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About DissOnline

The German National Library houses the largest national collection of online dissertations in Europe. We have been collecting online dissertations and theses since 1998. Since then, the collection has grown to more than 284,000 documents (as of November 2020).

Since these activities began under the aegis of DissOnline more than 20 years ago, electronic publishing has become a part of everyday university life. This is due to the close cooperation between universities, their libraries and computer centres, and representatives of academia as well as the long-standing support provided through projects funded by the German Research Foundation ( DFG ).

The DissOnline project was brought to a successful, sustainable conclusion. Stakeholders whose initiative had supported DissOnline then became free to transfer their commitment to other areas. In June 2012, the DissOnline advisory committee therefore decided to integrate the functions and information on the website www.dissonline.de into the German National Library’s services. This is particularly relevant in terms of the deposit of works with the German National Library. The extended metadata format XMetaDissPlus enables all types of publications and documents available in subject-specific and institutional repositories and on university servers to be deposited in just one fully automated transaction.

Deposit information

The DissOnline portal is also integrated into the German National Library's catalogue as a search option. This means that online dissertations are listed as a component of the German National Library’s collection alongside traditional printed dissertations, other online university publications and academic literature. Our catalogue offers a wide variety of search options that are constantly being developed and optimised further. You will find an explanation of all the available search options here:

Guide to searching dissertations and theses in the German National Library’s catalogue (only available in German)

In order to enhance the international visibility of the collection, the metadata for all German online dissertations is continually delivered to DART , the European portal for online dissertations. NDLTD : Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations is committed to the promotion of electronic publishing in the academic sector beyond Europe. The International Symposium on Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETD) takes place every year.

Statistical information

Online university publications have been collected, catalogued and archived at the German National Library since 1998. The illustration shows how the percentage of online publications has developed over the years since this work began. Here it must be considered that although dissertations are subject to a mandatory publication obligation and an obligation to be placed on deposit with the German National Library, only an approximate impression of doctoral and publication activities in Germany can be given.

As the statistics refer to the year in which the publication was released rather than the year in which it was deposited, it is quite possible that figures may rise in succeeding years. This applies in particular to the most recent full year.

The DissOnline projects

• 1998–2000 Dissertations Online
• 2003–2004 Establishment of a coordinating body for online university publications
• 2005–2007 DissOnline Tutor
• 2005–2008 Establishment of a portal for online university publications

The intensive cooperation between all partners and sponsors also made it possible to start collecting dissertations and theses on a voluntary basis in 1998, eight years before the amendment to the Law Regarding the German National Library and the provision stipulating the mandatory deposit of online publications.

Last changes: 08.03.2021 Short-URL: https://www.dnb.de/dissonline

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Doctoral theses service

Publishing doctoral theses.

Doctoral regulations according to § 15 Abs. 4 Nr. 3 of the Rahmenpromotionsordnung ( RPromO ) of the Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg in the latest valid version

Competent Units Competent Units

Publishing doctoral theses in electronic form publishing doctoral theses in electronic form.

• Upload to OPEN FAU at https://open.fau.de/home in accordance with § 15 Abs. 4 Nr. 3 of the RPromO in the latest valid version
• Supporting information for this process can be found within the FAQ at OPEN FAU
• Blocking notice . Please use the English language version to help with filling out the German form Blocking notice form

Please submit the approved blocking notice together with the upload on OPEN FAU . Further extensions are possible for the School of Business, Economics and Society. Information and the blocking notice form can be found here: https://www.promotion.rw.fau.eu/documents/ .

Publishing doctoral theses in print form Publishing doctoral theses in print form

• FAU University Press (in accordance with § 15 Abs. 4 Nr. 3 of the RPromO in the latest valid version), or
• a commercial publisher as a book with an ISBN number and the publisher confirms a minimum circulation of 150 copies if demand is sufficient (in accordance with § 15 Abs. 4 Nr. 1 RPromO ).

Please send your printed copies to the department responsible for your faculty (see above) and include your email-address to receive a confirmation of receipt. A personal deposit during our office hours is also possible.

