visiting phd student germany

You may contact the Hamburg Welcome Center (HWC) service advisors by telephone or e-mail prior to or upon your arrival in Hamburg if you need any information on the topic “New in Hamburg”. The HWC offers various free services for domestic and international newcomers to Hamburg. After making an appointment by e-mail or by phone, you can get information about living in Hamburg and Hamburg as a study and research location in addition to personal counseling. The HWC can initially issue your residence permit and initially register your residence. The service is free of charge.

Do not forget to ask a service advisor at Hamburg Welcome Center for a free "Welcome-to-Hamburg bag" which you will need to collect from the HWC. In this bag you will find useful flyers and brochures such as a city map, information about public transport, leisure activities, important addresses in Hamburg and much more.

To avoid long online searching, please check out the following sites for information on the City of Hamburg and for a list of event highlights in Hamburg:

Website- City Hamburg City map of Hamburg Activities in Hamburg Culture and Event Highlights

Getting around in Hamburg

If you live in Hamburg or the Hamburg area, you are better off avoiding the roads and taking the U-Bahn, S-Bahn, AKN, rapid transit or regional rail lines. These offer reliable, quick, and direct rail connections within the Hamburg region, all leading into the city center.

Hamburg Public Transport AssociationGmbH (HVV)

Overview line and route network plans

Stadtrad Hamburg / Lüneburg

StadtRAD Hamburg (City Bike Hamburg) : There are about 2600 city bikes in Hamburg. You can find them at almost every U- and S-Bahn station, as well as near sights and university buildings. You can register online or via StadtRAD Hamburg-App.

he first year, this entry fee can also be used as credit to rent bikes. The first 30 minutes of each ride are free, each additional minute is charged according to the booked rate.

The different rates can be found here: StadtRAD Hamburg Prices There are also discounts for HVV card and BahnCard holders.

By registering with StadtRAD Hamburg, you get access to the entire Call a Bike (Deutsche Bahn) bike-sharing fleet in Germany.

On-Demand Shuttle

The on-demand transport hvv hop is integrated into the hvv fare system. Valid hvv tickets are recognized by showing them to the driver, an additional surcharge is added per person per trip. For trips with hvv hop within the different service areas, you can conveniently pay the surcharge via the app of hvv hop (powered by ioki). If you don't have an hvv ticket yet, you can also buy a ticket in the app, which then entitles you to use the hvv buses and trains

Rufmobil (Rufbus & ASM) Lüneburg

The RufMobil is an additional offer to the regular service and offers you mobility on demand. The Rufmobil includes the Rufbus and the ASM (Anruf Sammel-Mobil).

The Rufbus only travels the route of the timetable that is actually needed, depending on demand. Bookings can be made by telephone or online.

Booking by telephone : 04131 880777 or online

The ASM runs according to the timetable and is on the road for you when regular buses and call buses are no longer or not yet running. Bookings can only be made by telephone. Due to the system, there may be waiting times of up to 15 minutes at the pick-up stop.

Booking by telephone: 04131 53344

Tips for every day

Tips for daily life : To get started in Germany, this website provides information about doctors and pharmacies, shopping, saving money, telephone, internet, postal service, safety, and transportation. 

Cost of living in Hamburg : This website gives you an overview of the costs of living in Germany. It contains price and product information relating to restaurants, markets, transportation, utilities, sports and leisure, child care, clothing and shoes, rent, buy appartment prices, salaries and financing.

Service for Visiting Scholars

The service for visiting scholars provides support to prospective or newly arrived visiting academics from abroad to give them a good start in Hamburg. More information can be found on the international webpages of MIN for visiting scholars .

2. Information and services for visiting scholars

The MIN and the UHH Welcome Services are complementary services to help you prepare your visiting stay in Hamburg and support you with everythin you need for your stay and life in Hamburg.

MIN Welcome Services for visitig scholars :  The Welcome Buddy Team of the MIN faculty matches each visiting MIN scholar from abroad with a registered MIN doctoral student who supports the visiting scholars from abroad, for example, in the following ways: correspondence via email prior to arrival in Hamburg,  airport pick up on arrival, Hamburg city walk, UHH Campus tour, registering at the Registration Office, opening a bank account, getting around with the Hamburg public transport HVV or with the CityBike, etc.

The welcome buddy does not provide support with accommodation search.

UHH Welcome Service for International Researchers : The service supports international researchers, including doctoral researchers, who wish to stay for at least one month at Universität Hamburg. It provides information, advice, and help with everything you need for your stay and life in Hamburg: entering Germany, health and liability insurance, housing search, dealing with authorities, visa application, and even looking for a suitable kindergarten.

The Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences (MIN faculty) welcomes every year international visiting scholars for  research visits or stays at the MIN faculty departments :

• Department of Biology
• Department of Chemistry
• Department of Earth System Sciences
• Department of Informatics
• Department of Mathematics
• Department of Physics

We would like to facilitate your  preparations for your stay in Hamburg with some information and guidance:

Pre-arrival Steps for visiting Scholars

In preparation for your stay, please read the Guide for MIN Visiting Scientists.

For further questions and information, the UHH Welcome Service for international researchers is also available for concerns before or during your stay in Hamburg.

Clarify the following points prior to conducting your research visit or stay at the MIN faculty in good time:

• Define the academic purpose of your visit (research, specialisation, outreach, collaboration on a specific project, lecturing, etc.)
• MIN faculty departments ,
• MIN faculty Research Centers , or
•  Cooperation partners of the MIN faculty
• a letter of motivation
• a curriculum vitae
• an outline of your visiting scholar's research project
• a publication list
• a short research proposal: project title, project description, research stay plan
• research stay duration at MIN
• information about financing:
• Prior to your application, you should clarify how you intend to finance your stay or visit at the MIN faculty, i.e. scholarship, with or without financial support, self-financing, mobility grant, third-party grant, or other.  You may also ask your potential academic host for any funding opportunities.
• Please note that visiting scholars are not university employees.
• For funding organisations that support international visiting scholars's stays or visits at a German University or research institution, please consult  the Notes on Funding for visiting Scholars on the Staff Service Portal of Universität Hamburg with Information on funding for visiting scholars and also go to "Funding of research stay" below.
• On the page Notes on Hosting Agreement and Guest Contract you will find further information regarding the issuance of a Hosting Agreement as well as corresponding contact persons regarding the topic Guest Contract.

Visiting Scholar Status

Please carefully read the Information for visiting scholars on the Staff Service Portal of Universität Hamburg which also apply to the MIN Faculty.

A visiting scholar from abroads needs to find an academic host at the MIN Faculty who accepts to host her or him with a research visit or stay.  The University of Hamburg must grant you a visiting scholar right (Gastrecht) in order for you to be able to carry out your guest stay at the MIN Faculty.

Rights for visiting scholar : Please carefully read the Notes on granting visiting scholar status on the Staff Service Portal of Universität Hamburg. At Universität Hamburg, visiting scholar status is granted subject to certain conditions. The notes contain the requirements by Universität Hamburg which also apply to the MIN Faculty.

The decision to grant visiting scholar rights at the MIN faculty is made by the Head of the Department or the Head of the Research Center in which the visiting scholar wishes to conduct research or itends to visit.

Upon approval of your visiting scholar application

In order to conduct your research stay or visit at the MIN faculty, Universität Hamburg needs to grant you the Visiting Scholar Status. Please consult the Notes on Hosting Agreements and Visiting Scholars Agreements on the Staff Service Portal of the Universität Hamburg for information on your rights and privileges as a visiting scholar and for the conditions in order to be grantet a visiting scholar status. You may contact the Welcome Service for international Researchers to clarify any questions relating to your research stay or visit at Universität Hamburg.

Both the visiting scholar and the Head of the MIN Department where the visiting scholar will conduct her or his stay or visit need sign the Visiting Scholar Agreement: If the research stay or visit is at the Deparment of Biology, the Head of the Department of Biology is entitled to sign the Visiting Scholar Agreement. The Visiting Scholar Agreement is also required if you need to apply for a visa to enter Germany for your stay at the MIN Faculty.

Furthermore, you need to sort out the following points with your academic host at the MIN Faculty:

• Academic integration and support
• Facilities: availability of equipment and materials needed for your research stay

Important contact details

Please contact the Welcome UHH Welcome Service for international Researchers  for information, advice, and help with everything you need for your stay and life in Hamburg:

• entering Germany
• health and liability insurance
• housing search
• dealing with authorities
• looking for a suitable kindergarten
• visa application

More information related to support for your research stays or visits can be found at:

Guide for international MIN visiting Scholars & the Welcome Service of the MIN Faculty for its international visiting scholars .

3. Funding research stay

There are various ways of managing funding for your research stay or visit. If you are a visiting scholar from abroad who plans to carry out a research stay or visit at the Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences (MIN facutly) at Universität Hamburg.

Please consult the notes on funding for visiting scholars on the Staff Service Portal of Universität Hamburg where notes on granting visiting scholar status are also available.

We have also compiled some information on funding opportunities for visiting scientists from abroad:

• The MIN Graduate Center (MINGZ) offers funding for an insight stay with the MIN faculty at Universität Hamburg to explore the possibility of doing your doctoral studies in Hamburg, with a maximum duration of one month. Applications in English or German may be submited by your supervisor to mingz "AT" uni-hamburg.de   on an ongoing basis. Applications are processed within two to four weeks.
• If a partnership exists between your university and Universität Hamburg, please inquire with your home International Office, whether funding programmes  aimed at your researchers are available for a research stay or visit for a limited period of time at Universität Hamburg.
• Funding organisations or databases : If you are looking for research fellowships or funding programmes, you may find funding organisations that support international visiting scholars' stays or visits at a German University or research institution here.

Funding your Research in Germany

Information about grants, fellowships and awards for international PhD students and researchers: Funding your Research in Germany

MIN Graduate Center (MINGZ)

MIN Graduate Center  (MINGZ) offers funding for insight visits, during which international applicants can get acquainted with the research environment at Universität Hamburg and carry out their first joint research activities with the university's supervisors and research teams.

Alexander von Humboldt

AvH programs : Check here for researchers coming to Germany (postdoctoral researchers, junior research group leaders, experienced researchers, and internationally recognised cutting-edge researchers).

DAAD Programs and Funding

• Bilateral Exchange of Academics To improve international relations and bilateral research cooperations between German and foreign universities, the DAAD supports exchanges of scientists and academics from partner countries. The basis of these exchanges are cultural exchange programmes and bilateral agreements with foreign partner organisations.
• Postdoctoral Researchers International Mobility Experience (PRIME) The fellowships funded by the P.R.I.M.E programme combine a 12-months mobility phase abroad with a 6-months re-integration phase in Germany, to ensure further integration into the German system of science and research.
• Research Stays for University Academics and Scientists DAAD grants provide foreign academics and scientists with an opportunity to carry out research and continue their education in Germany. There are funding programmes for various qualification phases and stages in a career.
• Support for a guest lectureship

Guest lecturers from all regions of the world and all subjects are encouraged.

(Website only in German)

DFG Programs and Funding

• GERiT – German Research Institutions

Research directory of the German Research Foundation (DFG) and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). Here, you can structure your search according to subject area. Then select the desired research area from the offered selection as well as the research location (Hamburg).

• Initiation of international collaboration

This funding instrument serves to establish collaborative relationships between international partners. Available modules  are: “Exploratory Workshops”, “Trips Abroad” and “Guest Visits”.

EURAXESS Database

EURAXESS Database : For information about funding programs for incoming researchers look here.

Fulbright Programs

• Fulbright Specialist Program Opportunities to collaborate with professional counterparts on curriculum and faculty development, institutional planning and a variety of other activities. Duration: 14 - 42 days.
• Fulbright Intercountry Lectureship Program The Intercountry Lectureship Program sponsors guest lecturers at German universities.
• Fulbright Lecture and Research The program for junior and senior faculty members sponsors lecturing and/or research stays at various stipend levels for a duration of 2-4 months.

Catholic Academic Exchange Services (KAAD)

Scholarship program for researchers from Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America who want to acquire a master’s degree or a PhD at a German university or do a post-doctoral research project (2-6 months for established university lecturers) at a German university.

KAAD is working with focus- and partner countries in your region. There are so-called Partner Committees in these countries and applications are channelled via them.

Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions

This Research Fellowship Programme of the European Commission supports researchers at all stages of their careers, irrespective of nationality. Researchers working across all disciplines, from life-saving healthcare to 'blue-sky' science, are eligible for funding. The MSCA also support industrial doctorates, combining academic research study with work in companies etc.

Program of project-related exchanges of persons

PPP : Promotion of cooperation between German and foreign scientists. The prerequisite for application is a concrete scientific research project on which scientists from both countries want to work together. (Website only in German)

Research Exchanges of UHH

Research stays up to one month (or shorter) at an international partner university of Universität Hamburg.

Welcome Services for Visiting Scholars

MIN Welcome Services for visiting scholars :  The Welcome Buddy Team of the MIN faculty matches each visiting MIN scholar from abroad with a registered MIN doctoral student who supports the visiting scholars from abroad, for example, in the following ways: correspondence via email prior to arrival in Hamburg,  airport pick up on arrival, Hamburg city walk, UHH Campus tour, registering at the Registration Office, opening a bank account, getting around with the Hamburg public transport HVV or with the CityBike, etc.

Visa regulations : Here you can find information on visa regulations including bodies responsible for issuing visas, application procedure, visa fees, a table of the countries whose citizens require/do not require visa. If you need a visa to enter Germany, you need to submit all the supporting documents well in advance and in person at the German Embassy or German Consulate in your home country prior to departure.

