Students all across the world who want to do their PhD in Germany can apply for the DAAD Rosa Luxemburg Foundation scholarship programme 2027.
The last date to apply for the scholarship programme is 1 October 2026.
The programme supports international PhD candidates admitted to a state or state-recognised university in Germany.
Applicants must also have academic supervision from a university lecturer in Germany.
The scholarship is open to candidates from all academic disciplines except medical fields.
Applicants are expected to have an excellent academic record as well as demonstrated social or societal engagement consistent with the foundation’s criteria.
According to the latest DAAD scholarship database, doctoral candidates receive a monthly grant of 1,400 euros, along with a 100 euros mobility allowance and a further 20 euros monthly lump-sum allowance.
Funding can normally continue for up to three years for doctoral candidates completing their doctorate at a German university. Previous doctoral funding may reduce the remaining eligible period.
The Rosa Luxemburg Foundation’s own website also currently lists the international doctoral scholarship at 1,400 euros a month, plus 100 euros mobility and 20 euros additional support.
One important requirement is German-language proficiency at B2 level or higher.
The requirement applies even when a doctoral thesis is written in English. Applicants must provide proof of their German-language skills, although the foundation says that, in certain circumstances, applicants who cannot yet provide B2 certification may submit evidence of B1 proficiency together with proof that they are taking or beginning a B2 course.
The programme therefore differs from some international PhD scholarships in Germany where English proficiency alone may be sufficient.
Who can apply?
For the international doctoral programme, applicants must generally:
- Be foreign nationals;
- Have admission to a doctoral programme at a state or state-recognised university in Germany;
- Have a university lecturer in Germany supervising their work;
- Hold a very good graduate degree;
- Demonstrate social or societal engagement;
- Provide proof of German proficiency at B2 level;
- Meet the foundation’s additional residence and funding requirements.
The foundation says international applicants normally must not have been in Germany for more than 15 months at the time of application, subject to specified exceptions.
What documents are required?
The foundation’s current application guidance asks international doctoral applicants to upload documents including proof of doctoral admission, a CV, degree certificates and evidence of social, political or voluntary engagement.
Applicants must also provide proof of German-language ability. Documents not originally in German or English may require translation.
Applications are submitted online. The foundation says the current application portal opened on 20 August 2026 and will close at 23:59 on 1 October 2026.
The Rosa Luxemburg Foundation is a political education organisation associated with Germany’s Die Linke (The Left) party.
