permit, arrive in germany and begin your phd program, why pursue a phd in germany.

Here are some compelling reasons to pursue a PhD in Germany:

• Top universities. Germany boasts four universities ranked in the top 100 globally, offering access to world-class education and research facilities.
• International student community. Germany welcomes a diverse and thriving international student community, with over 458,210 international students studying across the country.
• Abundant research institutions. Germany’s 1,000+ publicly funded research institutions, spanning universities, applied sciences, research institutes, businesses, and government bodies, offer countless opportunities for collaboration and networking.
• Investment in research and development. Germany’s commitment to research and development is evident through its increasing expenditure, which reached a record high of 112.6 billion euros in 2021.
• Strong economy. Germany is known for its robust and stable economy, offering potential career opportunities in academia, industry, and research sectors after completing your PhD.

How to Apply for a PhD in Germany

Below, you will find all the steps you need to take, from discovering your perfect program to submitting your application and commencing your PhD adventure in Germany.

To start your PhD in Germany, define your research focus by considering your interests and academic background. Explore resources, attend conferences, and connect with professors. Use online sources, engage with academic communities, and seek advice from current PhD students for insights into the research scene.

If you’re already clear about your research direction, it’s time to search for suitable programs. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) provides a comprehensive database of current opportunities, which you can explore at the DAAD PhD Database . Additionally, consider researching universities in Germany individually to understand what each institution offers in terms of research and programs.

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You will also have to find a supervisor. One way to do so is by visiting university websites to find faculty directories with profiles of professors and their research interests. Contact professors whose work aligns with your research interests, express your interest and inquire about supervision opportunities.

> You can search PhD programs using the GERiT database , which features over 31,000 research institutions.

Types of PhD Programs in Germany

Before you start searching for a PhD program, it’s essential to understand that in Germany, there are two different paths you can take when pursuing a PhD, each with its own set of advantages and opportunities.

Individual PhD Programs

An individual doctorate program is considered the more common and traditional PhD route in Germany. It is a flexible and self-directed path to earning a doctoral degree, particularly in fields like humanities and social sciences. You take the initiative to find a supervisor (called “Doktorvater” or “Doktormutter”) for your research project and often suggest your research topic.

There’s no fixed curriculum, giving you the freedom to set your research timeline and choose coursework. This approach requires self-discipline and active networking, including participation in doctoral candidate meetings and research events.

Structured PhD Programs

Structured PhD programs in Germany offer a clear path to a PhD degree, typically lasting three to five years. Unlike individual doctorate studies, they include a curriculum, research proposal submission that has to fit an existing program, and a set timeline for coursework and research.

Candidates benefit from advisor supervision and are encouraged to collaborate across disciplines, making structured programs ideal if you’re seeking a guided and comprehensive doctoral experience.

Ensure You Meet All Requirements & Prepare the Application

The requirements and application documents for a PhD in Germany can vary depending on your chosen institution and research area. However, as a general guideline, you should prepare the following:

• Academic degree recognized in Germany. Typically, you’ll need a master’s degree or a German state examination (Staatsexamen) to qualify for a PhD program.
• Copy of master’s thesis. Provide a copy of your master’s thesis, showcasing your research skills and the depth of your academic work.
• Research proposal. Craft a clear and comprehensive research proposal outlining your intended research topic, objectives, methodology, and significance.
• Statement of purpose. Write a statement of purpose explaining why you wish to pursue a PhD in your chosen field, your academic and career goals, and how this program aligns with your aspirations.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV). Prepare a detailed CV highlighting your academic achievements, research experience, relevant coursework, publications, and any other qualifications.
• Proof of language proficiency. Depending on the language of instruction (usually German or English), you may have to provide proof of language proficiency. You can do this with certificates like TestDaF, DSH, TOEFL, IELTS, or proof of previous studies in the language.
• Academic references. You may need to provide contact information or recommendation letters from professors or academic advisors confirming your academic abilities and research potential.
• Predoctoral examination. Some programs may require you to pass a predoctoral examination as part of the application process.

Once you’ve found a suitable PhD program and a mentor, and your academic qualifications are recognized in Germany, you can start your application. Depending on the university or research institute, you can apply online or by post, so it’s essential to check their specific requirements. Keep in mind that admission committees are selective and may conduct interviews to admit the best candidates.

Securing funding is a crucial step when preparing for a PhD in Germany. To meet visa requirements and stay in the country, you must demonstrate access to a minimum of €934 per month, totaling €11,208 annually. This proof can be provided through an admission agreement or relevant contract, or you can open a blocked account with individual funds.

There are various ways to financially support yourself while pursuing a PhD in Germany:

• PhD scholarships. DAAD offers the highest number of doctoral scholarships. PhD students get an average monthly stipend of €1,139.
• Paid PhD positions. Many universities and research institutions offer paid PhD positions in Germany. You will have a contract and work on specific research projects while receiving a salary.
• Research associate positions. You can also work as a research associate in a university, research institution, or company and receive a salary as compensation.
• Part-time jobs. Some PhD students/researchers work part-time jobs that are not related to their studies to secure additional income.

> Read more about the costs associated with studying in Germany.

> Explore scholarship opportunities.

Once your acceptance into the PhD program is confirmed by the university or institution, you can begin the process of applying for a student visa or residence permit. The PhD visa or permit requirements for Germany can vary depending on your nationality and individual circumstances:

Visa Requirements

Citizens of the EU, the European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland do not need any special permit or visa to pursue a PhD in Germany. They can research and work with just a valid passport or ID card.

For international researchers who are not citizens of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, a visa will be required to work as a researcher in Germany.