Visiting scholars from EU and EFTA Member States

EU nationals and nationals of those countries of the European Community (EU plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland) just need a valid passport to enter Germany. They do not require a visa or a residence permit to enter Germany and complete a research visit or stay.

Third country visiting academics (non-EU and non-EFTA)

As a general rule, Non-EU nationals and non-EFTA nationals require a visa for research stays or visit before entering Germany. Non-EU visiting scholars should not enter Germany on a tourist or Schengen visa. A visa can be applied for in the home country as well as in the country of habitual residence.

Visa requirements for a visiting scholar stay : International third country visiting academics may need

• a hosting agreement signed by both the visiting scholar and the head of the hosting MIN Department or MIN Research Center, depending on the visiting scholar's country of origin.
•  a Visiting Scholar Agreement, issued by your academic host at the MIN faculty  needs to grant you the Visiting Scholar Status. A template of the visiting scholars agreement is available for your academic host on the staff service portal of Universität
• For third country visiting academics, the host my be required to confirm that the stay at the MIN Faculty is necessary. There is a DAAD template for issuing that confirmation.

Visa regulations for UK nationals

British nationals do not require a visa or residence permit for self-financed or scholarship-financed research, study or language stays that do not exceed 90 days within a 180-day period.

For stays that exceed the above-mentioned periods or are financed by employment, British nationals can apply for a residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) from the local immigration authority (Ausländerbehörde) after their arrival in Germany without having obtained a visa before travelling to Germany. The application for a residence permit must be submitted within the first 90 days of arrival. Please note that you must register your new place of residence with the registration office (Meldebehörde) within 2 weeks of moving in. It is important to note that you may only take up employment once you have been granted a residence permit that expressly authorises this employment.

Please contact the Welcome Service for International Researchers of UHH for questions about residence permits.

5. Residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel)

Residence permit : Non-EU nationals staying in Germany for more than three months must apply for and obtain a residence title (Aufenthaltstitel). You should first register your residence at the Hamburg Welcome Center before you apply for a residence title. As of 1st September 2011 an electronic residence permit (eAT) in credit card format replaces the paper form.

Application documents : The documents needed for the residence title application are listed below, based on information provided by the Hamburg Welcome Center. If any of the required documents is missing and you fail to present them upon request, your application will be refused. Thus, please always check requirements with an English speaking advisor of the HWC before applying. The HWC information service is available for free. You need to arrange an appointment with Hamburg Welcome Center .

Alternatively, you can reach out to the foreigner's service office of your district (German only).

Necessary documents to be submitted may vary in individual cases but can be collected online as well.

• Completed application form, downloads are available in several languages at residence title application form.
• Valid passport
• Biometric photograph (no older than 6 months)
• Current certificate of registration (Meldebescheinigung) with your address in Germany
• Health insurance certificate (Krankenversicherungsnachweis)
• Rental agreement or confirmation of hotel or student residence hall
• Administrative fee about 50 € - 200 € (subject to changes)
• Contract of employment or employment agreement (3 months‘ pay slip, where applicable)
• Information on workplace and on employment (use official form), download Declaration Forms of Business and Occupation . The official form is in German. An English speaking HWC service advisor will assist you with translation into English.

If you have family, please also provide

• Your birth certificate and your family members‘ birth certificate(s)
• Marriage certificate

For any questions that you may have regarding your planned trip to Germany with your family you can get in touch with a service advisor at the HWC . You can do this by e-mail: newcomers "AT" welcome.hamburg.de  or you can make an appointment by telephone before your arrival: +49-40-42839-5500.

For employees

• Employment contract, employment convention or confirmation of current employment relationship
• Salary statement of the last 3 months
• Information on the company and employment ( official form )
• Proof of qualification
• Curriculum Vitae

Please note:

In some cases, additional documentation may be required. Even if all required documents have been submitted, it may not be possible to issue the permit immediately, as other authorities or institutions may be involved in the process. It is necessary to wait for their comments.

6. Accommodation

• Accommodation Services for International Researchers Our accommodation services provide assistance for international doctoral students, postdocs, or visiting scholars at the University seeking housing in Hamburg.
• Welcome Service for International Researchers: Newcomers in need of accommodation can get support here.
• Gästehaus der Universität Hamburg (guest house): Visiting scholars and lecturers can occupy rooms and apartments of different sizes.
• 'Finding a Home' : You can find more information on rentals here.
• Hostel Hamburg Bookings : Here you can find options if you prefer to stay at hotels or hostels at a favorable price for the first few days in Hamburg.
• WG-Gesucht : This portal provides options for rooms in shared apartments (in German only).
• International Housing : apartments located close to the University Campus.
• You can also find rental apartments through small advertisements, e.g. in the Hamburger Abendblatt (Search mask in German only). An overview of the most important abbreviations used in German housing advertisements can be found here. 

Rental contract : To rent a room or an apartment, a binding agreement must be concluded. Before you move in, you will usually be asked for a deposit, retained by the landlord in case of damage. Please note that in addition to the rent, there are so-called running costs for electricity, water, heating, telephone connection, etc.

Hamburg Welcome Center : Once you have a rental agreement or a confirmation from the student residence, you can register at the Hamburg Welcome Center and apply for a residence permit after arrival. Please contact them by e-mail if you need additional documents in individual cases.

Periods of notice apply whether you or the landlord wish to terminate the rental agreement.

Broadcast contribution: Each household must pay for a contribution to the public-service broadcast (ARD, ZDF, Deutschlandradio). The licence fee is 17.50€ per month and is only paid once per residence, regardless of usage or non-usage.

State subsidies for accommodation : If you have a low income, you may be able to apply for housing benefits ('Wohngeld') in order to receive state subsidies for accommodation (in German only).

7. Residence registration (Anmeldung)

In order to obtain a registration certificate or  “Meldebescheinigung”, you need to register at the nearest district office (" Hamburg Service vor Ort") within the first two weeks of arrival. You will need your registration certificate to open a bank account, to apply for a library card, to take a health insurance, etc.

• The "Behördenfinde r" (authority/office finder, in German) determines the nearest office from the " Hamburg Service vor Ort" to your place of residence. The authority finder will show you the address, telephone number, e-mail address and opening hours of the relevant office. Please make an appointment online.
• Registration in Hamburg : Hier you will find a the checklist about the registration in Hamburg.
• English completion guide : You can find an english sample of the registration form here.

The following documents are required for an application for a residence registration:

• completed and signed registration form
• valid passport or ID
• birth certificate, marriage certificate or divorce decree where applicable
• " Wohnungsgeberbestätigung ": It is the "housing provider confirmation" from the landlord
• administrative fee: 12 € (subject to change)

Please keep the registration certificate you receive in a safe place and make a few copies, as the registration certificate is considered as a proof of address in Germany.

8. Opening a bank account

Setting up a bank account in Germany is straightforward. To obtain a current account (Girokonto), you need to supply the following documents:

• Registration certificate of your current residence in Germany (Meldebescheinigung, cf. 4)
• A valid passport
• Work contract, where applicable
• A proof of income would make the opening of a bank account easier (pay slip or bank statement).

Take the documents to your chosen bank or branch. Please ask at the bank or the branch if you could get information from an English speaking customer adviser. Addresses and telephone numbers of banks or branches are available at Yellow Pages Banks , the telephone directories of  Hamburg.

Enter “Bank und Sparkassen” (banks and saving banks) in the search field “Stichwort, Name, Telefonnummer„ (keyword, name, phone number), then enter the place (Ort) or postcode (PLZ), district name (Stadtteil) or street name (Straße) in the search field “Ort, PLZ, Stadtteil, Straße“. Last click on „suchen“(search) to look for addresses of a bank near your place.

Once at the local branch, always ask for any potential service charges as they may differ from bank to bank. You may be charged for: opening an account, yearly administrative costs, credit card costs, withdrawal costs from other banks, bank statements printouts.

Depending on the bank and the account details, bank cards should normally be sent by post within a few days.

Bank Terminology Guide

9. Health insurance, health care and emergency services

It is mandatory by law for all residents and visitors in Germany to have healthcare cover and that applies to everyone, including visiting scholars from abroad and their accompanying family members. You must have a proof of sufficient health insurance. Consequently, you are advised to extend your existing insurance coverage or to obtain insurance specifically covering the duration of your stay.

Please make sure that your health insurance comply with German standards. In order to receive an initial payment, a proof of health insurance is needed.

Visiting scholars from EU/EFTA countries who have an EHIC (European Health Insurance card) or Form S1 (formerly E109 for families) are entitled to statutory (public) health insurance in Germany. Non-EU/Non-EFTA residents are required to have health insurance cover from a licensed insurance provider in Germany.

Please get in touch with the Welcome Service for international Researchers of Universität Hamburg if want some information on taking healthcare cover for short-term visiting scholars and your accompanying family.

Further information:

Health insurance systems

Health insurance systems - two different types in Germany:

statutory or public health insurance:  Most people (from Germany and abroad) are obliged to take out statutory insurance. (generally  compulsory if your gross salary is less than 62,550 Euros per year)

private health insurance which generally offers a wider choice and thus, a higher level of service of medical and dental treatment, but is not automatically advantageous for everyone.

First, find out if you can even choose between public and private insurance.

Contributions

 In Germany, there are statutory as well as private health insurance companies. The contribution rate of 14.6% of the gross monthly salary has applied since 01.01.2019 for statutory health insurance. Health insurance companies may charge additional contributions under certain circumstances. The costs for the health insurance contributions (including possible additional contribution rate of 1.1 % of your eligible gross salary) are equally split between employers and employees (as of January 2019) and will be automatically deducted from your monthly salary.

Health Insurance Companies

Yellow Pages Health Insurance Companies : Here you can find a list of the health insurance companies (Krankenkasse) in the telephone directories of the Yellow Pages of Hamburg.

Before choosing a health insurance company, find out exactly what services, therapies, treatments and additional benefits it offers and what benefits and payments you can claim for. Ask for an English brochure and read it very carefully. Services differ from provider to provider. Being a member of a health insurance company does not mean that the company is responsible for all the costs that arise in respect of your medical care. Some costs for medical and dental treatment, for medication, for medical aids, for treatment by therapists or rehabilitation measures may not be fully covered by your health insurance company. Patients often have to pay a personal excess (Patientenbeitrag). Besides, there are forms of treatment that patients have to pay in full. If you are uncertain about additional costs you may have to pay for a medical treatment or dental care, ask your health insurance company for advice in advance.

Required documents for a membership application

• passport/international passport
• residence registration certificate
• proof of financial situation, i.e. statement of income
• bank account details

Mental health

• Various counseling services offerd by  Campus Center, Universität Hamburg (website in German only).
• Telefonseelsorge : You can also reach out to the German crisis hotline (+49 800 - 1110111 and +49 800 - 1110222).
• Therapy Guide (in German only)

Health care and emergency services

Make sure you obtain a “Krankenversicherungsnachweis”, a confirmation of health insurance from the health insurance provider. You will also receive a “Krankenversicherungskarte” (Health Insurance Card) which you always need to carry with you. If you become ill, you can directly go to a doctor. Yellow Pages Doctors (in German): Here you can find addresses and telephone numbers of doctors. Enter the type of doctor or specialist (Facharzt) you are looking for in the search field “Stichwort, Name, Telefonnummer” (keyword, name, phone number):

Alphabetical list of a few types of physicians

If you need urgent medical care at the weekend or at night, report to the “Ambulanz” (outpatient department) or “Notaufnahme” (Accident and Emergency) in hospitals or call a doctor. Emergency doctors are listed in local newspapers under the heading of “Ärztlicher Notdienst” (Medical Emergency Service) or “Notdienst” (Emergency Service).

The information provided here is for general informational purposes only. Universität Hamburg does not guarantee the information provided here is accurate or exhaustive, and accepts no liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content of external or referred websites.In no event shall any reference to any third party product or service be construed as a recommendation of that third party’s product or service.

10. Family Affairs

Contact the Family Office for any queries regarding your family. The office also puts together useful material such as flyers on family support services and coordinates information about the compatibility of work and family.

Residence permit for spouses

(Doctoral) students' spouse and your children may join you. In this case, however, certain requirements have to be met. For more information, please go to the interactive world map with an overview of Germany’s diplomatic missions abroad .

For more information, please go to the information pages of the Federal Governnent: spouses joining citizens of Non-EU .

Work permit for spouses

Spouses accompanying doctoral students who want to work during their stay in Germany need a work permit, except nationals from countries of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway. Your spouse must inform the German consulate or embassy in your country of this prior to departure for Germany and apply for the respective residence permit that indicates "employment permitted". The processing of a work permit application takes several weeks, so it must be applied for in good time.

Accompanying hildren and child care

• Bringing your children (under 18) to Germany
• Day care institutions are rare and eligibility generally depends on the employment status of both parents.
• Child care services by Universität Hamburg : Universität Hamburg offers various child care services such as Daycare Centers by Studierendenwerk Hamburg, the Casper - Campus Playgroups, or the Weekend care at the Kita KinderCampus for flexible care on weekends. The MIN faculty furthermore offers the Zwischenspeicher childcare at the Informatics Campus in Stellingen.
• International Schooling in Hamburg
• Child allowance

11. Liability insurance (third-party insurance)

You should know about the importance of having a liability insurance. It is worth taking out a (family) third-party insurance for the entire duration of your research stay in case of damage caused to a third party.

Third-party private liability insurance is not mandatory by law in Germany. However, it will protect you against claims resulting from damage caused. Standard third-party insurance policies are not expensive and the conditions are similar.

Please contact the UHH Welcome Service for International Researchers for any queries.