Confirmation of submission Confirmation of submission

Doctoral programmes at the University of Konstanz

Structured doctoral programmes at the university of konstanz.

The University of Konstanz offers a huge variety of structured doctoral programmes and doctoral study programmes. They aim to offer a transparent road to the doctorate and close supervision that enable doctoral researchers to finish their thesis within a reasonable period of time. Currently, about 60% of our doctoral researchers are enrolled in a structured doctoral programme.

The Konstanz Research School (KRS) unites the different forms of doctoral studies at the University of Konstanz under one roof and guarantees all doctoral researchers high standards of quality and supervision.

DFG research training groups

Doctoral programmes in the german excellence strategy, further externally funded doctoral programmes, doctoral study programmes, further doctoral programmes offered by departments, search university of konstanz, suggestions.

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Doctoral studies at HHU

There are several ways to earn a doctorate depending on the faculties, the individual research fields as well as on the type of doctorate. It can be completed within a structured programme or quite independently under the supervision of a professor. Over a period of about three to four years, doctoral students conduct independent research, write a dissertation and usually defend it through an oral examination. The starting date is not bound to the university semesters, but rather depends on the available funding options for the individual research projects.

At HHU, doctoral candidates are individually supervised and supported in order to advance their careers. The following applies to all faculties of HHU:

• the regulations for doctoral studies stipulate that doctoral theses must be overseen by two supervisors; i.e. a second supervisor may be added to the PhD advisory committee
• the course "Good Scientific Practice" is mandatory for all doctoral candidates
• the doctoral research is conducted within a structured doctoral programme or, alternatively, can be completed within the framework of a structured curriculum at the respective faculties' graduate academies
• international junior researchers receive advice and support from the Junior Scientist and International Research Center (JUNO) regarding their stay in Germany and at HHU
• the faculties' graduate academies offer a broad qualification programme for doctoral students and a comprehensive counseling service
• the  Heine Research Academies and the graduate academies of the  Faculty of Medicine (MedRSD) , the  Faculty of Mathematics & Natural Sciences (iGRAD)  and the  Faculty of Arts and Humanities (PhilGRAD) provide a common framework of support and structured education for all doctoral researchers.

In Germany and at HHU, the most common PhD track is completing an individual doctorate under the supervision of a professor and thereby conducting research largely independently on one's own research topic. This offers a great deal of flexibility but also demands a high degree of personal initiative and responsibility. To start such a doctoral project, you first need to find a supervisor at HHU. The supervision of a doctoral thesis is an individual agreement between the doctoral researcher and the supervisor. In some faculties at HHU (e.g. Faculty of Mathematics & Natural Sciences) an additional supervising professor is mandatory. 

Doctoral students conducting an indivual doctorate may be employed by the supervisor's institute, which often requires them to work on a specific project or to participate in the teaching requirements of the institute. Vacancies for this path to a doctorate are often advertised on the research institute's website or can be found at the HeRA job portal . Doctoral researchers who are not employed by the institute are advised to organise funding for their dissertation project , for example by a scholarship.

How long it takes to complete an individual doctorate depends mainly on one's own time schedule. Three to four years are within in the normal range.

Find further information on how to apply for an individual doctorate here .

In structured doctoral programmes, doctoral students and their research topics are integrated into a larger scientific framework in which the students work on a common research focus or methodology. These programmes are often interdisciplinary and/or have a strong international orientation with English as the team language. In general, they offer a subject-specific curriculum as well as opportunities to acquire transferable skills and additional qualifications. Doctoral students are generally supervised by a thesis advisory committee, i.e. in teams of several professors participating in the programme. 

At HHU you have a broad spectrum of structured doctoral programmes in research training groups and graduate schools funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG), the Excellence Initiative, the federal state North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) and HHU itself. Sometimes they include collaborations with other universities, non-university research institutes such as the Helmholtz Association or the International Max Planck Research Schools (IMPRS) as well as other international partners.

Programme specific scholarships or job offers for doctoral candidates usually provide funding for at least three years. Find further information on available scholarships or job offers at the graduate programmes' websites or and the HeRA job portal . Click here  for details on how to apply for a graduate programme.