The type of visa you need depends on your specific situation:

• Study visa. If you’re pursuing a full-time doctoral program, you may apply for a student visa.
• Research visa. If your focus is on research and you have a formal affiliation with a research institution in Germany, you can apply for a research visa.
• EU Blue Card. If your PhD offer includes a gross annual salary of at least €45,300 (or €41,041.80 in certain professions), you may be eligible for an EU Blue Card, which is a special residence title for international academics.

Residence Permit Requirements

Once you arrive in Germany, you’ll need to apply for a residence permit based on the visa you have:

• Study permit. If you’re accepted into a PhD program at a German university, you can get a study-based residence permit for up to two years, extendable.
• Research permit. If you’re a researcher with the right qualifications for doctoral programs, you can get a research permit for Germany. This requires a contract with a research institution for your project.
• EU Blue Card. You may be eligible for the EU Blue Card, which is for foreign academics and qualified workers in Germany. To get it through a PhD offer, your salary should be at least €45,300 per year, or €41,041.80 for certain bottleneck professions .

*Note that nationals of certain countries , including the United States, Australia, Israel, Japan, and Korea, who are not required to obtain a visa, must still apply for a residence permit.

> For more specific information tailored to your situation, we recommend contacting the German embassy or consulate in your home country. You can also use this visa navigator.

Arriving in Germany and commencing your PhD program is an exciting step, but there are certain formalities you need to take care of. The international office at the university or a representative can guide you, however here are the main things to take care of once you’re in the country:

Register Your Residence

Shortly after your arrival, you must register your residence at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt). This is mandatory, and you typically have a window of two weeks to complete this process.

Obtain Health Insurance

Everyone in Germany, including international PhD students, is obligated by law to have health insurance coverage . The type of health insurance you are eligible for depends on the source of your funding:

• Doctoral candidates with an employment contract are typically insured automatically with a state-regulated health insurance provider (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung -GKV)
• Doctoral candidates without an employment contract (with a fellowship or private funding) may choose between:
• Voluntary health insurance coverage with a state-regulated provider.
• Coverage with a private health insurance company.

Some exceptions allow you to retain your insurance from your home country, such as students from a European Union (EU) country or other countries with social security agreements with Germany.

Open a Bank Account

It’s advisable to open a German bank account as soon as possible. Many financial transactions in Germany, including receiving your stipend or salary, are typically done through a German bank account.

Enrollment at University

If your PhD program requires enrollment at a university, you’ll need to complete this step. Submit the necessary documents to the university’s enrollment office, which may include your admission letter, passport, proof of health insurance, and proof of financial means.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

There’s a lot to think about when you’re considering pursuing a PhD, especially if it’s in a foreign country. We’re sure you’ve got more questions, and we’re here to help.

What Is the Duration of a PhD Program in Germany?

In general, a PhD program in Germany typically lasts between three to six years.

The duration of a PhD program in Germany can vary depending on several factors, including the university, the subject area, and individual progress.

Are PhD Programs in Germany Tuition-Free?

Most PhD programs in Germany are tuition-free, at least for the first six semesters. However, if you are enrolled at a university, you will need to cover a semester fee. This can vary depending on the university but usually falls within the range of €100 to €350.

Is Knowing German Mandatory to Pursue a PhD in Germany?

Knowing German is not always mandatory to pursue a PhD in Germany. Many German universities offer PhD programs in English, especially in fields like science, engineering, and the humanities. In such programs, you can write your thesis and communicate with professors and peers in English.

However, language requirements differ by university and department. If your program is in German, you might need to prove your proficiency. Knowing German can also be helpful for daily life and integration if you’re living in Germany.

Will I Get a PhD Salary in Germany?

PhD candidates in Germany, whether affiliated with universities, research institutions, or companies collaborating with them, typically receive financial support in the form of a salary or grant.

The majority of doctoral positions are structured under the TV-L (Tarifvertrag im Öffentlichen Dienst) salary scale, often falling within the TV-L 13 category, with a salary range spanning from €4,188 (Tier 1) to €6,037 (Tier 6).

Salaries are typically determined based on a wage agreement that specifies the contract tier (Stufe) and working hours (percentage-based). Many entry-level PhD students start with tier 1 contracts that are not full-time. For example, if your contract places you in Pay Group E-13 Tier 1 of the TV-L and you work at 75% capacity, your monthly gross salary will be €3,141.

Can I Work While Pursuing a PhD in Germany?

It’s generally allowed for PhD students in Germany to have part-time jobs to cover living expenses. However, the rules and expectations can vary depending on your supervisor, field of study, and specific circumstances.

While part-time work is an option, keep in mind that pursuing a PhD can be quite demanding, often requiring long hours of research and study. It’s essential to find the right balance between work and your academic commitments. Additionally, make sure to be aware of any legal and contractual obligations related to your employment while studying for your PhD.

What Is the Process for Defending a PhD Thesis in Germany?

In Germany, defending your PhD thesis involves several steps. You start by submitting your thesis and necessary documents, making sure they meet all the formal requirements. A commission is formed, and you may have the opportunity to suggest reviewers.

Then, you will have to prepare and undergo an oral defense, which can be either public or private and typically lasts between 30 minutes to 2 hours. During this, you present your research and discuss it with the committee.

The outcome of this discussion determines your final grade, which you receive after the defense. If everything goes well, you’re granted the Ph.D. title and have about two years to publish your dissertation.

What Are the Career Prospects After Completing a PhD in Germany?

After completing a PhD in Germany, career prospects are promising. Graduates often find opportunities in academia as professors or researchers or in various industries, including technology, healthcare, and finance. Germany’s strong economy and research-oriented environment make it an attractive place for career development.

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PhD in Germany: The Ultimate Guide

Ph.D. in Germany is almost free, if you’ve a great academic background. Get step-by-step directions on finding and applying for a suitable PhD in Germany for indian student.

How to Study a PhD In Germany?