12. Language used and Language courses

Language courses are generally offered at six different levels from A1 to C2, following the Common European Reference Framework for Languages. There are six levels: A1 and A2 for basic users, B1 and B2 for intermediate users, and C1 and C2 for proficient users. These are an interpretation of the classic division into basic (A), intermediate (B) and advanced (C).

In-Class courses offered by the

•  J oint Language Center of Universität Hamburg and the Adult Education Center  (Hamburg Volkshochschule)
•   Adult Education Center (level from A1–C2)
•   Goethe-Institut
•   Course information portal Hamburg (further language institutions in Hamburg (in German))
• Career Center Workshops and Seminars at Universität Hamburg

Language Learning Services at Universität Hamburg: 

Piasta language compass  .

• Career center : Events, advising services, networks and an information pool, guides and supports on your career path

Online German courses

• BBC Languages : For German basics,  sign up for the free online course “German Steps” for beginners.

Once you have completed this course, you should be able to use and understand frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate needs for your stay in Germany. You will receive weekly email tips.

• DW German Course:  “Deutsche Welle” also offers free interactive German self-study course for everyone. It covers levels A1–C2. Select the level that suits you best by answering a few assessment questions. Then choose from e-learning at the computer, with short videos, audio courses or podcasts, or with texts and worksheets. Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 or higher / Firefox 1.5 or higher are recommended. You must log in with your own password to be able to use this website.

For any further queries regarding language offers please contact the Advisor ( Janie.Wermter "AT" uni-hamburg.de ) for Internationalization and Support for Doctoral and Early Career Researchers ( Janie.Wermter "AT" uni-hamburg.de ) .<br /> ( Janie.Wermter "AT" uni-hamburg.de )

In-Class Courses

• Joint Language Center of Universität Hamburg and the Adult Education Center
• Adult Education Center
• Goethe-Institut
• "Hamburg Kursportal" (in German)

Language Learning Services at University of Hamburg

• PIASTA Language Compass
• Career Center

Online German Courses

• BBC Languages : “German Steps” for beginners
• DW German Course : “Deutsche Welle”

13. Workshops and Seminars

The Geventis portal publishes  courses for doctoral researchersof the Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences. 

Workshops, Seminars and events are offered by:

MIN Graduate Center (MINGZ) HR Development at UHH University Language Center (SZ) Hamburg Research Academ y.

14. Information for new staff and employees of Universität Hamburg

In the KUS Portal you will find all necessary information about your guest researcher stay at UHH. Not only general but also target group or topic specific information. The topics of funding and guest rights are also covered here.

You are all set? We are looking foward to welcoming you to the Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences atUniversität Hamburg!

Have a pleasant and a successful stay at the Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences of Universität Hamburg!

Best wishes

Your MIN faculty

The information provided here is for general informational purposes only. Universität Hamburg does not guarantee the information provided here is accurate or exhaustive, and accepts no liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content of external or referred websites. In no event shall any reference to any third party product or service be construed as a recommendation of that third party’s product or service.

MIN Welcome Buddy Service for International Doctoral Students

Individual support

UHH Welcome Services for international researchers

Information and advice

MIN Welcome Services for visiting Scholars

Advisor for international affairs.

• Universities

Visiting Researchers

Are you an expert in your field who wants to share their work with the rest of the academic world? Consider a research stay in Bavaria to develop your networks and research. Our universities and research centers are international hubs of knowledge. With state-of-the-art equipment and extensive library collections, they are well worth a visit.

Where to Start Your Search

In order to become a visiting scholar at a Bavarian university, you simply need to reach out to colleagues at the institution you wish to visit. If you already have a department or institute in mind where you would like to spend a short research stay, send your Bavarian colleagues an email. If you don’t have Bavarian contacts yet, we encourage you to explore our database of research institutions and the projects featured in our Research Panorama .

You can reach out to the university’s Welcome Center or International Office first if you would prefer to gather more information before contacting your colleagues. They can tell you about existing partnership programs and give you tips on how to formalize new ones. The International University Centers are also an excellent point of contact.

Short-Term Stays

There are real advantages to a short-term research stay in Bavaria. A visit could introduce you to new contacts and to ideas, methods, and techniques that you can apply to your own research. If you are a PhD candidate or postdoc thinking about long-term studies or employment, you will get first-hand experience of what it would be like to study or work at one of our universities. Professors interested in teaching exchanges can give courses by invitation from a Bavarian university.

Support for PhD Candidates and Postdocs

Most research visits are made possible through a contact between the supervisor at your home university and a professor at a Bavarian university. However, you can also arrange a visit on your own initiative. In this case, it usually helps to have secured your own funding. We have listed the most common funding programs for both career stages.

University chairs sometimes reserve funds for guest visitors. They can also nominate you to be funded through programs of the Bavarian International University Centers .

Opportunities for Professors and Experienced Researchers

Bavarian universities all have visiting professor programs that allow them to invite visiting scholars to share and develop their research. Depending on the program, research stays can be as short as a few days or last as long as a year.

Teaching exchanges are a common component of visiting professor programs. Universities often offer compact, intensive courses or summer and winter schools—perfect if you can only stay for a few weeks. With the growing number of English courses on offer at most universities, you might even be able to teach your course in English if German isn’t one of your languages. The individual universities can decide which areas and topics they want to prioritize in order to enrich education and research at their institution, and to strengthen international partnerships.

Becoming a Visiting Professor at a University of Applied Sciences

If your research has clear practical applications or you work regularly with partners in industry, you would make a great visiting professor at one of Bavaria’s universities of applied sciences . They are eager to invite experts to teach as visiting professors.

Some universities of applied sciences have defined programs for visiting professors. These generally cover funding and accommodation, and often even provide language courses, cultural programs, and family support.

Reach out to the International Office or faculty at the university you are interested in and inquire about the possibility of a short- or long-term research stay. They will be able to assist you with the relevant details and can advise you on funding options, accommodation, etc.

International and Project-Based Partnerships and Networks

Bavaria is deeply invested in facilitating international partnerships. Formal partnerships between universities further the exchange of scientific knowledge and offer researchers a range of opportunities. The German Rectors’ Conference (HRK) has a database of international partnerships between German universities and foreign partner institutions. You can search partnership agreements of any university you are interested in.

The Bavarian Research Alliance (BayFOR) provides assistance in forming new international partnerships in all corners of the globe. There are even special funds available for initiating new partnerships in Bavaria. Universities here can apply for funds within the Bavarian Funding Program for the Initiation of International Projects (BayIntAn) to promote new collaborations with their international partners.

In addition, six university centers for different regions of the globe help universities and researchers in Bavaria connect with their colleagues in the respective region.

Bavarian International University Centers

BaCaTeC supports the cooperation between high tech researchers in Bavaria and California. Therefore, the center provides mobility grants for research institutions and companies as well as grants for summer schools.

BayCHINA has been set up in order to promote, develop and sponsor academic projects as well as research collaborations with China. Thanks to its liaison office in Beijing, BayCHINA established itself as a valuable point of contact.

BayFrance offers advice to scientists and universities as well as mobility grants for PhDs, Post-Docs and Professors and supports research exchanges between France and Bavaria.

BAYHOST provides mobility grants for young researchers and supports research collaborations between the Free State of Bavaria and its partner countries in Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe.

From its two locations in Hof and in Bangalore, BayIND informs PhD students, post-doc researchers & faculty members on the vast opportunities available in the Bavarian research landscape.

BAYLAT promotes the networking of Bavarian and Latin American institutions and scientists, advises on searching and establishing research cooperation and offers funding programs for (young) scientists.

What to Read Next

Cookie Consent

To improve the website, the DAAD and third parties set cookies and process usage data . In doing so, the DAAD and third parties transfer usage data to third countries in which there is no level of data protection comparable to that under EU law. By clicking the "Accept all" button, you consent to this processing. You can also find selection options and explanations of these cookies and processing at the end of this page under "Cookies". There you can withdraw consent at any time with effect for the future.

• Privacy Policy

Jump to content

DAAD Scholarships - An Overview

Would you like to study, carry out research or learn German in Germany and are you looking for funding? Every year, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) supports well over 100,000 German and international students and researchers around the globe – making it the world's largest funding organisation of its kind. Learn more about our scholarship options.

DAAD scholarships are aimed primarily at graduates, doctoral students and postdocs and are awarded for study and research visits to universities and non-university research institutions in Germany. In some programmes, internships are also funded.

DAAD awards Research Grants – One-Year Grants for Doctoral Candidates for PhD students from almost all countries of origin. A grant for a full doctoral programme in Germany is offered primarily to applicants from developing and threshold countries (based on the OECD-DAC list ).

Scholarships for a Master's degree in Germany are available, in particular, for persons from industrial countries.

Students and doctoral candidates who are at risk of being denied educational or other rights in their country of origin have the chance to apply for a scholarship from the Hilde Domin Programme . Potential candidates cannot themselves apply for participation in the scholarship programme but are nominated by an institution or organisation that is a legal entity domiciled in Germany. Thereafter, suitable candidates will be contacted by the DAAD and invited to apply via the DAAD application portal.

Also available are so-called " Sur-place and Third Country Programmes " in which students and young scientists and researchers are offered DAAD funding for a graduate programme, doctoral programme or postdoc period in their home country or region.

If you wish to apply for a DAAD scholarship, please read the call for applications for your chosen scholarship programme in the scholarship database , paying particular attention to application deadlines. The scholarship database will take you to the application portal. Scholarship applications are reviewed by independent and voluntary selection committees, which also decide on the allocation of scholarships. Selection is based on subject-related criteria.

DAAD scholarships do not have to be paid back. They usually consist of a monthly scholarship payment (currently, for example,  € 934 for graduates and € 1,200 for doctoral/PhD students) and a flat-rate travel allowance. In many cases, DAAD also provides you with health, accident and personal liability insurance . Depending on scholarship programme, here are also additional benefits such as a one-off research allowance, family benefits or funds for language courses. The benefits offered by the respective scholarship programme are described in the call for applications in the scholarship database .

Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst e.V. Kennedyallee 50 53175 Bonn

All addresses in the DAAD Network

DAAD Newsletters

Receive regular up-to-date information about our work and organisation.

Newsletter - DAAD

Useful Links

• Find Scholarships
• DAAD offices worldwide

Jump to top of page

• { expandedNavigation=true; activeIndex=0; }"> Research landscape
• { expandedNavigation=true; activeIndex=1; }"> Your goal
• { expandedNavigation=true; activeIndex=2; }"> Plan your stay
• { expandedNavigation=true; activeIndex=3; }"> Success stories
• { expandedNavigation=true; activeIndex=4; }"> Our service
• R&D policy framework
• Research infrastructure
• Research funding system
• Universities
• Universities of applied sciences
• Technical universities
• Top universities
• Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft
• Helmholtz Association
• Leibniz Association
• Max-Planck-Gesellschaft
• Academies of sciences and humanities
• Federal institutions
• State research institutions
• What is R&D in German business?
• Why is collaboration important?
• Which sectors carry out R&D?
• Which are the leading companies?
• How do German businesses compare internationally?
• How is the start-up scene set up?
• How do I start a career?
• Good reasons
• Two ways to get your PhD
• Find your PhD position
• How to apply for a PhD
• Funding programmes
• Funding organisations
• Funding databases
• Job portals
• Career options & dual careers

Funding & awards

• Potential employers
• Research fields
• Entry and residence
• German money-saving tips
• Cost of living
• Social insurance and health
• Bringing your family
• Information for your partner
• Support for families
• Finding a place to live
• Funding opportunities
• Recognition of professional qualifications
• Counselling
• Latest Thinking
• First-hand experiences from international researchers
• On-site consultation
• Our publications
• Research news
• Online talks
• Topics in focus

Visiting professorship & visiting lectureship

German universities advertise for experienced researchers to improve the range of teaching and introduce new subject emphases within departments. And they do so with considerable success: by international standards, German universities score above average when it comes to international networking and especially in terms of their international scientific personnel.  As an international researcher you can  teach and research  for one or several semesters at a German higher education institution.

DAAD/Jan Zappner

Qualifications and application

If you are interested in a visiting professorship or lectureship in Germany, you will find the following information useful.

Qualifications

Although it is generally not necessary to hold a professorial chair to teach as a visiting professor at a German university, applicants must usually meet the requirements for appointment to a professorship :

• You must have completed the habilitation process or achieved a similar postdoctoral qualification  
• Depending on the vacancy involved, you may be required to demonstrate a specific standard of excellence and academic competence
• You can therefore also be asked to provide not only a list of publications, but also proof of acquired third-party funding or supervised PhD theses

For visiting lectureships  it is generally sufficient to have a university degree (under certain circumstances a doctorate is required) and several years of academic activity and teaching experience.

Application and appointment

Visiting professorships and lectureships at German universities are often advertised publicly.  As a rule you must submit your application directly to the respective university . The procedure can vary from institution to institution and from state to state.

Grant programmes are also available for international visiting professors and lecturers . For many years, the DAAD has been supporting international visiting scholars wishing to teach at a university in Germany.  In such cases it is the German university that would apply for funding.

In addition to these positions, there are also prestigious visiting professorships, which are supported with prizes and fellowships by the Federal Government, German states (Länder) or foundations. It is not normally possible here to submit your own application. Internationally renowned researchers are invited to these visiting professorships (usually for one semester) to develop and strengthen the profile of the subject.

Responsibilities and salary

As a visiting researcher or visiting lecturer you will be involved in teaching, but possibly also research. Here you will find some information about what your duties will be and how much you will earn:

Among others, the following options are available for a temporary stay at a German university:

Visiting lectureships usually aim to expand and internationalise academic teaching

Visiting professorships can also be linked with a research project to strengthen research-based teaching

Payment for visiting professorships and lectureships can vary considerably depending on the status of the position, the state and the institution.

