How to apply for the Humboldt Research Fellowship Program

The Humboldt Research Fellowship program is an international research fellowship program, a prestigious opportunity for researchers of all nationalities and research areas. It is sponsored by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation and provides above-average qualified researchers from around the world with individual support and a diverse sponsorship portfolio.

1. As a fellow, you will have the chance to conduct your own research in collaboration with a host at a German research institution of your choice. The Humboldt Research Fellowship offers subsidies towards research costs, allowing you to fully focus on your work.
2. For postdoctoral researchers, this fellowship provides valuable research sponsorship at the beginning of your academic career. With a monthly fellowship amount of €2,670, you can conduct research in Germany for a duration of 6 to 24 months.
3. Even if you are an experienced researcher who is well advanced in your academic career, you can still apply for research sponsorship in Germany through the Humboldt Research Fellowship. The fellowship amount for experienced researchers is €3,170, and fellowships can last from 6 to 18 months. Additionally, these fellowships can be divided into up to three stays within three years, providing flexibility for your research plans.
4. We are currently reviewing applications for the upcoming meetings of the selection committee, and we anticipate that 20 – 25% of the received applications will be approved. This is a great opportunity to further your research in Germany, so don’t miss out on this chance to be part of the Humboldt Research Fellowship.

General terms and conditions of the Humboldt Research Fellowship Program

In addition to the fellowship amount, you will receive personalized assistance throughout your sponsorship. You have the flexibility to choose when you want to begin your fellowship. Before your research fellowship, both you and your spouse will have the opportunity to participate in an intensive language course.

Additional financial support is also available, including family benefits for children and spouses, subsidies for comprehensive private health insurance, and allowances for travel expenses.

Alumni programs
We maintain contact even after your research stay concludes. Our alumni sponsorship programs provide flexible support for every Humboldtian’s unique journey in both their careers and future research collaborations. A return fellowship or future visits to Germany are also options.

Criteria for eligibility of the Humboldt Research Fellowship Program

The Humboldt Research Fellowship is open to post-doctoral researchers with exceptional qualifications from around the world, regardless of their field of study.

1. For Postdocs:
Have you recently completed your doctoral degree or an equivalent academic qualification within the past four years? Alternatively, are you in the final six months of completing your doctorate and can already present a written summary of your research findings? Have your academic works been published in reputable journals and publishing houses that adhere to international standards? If you meet these requirements and the criteria outlined in the application guidelines, you are eligible to apply for the Humboldt Research Fellowship for postdoctoral researchers.

2. For Experienced Researchers:
Have you obtained your doctoral degree or an equivalent academic qualification within the last twelve years? Is your academic background supported by a substantial number of publications in internationally recognized academic journals and publishing houses? If you meet these qualifications and the criteria specified in the application guidelines, you are encouraged to apply for the Humboldt Research Fellowship for experienced researchers. If obtaining a doctorate in your field or country is not feasible, you may still apply up to 16 years after completing your master’s or other postgraduate degree, provided that you have a publication record that aligns with your career level.

What is required of you: in the Humboldt Research Fellowship Program

To be considered for the Humboldt Research Fellowship, you must meet the following criteria as outlined in the application guidelines.

To submit your application for the Humboldt Research Fellowship, kindly ensure that you upload all required documents to the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation’s online platform. If you require any clarification or have inquiries, please feel free to reach out to us at info[at]avh.de prior to finalizing your application. We are here to assist you.

• Programme information for postdocs (PDF, 131 KB)
• Programme information for experienced researchers (PDF, 122 KB)
• Information for hosts
• Information for expert reviewers
• Information for independent peer reviewers
• Recently selected fellows

Deadlines for the Humboldt Research Fellowship Program

1. The committee responsible for reviewing applications to this program convenes in March, July, and November. Ensure that your completed application form, along with any necessary additional documents, is submitted well ahead of the desired selection date. Typically, applications are processed within four to eight months. Incomplete or inaccurate applications may face delays and might need to be deferred to a later committee meeting.
2. The deadline for meeting specific formal requirements, especially those related to career stage limitations and previous stays in Germany, is determined by the date of application submission.
3. If your application is approved, you can commence your fellowship within two to twelve months of selection.
4. In case of an unsuccessful application, you may request feedback informally via email. The decision outcome will be communicated to you and your host approximately five weeks after the decision is made. Please note that decisions are final and cannot be appealed. However, you may re-apply if you significantly enhance key aspects of the previously rejected application. For applications unanimously rejected, a minimum waiting period of 18 months is required before re-applying.
5. VISIT THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS AND TO APPLY