Are you looking for a way to study in Germany for free through the Humboldt University of Berlin Scholarship?
Humboldt University of Berlin offers a range of scholarships for international and local students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance and financial need. These scholarships support undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral studies across various disciplines.
Types of Scholarships Available at Humboldt University
The university provides several funding opportunities tailored to different academic levels and eligibility criteria.
- DAAD Scholarships for international master’s and doctoral students
- Deutschlandstipendium for high-achieving students
- PROMOS scholarships for short-term mobility programs
- Erasmus+ funding for EU mobility programs
- Humboldt Research Track Scholarship for master’s students pursuing a PhD
- Humboldt International Campus programs with financial aid
- Scholarships from the German Academic Scholarship Foundation (Studienstiftung)
- Humboldt Alumni Scholarships for former exchange students
- Research grants for specific disciplines like humanities or natural sciences
- External organization-funded scholarships (e.g., Konrad Adenauer Foundation)
Apply also: Munich Business School Scholarship
Eligibility Criteria for Humboldt University Scholarships
Each scholarship has its own criteria, but some general requirements apply across most programs.
- Proof of academic excellence (GPA or final grades)
- Enrolled or accepted at Humboldt University
- Demonstrated financial need (for some scholarships)
- Strong motivation letter or research proposal
- Letters of recommendation
- Relevant language proficiency (German or English)
- For DAAD: two years of work experience (for some programs)
- Participation in extracurricular or volunteer activities
- Non-EU students may receive preference in some programs
- For doctoral funding: supervisor’s confirmation of research project
Apply also: University of Leipzig Scholarship
Application Process for Scholarships
Applying for a Humboldt scholarship involves multiple steps and specific documentation.
- Choose the appropriate scholarship program
- Check eligibility criteria and deadlines
- Prepare application documents (CV, transcripts, motivation letter)
- Apply via online portal or send documents to the department
- For DAAD: apply through DAAD portal separately
- Await confirmation of receipt and eligibility check
- Attend interviews or submit further materials if requested
- Results are usually announced within 1–2 months
- Accepted students sign a funding agreement
- Funds are disbursed monthly or per semester depending on scholarship
Apply also: University of Göttingen Scholarship
Scholarship Benefits and Financial Coverage
Most Humboldt University scholarships offer generous financial assistance to reduce academic and living expenses.
- Monthly stipend ranging from €300 to €1,200
- Health insurance coverage for international students
- Travel allowances (especially for DAAD and Erasmus+)
- Research and study material subsidies
- Accommodation assistance or support finding housing
- Language course funding (German intensive programs)
- Family allowance (for doctoral students with children)
- Tuition-related fees (although most programs are tuition-free)
- Access to university facilities and mentoring programs
- Opportunities for research conferences and networking
Apply also: University of Stuttgart Scholarship
Important Deadlines and Intake Seasons
Understanding deadlines is crucial to submitting a successful application on time.
- DAAD scholarship deadline: varies by country, generally 6–12 months before intake
- Deutschlandstipendium: annually in spring or autumn
- Erasmus+: application period in January or February
- PROMOS: multiple intakes per academic year
- Humboldt Research Track: typically in March and October
- Foundation-funded scholarships: vary, check specific sites
- Regular intake: winter semester (October) and summer semester (April)
- Application opens 4–6 months before semester starts
- Deadlines are strict—no late applications accepted
- Interview period: 1–2 months after submission
Apply also: University of WittenHerdecke Scholarship
Study Programs Covered by Scholarships
Scholarships are available for almost all fields of study offered by the university.
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Natural Sciences and Mathematics
- Economics and Business
- Law and Political Science
- Medicine and Health Sciences (limited options)
- Agricultural and Environmental Studies
- Education and Psychology
- Computer Science and Engineering (research-based)
- Interdisciplinary and international programs
- Language and Cultural Studies
Apply also: University of Vechta Scholarship
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting the Scholarship
A well-prepared application and strong academic profile can significantly boost your success.
- Start the process at least 6 months in advance
- Attend webinars or info sessions by Humboldt University
- Get your transcripts and documents professionally translated
- Tailor your motivation letter to the program
- Ask mentors or professors for reference letters early
- Highlight leadership or volunteer work
- Show consistency in academic and career goals
- Include a detailed and feasible study or research plan
- Practice for possible interviews or online assessments
- Double-check all submission formats and deadlines
Apply also: University of Weimar Scholarship
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students apply for all scholarships at Humboldt University?
Yes, many scholarships are open to international students, but some may have regional or program-specific limitations.
What GPA is required to apply for a Humboldt scholarship?
While it varies, a GPA of at least 2.5 on the German scale (or equivalent) is generally expected for competitive programs.
Is knowledge of German required?
Not always. Some programs are taught in English, and several scholarships accept English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL).
Can I apply for multiple scholarships at the same time?
Yes, but receiving more than one public-funded scholarship simultaneously is often not permitted.
How long does the scholarship funding last?
Most scholarships cover 6 months to 2 years, depending on the program and study level.
Are doctoral scholarships available at Humboldt University?
Yes, through programs like the Research Track and DAAD doctoral scholarships.
Do I need to be admitted before applying for a scholarship?
In most cases, you must have admission or proof of application to Humboldt University.
How competitive are the Humboldt scholarships?
Very competitive, especially DAAD and Deutschlandstipendium, which attract top candidates worldwide.
Do scholarships cover living expenses in Berlin?
Yes, most scholarships include a stipend that helps cover rent, food, and transportation.
When will I receive the scholarship results?
Typically within 1 to 2 months after the application deadline.
Conclusion
A scholarship from Humboldt University of Berlin can open doors to world-class education and research opportunities in Germany. Start your preparation early and submit a strong, well-documented application to increase your chances of success.