Visiting professors are often employed on a freelance basis , which does not have to comply with any collective pay agreement.  

In other cases, the remuneration for visiting professors is based on the pay scale for professors (more information: Professorship at a university > Salary). That means:

• Based on a W2 professorship , monthly gross basic salary at the beginning of a professor’s career is between approximately 5,400 euros and 6,700 euros
• If a visiting professor is paid like a W3 professor , the monthly gross basic salary is between roughly 6,500 euros and 7,600 euros.
• On the other hand, the remuneration for internationally renowned researchers can be much higher.

Visiting lecturers are often employed on a freelance basis and are not subject to collective pay agreements. Sometimes, however, remuneration is based on the W1 pay scale or the collective agreement for civil service employees (TVöD) for research staff. That means:

• Monthly gross basic pay, if based on collective agreements, can start at between 4,600 euros and 5,300 euros.  
• Alternatively , lump-sum payments can also be made that are substantially lower or higher than these figures.

Job search & funding

Visiting professorships and lectureships at German universities are usually advertised publicly. In addition to regular positions, there are also funding programmes for international researchers who would like to come to Germany for a research stay. Here you will find information about where you can search for vacancies and funding opportunities:

Looking for a new science or research job? Here you will find a list of job portals that specialise in academic and research-related job offers in Germany.

iStock.com/YurolaitsAlbert

Can you win people over with your expertise, experience and research ideas? German research funding organisations award prizes and fellowships to support international researchers.

DAAD/Sigrid Gombert

We can help you with your questions.

Information for visiting research guests

Preparing your research stay/finding a supervisor.

You are planning a research stay or doctoral studies at Hamburg University of Technology and are looking for an academic host for your stay?

Contact  possibilities directly at TUHH:

Visiting academic researchers : please contact a supervisor via one of the TUHH schools of study directly.

Candidates for doctoral dissertation: please check the contact information on the webpage doctoral degrees porta l  , students individual research stays/project work/internship please check here, preparing your staff mobility training, the management of the staff mobility trainings at the tuhh is decentralized it means that you should address your inquiry about finding your appropriate training area to respective tu department or tu institute directly. please start your research by visiting the tuhh webpage ., entry formalities; accommodation; health insurance.

After you have arranged your application formalities with the responsible TUHH institute, you will need to adress a number of practical issues associated with entry formalities to Germany, like applying for visa, finding accommodation and taking out the insurance.

Entry to Germany/Visa

If you have to apply for a visa to enter Germany, you will need an invitation letter from the Institute. Please contact your TUHH supervisor.

Make sure you apply for this visa in good time at the German diplomatic mission in your home country. EU nationals and nationals of certain countries (e.g., Australia, Great Britain, Iceland, Israel, Japan, Canada, Liechtenstein, South Korea, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, and the United States) do not need a visa to enter Germany.

• See the list of countries for which there is / is not a visa requirement on the multilingual web page of the Federal Foreign Office. This page also contains information about applying for a visa.
• For special information, see the web page of the diplomatic mission responsible for you.
• Note that the 3-month Schengen visa (tourist visa, visitor’s visa, business visa, visa to attend a language course without the intention of pursuing university study) cannot be converted into a residence permit in Germany. In this case, you must leave Germany and reenter with a special visa issued by the diplomatic mission responsible.

If you enter Germany from a non-EU country, you must prove you have sufficient financial resources when you apply for the visa. If you can enter Germany without a visa, you can prove you have sufficient financial resources when you apply for a residence permit.

Researchers from non-EU countries who plan to stay more than 90 days need a host agreement to apply for their visa and residence permit. Contact person for hosting agreements at TUHH : The Manager of Internationalisation Mrs Nicole Frei/ e-mail: n.frei(at)tuhh(dot)de

Further important information on visa and entry formalities can be found on the homepages of Euraxess ;  The Hamburg Welcome Portal and Federal Foreign Office.

Accommodation Finding accommodation in Hamburg, especially for a short period of time can be difficult and expensive as well. We advise you to take care of the searching  for accommodation well in time. The Accommodation Office TUHH can advise you on finding appropriate housing. Please contact: [email protected] and check the  pdf list with housing offers in Hamburg for guest reserachers on the website of accommodation office.

Health insurance.

Health insurance for you stay in Germany is mandatory. Please contact your insurance company to check whether your existing health insurance covers treatment costs in Germany (this usually applies for EU citizens). If your existing insurance does not cover treatment costs in Germany, you either need to extend it or take out an additional insurance for the time of your stay in Germany. As a rule, guest researchers have to have private health insurance. More information and links to various private insurance providers can be found at Euraxess Germany , the Alexander-von-Humboldt Foundation's information and DAAD advice portal for international researchers. Please note that the travel insurances are usually not covering the real costs of the medical treatment in Germany needed in the case of accident or illness.

Arrival at TUHH: getting advise and support

City Registration

If you plan to stay in Hamburg for more than 3 months, you will have to register as a resident within two weeks after your arrival. Further information about the citizen registration procedure as well as the online appointment tool can be found here .

Residence Permit

You must apply for a residence permit at the local Immigration Office within the period for which your national visa is valid if it does not cover the entire duration of your stay. You can use the online portal for arranging the appointement. The special services for arranging your city registration and residence permit as well as guidance for your new start in Hamburg can be provided by The Hamburg Welcome Center! You can contact them for getting an appointment at:  info(at)welcome.hamburg(dot)de ; Tel.: +49 40 428 54 5001

Registration of your TUHH status

In order to get access to TUHH Campus facilities you have to register at TUHH. Depending on your status you will be registered as a Guest Researcher (valid for all internship students, visiting academics, guests conducting researches for their doctoral dissertation): Please contact the department STUDIS – Admission & Registration/ Mrs Hennke/ room 0026/SBS 95E for filling out the form and carrying out your registration procedure. For registration as a regular TUHH PHD student (valid for PHD research fellows in an institute): Please contact the PHD Office

The TUHH Families Office

You are coming to Germany with your life partner and one or more children and need support in organising a childcare? You can make use of the TUHH day care centre! Your children will meet playmates of their own age there and you’ll easily get to know other parents. For more information, please contact the TUHH Family Office which provides support for spouses and children of visiting scientist. Contact data: Tel.: 040 42878 3968 / E-Mail: familienbuero(at)tuhh.de

TUHH Graduate Academy

The Graduate Academy serves as an umbrella facility and central point of contact for PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers at the TUHH. By addressing a broad range of transferable skills that are either currently needed or required in the future, the Graduate Academy helps junior scientists to strengthen their professional skills and become aware of individual career goals either in academia or in other research-related fields in industry or NGOs. In addition to workshops on transferable skills the Graduate Academy's formats include counseling as well as information and networking events. Contact: E-Mail: graduiertenakademie(at)tuhh.de

Funding programs for scholars at risk (external organisations)

TUHH wants to assist researchers at risk in continuing their research career and to provide support  for researchers suffering persecution and oppression so that they could continue their studies or doctoral work in safety at a German university.

Please find here an overview of the various funding opportunities available:

• Volkswagen Stiftung: Funding for Refugee Scholars and Scientists from Ukraine
• German Research Foundation: Walter Benjamin Programme
• Philip Schwarz Initiative (next call for application June 2023)

The DAAD's Hilde Domin Program : The scholarship is funded by the DAAD. To make an application, you must be nominated by a university or other German public-law institution. The funding is not bound to the nominating institution in any way. The scholarships awarded can be used for studies or doctoral studies at any German university to which the applicant has been accepted.

On the website of Alexander von Humboldt Foundation you can find an overview over further funding programs for at-risk academics.

DAAD - Bridge Scholarships Iran 2023 ( applications deadline 28.02.23). Check for more information

Further helpful information

Euraxess Germany  Information platform for guest researchers

Hamburg Welcome Center Special services for guest researchers in Hamburg: arranging  residence permit, city registration and general guidance for new start in Hamburg!  

The DAAD guide "Research in Germany" General information for guest researchers

Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) General information for guest researchers, information on residence permits and application procedures for researchers from third countries

HIAS Fellowships Program : The fellowship program is aimed at both outstanding established scholars and promising emergent early career researchers (minimum requirement: doctorate) as well as artists and cultural professionals. Federal Foreign Office Information on visas and regulations for entering Germany as well as the requisite application forms

European Commission: EU Immigration Portal Information for non-EU citizens wishing to carry out research in Germany Do you have any further questions or need support? Do not hesitate to contact the International Office.

Social Media

• Show search form Hide search form
• Quick links
• Staff search
• Search Search --> Websites Staff search Start search

Visiting-PhDs

The University of Vienna welcomes Visiting-PhD students from all over the world. The Visiting PhD Programme is a "non-degree-seeking" programme for guest PhDs who would like to spend a research period at the University of Vienna, lasting a maximum of one year. Following the stay, PhD candidates return to their respective home-universities. Visiting-PhDs are enrolled at the university to run their research projects, participate in courses and pass exams as well as to benefit from university's services (libraries, Center for Doctoral Studies, computer-services, etc.).

How can I apply for a Visiting-PhD research stay?

In order to enroll you as a Visiting PhD, we need written confirmation of your mentoring professor at the University of Vienna. It is within the scope of your responsibility to contact a professor and negotiate the mentoring during your research stay at the University of Vienna. As soon as an agreement is reached, we kindly ask you and your mentor to get in touch with us. For the subsequent steps please prepare the following:

• copy of your master diploma in German or English
• passport photo 35x45mm
• copy of your identity card or passport

Please be aware that the University of Vienna does not provide particular funding for Visiting-PhDs. Funding possibilities can be found here.

Visiting PhDs do not pay tuition fees (only the student union's fee).

As a Visiting PhD at the University of Vienna you will for sure spend an exciting time here by getting to know a new research group and exploring a new city.

You have access to the following services of the University of Vienna:

Courses at the faculty.

The faculties are offering course for PhD candidates. These you will find in the course directory . Online registration is possible for almost all courses. In the course catalogue you will find the application periods and the link to the registration via u:space.

Events organized by the doctoral schools

The doctoral schools are very active in bringing doctoral candidates and researchers from the faculty together by different events. Please check the website of the doctoral school you are affiliated to. An overview of the schools you will find here .

Workshops in transferable skills and events from the Center for Doctoral Studies

Every semester, workshops on topics such as literature research and management, academic writing and publishing, time and project management etc. are offered by the Center for Doctoral Studies. Additionally, there are events on topics like well-being or postdoc funding programmes. Check out the website .

Vienna University Library

Of course, you have access to all services our library is offering. With the u:card you already have a valid library card. Inform yourself about the different research tools and services on the website of the Vienna University Library . 

Vienna University Computer Center

The u:account is your personal access to the IT services of the University of Vienna. Students receive a personal e-mail address including a mailbox free of charge as part of their u:account. It is essential to activate and check these e-mails regularly, because important information for example concerning the courses you registered for are sent to this e-mail address. How to activate the account and what services you can profit from can be found on the website .

University Sports Institute

From aqua fitness to ball sports, gymnastics, or popular new sports such as Zumba – the University Sports Institute Vienna offers more than 1,200 courses (from over 120 different types of sport) in modern sports facilities all over Vienna. Check them out on the website . 

Language Centre of the University of Vienna

The Language Center of the University of Vienna offers language courses for German and more than 30 foreign languages. 

Site navigation and service

Service menu.

• Shopping cart

Information collection

The authority, you are here:.

• Migration and residence
• Immigrants from third countries

Coming to Germany as a scientist , Date: 2020.03.01 , format: Article , area: Migration and residence

This content is also available in

Several options are available enabling scientific personnel to come to Germany for teaching and research purposes.

Residence for research purposes

Hotline working and living in germany.

Frankenstraße 210 90461 Nürnberg

Phone +49 30-1815-1111 E-mail: Write a message

In order to be able to conduct research in Germany, you must have concluded either

• an admission agreement, or
• a contract with the research establishment concerned.

This may be any organisation at which research is carried out - from a University through to a research department within a company.

The residence permit for research purposes also enables you to carry out teaching work as a scientist. You can furthermore spend a limited period carrying out research in other EU States without requiring an additional residence title there. Further information on this can be found under Mobility in the EU (see at "Further information/Texts and articles").

Once the research contract or the admission agreement has expired, you can apply for your residence permit to be extended for up to nine months so that you can seek employment in Germany. Your future job must match your qualifications.

Residence for employment

Good to know.

If you need to apply for your first residence title so that you can engage in research in Germany, you may be entitled to apply both for a residence permit for researchers and an EU Blue Card for highly-qualified persons. Please note that it will no longer be possible to transfer from the Blue Card to a residence permit for researchers from 1 March 2020 onwards.

You can also carry out scientific and resarch work if you hold a residence title for employment purposes, provided that you have a job offer and two further conditions are fulfilled:

• Your academic qualifications must enable you to take up the desired employment.
• If you have graduated from a foreign higher-education establishment, the equivalence of your qualification to a corresponding German degree must be ascertained. The "anabin" database of the Standing Conference of Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs provides a good overview in this regard.

Scientists with special expert knowledge as well as teaching and scientific personnel in prominent positions can be granted open-ended residence immediately. Further information in this connection is to be found in the section entitled "Settling in Ger­many" (see at "Further information/Texts and articles").

Residence for doctoral candidates

As a PhD student, there are various ways in which you can obtain a doctorate in Germany. The type of residence permit depends in particular on how your livelihood is to be assured in Germany.