As in many countries, the aim of the PhD program in Germany is to work on and publish a written doctoral thesis/dissertation . PhD degree is awarded based on examination of the thesis, which must be published in journals specified by the universities, and by an oral examination of thesis presentation.here are some top reasons to study in germany .

Let’s first understand the options you would have for a PhD in Germany -

What is University System in Germany?

There are mainly two types of higher education institutions in Germany -

• Universities (including Technische Universität, also called TU) are research-oriented institutions and offer a wide variety of subjects. Many of the universities also award PhD (usually called doctorate in Europe) degrees.
• Fachhochschulen (University of Applied Sciences, also called FH), are practice-oriented institutions and offer course mostly in engineering, business administration, social sciences and design. They do not award doctorates.

Bachelor’s and master’s degrees awarded by both types of universities (Universities and Fachhochschulen) are legally equivalent. After completing Master’s from either of the institution, you can get admission to a PhD program at a University.

Unlike in the US, a fter an Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) degree, you can directly get enrolled for a PhD program at a University in Germany. Most US universities only requires an Undergraduate degree for admission to PhD program but all of them will require you to take additional coursework.

Germany is also home to a number of prestigious research institutions, such as EMBL. These research institutions can’t award PhD degrees but they host a large number of PhD students for the major part of their doctorates. These students are jointly-supervised by a professor in a university (in Germany or abroad) from which the PhD will be awarded.

What are Types of PhDs in Germany?

Following are the two types of PhDs in Germany:

The traditional approach with Individual Doctorate

Under traditional approach, you need to identify a supervisor at a German university who is willing to guide for your research.

You get lots of flexibility in terms of no compulsory attendance, deadlines and curriculum . As you would largely be working independently, you are expected to work hard and demonstrate more personal initiative and responsibility.

In addition to conducting research work at a university, you could also complete a project at a non-university research organization or at a German company in the industrial sector.

The average length of this kind of PhD is 3 to 5 years.

* Structured Programs with Doctorate in a Team of Researchers

Under structural program,

• First , your research proposal have to fit within existing PhD programs, unlike Individual Doctorate, in which your PhD can be more freely structured to suit your research project.
• Second , you work as part of a group of doctoral students and all are guided by a group of supervisors.

There are over 700 programs of this nature available in Germany, often with an international make-up, with English as the team language.

The majority of doctoral candidates still complete a traditional doctorate. However, in recent years, a large number of students are choosing structured program, especially in the natural sciences and mathematics.

Is PhD in Germany for Free?

Almost! There is no tuition fee for PhD program in Germany.

However, you will be asked to pay small administrative fee in the range of €50 – €250, which is to cover service costs such as student governance and services, public transport etc. In addition, you will also have to take health insurance.

So your main cost for a PhD in Germany is you living expenses.

An average student in Germany needs about €820 (US$921) per month to cover living expenses, including rent, food, clothing, transportation, working materials, recreation and other costs.

How to fund a PhD in Germany?

You have various ways to raise money including by teaching appointments, grants, scholarships and part-time jobs.

Under traditional approach of PhD, your supervisor may nominate you for a grant, for example from the Studienstiftung des Deutschen Volkes (German National Academic Foundation).

Depending on the subject, there are also numerous organizations in Germany that award individual grants. These include Federal states, foundations, religious organizations or foundations associated with political parties. Funding periods and eligibility criteria will vary but may include allowances for language course, families with children as well as research travel costs.

To get part-time work work, as an international student, please ensure that your residence permit allows you to take paid work. Also, you will be limited to working up to 190 full days or 240 half days per year before you must apply for a work permit.

Under structured program, you also need to include an application for funding in your PhD application. If you are accepted for a PhD, you can expect a monthly allowance of €1,000 – €1,400, which is sufficient to meet your living expenses.

What are the entry requirements?

Entry requirements will vary between universities and PhD programs. In general, you are expected to have a great higher education degree , which is equivalent to a German master’s degree along with a high GPA. Many of our successful students have a GPA of above 75%.

Each university is responsible for decisions on the admission of doctoral students and the accreditation of qualifications.

Some universities may ask for proof of English language proficiency , for example by requesting TOEFL or IELTS scores, while universities will ask for very good German language skills if your thesis is to be written in German.

How to apply for a PhD in Germany?

You need to apply to individual institution. Following are the general steps that you should follow:

Find a supervisor or a structured program

Traditional PhD: You will need to find a suitable professor who is willing to be your supervisor. You may be able to find a supervisor through contacts from your own university, or by searching for institutes and research centers or teams which relate to your area of interest. Here are some websites that you can use to find a suitable supervisor: DAAD, PhD Germany, Hochschulkompass.de and academics.de.

You should directly reach-out to potential supervisors in your area of research interest. You should send a brief and well-structured outline of your PhD proposal along with your academic background and CV. This process takes time and you should allow plenty of time before intended start date of your PhD.

Structured PhD - You should identify universities in your research area and contact them directly. Use the reference websites mentioned above to find appropriate universities. You would be required to complete the application procedure, as instructed on their websites and within the application deadline.

Admission procedures

Once you have a letter of acceptance from your supervisor or a confirmation of admission for a structured program, you should apply for formal admissions .

These vary depending on the institution. At this stage, the relevant department or doctoral committee must confirm your eligibility as a doctoral candidate. This usually involves completing an application that includes a statement by your doctoral supervisor, certified copies of certificates and the university degree that entitles you to engage in doctoral study.

Your application may also include an English or German language test result, if applicable. The Student Office of your chosen university will review these documents and grant permission for you to commence doctoral studies.

Next comes enrolment after a university accepts your application . Some universities may not require you to officially enroll at university. You an find about this requirement in the doctoral regulations of your university’s official website.

