If you’re passionate about high-performance computing and want to pursue a PhD at the intersection of computational science, mathematics, and engineering, the NHR Graduate School Scholarship 2025 in Germany is your calling. Offered by the National High Performance Computing (NHR) Association, this scholarship provides full financial support to doctoral candidates in cutting-edge research areas involving supercomputing technologies.
This prestigious program not only covers your academic and living expenses but also gives you access to Germany’s top supercomputing centers and an elite academic network.
You will work under the supervision of world-class scientists at one of the NHR centers, such as Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), RWTH Aachen, or ZIB Berlin, depending on your project alignment.
Why This Scholarship Is Special
- Specialized PhD track in High Performance Computing (HPC)
- Access to Germany’s top-tier supercomputers and research infrastructure
- Full-time doctoral program with built-in training and networking components
Benefits of the NHR Graduate School Scholarship
The NHR scholarship is fully funded and structured to support the development of technical and academic excellence:
- Monthly Stipend for living expenses (approx. €2,200+ per month)
- No Tuition Fees (PhD study in Germany is tuition-free)
- Research Support including access to supercomputing resources
- Funding for Conferences and Workshops
- Relocation Assistance for international students
- Dedicated Mentorship and interdisciplinary networking
- Prestige and Career Pathways in research institutions and HPC industry
This scholarship is not just funding — it’s a ticket to the forefront of supercomputing research.
Eligibility Criteria for NHR Graduate School Scholarship
To qualify for this program, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Degree Level: PhD (Doctoral)
- Academic Background: Strong Master’s degree in computer science, applied mathematics, physics, engineering, or a related field
- Research Interest: Demonstrated interest in high-performance computing or computational methods
- Nationality: Open to all international and EU applicants
- Language Requirement: English proficiency required; German is helpful but not mandatory
- Other: Some projects may require programming knowledge or numerical simulation skills
Candidates with prior research or coding experience in HPC frameworks are highly valued.
Required Documents for NHR Scholarship Application
Ensure you submit a complete and properly formatted application:
Mandatory Documents:
- CV (max 2 pages)
- Motivation Letter
- Academic Transcripts and Certificates
- Research Proposal (optional but encouraged)
- Two Recommendation Letters
- Proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, or university confirmation)
Optional:
- List of Publications (if applicable)
- Programming Portfolio or GitHub profile
All documents should be in PDF format and translated into English or German if necessary.
How to Apply for the NHR Scholarship
Here’s how you can submit your application successfully:
- Visit the NHR Graduate School Website: Review current PhD projects and select one that fits your background
- Prepare Your Documents: Stick to page limits and requested formats
- Fill Out the Online Application Form (available on the NHR-verein.de website)
- Submit Documents via Portal: Upload all materials as PDF
- Await Notification: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview
Tip: Customize your motivation letter to the specific project or NHR center you are applying to.
FAQs about the NHR Graduate School Scholarship
Is IELTS mandatory?
Not strictly. Proof of English proficiency is required, but IELTS is just one accepted option.
Can students from Africa, Asia, or South America apply?
Yes. The program is open to international candidates from all regions.
Do I need to know German?
Not necessarily. Most of the program operates in English.
Are there age restrictions?
No specific age limit is mentioned.
Can I apply to more than one project?
Yes, but your application should clearly state which projects you’re interested in.
Final Thoughts on the NHR Graduate School Scholarship
The NHR Graduate School Scholarship 2025 is a fantastic opportunity for aspiring PhD students who want to dive into the future of supercomputing. It provides not just full financial backing, but also access to advanced technology, expert mentorship, and a powerful network in European research.
Submit your application now before the deadline closes. Don’t miss this opportunity to study in Germany.