• If you have concluded an employment contract or an admission agreement with a research establishment, you may qualify for a residence title for employment or research purposes or an EU Blue Card.
• If you have a half-time position or less, you may be able to obtain a residence title for study purposes.
• Scholarship holders receive a residence title for study purposes.

There are also various ways in which your livelihood can be ensured while you are studying for your Doctorate. You may for instance support yourself from your own savings, or your parents may provide a guarantee. The "Working and Living in Germany Hotline" can advise you as to which residence titles are possible in these cases.

After you have graduated from a German higher-education establishment and worked in a job matching your qualifications for two years, you can be issued with an open-ended residence title in Germany.

The legal basis

• Section 16b of the Residence Act
• Section 18b of the Residence Act
• Section 18c of the Residence Act
• Section 18d of the Residence Act
• Section 20 of the Residence Act
• The Professional Qualifications Assessment Act (Berufsqualifikationsfeststellungsgesetz)
• Section 2 of the Employment Ordinance (BeschV)

Further information

Texts and articles.

• First steps
• Skilled workers with an academic education
• Subsequent immigration to join third-country nationals
• Mobility in the EU
• Settling in Germany
• Jobbörse of the Federal Employment Agency
• Make it in Germany

PhD Studies

Planning your phd, eligibility and application, german or english medium, living as a student, working in germany, get guidance.

With a long tradition of research and ground breaking discoveries, Germany is indeed a land of innovation and progress. Besides giving your ideas a research-based boost, Germany also offers promising career opportunities along with a vibrant social and cultural milieu. So like for many other international students, it can be the right place to pursue a doctoral degree for you too!

Take a quick look

Zum Aktivieren des Videos klicken Sie bitte auf das Vorschaubild. Wir möchten Sie darauf hinweisen, dass nach der Aktivierung Daten an den jeweiligen Anbieter übermittelt werden. Auf YouTube ansehen

Starting your doctoral studies is a big step in your academic life. Along with identifying your research area you also have to plan where and in which institute you want to pursue your PhD.

Where does research take place in Germany?

Contemplating pursuing a PhD in Germany?  There are a number of universities, research institutions and business houses that will welcome you. So getting an insight into the research landscape of the country is of paramount importance!

© DAAD India

Research is extensively carried out by and through universities, research organisations and the industry. These three are famously known as the three pillars of research in Germany.

You can take a closer look at this on  Research in Germany .

Which universities should I look at for PhD?

There are various kinds of institutions of higher education in Germany. A majority of these belong to either of the following categories:

Universities and Universities of Technology (TU), are research-oriented and offer a wide variety of subjects. These are the only establishments that can award a PhD degree.

In case you are carrying out your PhD at a research organisation/ University of Applied Sciences, it will always be through a partner university/TU that you will get your degree. Therefore it is important that you fulfill the eligibility criteria of the university/TU as well.

Before you finalise a university or a research institution make sure to check out their websites to know what kind of research is already going on there.

Which is the best university in Germany?

There is no “best university”, neither in one subject and certainly not across all subjects.

DAAD India © CHE Ranking

Germany offers a multidimensional ranking, considering various criteria that are important from a student’s perspective. For example, student and staff judgments on quality of teaching, atmosphere at the university, library and other equipment, student numbers, average study duration, number of graduations, third party funding etc. This way you get a detailed picture of the strengths and weaknesses of each university on university-ranking.de . Here you can find your programme by selecting a subject, a university or even a city in Germany!

As a researcher you should also take the research rankings  into consideration. The criteria for such rankings could be research infrastructure, citations, patents, publications and student reviews, to name a few.

How should I plan my doctorate?

If you have set your mind on a PhD in Germany, you can consider two approaches: the traditional approach i.e. individual doctorate and the structured doctoral programmes.

Individual doctoral studies involve identifying a supervisor ( Doktorvater / Doktormutter ) at a German university who is willing to guide your research. This system offers a lot of freedom, and calls for a great deal of personal initiative right from identifying a topic in your research field. This kind of doctorate takes about 3-5 years to complete.

Structured PhD programmes  are internationally oriented, conducted largely in English and are comparable to PhD programmes offered in English-speaking countries. Here supervision is carried out by several university teachers. These programmes lead to a PhD in about three years.

What if I want to do a part of my PhD research in Germany?

The research Grant: Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees / Cotutelle which is also famously known as DAAD Sandwich Scholarship lets you complete your PhD in two countries. The first country being your home country where you are registered as a doctoral student and the second country is but naturally Germany.

You are supervised at your home university as well as at the host institute in Germany. Your doctoral degree is awarded by the home institution. This is the well known “sandwich model”.

While generally as a Master degree holder you will have ticked off the first major requirement, it is always a good idea to check if the university’s requirements and your qualifications match. And then you can start with the application procedure.

Am I eligible to apply for a PhD?

In Germany, every university is autonomous. This means that every university/ study programme has its own set of criteria for admitting students. So please check the university website, and specifically the programme you are interested in. Here you will find the exact admission requirements.

However, some generalisation is  possible. As a Master degree holder from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal or Sri Lanka your degree is treated at par with a German Master degree. In some cases, further assessment of eligibility will be required. Do clarify the matter of eligibility with the university or the research organisation of your choice before you send in your application.

Some universities may ask for the proof of your English language proficiency in form of TOEFL or IELTS scores. Some universities may ask for good German language skills depending upon subject of your research. In such cases, your knowledge of German needs to be certified through examinations like the TestDaF  or DSH.

How do I go about applying for a PhD?

• PhD Germany   – A portal where German universities advertise openings for doctoral positions
• An interactive database of  Graduate Schools at German universities
• Research Training Groups  coordinated by the German Research Foundation (DFG)
• International Max Planck Research Schools (IMPRS) Academicians from your country who have collaborations with German academicians or your seniors who might be carrying out research in Germany can be a great source of information too!
• Contact and convince a supervisor. Make sure that you approach a potential supervisor the right way and in good time – a brief and well-structured communication with an overview of your research proposal and relevant information about yourself is more likely to get you the right kind of response than a simple email stating that you are interested in doing a PhD!
• Communicate information about your background, academic performance and academic goals.
• Get a letter of acceptance from your supervisor.
• Identify a programme. Contact the selected university. This will be your most important source of information as far as exact details about eligibility, programme structure, fee, application procedure etc. are concerned.
• Check the application deadline for the programme chosen!
• Application forms and other relevant material can be downloaded from the respective university website.
• Send the application packet.
• Get a confirmation of admission.
• The Admission procedures vary for different universities and for different programmes.
• Check about these with the university of your choice or your supervisor.
• Make sure you have a valid passport!
• Apply for a student visa as soon as you have the admission letter, as the procedure can take 8 to 12 weeks. The German Embassy and the Consulates require proof of funding for the first year of studies. At this stage make sure if you need to get the APS certificate ( www.aps-india.de ) that some universities/host professors may insist upon. To find out where you should apply for a visa, visit the website of the Germany Embassy in your country.
• Apply for a place in a hostel. In some cases the International Office ( Akademisches Auslandsamt ) of the university will help you.
• Arrive in Germany at least a week before your course begins.
• Contact the International Office ( Akademisches Auslandsamt ) of your university for guidance.
• Step 6 Get your residence permit within the first three months of your stay in Germany from the Foreigners’ Registration Office ( Ausländeramt ).

Germany offers education in German as well as in English. Different subject fields can have different language requirements.

Can I do my PhD completely in English medium?

Germany offers close to 200 structured international programmes with English as the sole or primary medium of instruction. These programmes are called International Programmes.

Few of these programmes may require students to have learnt/learn some German language during their PhD.

Must I learn German for my PhD?

As you have already seen, Germany offers numerous PhD programmes with English as the sole or primary medium of instruction and the language for your thesis. English is also accepted as a language of research and education in Germany.

However, some universities/ subject fields may expect you to have German language proficiency for your PhD.

As a student in Germany, your life will not be limited to the university campus. You will surely want to interact with people, travel through the country-side and make the best of your time there. This is where knowledge of German will present a great advantage!

Universities offer beginner and well as advanced level courses where you can learn German. You can also start learning the language while you are still in your home country at a  Goethe-Institut (Max Mueller Bhavan) / Goethe-Zentrum.

Do I require to learn German for DAAD scholarship?

To apply for the DAAD PhD scholarship knowledge of the German language is not mandatory. However, after getting the scholarship you will be expected to complete a DAAD sponsored German course. This will help you with your life Germany.

While in a foreign country being able to manage your finances on your own is very important. You would need to plan your budget by keeping your living expenses, travel costs and tuition fees if any in mind.

What kind of budget should I have in my mind?

Fees: As a PhD scholar in Germany, you are exempted from tuition fees. You will need to pay a semester contribution of around Euro 300, depending upon the university and the services or benefits provided.

Living costs : Apart from the tuition fees, if any,  you will require about EUR 934 per month for subsistence i.e. housing, food, clothing, study material and other expenses such as health insurance and leisure activities. The precise split up for this amount will be updated soon. The amounts can vary from city to city, and of course from lifestyle to lifestyle!

The following table shows the split up at the time of the last budget indicated in 2019.

Source: German Student Union (Deutsches Studentenwerk), 2019 

How can I finance my doctorate?

If you are participating in a structured doctoral programme and doing your doctorate at a graduate school, research centre or research training group, the issue of funding is usually resolved with you either working as a research assistant or receiving a scholarship of about EUR 1,000 per month.

If you are pursuing your doctorate on the basis of the traditional approach, you can apply for a job as a research assistant, if there is vacancy.

Working as a research/doctoral assistant involves collaboration in research/teaching and doing administrative work in addition to completing the dissertation. Non-university research institutions like Fraunhofer Institutes and also some companies offer doctoral candidates employment and / or fund their doctoral dissertations.

The DAAD offers the most extensive scholarship programme.  Also a number of foundations support international candidates approved for the doctoral process. A database of scholarships offered by various German organisations can be found at  www.funding-guide.de .

What is a DAAD PhD scholarship like and how can I apply for it?

If you are a well-motivated researcher with high-calibre this research grant supports your complete doctoral studies in Germany. In general the duration of your PhD should not exceed more than four years.

If you have already registered for PhD in your home country and would like to carry out a part of the research in Germany, you may consider applying for Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees / Cotutelle scholarship of the DAAD .

An independent selection committee consisting of specialist scientists reviews your applications, wherein your academic qualification, quality of your research project is checked along with your career prospects, motivation and extra curricular activities including your civic engagement.

If you want to do your full PhD in Germany DAAD PhD Scholarship would be more relevant for you. The application deadline is 20 October every year. This is for scholarship starting from October of the following year.

Here is a step-by-step guideline for your application process:

• Collect general information about the DAAD PhD scholarship.
• Thoroughly check the eligibility criteria.
• Attend information sessions or internet-based seminars (webinars) organised by the DAAD.
• Once you have the letter of acceptance from your supervisor/admission letter from your university, complete the application procedure as specified in the scholarship announcement.
• The application deadline typically falls in the month of October the current year for a PhD beginning in the next year.
• Shortlisted applicants from India will be invited for a personal interview around January-February. For Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal and Sri Lanka the procedure will be announced closer to the date of interviews.
• The final decision will be announced for applicants from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal and Sri Lanka around mid or end of April of the following year.
• Step 4 Once selected, you will have to attend a mandatory German language course, which is a necessary and important part of your scholarship.
• Step 5 After the successful completion of your language course in Germany, your PhD will begin in October.

Living on your own comes with lots of responsibilities, at the same time it can also be very  interesting. It starts with finding a place to stay, learning how to cook, shopping on a budget, making friends and connections. Hope this section helps you with some of your questions.

How do I find accommodation?

Germany offers various types of accommodations:

• Students hall of residence:  Here you can rent rooms provided by  Student Services Organisation ( Studentenwerk ). They are low in cost and preferred by many students. Studentenwerk also provides specially designed Service Kits for international students. Get in touch with Studentenwerk of your city know more.
• Shared Flats ( Wohngemeinschaft – WG) : Shared flat or WG is another affordable accommodation, where you have your own room in a flat and share the kitchen and the bathroom with other flatmates. Living in a shared flat is cheaper as the rent and other expenses  get shared. You can find advertisements for vacancies in WGs online on social media groups or on student-friendly websites.
• Private apartments:  If you prefer living alone, private apartments can be an option for you.  You can find them with the help of Studentenwerk, on boards in the university foyer or even on social media groups and websites for rental real estate.

Make sure to be on the lookout from early on, so that you find the best place at an affordable price.

How do I connect with other students?

Connecting with other students can help you to learn from their experience. It may also help you get acquainted with the lifestyle, once you are in Germany.

• Get in touch with  DAAD Young Ambassadors . They have studied or carried out their research in Germany. Contact them with your questions, they will be happy to guide you!
• You can also find out about various student associations and groups formed by students of your country/ region.
• You can contact students on various socials media platforms as well. There are groups based on nationalities or interests and activities.
• Many universities arrange introductory events. Ask the international office of your university about them. Research institutions too generally run such initiatives.

You can of course work in Germany as long as you follow the regulations, which are not complex and are easy to understand.

Can I work in Germany as a student?

As an international student, you are permitted to work for 120 full days or 240 half days in a year. This will help you in getting a bit of extra pocket-money!OK

Can I work in Germany after my studies?

After completing your degree in Germany, you can choose from amongst a wide range of options:

You can stay on in the country for up to 1.5 years to look for a job that is in keeping with your education. Once you find a job, the residence permit issued to you for the purpose of studying, can be converted into a residence permit for taking gainful employment.

Germany has always had a very strong industry-academia linkage. A lot of scientific research is funded by the industry as well. During your studies you can get the opportunity to do internships with German companies, which can open new vistas for your professional career.

