The BerGSAS-DAAD Germany Scholarships 2026 are a golden opportunity for international students aiming to pursue a fully funded PhD in ancient studies, archaeology, or related fields in Germany. Hosted by the Berlin Graduate School of Ancient Studies (BerGSAS) in partnership with the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), this scholarship supports outstanding doctoral researchers at two of Germany’s most prestigious institutions: Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Freie Universität Berlin.
These competitive scholarships are part of the Graduate School Scholarship Program (GSSP) and provide both generous funding and access to Germany’s top-tier academic resources.
- Country: Germany
- Universities: Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin & Freie Universität Berlin
- Graduate School: Berlin Graduate School of Ancient Studies (BerGSAS)
What sets this scholarship apart is its interdisciplinary structure. With research streams like Ancient Languages and Texts, Ancient Objects and Visual Studies, and Landscape Archaeology and Architecture, students gain hands-on experience across archaeology, history, linguistics, and more. Scholars are also encouraged to engage in international mobility and digital humanities.
Benefits of the BerGSAS-DAAD Scholarship
Recipients of the DAAD-GSSP scholarship will receive:
- Monthly Stipend: €1,300 for four years
- Travel Allowance (from home country to Germany)
- Health, Accident, and Liability Insurance
- Annual Study and Research Support: €1,000
- Family and Rent Allowances (if applicable)
- Pre-sessional German Language Course Funding
- International Research Mobility Support: Up to 25% of funding period
Bonus Perks
- Fully integrated PhD experience within a structured doctoral program
- Opportunities for funded exchange semesters at global partner universities (Harvard, Oxford, Princeton, etc.)
- Access to Berlin’s unparalleled academic and cultural environment
Eligibility Criteria for BerGSAS-DAAD Scholarship
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be non-German citizens
- Have not resided in Germany continuously before Dec 1, 2024
- Have completed a Master’s degree after March 1, 2020
- Have not previously completed a PhD
- Meet language requirements (minimum B2 English; C1 for FU Berlin)
- Hold a degree in a relevant field (e.g., Ancient History, Archaeology, Theology)
Eligible Nationalities
- Open to all international students from outside Germany
Eligible Research Tracks
- Ancient Languages and Texts (ALT)
- Ancient Objects and Visual Studies (AOViS)
- Landscape Archaeology and Architecture (LAA)
Required Documents for Application
Applicants must upload the following documents via the BerGSAS portal:
Mandatory Documents:
- Academic Degrees and Transcripts (B.A. and M.A.)
- Proof of English Language Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Research Proposal
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Two Letters of Recommendation (one from your home university)
- Letters must be sent directly to: application@berliner-antike-kolleg.org
- Use the DAAD template downloadable here
Document Format:
- All documents must be submitted in PDF format
- Originals are not required at this stage
Application Timeline for BerGSAS-DAAD Scholarship
- Applications Open: Already open
- Deadline: 15 October 2025, 00:00 CET
- Interviews: Nov–Dec 2025 (online, shortlisted candidates only)
- Final Decision by DAAD: Early 2026
- Program Start Date: October 2026
How to Apply for the BerGSAS-DAAD Scholarship
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Register Online
- Go to the BerGSAS application portal
- Fill the Application Form
- Save and edit as needed before submitting
- Upload Required Documents
- Make sure all files are in PDF and follow the checklist
- Submit Before the Deadline
- Applications must be submitted by 15 October 2025, 00:00 CET
- Arrange Letters of Reference
- Ask referees to send letters directly to BerGSAS using the DAAD format
- Interview (If Shortlisted)
- Prepare to discuss your research proposal and academic background
FAQs – BerGSAS-DAAD Germany Scholarships
Q1: Can I apply if I haven’t received my final Master’s degree yet?
Yes, but your thesis must be submitted and graded by the deadline.
Q2: Do I need German language proficiency?
No, but attending the funded German course is highly encouraged.
Q3: Can I apply if I’ve already lived in Germany?
Not if you have lived there continuously before December 1, 2024.
Q4: Are multiple PhD tracks open for one application?
No. You must choose one doctoral track (ALT, AOViS, or LAA).
Final Thoughts on the BerGSAS-DAAD Scholarship
If you’re passionate about ancient studies, archaeology, or cultural heritage, the BerGSAS-DAAD Germany Scholarships 2026 offer a life-changing opportunity. This program combines academic rigor, cultural immersion, and financial security—everything a doctoral student could hope for in a global PhD journey.
Submit your application now before the deadline closes. Don’t miss this opportunity to study in Germany.