Enrolling secures you a better legal status as an international student. So try to get it done. You must also make sure your Master’s degree is recognized, obtain a residence permit and/or student visa, and ensure you have adequate finances for your stay.

Do I need to speak German?

You don’t need to be able to speak German for your PhD. For Individual PhD, your thesis can often be written in English, whereas for Structured PhD, you re allowed to complete your doctorate in English.

However, you will have much better academic experience, student life and access to projects, internships and part-time jobs if you can speak German language. It’s not difficult. Couple of hours every week for 4-6 months should get you speak a decent level of German language. So please make some effort and start learning German language.

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Jobs After MS in Germany – Highest Paying Jobs & How to Apply

• German Universities

Updated on 16 April, 2024

Gauri Agrawal

Sr. content writer.

Germany is the ultimate study hub for students who want to explore job opportunities  after MS in their areas of interest. German universities are ranked globally and offer students research-oriented and practical MS degrees. The country has always been a host to many international students because of its student-centric approach to higher education, and there are ample job opportunities in Germany after a masters.

The job market in Germany is prominent for MS degree holders in IT, Engineering, Data Science, and various other specializations. But, what are the highest paying jobs after you have completed your master’s in Germany? This blog will help you with multiple job opportunities after your master’s in Germany.

Study and Get PR in Germany – Fix a Free Appointment Now

Read More: Complete Guide to career opportunities in Germany

Table of Contents

Top reasons to study for masters in germany:.

• Top universities in Germany for Masters

Highest Paying Jobs in Germany

How to apply, top recruiters in germany.

• German universities and research centres have always worked closely with companies and various organizations in science and technology. It offers multiple career opportunities for students with an MS degree. 
• German universities are top-ranked and prestigious globally. Five globally ranked universities out of the top global 100 universities offer many specializations in MS. There are various courses and specifications to get a lucrative job.
• German universities offer education at zero or affordable costs. Compared with other European countries, Germany offers the lowest cost fees for MS courses and degrees. This helps international students to get an excellent education at an affordable cost from globally recognized universities. 
• Germany is one of the most powerful economies in the world and offers substantial employment opportunities. The excellent job market creates immense job prospects for students with an MS degree. Some of the country’s highest-paying jobs and a perfect work-life balance are offered. Competitive employers hire fresh MS graduates from German universities. 
• After completing their studies, a student who wants to work in Germany may extend their visa for up to 18 months. It will help students attain employment after completion of a degree or course. German universities offer part-time work opportunities that help international students gain a lot of industry exposure and corporate visibility. This opens up the chance to get permanent employment after completing MS. 

Read More: Settle in Germany from India  

Top universities in Germany for Masters 

Here is a list of some of the top universities per the QS World University Rankings offering MS programs in Germany.  

Source: QS WUR 2022

Important Resources to Read for Study in Germany:

According to the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (CEDEFOP )has computed a Skills Forecast for Germany until 2025. According to the report, employment growth in the German market is expected to rise in the business and related sectors.

Here is a look at the highest paying jobs in Germany, along with the average annual salaries:

 Source: (pay scale)

Read More: How to find part time jobs in Germany

Job opportunities after MS in Data Science in Germany

Germany is one of the preferred destinations for pursuing an MS in Data Science. According to a report by the US Bureau of Labour Statistics, increasing demand for data scientists will create an additional 11.5 million job positions by 2026. So, out of the many profiles, you can choose to be a Data architect, Data Analyst, Big Data Engineer or Machine learning engineer, among others. 

Job opportunities in Germany after MS in Computer Science

Germany offers several possibilities in computer science. Top organizations that hire students from the field of computer science are SAP, Zalando, Amazon.com INC, International Business Machines (IBM) Corp, Fraunhofer, and many more. A student can explore the following career options after MS in computer science: Blockchain developer, Database administrator, Network architect, Data scientist, and Big data analyst, among others. 

Recommended Read: Study MASTERS in Germany

Germany offers many job opportunities, especially to graduates who have completed their masters in Germany. 

There are various ways to apply for various positions in Germany:

• Networking: Networking is essential in every aspect, be it professional or personal. You should always put considerable effort into networking, socializing, and meeting new people. This will help you in more ways than one. Networking can play a significant role in landing a job in Germany.
• By applying on various job portals: Several meals like  Indeed, StepStone, Arbeitsagentur, and LinkedIn are available in Germany. Job seekers easily upload their resumes on these portals and make applications for the jobs that interest them. Nowadays, this is a popular way of acquiring jobs worldwide. 
• Looking on the official site and then applying: Walk-ins and official websites are a more common way of looking for jobs after MS in Germany. Looking at the companies’ official websites that interest you and searching for vacancies can help you land a job you like. Walk-in interviews are another way to look for and secure employment of your choice.

Germany’s global job market attracts leading tech giants, popular multinational companies, and international conglomerates. Post-graduates can work with fortune 500 listed organizations that recruit frequently. 

Let us look at the top recruiters for Masters in Germany.

Student visa to post-study work visa

• Students who have completed their studies in Germany can apply for an extended 18-month job seeking visa also called a post-study work visa. 
• On getting a job of choice, candidates can convert their job-seeking visa to a Work Permit Visa. 
• Once a candidate has found a job, they would be required to apply for a work permit from his earlier Job Seeking Visa.
• The candidate can remain in Germany while their application is pending. Also, suppose the candidate is looking to permanently stay in Germany, also known as PR in Germany. In that case, they can apply for an ‘EU Blue Card’ – Residence Permit as early as two years after receiving their work permit.
• Students can apply for an EU Blue Card for Permanent stay in Germany after two years of receiving their Work Permit Visa. 

Read to Know About Top Universities in Germany:

Is it possible to get a job in Germany after your masters?

Yes, The job sector of Germany is thriving with promising prospects. It is undoubtedly possible to look for and secure a job in Germany after a Master’s.