In Germany, a doctorate is a prerequisite for a career in research or higher education. Your options include:

• Teaching/Research Assistantships
• Postdoc Positions
• Research Positions in Industry

The portal  www.academics.com has Germany’s biggest online job market for researchers. There are also scholarships for Postdocs offered by the  Alexander-von-Humboldt Foundation  and other organizations.

Whether you are in India, Nepal or Bhutan, the DAAD is there to help you with your study in Germany plans. Check out how you can reach us!

Individual Appointments

You can connect with the DAAD offices online or offline in Bengaluru ,  Chennai ,  New Delhi  and  Pune .

Information Sessions

The DAAD offers free of cost information session about studying in Germany regularly. Check which dates and topics suit you, register and join!

Click here for dates, timings and registration links: www.daad.in/events .

Writing a Research Proposal

Take a look at the DAAD’s guidelines for writing research proposal

Research Proposal writing: Guidelines 2023

PhD Proposal Writing Workshop

Wondering how to write a PhD proposal? The DAAD offers PhD Proposal Writing Workshop on various topics for aspirants who intend to pursue their doctorate in Germany!

Early Career Research Symposia

The  Early Career Research Symposia offer you a platform to help you propel your research, amplify its reach and get inspired by exchange of ideas.

• Did you find the information about  doctoral studies in Germany useful? Keep the digital  PhD brochure with you, so that it is all handy!
• You will also find the digital brochure Research Proposal Guidelines 2023 useful.
• There is comfort  and certainty in numbers. With the fact sheet Germany India 2022 you can check out actual number of Indian students, what fields they are opting for and which universities they have preferred.

What are you looking for?

Researcher / guest scientist.

Does this category apply to you?

- If you intend to do PhD or PostDoc studies in Germany and have obtained a work contract as “student assistant” or “scientific assistant” (“studentische Hilfskraft”), please refer to the information on studies visa.

- If a Bachelor Degree is your highest academic qualification, please hand in your work contract instead of a hosting agreement.

Before filling out the application form and booking an appointment ( step 2 ), please prepare the following documentation for your national visa:

• valid passport (issued within the last 10 years and with at least 2 empty pages for visa)
• application form , completed online with VIDEX , printed out twice and both forms duly signed by you
• 3 current, identical passport photos according to biometric specifications (current = not older than 6 months)
• Declaration for additional contact and legal representation information - completed and signed twice by you

Declaration in regards to § 18 AufenthG

• 2 copies of your passport’s data page (A4 size copies)
• Hosting Agreement acc. to § 18d Residence Act (“Aufnahmevereinbarung gem. § 18d AufenthG”), duly completed and signed by the German Research Facility / University and by you. The Hosting Agreement is available as a download here
• If applicable: scholarship / fellowship award letter
• Proof of academic qualifications , e. g. Master Degree, Bachelor Degree
• If applicable: letter of confirmation from the previous Indian employer
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Travel health insurance (minimum coverage: EUR 30,000 in the entire Schengen area; validity has to match travel dates; more info can be found here
• Visa fee - for further information see step 2 of the application process

The visa fee for scholarship holders has been waived.

All documents need to be presented in original plus 2 copies (A4 size).

Please note that the German Mission in India reserves the right to ask for additional documents.

The submission of the above-mentioned documents does not guarantee that a visa is granted.

Submission of incomplete documentation or refusal to appear for a visa interview may result in the rejection of your application.

Download this page as pdf .

• Top of page

Visiting Researcher Grant for PhD students and postdocs, in Germany - Helmholtz Information and Data Science Academy

The Helmholtz Visiting Researcher Grant offers doctoral students and postdocs the opportunity to do a fully-funded short-term research stay at one of the 18 Helmholtz Centers. The program is promoted by HIDA, the Helmholtz Information and Data Science Academy.

The aim of the program is to enable new research collaborations, to foster knowledge exchange, and to explore new or emerging research topics in the field of information and data sciences. The program addresses researchers in both academia and in industry whose research has a strong link to the (applied) information and data sciences. It offers researchers the opportunity to get to know the Helmholtz Association of German Research Centers.

HIDA is tasked to support the mission of the Helmholtz Association – solving the major challenges facing society, science and the economy by conducting top-level research in strategic programs within six research fields: Energy, Earth & Environment, Health, Aeronautics, Space and Transport, Matter, and Information.

How Does the HIDA Visiting Research Grant Work?

We offer financial support for a self-organized research stay in a department/working group in one of the 18 Helmholtz centers. Your research must have a strong link to the field of (applied) information & data sciences.

• Who can apply:  Postdocs and doctoral students from (inter-)national research organizations and researchers from industry (Master's degree with at least 3 years of research experience, or PhD). If you are a postdoc at one of the Helmholtz centers and are interested in a research stay at another Helmholtz center, please apply for the  HIDA Trainee Network .
• Duration:  HIDA offers funding for a 1-3 months research stay.
• Funding:  You receive a research grant from the hosting Helmholtz center (2,860 EUR per month plus allowances).
• Further questions?  This  presentation  summarizes the most important info about the two HIDA Research Grants, Trainee Network and Helmholtz Visiting Researcher Grant.

Before you apply, please read our  application guidelines  carefully. The review process may take approximately 3 months.

more information here

Deadline: 15 October 2022 .

International visiting researchers

The University welcomes research visits from international academics.

The University welcomes applications from academics who are employed at a university overseas for visits of between one month and one year. If you would like to visit Oxford for less than a month, you also have the option of visiting Oxford’s libraries and attending research seminars as an independent researcher.

We accept two types of visiting researchers:

• Visiting scholars (those who are research-active academic staff at other institutions)
• Doctoral researchers visiting Oxford (who are registered as doctoral students at another institution)

Graduate students who are interested in spending time studying under the supervision of an Oxford academic can apply for  Recognised Student status .

The Oxford University Welcome Service  provides practical information on coming to Oxford from abroad.

Arranging a visit

T +49 2247 9194-860

[email protected]

provisit  science Private health insurance for visiting scientists in Germany

• Affordable alternative to health insurance provided by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
• Easy contract conclusion with immediate proof of insurance
• Meets all regulatory requirements
• No deductible

Who is Provisit Science for?

• Visiting scientists
• Scholarship holders
• Doctoral students
• PhD students
• Accompanying spouses
• Accompanying children

Provisit Science is a substitutive private health insurance for visiting academics, PhDs and visiting scientists in Germany (in accordance with section 146 Insurance Supervision Act (VAG), section 193 (3) German Insurance Contract Act (VVG)). It offers comprehensive health insurance coverage at an affordable price. If you are a scholarship holder , visiting scientist, or postdoc, receiving funding, whether from the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the Max Planck Institute or another institution, Provisit Science is the right choice for you. However, health insurance is also excellent for scientists without funding. As a private health insurance policyholder, you purchase insurance with or without long-term care insurance based on the requirements of your program, university, organization or immigration authority.

Provisit Science at a glance

Provisit science benefits, provisit science premiums, more information about provisit science.

You will find a full description of benefits and benefit exclusions in the Customer information download.

Product information health insurance

Product informatin long-term care insurance

Customer information & terms and conditions

Provisit Science premiums and benefits

Health and long-term care insurance from €79.00 per month.

• Health insurance
• Outpatient medical treatment
• Inpatient medical treatment
• Medicines and dressings material
• Preventive medical checkups
• Pregnancy / statutory prenatal check-ups
• Childbirth *
• Services provided by midwives and maternity nurses
• Psychotherapeutic treatment: 75 %*
• Medical appliances
• Glasses/Contact lenses: up to €100, every 2 years
• Outpatient transport
• Home nursing
• Dental treatment and prophylaxis: 100% (€500 per insurance year), beyond that 50%*
• Dentures and orthodontics: 50 % (€500 per insurance year)*
• Dentures due to an accident: 100 % (€2.500 within two insurance years)*
• Return transport of an ill insured person from abroad to his/her home country
• Repatriation of the mortal remains of the insured person or burial costs in case of death: €30,000
• Follow-up curative treatment
• Outpatient rehabilitation
• Daily hospital allowance: €30 from the 15th day
• Recovery money: €1,500 after inpatient treatment (per insured event)
• Inpatient hospice service
• Digital health applications
• Transitional care in hospital
• * Waiting period: 8 months
• Long-term care insurance
• Outpatient and inpatient day and night care
• Full inpatient care
• Improvements of the living environment
• Nursing courses
• Payment of care allowance
• Nursing aids (on loan)
• Health insurance for foreign graduates with funding
• Persons up to 29 years: €79.00
• Persons up to 59 years: €129.00
• Health insurance for foreign graduates without funding
• Persons up to 59 years: €150.00
• Health insurance for accompanying spouses and children
• Spouses up to 59 years: €150.00
• Children up to 17 years: €99.00
• Plus long-term care insurance (if required)
• Enrolled Academics up to 38 years: €25.97
• All other persons up to 59 years: from €47.15

You will find a full description of benefits and benefit exclusions in the Customer information download (German).

Exclusion of benefits – the facts

What is not covered by provisit science health insurance.

There is no protection in the Provisit Science health insurance... a) for such diseases including their consequences as well as for consequences of accidents and for deaths caused by war events; In the case of war events, there is no obligation to pay benefits only for such illnesses and their consequences as well as for consequences of accidents and for deaths caused by active participation in war events. Terrorist attacks and their consequences do not count as war events. Benefits will be paid for military service injuries occurring after the commencement of insurance, subject to paragraph 3. b) for illnesses and accidents caused by intent, including their consequences; c) for treatment by physicians, midwives or maternity nurses as well as licensed psychotherapists working in their own practice and entered in the medical register and in hospitals whose invoices the insurer has excluded from reimbursement for good cause if the insured event occurs after the policyholder has been notified of the exclusion of benefits. If an insured event is pending at the time of notification, there is no obligation to pay benefits for expenses incurred after three months have elapsed since notification; d) for spa and sanatorium treatment as well as for rehabilitation measures of the statutory rehabilitation institutions; e) for treatment by spouses, civil partners pursuant to Section 1 of the Civil Partnership Act (see Appendix), parents or children. Proven material costs will be reimbursed in accordance with the tariff; f) for accommodation due to need of care or custody; g) for additional costs of medical treatment abroad, if the insured person has traveled abroad for the purpose of medical treatment. In this context, additional costs are deemed to be the cost portions of the treatment abroad that exceed the benefits agreed in the tariff for adequate treatment in Germany. In any case, no more than the actual reimbursable expenses incurred will be reimbursed.

This restriction does not apply - to childbirth if one parent is a national of the country of residence. It is a condition that the policyholder provides proof of citizenship, - in the case of medically necessary treatment abroad which would not have been possible or only partially possible in Germany, - if, in the context of an accident, i.e. a treatment that cannot be planned, a foreign hospital is the nearest suitable place of treatment.

For detailed information please read the customer information.

Further exclusions

If a medical treatment or other measure for which benefits have been agreed exceeds what is medically necessary, the insurer may reduce its benefits to a reasonable amount. If the expenses for the curative treatment or other services are conspicuously disproportionate to the services provided, the insurer is not obliged to provide benefits in this respect.

If there is also an entitlement to benefits from the statutory accident insurance or the statutory pension insurance, to a statutory medical care or accident care, the insurer is only obliged to pay for the expenses which remain necessary despite the statutory benefits.

If the insured person has a claim against more than one party liable for reimbursement due to the same insured event, the total reimbursement may not exceed the total expenses.  

What to do in case of an insured event?

What do you have to do if you actually get sick as a guest from abroad during your stay in Germany? What do you do in the event of a medical emergency? And above all: What do you have to do so that the insurance company pays for the treatment? We answer these questions in our overview " Procedure in the event of a claim ".

More security with our Protect Packages

Additional protection through personal liability, accident, luggage and assistance insurance.

Supplement your health insurance coverage with our Protect Standard   package for €6.60 per month or our Protect Complete   package for €11.30 per month. Both packages include accident, liability, baggage and assistance insurance. Protect Complete additionally includes intern liability insurance, which is required by many companies for an internship during studies.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions  

Provisit science by dr-walter.

At provisit.com, we offer insurance policies for visiting foreign nationals in Germany. We have developed Provisit Science especially for enrolled foreign academics in Germany. Who are we? The experts for international health insurance . For over 60 years, DR-WALTER has been insuring all types of travel. Our specialty is providing coverage for foreign visitors. Provisit Science is a cooperation between us and Barmenia Krankenversicherung AG. We have received the TÜV certificate “Certified Service Quality” every year since 2011, which is proof of the excellent quality of our services. Over the years, more than 99% of our customers have given us top marks for our insurance policies and services.

Customer reviews

Thank you for visiting nature.com. You are using a browser version with limited support for CSS. To obtain the best experience, we recommend you use a more up to date browser (or turn off compatibility mode in Internet Explorer). In the meantime, to ensure continued support, we are displaying the site without styles and JavaScript.

• View all journals
• Explore content
• About the journal
• Publish with us
• Sign up for alerts
• Published: 15 May 2024

How Iranian students can master integration into German academia

• Ata Makarem   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0003-1291-4312 1 , 2 &
• Karel Douglas Klika   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-7009-1487 3  

Nature Physics ( 2024 ) Cite this article

Metrics details

Thousands of Iranians study at German universities every year, but many struggle with the German academic system. Here, we offer some advice.

This is a preview of subscription content, access via your institution

Access options

Access Nature and 54 other Nature Portfolio journals

Get Nature+, our best-value online-access subscription

24,99 € / 30 days

cancel any time

Subscribe to this journal

Receive 12 print issues and online access

195,33 € per year

only 16,28 € per issue

Buy this article

• Purchase on Springer Link
• Instant access to full article PDF

Prices may be subject to local taxes which are calculated during checkout

Knerr, B. International Labor Migration: Asian students in Germany Ch. 6 (Kassel University Press GmbH, 2015).

