Overview
PhD
Description
PhD
Eligibility
To be eligible for the DAAD GSSP 2026:
Applicants must be international candidates who have not lived in Germany for more than 15 months at the time of application. The last final exam (Master’s degree) must have been completed within the past six years. Applicants should propose a dissertation topic related to global, transregional, or transnational issues.
Additional Information
Degree Level
PhD
Available Subjects
The scholarship supports PhD projects in Global and Area Studies, which intersect disciplines such as:
History (including trans-imperial and global history) Political Science Sociology Cultural Studies Anthropology Economics and Economic History Law and Legal History Development Studies Migration and Refugee Studies Research Focus Areas
Dissertation topics should explore regional, transregional, transnational, or global issues—for example:
Climate change and global crises Post-colonialism and decolonisation Global governance, security, and conflict Migration, mobility, and inequality Comparative analysis of world regions Economic and political transformations in global contexts
Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
Monthly stipend: €1,300 Health, accident, and liability insurance coverage Research and study allowances Maximum duration: Up to 48 months (4 years) Start date: October 2026
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the DAAD GSSP 2026:
Applicants must be international candidates who have not lived in Germany for more than 15 months at the time of application. The last final exam (Master’s degree) must have been completed within the past six years. Applicants should propose a dissertation topic related to global, transregional, or transnational issues.
Application Procedure
The selection process consists of three steps:
Written Application to GSGAS
Deadline: 15 November 2025 Submit all required documents using the official application form available on the GSGAS website.
Selection Interviews & Nomination by GSGAS
Timeline: January–February 2026
Final Application via DAAD Portal
Nominees submit the official DAAD application (by May 2026). The final decision is made by DAAD.
Key Dates
Application deadline (GSGAS): 15 November 2025 Interviews: January–February 2026 DAAD Application (by nominees): until May 2026 Scholarship start: October 2026
Why Choose Leipzig University
Founded in 1409, Leipzig University is one of Europe’s oldest and most respected universities. It provides a vibrant academic environment, global research networks, and an interdisciplinary approach—ideal for scholars pursuing PhDs in Global and Area Studies.
Conclusion
The DAAD Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP) 2026 at Leipzig University is an exceptional opportunity for international PhD candidates to engage in interdisciplinary research addressing global issues. With full financial support and access to a world-class academic environment, this program stands among the best fully funded PhD scholarships in Germany.
Frequently Asked Questions Faqs
Who can apply for the DAAD GSSP 2026? International students holding a Master’s degree (or equivalent) completed within the past six years can apply, provided they have not resided in Germany for more than 15 months.
What does the DAAD scholarship cover? It provides €1,300 per month, health and liability insurance, research funding, and other allowances for up to 48 months.
What research areas are eligible? Projects related to global, transregional, or transnational issues, including climate change, migration, decolonisation, or economic transformations.
When is the application deadline? The first application deadline to GSGAS is 15 November 2025.
When does the scholarship start? The scholarship begins in October 2026.
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Card
Funding
Fully Funded
Organization
Leipzig University
Degree
PhD
Subjects
All Subjects, Global Studies, Area Studies
Nationality
International Students
Country
Germany
Source
Information provided by scholarships_ads.