What are the job opportunities after a master’s in Germany?

There are many job opportunities in Germany for candidates who have completed their MS. Some popular designations include:

• Sales Manager
• Biotechnology and Neuroscience Analysts
• IT Professionals and Data Scientist
• Marketing Professionals
• Finance and Accounting Professionals

How much does MS in Germany Cost?

Germany has countless State-funded universities where the total cost for pursuing an MS can be as low as zero. However, private universities can cost anywhere between €500 to €28,000

Gauri Agrawal is a passionate, professional and proactive content marketer who wants to grow in the field of content creation. She carries a rich experience of working in the Digital News sector with renowned names like Times Now Digital, and News X as a Copy Editor.

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• Study in Germany /

PhD in Germany

• Updated on  
• Dec 2, 2023

With its unparalleled focus on research, innovation, and development, Germany offers innumerable opportunities to individuals not only in STEM courses , but also in social sciences , humanities , and languages. Further, colleges in Germany are known for their outstanding faculty, internationally recognized curriculum as well as bright career prospects both in enterprises and research organisations. Be it Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, or Cologne, German cities serve as hubs for manufacturing, international business and finance sectors and housing headquarters of several giant companies. If you are interested in pursuing a PhD in Germany, this blog will help in breaking down its process.

Why Study for a PhD in Germany?

The PhD study in Germany epitomizes the country’s mastery of higher education. Let us examine the advantages of studying PhD programs in Germany in further depth:

Free Adult Education: In terms of higher education, Germany has distinguished itself. It offers free education to both domestic and international students. Compared to other international colleges, it only costs a student 310 EUR to cover the semester as well as travel expenses.

Immensely well infrastructure and facilities: After the United Kingdom and the United States, Germany has been ranked as the world’s third finest education destination, and its amenities reflect this. A multitude of non-university research groups contributes to high-quality Ph.D. education at German institutions.

PhD in Germany with Scholarship: Germany values all students’ knowledge, and as a result, they never allow anyone to stop researching due to a lack of funds. There are organizations whose major goal is to offer enough funding to ensure that the informed are loved eternally.

Types of PhD Courses in Germany

In Germany, there are two broad categories into which PhD courses are divided, namely, individual doctorate programs and structured PhD degrees. Read the following to know more:

Individual Doctorates [3 to 5 Years] Considered the most favourable choice for a PhD in Germany, an individual doctorate also called the traditional PhD is a more direct method of gaining a doctoral qualification. The process of application involves approaching a potential professor or supervisor who is teaching at the university directly, demonstrating how one’s research interests align with the professor, and asking whether he is willing to act as a supervisor. Typically, this process requires a considerable amount of effort and time as it involves finding the right professor, proving that one’s experiences in prior degrees and experiences make him the right candidate, and submission of a research proposal, among other steps. In a traditional PhD, learners have to submit a doctoral thesis focusing more on the research and an oral presentation and examination of their work testing their wider knowledge in the field.

Structured PhD Degrees [3 to 5 Years] An individual opting for a structured PhD in Germany undertakes research work as part of a group of doctoral students who are guided by a team of supervisors. Structured PhD degree admissions and application process is done through online portals of universities such as DAAD. The curriculum may involve interdisciplinary studies along with an emphasis on scientific tools and techniques, and interpersonal skills.   As far as a structured PhD is concerned, students need to complete several mandatory units to achieve 180 to 240 ECTS credits that are essentially required in doctoral studies. They will be assessed on their understanding of course content delivered in seminars and lectures, besides submitting their thesis and completing the oral exams.

Academic Session

If you plan to study in Germany , your academic year will typically comprise 2 semesters – Wintersemester which runs from October 1 to March 31 with Christmas and Easter break; and Sommersemester which runs from April 1 to September 30 with breaks from July to September.

PhD in Germany: Admission Requirements

For pursuing a PhD in Germany, the documents to be submitted remain more or less the same throughout the universities in Germany. However, there can be some exceptions. Following are the required things you can’t miss while applying for a PhD:

• Materials to be submitted at the time of application include aptitude scores like GRE or GMAT and  English-language proficiency scores of IELTS or TOEFL , research proposal, SOP , LOR , and CV, amongst others. However, these requirements vary from university to university.
• Sometimes, traditional PhDs may require you to write a thesis in Germany, thus you may need to prove your German-language proficiency through TestDaF or DSH.

PhD in Germany: Admission Process

A strong research-oriented master’s degree in a relevant field of interest is a major prerequisite while applying for a PhD in Germany. As for the application process is concerned, the individual doctorate route is quite straightforward and requires a direct approach to potential supervisors. On the other hand, for a structured doctorate, one is required to apply through official university portals.

• Once you have supplied the documents highlighted above, the doctoral committee you are applying to will confirm your eligibility to pursue a PhD in Germany.
• A personal interview may also be part of the application process. This is typically conducted by the supervising board for the program. You can refer to our blog on DAAD Scholarshipfunding as well as admission-related information.

Writing Your Research Proposal

A staple part of the application process both for individual and structured PhD in Germany is the submission of a well-curated, coherent and concise research proposal. A research proposal is a document that outlines your research interests, at what points they match with those of your potential supervisors, and what you intend to study and work under the guide. More often than not, applicants do not devote as much time as required to writing a proposal that underlines their achievements as well as what it doesn’t involve. It is important to not sway away from the research topic. Apart from including only the relevant details, it is important to make sure that errors and mistakes have not crept in. Getting it checked by your current professors and mentors is also an option worth considering. 

Top Universities for PhD in Germany

Germany is home to some of the top institutions in the world, known to offer quality education, scientific discoveries, and technology. Below listed are the top universities to pursue a PhD in Germany:

Note: This list is for indicative purposes and is not exhaustive. While some PhD courses in Germany are available throughout the year, others are offered based on the number of vacancies and the semester chosen. 