Hüther, O. & Krücken, G. Higher Education in Germany — Recent Developments in an International Perspective , Vol. 49 (Springer International Publishing, 2018).

Moradi, S. Nat. Hum. Behav. 3 , 1025–1025 (2019).

Article   Google Scholar  

Download references

Author information

Authors and affiliations.

Department of Chemistry, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany

Ata Makarem

Mannheim Business School, University of Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany

Molecular Structure Analysis, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany

Karel Douglas Klika

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Ata Makarem .

Ethics declarations

Competing interests.

The authors declare no competing interests.

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Cite this article.

Makarem, A., Klika, K.D. How Iranian students can master integration into German academia. Nat. Phys. (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41567-024-02490-4

Download citation

Published : 15 May 2024

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1038/s41567-024-02490-4

Share this article

Anyone you share the following link with will be able to read this content:

Sorry, a shareable link is not currently available for this article.

Provided by the Springer Nature SharedIt content-sharing initiative

Quick links

• Explore articles by subject
• Guide to authors
• Editorial policies

Sign up for the Nature Briefing newsletter — what matters in science, free to your inbox daily.

• Plan Your Studies
• Study Programs
• Universities
• Requirements
• Living in Germany
• Accommodation
• Statistics & News

Applying For a Master’s Degree in Germany

Master’s programs in Germany offer a diverse range of options, with many taught in English. They are known for their affordability, top-notch curricula, hands-on learning, and excellent career prospects. So, it’s no wonder that master’s degrees are the go-to choice for international students in Germany. During the 2021/2022 period, 42.6% of them (148,901 students) were enrolled in master’s programs.

But don’t let the application process hold you back – we’re here to guide you through the steps and set you on the path to success in Deutschland!

Here are the main steps to apply for a master’s degree in Germany:

Research and Choose a Master’s Program

Check admission requirements.

• Gather Documents and Meet All Requirements

Secure Funding

Submit your application, wait for the admission letter, get health insurance, apply for the german student visa.

When it comes to pursuing a master’s degree in Germany, the initial step is all about research and making an informed choice. Start by assessing your career goals and pinpoint the field of study that aligns with your aspirations. Look into the curriculum to ensure it covers the subjects that pique your interest.

Language matters too — many programs are available in English, but if you’re proficient in German, it opens up more options. When it comes to costs, most programs are quite affordable or even tuition-free, but be sure to check tuition fees just in case.

To aid your search, German study program databases and university websites offer detailed program information and application guidelines. Take your time to explore and find the program that’s the perfect fit for your educational journey.

Study at GISMA University of Applied Sciences

Be one step ahead with a globally recognised college in Germany!

> Check out our list of over 9,000 master’s study programs in Germany.

Once you’ve picked a couple of programs that pique your interest and align with your study goals, it’s time to check if you meet their admission requirements or can meet them by the application deadline.

While each program may have its unique requirements, let’s explore some of the most common admission criteria for master’s programs in Germany:

• Bachelor’s degree. You have graduated or will graduate from a program equivalent to a German bachelor’s degree, often in a related field to the master’s program you’re applying for.
• Transcripts and diplomas . Submit transcripts and copies of your academic diplomas from previous educational institutions.
• Subject-specific knowledge . Some programs may require you to have gained specific subject knowledge or credits during your prior education. Business schools and MBA programs may require a particular score from recognized tests, like GMAT or GRE.
• Language proficiency. Demonstrate proficiency in the language of instruction, which is typically English or German. Proof of language proficiency is often required through standardized tests like IELTS, TOEFL, TestDaF, or DSH.
• Curriculum vitae (CV) or resume . Provide a comprehensive CV or resume detailing your academic and professional background.
• Statement of purpose & letters of recommendation. Some universities may request a Statement of Purpose (SOP), which details your motivations and goals, along with one to two letters of recommendation from professors or professionals.

> Visit our full guide of admission requirements for master’s programs in Germany for more details.

Gather Documents and Ensure You Meet All Requirements

After reviewing admission requirements and selecting your program(s), it’s time to start gathering what you need for your application, including transcripts, motivation letter, etc.

This is also an ideal time to confirm that you meet your university’s language proficiency requirements. Depending on your program’s language (English or German), you may take a standardized language test or provide alternative proof. Consider language courses if improvement is needed.

According to the German government’s regulations, international students planning to study in Germany must demonstrate financial resources of at least €11,208 per year (equivalent to €934 per month) to qualify for a student visa and pursue a master’s degree in the country.

This financial requirement may seem daunting for many students, so it’s crucial to address this well in advance of the official application period at your preferred German university. You can meet this requirement in various ways:

• Having €11,208 deposited in a German blocked account .
• Your parents can provide documentation of their income and financial resources.
• Someone with permanent residence in Germany can guarantee to the Alien Registration Office that they will financially support you.
• Present a scholarship awarding certificate specifying the financial amount or coverage granted to you.

Important Tip: To Maximize Your Chances of Getting Your German Student Visa You Should Use a Blocked Account as Proof of Financial Resources.

A blocked account is a special type of bank account , to prove you have enough funds to live in Germany for one year.

As of 2022, as a foreigner in Germany you need a minimum of €934 euros per month for living expenses. So, you are required to have a total of €11,208 in your bank account before you apply for a German internship visa.

Click here to learn more about the German Blocked Account

Planning ahead is important before your preferred German university’s application deadline, as this amount may be substantial for most students. Usually, four to six months prior should provide enough time to save money and explore scholarship and loan options.

Now is the exciting time to send in your application! Most universities have their own application portals where you’ll need to create an account, or they might use uni-assist for handling applications.

Make sure to read and follow all the instructions on the master’s program website, and be sure to submit all the required documents. It’s crucial to respect the application deadlines; your application won’t be processed if you miss the deadline.

Once your application is submitted, the next step is simply waiting for the university’s decision. While you wait, you might want to brush up on your language skills or start looking into the specific visa and travel requirements for Germany. It’s also a good time to explore accommodation options.

The university will notify you via email about the status of your application, and if you’re accepted, they’ll include the next steps you should follow.

Health insurance is a must for all international students in Germany. You can kickstart this process after receiving your admission letter or once you arrive in Germany.

If your home country has an agreement with Germany, you can often use your current health insurance, typically with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). In some cases, private health insurance from other countries may also be accepted.

Alternatively, you can choose to obtain insurance through a provider in Germany, with student packages usually priced around €120 per month, depending on your age and the provider.

Most international students in Germany prefer to get health insured with DR-WALTER .

EDUCARE24 by DR-WALTER is suitable for the following groups of people:

• Foreign exchange students, language students and students participating in university preparatory courses (Studienkolleg)
• University students
• Participants in exchange programmes (e.g. ERASMUS, DAAD, SOKRATES)
• Accompanying family members

Still have questions about health insurance?  Learn more about health insurance in Germany from experts.

Get DR-WALTER insurance online within a few minutes

With a few exceptions, the majority of international students planning to study in Germany require a student visa. Our German student visa guide covers everything you need to know about this process, from requirements to the application process, fees, and more.

To kickstart the process, set up a visa interview at the German Embassy or Consulate in your home country, ideally about three months before your planned start of studies.

During the interview, provide all the required documents like proof of admission, language proficiency, financial means, and health insurance. Be ready for potential requests for more documents during the interview, and make sure your passport stays valid for your entire stay.

Arrive in Germany and Attend Orientation

Once your German student visa is sorted, it’s time to get on that plane and arrive in Germany. After settling in, make use of the pre-semester orientation sessions at German universities. Some things addressed through the orientation or to over on your own include:

• You’ll complete the enrollment process , which involves registering for your courses, receiving your class schedule, and learning about academic requirements.
• Getting your student ID . You’ll be issued a student identification card, often referred to as a “Studierendenausweis” in German.
• Residence registration. Once you’re in Germany, you will have to register your residence. This is a mandatory process that involves obtaining a “Meldebescheinigung” from the Resident’s Registration Office (Einwohnermeldeamt).
• Opening a local bank account. Orientation often provides guidance on opening a bank account in Germany.
• Campus tour. You’ll explore the campus to discover its facilities, libraries, and labs.
• Language courses. Some universities offer language courses or resources to help international students improve their German language skills if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) & Additional Information

Below, you’ll find answers to common questions and additional information to support you on your path to pursuing a master’s degree in Germany:

Which Universities Offer Master’s Degree Programs in Germany?

The higher education system in Germany includes public universities, funded and regulated by the state, and private universities established by independent entities.

While private universities may have higher fees, they are valuable for specialized courses not available at public institutions. Public universities in Germany have their own degree programs, assessments, and entry requirements, with state oversight to ensure the quality and accreditation of courses.

Germany has four main types of higher education institutions that offer master’s degree programs:

• Research Universities. These publicly administered institutions offer Master’s and PhD programs, focusing on various academic disciplines.
• Technical Universities. A subgroup of research universities, they specialize in science, technology, and engineering fields.
• Universities of Applied Sciences. These institutions concentrate on engineering, business, and social sciences, often partnering with professional organizations.
• Colleges of Art, Film, and Music. These institutions provide instruction in creative fields and can be part of research universities or universities of applied sciences.

What Are the Types of Master’s Degrees in Germany?

In Germany, you can pursue various types of Master’s degrees. Some of the most common include:

• Master of Arts (MA). Awarded in humanities, social sciences, and arts-related fields.
• Master of Science (MSc) . Awarded in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines.
• Master of Business Administration (MBA). Focuses on management and business administration topics.
• Master of Education (M.Ed.). For degrees for high school teacher positions.

What Are Consecutive and Non-consecutive Master’s Degrees?

Consecutive master’s Degrees in Germany follow a logical progression from a related bachelor’s degree and build upon the same academic field. They provide in-depth knowledge and specialization within the same subject area.

Non-consecutive master’s Degrees, on the other hand, don’t necessarily need a bachelor’s degree in the same field. Students with diverse academic backgrounds can go for non-consecutive master’s programs, which often focus on broader skills and interdisciplinary knowledge. These programs may include extra coursework to bridge any knowledge gaps.

How Long Is a Master’s Degree in Germany?

A master’s degree in Germany typically lasts for one to two years, depending on the specific program and the number of semesters required. Each academic year consists of two semesters, and the program may also include a final project or dissertation conducted in collaboration with a mentor.

How Many ECTS Credits Is a German Master’s Degree Worth?

Master’s programs in Germany typically consist of 120 ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) credits. However, the exact number of credits may vary depending on the university and the specific program.

What is Numerus Clausus?

Numerus Clausus (NC) in German master’s programs is a restricted admission system where limited spots are available, and selection is based on factors like academic performance and qualifications. It controls program capacity to prevent overcrowding. Applicants compete for admission based on their qualifications, and requirements vary by program.

When Are Application Deadlines for Master’s Degrees in Germany?

There are two semesters in German universities; the winter semester and the summer semester. Application deadlines for master’s programs vary depending on the university, however, the most common dates are:

• For courses starting on the winter semester: July 15th
• For courses starting on the summer semester: January 15th

Can I Apply for a Master’s in Germany Before I Get My Undergraduate Degree?

Yes, it’s common for students to apply during the final year of their bachelor’s degree. However, you must provide proof of your current academic progress and an expected graduation date as part of your application.

What Are the Language Requirements for Master’s Degrees in Germany?

If your courses are in German, you’ll need to prove your proficiency through tests like TestDaf or DSH. A lower level of proficiency may be accepted if you continue taking language courses upon arriving in Germany or during the early stages of your Master’s program. However, language requirements for master’s programs in Germany can vary depending on the university and program

If you choose English-taught programs, no German language tests are required. Non-native English speakers may need to take English language tests like TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE. If you’ve completed your undergraduate studies in English, you typically won’t need English language tests.

To discover programs in your preferred language, explore our tool and select the program language from the options on the left.

How Much Does a Master’s Degree Cost in Germany?

In most public universities in Germany, semester fees for master’s programs typically range from €100 to €350 per semester, with some exceptions. Some specialized graduate programs may have tuition fees, and the federal states of Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria may charge tuition fees for non-EU international students.

Private universities set their own tuition fees, and the cost of master’s degrees can vary significantly, especially for programs like MBAs. At private universities in Germany, tuition fees can range from approximately €5,000 to €20,000 per year or more, depending on the institution and program.

To find out more about the costs of studying in Germany, visit our extensive guide .

Can I Work While Studying for a Master’s Degree in Germany?

Yes, students of all nationalities can work while studying for a master’s degree in Germany.

• EU, EEA, Swiss, and Norwegian students can work up to 20 hours per week. They can exceed this number, however they will have to pay social security contributions.
• Non-EU students can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year, but they face restrictions on self-employment and freelancing.
• Academic assistants have no limitations on workdays but are required to inform the foreigners’ office.

> Read more about working while studying in Germany .

What Is the Master’s Thesis Process Like in Germany?

In your final year of a master’s program in Germany, you’ll work on your thesis project, guided by a professor. The goal is to showcase your ability to tackle a subject-related issue independently using research methods.

You can usually write your thesis in German or English and may even complete it externally, like at a company or another research institute. Universities often set page limits, usually between 50 to 100 pages, and impose deadlines, typically around six months from the project start.

The thesis defense involves submitting your work and presenting your research methods and findings.

Study Visa Requirements for a Master’s Degree in Germany

Make sure you collect on time all the documents you typically need in order to apply for a German Student Visa .

