University of Leipzig GSSP 2025/2026 Scholarship in Germany

Apply for the University of Leipzig GSSP (Graduate School Scholarship Programme) 2026 Scholarship in Germany — a fully funded DAAD PhD program offering €1,300 monthly stipend, research support, and 4 years of funding for international students.

About the University of Leipzig GSSP 2026

The Graduate School Global and Area Studies (GSGAS) at the University of Leipzig invites international PhD candidates to apply for the DAAD Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP) 2026.

This scholarship supports outstanding researchers pursuing doctoral studies focused on global, transregional, and area studies. It’s one of the most prestigious DAAD PhD opportunities in Germany — fully funded for up to 48 months (4 years).

 

Scholarship Summary

• Host University: University of Leipzig, Germany (GSGAS)
  
• Scholarship Name: DAAD Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP) 2026
  
• Eligible Applicants: International PhD candidates
  
• Number of Scholarships Available: 2
  
• Funding Duration: Up to 48 months (4 years)
  
• Monthly Stipend: €1,300, including health and liability insurance, and research allowances
  
• Application Deadline: November 15, 2025

 

Scholarship Benefits

Selected candidates for the GSSP 2026 will receive:

• A monthly stipend of €1,300, covering living expenses, health insurance, and liability insurance.
• Research allowances for academic and fieldwork costs.
• Up to 48 months (4 years) of full financial support.
• Access to academic mentorship, international research networks, and interdisciplinary seminars.
• Opportunity to pursue a PhD at one of Germany’s oldest and most reputable universities.

 

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the University of Leipzig GSSP 2026, applicants must:

• Be an international student (non-German citizen).
• Must not have lived in Germany for more than 15 months at the time of application.
• Hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) completed within the last six years.
• Have not completed a PhD previously.
• Submit a compelling research proposal that aligns with global and area studies or related interdisciplinary themes.
• Demonstrate academic excellence and English proficiency (German language is not mandatory but helpful).

 

Required Document

• Application form
• Proof of the highest academic degree of up to 3,500 words with;
  • A clear statement of your research question
  • An overview of the state of art in science that justifies a dissertation in this specific field (including bibliography)
  • A description of the sources/materials and methods to be used
  • A detailed work plan
• Curriculum Vitae
• Two letters of recommendation from recognized academics

How to Apply

Follow these steps to apply for the University of Leipzig GSSP 2026 Scholarship:

• Download the application form on the university of Leipzig scholarship website and fill in the necessary information.
  
• Prepare all required documents before the deadline (November 15, 2025).
• Submit your application to the Graduate School Global and Area Studies (GSGAS).
• Interviews and nomination: Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in early 2026, and successful nominees will be forwarded to the DAAD for final approval.
• DAAD confirmation: Once approved, final scholarship documents and visa support will be arranged by the DAAD.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – University of Leipzig GSSP 2026 Scholarship

1. What is the University of Leipzig GSSP 2026 Scholarship?

• The Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP) at the University of Leipzig is a fully funded PhD scholarship supported by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). It provides international students the opportunity to conduct doctoral research in global and area studies, transregional issues, and related fields. The program aims to strengthen academic collaboration, intercultural understanding, and high-quality research in the humanities and social sciences.

2. What are the financial benefits of the GSSP scholarship?

Successful applicants will receive:

• A monthly stipend of €1,300 for living expenses.
• Health, accident, and personal liability insurance coverage.
• A research allowance to support fieldwork and academic costs.
• A family allowance (if applicable, for spouses or children).
• A travel subsidy to and from Germany at the beginning and end of the program.
• Up to 48 months (4 years) of full funding, including research and training support.
  The scholarship ensures that candidates can fully focus on their doctoral studies without financial stress.

3. How long does the PhD program last?

• The GSSP scholarship supports up to 48 months (4 years) of doctoral research. This includes time for coursework, research, fieldwork, and dissertation writing. Extensions are rare and only granted in exceptional academic circumstances.

4. Do I need to know the German language to apply?

• No, knowledge of the German language is not mandatory. The PhD program is conducted in English, and all academic work can be completed in English. However, learning basic German can be helpful for daily life and integration into the local community in Leipzig.

5. Can I apply if I already live in Germany?

• You may apply only if you have lived in Germany for less than 15 months at the time of application. This is a strict DAAD requirement for international scholarships. Those who have been in Germany longer than 15 months are not eligible.

6. What is the selection process like?

The selection process involves:

• Initial screening of applications by the GSGAS academic committee.
• Online interviews for shortlisted candidates to discuss their research proposal and fit within the school’s research themes.
• Final nomination of selected applicants to the DAAD.
• DAAD’s final approval, which includes verification of eligibility and funding confirmation.

Selection is based on academic merit, research potential, motivation, and how well the proposal fits the school’s research focus.

7. Can I apply if I don’t have a supervisor yet?

• Yes, you can apply even if you haven’t confirmed a supervisor. However, it’s highly recommended to identify a potential faculty member at the University of Leipzig whose research aligns with your proposal. This strengthens your application and demonstrates academic preparedness.

8. Are there any restrictions on age or field of study?

• There is no formal age limit, but applicants should have completed their last degree (Master’s) within the past six years. As for fields, applicants must ensure that their research fits within global and area studies or related disciplines such as political science, sociology, anthropology, or history.

9. Can I work while studying under this scholarship?

• The GSSP scholarship provides a full stipend, so additional work is not encouraged. However, with DAAD and university approval, students may take on limited teaching or research assistant roles related to their field of study.

10. Can I bring my family with me?

• Yes, the DAAD provides family allowances for eligible scholarship holders. If you plan to bring your spouse or children, you can apply for additional financial support after your scholarship is confirmed.

11. What are the living conditions in Leipzig for international students?

• Leipzig is one of Germany’s most affordable and student-friendly cities. The monthly living cost ranges between €800 and €1,000, including accommodation, food, transportation, and leisure. The DAAD stipend (€1,300/month) comfortably covers these expenses.

12. What are the advantages of studying at the University of Leipzig?

The University of Leipzig is one of Germany’s oldest and most prestigious universities, known for:

• Strong interdisciplinary research environment.
• Excellent academic supervision and training.
• Access to international networks and collaborations.
• A vibrant, culturally rich student life in Leipzig.
• Opportunities for postdoctoral positions and academic careers in Europe.

13. How competitive is the scholarship?

• The University of Leipzig GSSP is highly competitive, as only two positions are available each year. Applicants are evaluated based on academic excellence, research originality, proposal quality, and fit within the school’s research framework.

14. What tips can help me prepare a strong application?

• Begin early and carefully craft your research proposal.
• Highlight relevant research experience or publications.
• Ensure your motivation letter reflects genuine academic goals.
• Seek recommendations from well-known professors familiar with your work.
• Proofread all documents and meet every eligibility criterion.