Some Other German Universities to Consider

• Heidelberg University
• Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin
• University of Freiburg
• University of Tübingen
• Free University of Berlin

Cost of Studying PhD in Germany

When it comes to studying for a PhD at public universities in Germany, there is no tuition fee charged to international students but you will be required to pay certain administrative costs which range from €150-€200 [roughly 13,100 INR-17,600 INR] (per semester administration fee). However, you will also have to keep the living expenses in mind while applying for a PhD in Germany as the living costs can vary largely from one city to another. While applying for the German student visa, you will be required to provide proof of sufficient funds of €10,236 [roughly 8,94,000 INR] as well. You can also use our exclusive Cost of Living Calculator to estimate your living costs and also check out our blog on the cost of studying in Germany to get an overview of the major expenses you can expect while pursuing higher education in Germany.

Explore the popular German Scholarships for PhD Programs !

PhD in Germany with Scholarships

Visa process for international students to germany.

To continue your studies in Germany, you will require a student visa. There are two categories of student visas:

• Schengen Visa: Permits you to take a 90-day course in Germany specifically.Visa Fee: 60 EUR 
• National Visa: This allows you to stay in Germany for more than 90 days; you must also obtain a residency permit.
• VISA Fee: 75 EUR

Can I work in Germany after my PhD?

• Working in Germany after completing a PhD is governed by nationality.
• Students from the EU and EEA will not require a work visa. You will have the same career opportunities as German citizens.
• Students from outside the EU and EEA can prolong their stay for up to 18 months to look for jobs connected to their studies.

Work Opportunities

As an international student, you are permitted to work 120 full days or 240 half days every year while studying for a PhD in Germany. In case you plan to work for longer than this, then you need to seek permission from the Foreigner’s Registration Office and Local Employment Agency. The student is sometimes employed by the university under student assistants or teaching appointments. The salary depends on the hours spent supervising the library, researching literature, and demonstrating or leading tutorials.

Salaries after PhD in Germany

Ans. The majority of German institutions do not charge tuition for PhD programmes, and financing is available from numerous government agencies, research groups, and other organisations.

Ans. A PhD professor typically earns a gross monthly salary of between 4,00,000 and 5,300,000 euros (INR 4 lakh and 5.3 lakhs). Do German PhD students receive compensation? Yes, PhD students may be paid in Germany thanks to the PhD Stipend.

Ans. In Germany, getting a PhD is a little more challenging than getting a bachelor’s or master’s degree. This is mostly due to the fact that PhDs are offered in Germany by both accredited businesses operating in the industrial sector and universities.

Thus, building a successful career in Research needs hard work, dedication, and the right guidance. If you are planning to pursue a PhD in Germany or at any other study abroad destination but are not sure how to go about it, then Leverage Edu can guide you through the process. Right from the application to the arrangement of funding, the counsellors will assist at every step. and beyond so that you can take a step towards building a rewarding career.

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Hi, The article is very crisp and informative. Well i would like to introduce myself as a curious learner and aim to pursue Ph.D from Germany for which i am looking for insight and guidance.

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PhD Studies

Planning your phd, eligibility and application, german or english medium, living as a student, working in germany, get guidance.

With a long tradition of research and ground breaking discoveries, Germany is indeed a land of innovation and progress. Besides giving your ideas a research-based boost, Germany also offers promising career opportunities along with a vibrant social and cultural milieu. So like for many other international students, it can be the right place to pursue a doctoral degree for you too!

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Starting your doctoral studies is a big step in your academic life. Along with identifying your research area you also have to plan where and in which institute you want to pursue your PhD.

Where does research take place in Germany?

Contemplating pursuing a PhD in Germany?  There are a number of universities, research institutions and business houses that will welcome you. So getting an insight into the research landscape of the country is of paramount importance!

© DAAD India

Research is extensively carried out by and through universities, research organisations and the industry. These three are famously known as the three pillars of research in Germany.

You can take a closer look at this on  Research in Germany .

Which universities should I look at for PhD?

There are various kinds of institutions of higher education in Germany. A majority of these belong to either of the following categories:

Universities and Universities of Technology (TU), are research-oriented and offer a wide variety of subjects. These are the only establishments that can award a PhD degree.

In case you are carrying out your PhD at a research organisation/ University of Applied Sciences, it will always be through a partner university/TU that you will get your degree. Therefore it is important that you fulfill the eligibility criteria of the university/TU as well.

Before you finalise a university or a research institution make sure to check out their websites to know what kind of research is already going on there.

Which is the best university in Germany?

There is no “best university”, neither in one subject and certainly not across all subjects.

DAAD India © CHE Ranking

Germany offers a multidimensional ranking, considering various criteria that are important from a student’s perspective. For example, student and staff judgments on quality of teaching, atmosphere at the university, library and other equipment, student numbers, average study duration, number of graduations, third party funding etc. This way you get a detailed picture of the strengths and weaknesses of each university on university-ranking.de . Here you can find your programme by selecting a subject, a university or even a city in Germany!

As a researcher you should also take the research rankings  into consideration. The criteria for such rankings could be research infrastructure, citations, patents, publications and student reviews, to name a few.

How should I plan my doctorate?

If you have set your mind on a PhD in Germany, you can consider two approaches: the traditional approach i.e. individual doctorate and the structured doctoral programmes.

Individual doctoral studies involve identifying a supervisor ( Doktorvater / Doktormutter ) at a German university who is willing to guide your research. This system offers a lot of freedom, and calls for a great deal of personal initiative right from identifying a topic in your research field. This kind of doctorate takes about 3-5 years to complete.