For detailed information about Germany Visa requirements, go to  www.germany-visa.org/student-visa/

What Are the Career Prospects With a German Master’s Degree?

With a German master’s degree, you’ll have excellent career prospects, especially in STEM fields . EU/EEA graduates can work immediately after graduation, while non-EU/EEA graduates can extend their residence permits for up to 18 months to find field-related jobs.

You can also pursue academic careers, and highly skilled non-EU graduates can apply for an EU Blue Card to work and stay in Germany. Plus, your German degree is globally recognized, offering international career opportunities in multinational companies and organizations.

Join 262,114 students interested in studying in Germany

Download The Guide

Quick Links

8 Steps to Study in Germany How To Apply To Study in Germany German Education System Requirements Universities in Germany International Programmes Financing Your Studies German Student Visa German Health Insurance Germany Blocked Account Learn German Guide German Cities Cost of Living

Latest News and Statistics

New study reveals high level of satisfaction among students at german universities, germany scholarships up by 3% in 2023 – 31,400 students benefited, indians overcome chinese as top source of international students in germany, over 3,800 university students in germany were under 18 in 2022, higher education in germany: key trends & statistics.

• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy

• Visit the University of Nebraska–Lincoln
• Apply to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln
• Give to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln

Search Form

University awarding 3,566 degrees in may exercises.

21 hours ago · 4 min read

University awarding 3,566 degrees in May exercises

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is conferring 3,566 degrees during its May commencement exercises.

Full list of graduates | Program | Featured grads

The 3,484 graduates are from 64 countries; 46 U.S. states and Puerto Rico; and about 230 Nebraska communities.

The Bob Devaney Sports Center hosted a ceremony for College of Law graduates May 3, and Pinnacle Bank Arena held a ceremony for students earning graduate and professional degrees May 17. Memorial Stadium, One Memorial Stadium Drive, will host a ceremony for undergraduates at 9 a.m. May 18.

Chancellor Rodney D. Bennett will preside over the undergraduate ceremony.

To maintain a secure environment, Memorial Stadium enforces a clear-bag policy that limits the size and type of bag that may be brought inside. Cameras are permitted, but cases are not. To avoid inconveniences, guests are encouraged to arrive early and travel light.

Tickets are not required for the ceremony, and there is no limit to the number of guests per graduate. All seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.

For the undergraduate ceremony, gates will open to the public and student check-in will begin at 7 a.m. Guest seating is in West Stadium for best ceremony viewing. Gates 2, 3, 4 and 10 will be open for public entry. Gate 3 is available for guests with accessibility needs.

For guests with permanent or temporary disabilities, hard-back chairs are available at field level with one companion seat. Pre-registration is not required. Guests should enter through Gate 3 and ask event staff for assistance. No elevator or stairs are needed to access this seating area. Open captioning for people with hearing impairment will be provided on the ribbon boards.

First aid will be at the northwest station on the north concourse for guests and the southeast field-level station for those on the field. The northwest American Red Cross room is also designated as a lactation space.

Students will be seated on the field. Guests will not be allowed on the field at any point during commencement. They may meet up with graduates outside the gates of Memorial Stadium after the ceremony.

Numerous lanes are closed in downtown Lincoln near Memorial Stadium. Guests should plan for congestion on those streets and allow ample time to arrive. To minimize traffic and parking challenges, guests are urged to visit the City of Lincoln roads website or use the Waze mobile app.

Free parking is available with no permit needed (except for accessible spaces) in City Campus parking garages and surface lots, unless otherwise marked. Stadium Drive from T to V streets will be closed. To relieve congestion around the stadium, consider using the 14th and Avery garage.

Accessible parking is available near the stadium on a first-come, first-served basis. Vehicles must have appropriate, state-issued permits or license plates. A drop-off area for mobility-restricted guests will be available just south of Stadium Drive and T Street. For a parking map, click here .

Undergraduates are to check in no later than 8:15 a.m. at the Hawks Championship Center, just north of Memorial Stadium. Students should bring their student ID, or another form of identification with NU ID number, and enter through the west doors. Graduates should arrive wearing their cap with tassel, gown and stole. Personal items should be left with family or friends. Graduates will check in and go directly to their assigned seats inside the stadium. Graduates are encouraged to wear flat, comfortable shoes since they will be walking on field turf and/or uneven ground.

Graduates should contact the Office of the University Registrar with accessibility concerns.

The undergraduate ceremony is expected to last two-and-a-half to three hours. The ceremony will be streamed here and broadcast live on Spectrum channel 1303, Allo channel 23 and Kinetic channel 1080.

For more information on May commencement, click here or email [email protected] .

News Release Contacts

Related links.

• May 2024 commencement
• commencement
• Rodney D. Bennett
• student success

High Resolution Photos

Recent News

Class of 2024 shows determination in earning degrees.

Career of service leads Ramzah to doctoral degree

Nebraska U opportunities carry Azurduy from Bolivia to Wall Street

14 graduating seniors earn University Honors Program awards

Rogers turns passion for people with disabilities into lasting impact

CASNR articulation agreements help students, boost workforce development

6 Husker students earn Fulbright awards

In her DNA: Spruce finds 'family,' career in forensic science

Facility for Rare Isotope Beams

At michigan state university, international research team uses wavefunction matching to solve quantum many-body problems, new approach makes calculations with realistic interactions possible.

FRIB researchers are part of an international research team solving challenging computational problems in quantum physics using a new method called wavefunction matching. The new approach has applications to fields such as nuclear physics, where it is enabling theoretical calculations of atomic nuclei that were previously not possible. The details are published in Nature (“Wavefunction matching for solving quantum many-body problems”) .

Ab initio methods and their computational challenges

An ab initio method describes a complex system by starting from a description of its elementary components and their interactions. For the case of nuclear physics, the elementary components are protons and neutrons. Some key questions that ab initio calculations can help address are the binding energies and properties of atomic nuclei not yet observed and linking nuclear structure to the underlying interactions among protons and neutrons.

Yet, some ab initio methods struggle to produce reliable calculations for systems with complex interactions. One such method is quantum Monte Carlo simulations. In quantum Monte Carlo simulations, quantities are computed using random or stochastic processes. While quantum Monte Carlo simulations can be efficient and powerful, they have a significant weakness: the sign problem. The sign problem develops when positive and negative weight contributions cancel each other out. This cancellation results in inaccurate final predictions. It is often the case that quantum Monte Carlo simulations can be performed for an approximate or simplified interaction, but the corresponding simulations for realistic interactions produce severe sign problems and are therefore not possible.

Using ‘plastic surgery’ to make calculations possible

The new wavefunction-matching approach is designed to solve such computational problems. The research team—from Gaziantep Islam Science and Technology University in Turkey; University of Bonn, Ruhr University Bochum, and Forschungszentrum Jülich in Germany; Institute for Basic Science in South Korea; South China Normal University, Sun Yat-Sen University, and Graduate School of China Academy of Engineering Physics in China; Tbilisi State University in Georgia; CEA Paris-Saclay and Université Paris-Saclay in France; and Mississippi State University and the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) at Michigan State University (MSU)—includes  Dean Lee , professor of physics at FRIB and in MSU’s Department of Physics and Astronomy and head of the Theoretical Nuclear Science department at FRIB, and  Yuan-Zhuo Ma , postdoctoral research associate at FRIB.

“We are often faced with the situation that we can perform calculations using a simple approximate interaction, but realistic high-fidelity interactions cause severe computational problems,” said Lee. “Wavefunction matching solves this problem by doing plastic surgery. It removes the short-distance part of the high-fidelity interaction, and replaces it with the short-distance part of an easily computable interaction.”

This transformation is done in a way that preserves all of the important properties of the original realistic interaction. Since the new wavefunctions look similar to that of the easily computable interaction, researchers can now perform calculations using the easily computable interaction and apply a standard procedure for handling small corrections called perturbation theory.  A team effort

The research team applied this new method to lattice quantum Monte Carlo simulations for light nuclei, medium-mass nuclei, neutron matter, and nuclear matter. Using precise ab initio calculations, the results closely matched real-world data on nuclear properties such as size, structure, and binding energies. Calculations that were once impossible due to the sign problem can now be performed using wavefunction matching.

“It is a fantastic project and an excellent opportunity to work with the brightest nuclear scientist s in FRIB and around the globe,” said Ma. “As a theorist , I'm also very excited about programming and conducting research on the world's most powerful exascale supercomputers, such as Frontier , which allows us to implement wavefunction matching to explore the mysteries of nuclear physics.”

While the research team focused solely on quantum Monte Carlo simulations, wavefunction matching should be useful for many different ab initio approaches, including both classical and  quantum computing calculations. The researchers at FRIB worked with collaborators at institutions in China, France, Germany, South Korea, Turkey, and United States.

“The work is the culmination of effort over many years to handle the computational problems associated with realistic high-fidelity nuclear interactions,” said Lee. “It is very satisfying to see that the computational problems are cleanly resolved with this new approach. We are grateful to all of the collaboration members who contributed to this project, in particular, the lead author, Serdar Elhatisari.”

This material is based upon work supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. National Science Foundation, the German Research Foundation, the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the Chinese Academy of Sciences President’s International Fellowship Initiative, Volkswagen Stiftung, the European Research Council, the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey, the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the National Security Academic Fund, the Rare Isotope Science Project of the Institute for Basic Science, the National Research Foundation of Korea, the Institute for Basic Science, and the Espace de Structure et de réactions Nucléaires Théorique.

Michigan State University operates the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) as a user facility for the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science (DOE-SC), supporting the mission of the DOE-SC Office of Nuclear Physics. Hosting what is designed to be the most powerful heavy-ion accelerator, FRIB enables scientists to make discoveries about the properties of rare isotopes in order to better understand the physics of nuclei, nuclear astrophysics, fundamental interactions, and applications for society, including in medicine, homeland security, and industry.

The U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States and is working to address some of today’s most pressing challenges. For more information, visit energy.gov/science.

• Accessibility Options:
• Skip to Content
• Skip to Search
• Skip to footer
• Office of Disability Services
• Request Assistance
• 305-284-2374
• High Contrast

School of Architecture

• College of Arts and Sciences
• Miami Herbert Business School
• School of Communication
• School of Education and Human Development
• College of Engineering
• School of Law
• Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science
• Miller School of Medicine
• Frost School of Music
• School of Nursing and Health Studies
• The Graduate School
• Division of Continuing and International Education
• People Search
• Class Search
• IT Help and Support
• Privacy Statement
• Student Life
• University of Miami
• Division of University Communications
• Office of Media Relations
• Miller School of Medicine Communications
• Hurricane Sports
• UM Media Experts
• Emergency Preparedness
• Alumni News
• Faculty News
• Student News
• News and Events
• Latest Headlines
• Subscribe to News@TheU Newsletter
• UM NEWS HOME

From commencement to construction: Graduate student aims to make his mark in Miami

By Madison Brinnon 05-17-2024

Daniel Cutimanco's recent graduation from the University of Miami marks not just the end of his academic journey but the beginning of a promising career in a booming industry. Having graduated from the Thomas P. Murphy Master of Construction Management program, Cutimanco is poised to blend creativity, business acumen, and practical construction knowledge in his future endeavors.  

When asked what drew him to the MCM program, Cutimanco shared, "I was looking for a program that captured the essence of multiple disciplines—the creative mindset of architecture, the business perspective of project development, and the construction criteria of aligning vision with execution. The University of Miami provided this unique mix, along with a diverse study plan that allowed me to expand my vision."  

One of Cutimanco's favorite academic experiences was participating in leadership seminars led by Professor Bob Reynolds. He also found profound value in Professor Brandon Moore's Project Management class, citing it as a singular experience that deepened his understanding of the profitable construction industry in South Florida. Cutimanco also benefited from a hands-on internship with the university’s Office of Design and Construction, where he collaborated on significant campus projects like the Frost Institute and the soon-to-open Centennial Village.  

Beyond academics, Cutimanco was honored as the student speaker during the 2024 Graduate Commencement Ceremony. Reflecting on the experience, he said, "It was truly one of the best experiences of my life! From the weeks of preparation to the moment I stood before the crowd, every aspect was unforgettable. It was a moment to reflect on the lessons and memories from my time at UM and express my gratitude to the university, the faculty, my peers, and my parents who traveled far to share this moment with me."    

Following graduation, Cutimanco will join Coastal Construction, a firm known for its innovative, sustainable, and people-first approach. "I'm grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such an incredible company," he stated. "I look forward to continuing to learn and grow, aiming to make a meaningful contribution to the company's mission and legacy." This next step is further fueled by his receipt of the prestigious Thomas P. Murphy Academic Achievement Award, a testament to his hard work and dedication throughout his academic career.  

The Thomas P. Murphy Master of Construction Management program offers a practice-oriented graduate degree with a blend of construction and business management courses. It is designed to develop leaders and managers for complex building projects, with mastery in best practices related to resiliency, sustainability, building information modeling, project delivery and decision-making.  

About U-SoA

Learn about us, undergraduate and graduate, admission and application info.

• 1223 Dickinson Drive Coral Gables , FL 33146
• 305-284-3731 305-284-3731
• UM News and Events
• Alumni & Friends
• 'Cane Watch

Tools and Resources

• Academic Calendar
• Department Search
• Parking & Transportation
• social-facebook
• social-twitter
• social-youtube
• social-instagram

Copyright: 2024 University of Miami. All Rights Reserved. Emergency Information Privacy Statement & Legal Notices Title IX & Gender Equity Website Feedback

Individuals with disabilities who experience any technology-based barriers accessing the University’s websites or services can visit the Office of Workplace Equity and Inclusion .