Are you a high-achieving master’s student with a passion for research and a vision for your doctoral journey? The Humboldt Research Track Scholarship provides exceptional master’s students with funding to transition smoothly into a doctoral program. Designed by Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, this scholarship is one of Germany’s most prestigious pre-PhD awards.
About Humboldt Research Track Scholarship
The Humboldt Research Track Scholarship is offered by Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin in Germany to outstanding master’s students planning to pursue a doctorate. The scholarship supports students during the critical transition period between completing a master’s degree and beginning their doctoral studies.
This scholarship is notable for:
- Its focus on academic excellence and a well-developed doctoral research proposal.
- Providing financial stability for preparation and proposal development.
- Being open to Humboldt-Universität graduates and external applicants intending to do a PhD at Humboldt.
Humboldt Research Track Scholarship Summary
| Host Institution: | Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin |
| Study Abroad: | Study in Europe |
| Level of Study: | Masters Scholarships | PhD Scholarships |
| Eligible Degrees / Fields: | All disciplines eligible for PhD at HU Berlin |
| Scholarship Coverage: | €1,000/month for up to 6 months; family stipend available |
| IELTS Requirement: | Not explicitly required |
| Eligible Regions / Nationalities: | Open to all nationalities |
| Application Deadline: | May 15, 2025 |
| Destination Country: | Germany |
| Category: | Fully Funded, Research-Based |
Benefits of the Humboldt Research Track Scholarship
- €1,000 per month for up to 6 months
- Family allowance: €400 for the first child + €100 per additional child
- Funding can be extended in exceptional cases
- Time to prepare a doctoral exposé and secure a supervisor
- No restriction on nationality or academic discipline
Eligibility Criteria for Humboldt Research Track Scholarship
Applicants must:
- Be master’s students or recent graduates with excellent academic records
- Plan to pursue a PhD at Humboldt-Universität (or HU graduates starting PhDs elsewhere)
- Submit a high-quality doctoral proposal and find a HU mentor
- Apply during or shortly after their master’s degree
- Applications from candidates with disabilities or chronic illnesses are strongly encouraged
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Required Documents for Humboldt Research Track Scholarship Application
- Online Application Form (submitted via portal)
- Curriculum Vitae (max. 2 pages)
- Doctoral Proposal Sketch (max. 2,250 characters)
- Certificates of Academic Degrees (with certified translations if applicable)
- Transcripts of Records
- Letter of Recommendation from your MA thesis supervisor or instructor
- Expert Review of the doctoral proposal by a Humboldt mentor (cannot be the same person as the recommender)
All documents must be submitted in German or English.
Application Timeline for Humboldt Research Track Scholarship
There are three application windows each year:
- 1 September – 15 October (Funding starts: Jan, Feb, or March)
- 1 December – 15 January (Funding starts: Apr, May, Jun, or July)
- 1 April – 15 May (Funding starts: Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, or Dec)
Note: Reapplications are not accepted after rejection.
How to Apply for the Humboldt Research Track Scholarship
Step-by-Step Application Guide:
- Register and complete the online application form on HU’s portal
- Prepare and upload your:
- CV
- Degree certificates
- Transcript of records
- Proposal sketch
- Request:
- Letter of recommendation from MA supervisor
- Expert review from HU mentor
- Submit everything before the relevant deadline
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Begin preparing well before the application window
- Develop a clear and concise doctoral proposal
- Identify and secure a mentor at HU early
- Ensure your referees understand the process and deadlines
FAQs about Humboldt Research Track Scholarship
Who is eligible for the scholarship?
Outstanding MA students planning to pursue a PhD at Humboldt or HU alumni pursuing a PhD elsewhere.
Is IELTS required?
No specific IELTS requirement is mentioned. Proficiency in German or English is expected depending on the program.
Can I apply from outside Germany?
Yes. International and German students are both eligible.
Can I reapply after rejection?
No. Reapplications are not accepted.
Is this a fully funded scholarship?
Yes, for the transition period. It provides full financial support up to 6 months.
Final Thoughts on Humboldt Research Track Scholarship
The Humboldt Research Track Scholarship is an exceptional opportunity for master’s graduates aiming to prepare for a doctoral program. With generous funding, flexibility, and a strong research-focused environment, Humboldt-Universität offers scholars the foundation to begin their academic careers.
📌Submit your application now before the deadline closes. Don’t miss this opportunity to study in Germany.
Application Deadline: May 15, 2025
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