Structured PhD programmes  are internationally oriented, conducted largely in English and are comparable to PhD programmes offered in English-speaking countries. Here supervision is carried out by several university teachers. These programmes lead to a PhD in about three years.

What if I want to do a part of my PhD research in Germany?

The research Grant: Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees / Cotutelle which is also famously known as DAAD Sandwich Scholarship lets you complete your PhD in two countries. The first country being your home country where you are registered as a doctoral student and the second country is but naturally Germany.

You are supervised at your home university as well as at the host institute in Germany. Your doctoral degree is awarded by the home institution. This is the well known “sandwich model”.

While generally as a Master degree holder you will have ticked off the first major requirement, it is always a good idea to check if the university’s requirements and your qualifications match. And then you can start with the application procedure.

Am I eligible to apply for a PhD?

In Germany, every university is autonomous. This means that every university/ study programme has its own set of criteria for admitting students. So please check the university website, and specifically the programme you are interested in. Here you will find the exact admission requirements.

However, some generalisation is  possible. As a Master degree holder from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal or Sri Lanka your degree is treated at par with a German Master degree. In some cases, further assessment of eligibility will be required. Do clarify the matter of eligibility with the university or the research organisation of your choice before you send in your application.

Some universities may ask for the proof of your English language proficiency in form of TOEFL or IELTS scores. Some universities may ask for good German language skills depending upon subject of your research. In such cases, your knowledge of German needs to be certified through examinations like the TestDaF  or DSH.

How do I go about applying for a PhD?

• PhD Germany   – A portal where German universities advertise openings for doctoral positions
• An interactive database of  Graduate Schools at German universities
• Research Training Groups  coordinated by the German Research Foundation (DFG)
• International Max Planck Research Schools (IMPRS) Academicians from your country who have collaborations with German academicians or your seniors who might be carrying out research in Germany can be a great source of information too!
• Contact and convince a supervisor. Make sure that you approach a potential supervisor the right way and in good time – a brief and well-structured communication with an overview of your research proposal and relevant information about yourself is more likely to get you the right kind of response than a simple email stating that you are interested in doing a PhD!
• Communicate information about your background, academic performance and academic goals.
• Get a letter of acceptance from your supervisor.
• Identify a programme. Contact the selected university. This will be your most important source of information as far as exact details about eligibility, programme structure, fee, application procedure etc. are concerned.
• Check the application deadline for the programme chosen!
• Application forms and other relevant material can be downloaded from the respective university website.
• Send the application packet.
• Get a confirmation of admission.
• The Admission procedures vary for different universities and for different programmes.
• Check about these with the university of your choice or your supervisor.
• Make sure you have a valid passport!
• Apply for a student visa as soon as you have the admission letter, as the procedure can take 8 to 12 weeks. The German Embassy and the Consulates require proof of funding for the first year of studies. At this stage make sure if you need to get the APS certificate ( www.aps-india.de ) that some universities/host professors may insist upon. To find out where you should apply for a visa, visit the website of the Germany Embassy in your country.
• Apply for a place in a hostel. In some cases the International Office ( Akademisches Auslandsamt ) of the university will help you.
• Arrive in Germany at least a week before your course begins.
• Contact the International Office ( Akademisches Auslandsamt ) of your university for guidance.
• Step 6 Get your residence permit within the first three months of your stay in Germany from the Foreigners’ Registration Office ( Ausländeramt ).

Germany offers education in German as well as in English. Different subject fields can have different language requirements.

Can I do my PhD completely in English medium?

Germany offers close to 200 structured international programmes with English as the sole or primary medium of instruction. These programmes are called International Programmes.

Few of these programmes may require students to have learnt/learn some German language during their PhD.

Must I learn German for my PhD?

As you have already seen, Germany offers numerous PhD programmes with English as the sole or primary medium of instruction and the language for your thesis. English is also accepted as a language of research and education in Germany.

However, some universities/ subject fields may expect you to have German language proficiency for your PhD.

As a student in Germany, your life will not be limited to the university campus. You will surely want to interact with people, travel through the country-side and make the best of your time there. This is where knowledge of German will present a great advantage!

Universities offer beginner and well as advanced level courses where you can learn German. You can also start learning the language while you are still in your home country at a  Goethe-Institut (Max Mueller Bhavan) / Goethe-Zentrum.

Do I require to learn German for DAAD scholarship?

To apply for the DAAD PhD scholarship knowledge of the German language is not mandatory. However, after getting the scholarship you will be expected to complete a DAAD sponsored German course. This will help you with your life Germany.

While in a foreign country being able to manage your finances on your own is very important. You would need to plan your budget by keeping your living expenses, travel costs and tuition fees if any in mind.

What kind of budget should I have in my mind?

Fees: As a PhD scholar in Germany, you are exempted from tuition fees. You will need to pay a semester contribution of around Euro 300, depending upon the university and the services or benefits provided.

Living costs : Apart from the tuition fees, if any,  you will require about EUR 934 per month for subsistence i.e. housing, food, clothing, study material and other expenses such as health insurance and leisure activities. The precise split up for this amount will be updated soon. The amounts can vary from city to city, and of course from lifestyle to lifestyle!

The following table shows the split up at the time of the last budget indicated in 2019.

Source: German Student Union (Deutsches Studentenwerk), 2019 

How can I finance my doctorate?

If you are participating in a structured doctoral programme and doing your doctorate at a graduate school, research centre or research training group, the issue of funding is usually resolved with you either working as a research assistant or receiving a scholarship of about EUR 1,000 per month.

If you are pursuing your doctorate on the basis of the traditional approach, you can apply for a job as a research assistant, if there is vacancy.

Working as a research/doctoral assistant involves collaboration in research/teaching and doing administrative work in addition to completing the dissertation. Non-university research institutions like Fraunhofer Institutes and also some companies offer doctoral candidates employment and / or fund their doctoral dissertations.

The DAAD offers the most extensive scholarship programme.  Also a number of foundations support international candidates approved for the doctoral process. A database of scholarships offered by various German organisations can be found at  www.funding-guide.de .

What is a DAAD PhD scholarship like and how can I apply for it?

If you are a well-motivated researcher with high-calibre this research grant supports your complete doctoral studies in Germany. In general the duration of your PhD should not exceed more than four years.

If you have already registered for PhD in your home country and would like to carry out a part of the research in Germany, you may consider applying for Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees / Cotutelle scholarship of the DAAD .

An independent selection committee consisting of specialist scientists reviews your applications, wherein your academic qualification, quality of your research project is checked along with your career prospects, motivation and extra curricular activities including your civic engagement.

If you want to do your full PhD in Germany DAAD PhD Scholarship would be more relevant for you. The application deadline is 20 October every year. This is for scholarship starting from October of the following year.

Here is a step-by-step guideline for your application process:

• Collect general information about the DAAD PhD scholarship.
• Thoroughly check the eligibility criteria.
• Attend information sessions or internet-based seminars (webinars) organised by the DAAD.
• Once you have the letter of acceptance from your supervisor/admission letter from your university, complete the application procedure as specified in the scholarship announcement.
• The application deadline typically falls in the month of October the current year for a PhD beginning in the next year.
• Shortlisted applicants from India will be invited for a personal interview around January-February. For Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal and Sri Lanka the procedure will be announced closer to the date of interviews.
• The final decision will be announced for applicants from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal and Sri Lanka around mid or end of April of the following year.
• Step 4 Once selected, you will have to attend a mandatory German language course, which is a necessary and important part of your scholarship.
• Step 5 After the successful completion of your language course in Germany, your PhD will begin in October.

Living on your own comes with lots of responsibilities, at the same time it can also be very  interesting. It starts with finding a place to stay, learning how to cook, shopping on a budget, making friends and connections. Hope this section helps you with some of your questions.

How do I find accommodation?

Germany offers various types of accommodations:

• Students hall of residence:  Here you can rent rooms provided by  Student Services Organisation ( Studentenwerk ). They are low in cost and preferred by many students. Studentenwerk also provides specially designed Service Kits for international students. Get in touch with Studentenwerk of your city know more.
• Shared Flats ( Wohngemeinschaft – WG) : Shared flat or WG is another affordable accommodation, where you have your own room in a flat and share the kitchen and the bathroom with other flatmates. Living in a shared flat is cheaper as the rent and other expenses  get shared. You can find advertisements for vacancies in WGs online on social media groups or on student-friendly websites.
• Private apartments:  If you prefer living alone, private apartments can be an option for you.  You can find them with the help of Studentenwerk, on boards in the university foyer or even on social media groups and websites for rental real estate.

Make sure to be on the lookout from early on, so that you find the best place at an affordable price.

How do I connect with other students?

Connecting with other students can help you to learn from their experience. It may also help you get acquainted with the lifestyle, once you are in Germany.

• Get in touch with  DAAD Young Ambassadors . They have studied or carried out their research in Germany. Contact them with your questions, they will be happy to guide you!
• You can also find out about various student associations and groups formed by students of your country/ region.
• You can contact students on various socials media platforms as well. There are groups based on nationalities or interests and activities.
• Many universities arrange introductory events. Ask the international office of your university about them. Research institutions too generally run such initiatives.

You can of course work in Germany as long as you follow the regulations, which are not complex and are easy to understand.

Can I work in Germany as a student?

As an international student, you are permitted to work for 120 full days or 240 half days in a year. This will help you in getting a bit of extra pocket-money!OK

Can I work in Germany after my studies?

After completing your degree in Germany, you can choose from amongst a wide range of options:

You can stay on in the country for up to 1.5 years to look for a job that is in keeping with your education. Once you find a job, the residence permit issued to you for the purpose of studying, can be converted into a residence permit for taking gainful employment.

Germany has always had a very strong industry-academia linkage. A lot of scientific research is funded by the industry as well. During your studies you can get the opportunity to do internships with German companies, which can open new vistas for your professional career.

In Germany, a doctorate is a prerequisite for a career in research or higher education. Your options include:

• Teaching/Research Assistantships
• Postdoc Positions
• Research Positions in Industry

The portal  www.academics.com has Germany’s biggest online job market for researchers. There are also scholarships for Postdocs offered by the  Alexander-von-Humboldt Foundation  and other organizations.

Whether you are in India, Nepal or Bhutan, the DAAD is there to help you with your study in Germany plans. Check out how you can reach us!

Individual Appointments

You can connect with the DAAD offices online or offline in Bengaluru ,  Chennai ,  New Delhi  and  Pune .

Information Sessions

The DAAD offers free of cost information session about studying in Germany regularly. Check which dates and topics suit you, register and join!

Click here for dates, timings and registration links: www.daad.in/events .

Writing a Research Proposal

Take a look at the DAAD’s guidelines for writing research proposal

Research Proposal writing: Guidelines 2023

PhD Proposal Writing Workshop

Wondering how to write a PhD proposal? The DAAD offers PhD Proposal Writing Workshop on various topics for aspirants who intend to pursue their doctorate in Germany!

Early Career Research Symposia

The  Early Career Research Symposia offer you a platform to help you propel your research, amplify its reach and get inspired by exchange of ideas.

• Did you find the information about  doctoral studies in Germany useful? Keep the digital  PhD brochure with you, so that it is all handy!
• You will also find the digital brochure Research Proposal Guidelines 2023 useful.
• There is comfort  and certainty in numbers. With the fact sheet Germany India 2022 you can check out actual number of Indian students, what fields they are opting for and which universities they have preferred.