Steps to a doctorate

Application

Re-Registration of doctoral students for a new semester

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Doctoral studies

Information about doctoral studies is now available on the webpages of the Hamburg Research Academy (HRA) . The HRA, a joint initiative of Hamburg’s higher education institutions, is the central port of call for doctoral students, postdoctoral researchers, and junior professors.

Promovieren an der Universität Hamburg: Schritt für Schritt

Sie haben Ihr Studium abgeschlossen und streben den Doktortitel an?

Es gibt einige Schritte, die an diesem Punkt bedacht werden sollten. Informationen zu den wichtigsten Fragen, die Promotion betreffend, finden Sie unten aufgeführt.

Which topic?

Selecting a suitable doctoral topic is essential. As your doctoral project will span four to five years, your topic ought to be well-chosen, substantial, and relevant.

Many professors provide suitable topics. If you would like to realize your doctoral thesis as an individual project, we recommend that you discuss your plans with your doctoral supervisor.

Write a research proposal that includes a research schedule and a preliminary outline of the dissertation and submit it to your doctoral supervisor for approval.

Types of doctorates

Universität Hamburg offers individual doctorates and various types of doctoral programs:

• individual doctorate
• doctoral programs

How to choose a doctoral supervisor

Once you have a topic, you probably know which department is responsible for you. Can you think of a potential doctoral supervisor whose research focus corresponds to your doctoral project?

Make an appointment and be well prepared for your first meeting!

The goal of the second meeting should be to obtain a written declaration of consent from your future doctoral supervisor. Without this consent, you cannot enroll as a doctoral student at Universität Hamburg.

Joint PhD program: Macquarie University and Universität Hamburg

Universität Hamburg and Macquarie University, Australia, are now offering PhD students the opportunity to benefit from both institutions by participating in a joint PhD program.

Students in this program are enrolled at both universities and are supervised by faculty members from both institutions. If you would like more information about this joint program, please click here:

More information (PDF)

Doctoral students have to pay a semester contribution . This includes the semester public transport pass, which entitles you to use Hamburg’s entire public transportation network.

There are no tuition fees at Universität Hamburg.

Financial aid

Doctoral students may apply for various kinds of financial assistance. See doctoral funding .

How to enroll as a doctoral student

At Universität Hamburg the faculties are responsible for doctoral applications and admissions.

Your application for admission to doctoral studies must contain the following documents:

• university degree certificate
• doctoral project research proposal
• further documents in accordance with the respective faculty's regulations

Please download detailed info from the respective faculties:

• Faculty of Law: www.jura.uni-hamburg.de/forschung/promotion.html  (information only in German)
• Faculty of Business, Economics and Social Sciences: www.wiso.uni-hamburg.de/en/einrichtungen/graduate-school.html
• Faculty of Medicine: www.uke.de/english/research/promotion-phd-habilitation/index.html
• Faculty of Education: www.ew.uni-hamburg.de/en/studium/promovieren.html
• Faculty of Humanities: www.gwiss.uni-hamburg.de/studium/promotion.html  (information only in German)
• Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences: www.promovieren.uni-hamburg.de/en/min.html
• Faculty of Psychology and Human Movement Science: www.pb.uni-hamburg.de/en/studium/promotion-habilitation.html  
• Faculty of Business Administration (Hamburg Business School): www.bwl.uni-hamburg.de/en/forschung/promotion.html

If your application is approved, you will be admitted to doctoral studies and permitted to enroll at Universität Hamburg.

All formal guidelines are laid out in the faculty doctoral degree regulations .

Campus Center's Services for Students is responsible for enrolling doctoral students.

See Campus Center's information on doctoral applications and enrollment .

Who gives advice?

The departments are responsible for answering all questions relating to doctoral studies, i.e., doctoral supervisors, the doctoral committee, or the deans.

For information on doctoral studies and contact details of doctoral advisors in Universität Hamburg's faculties, please consult the individual faculty webpages:

• Faculty of Business, Economics and Social Sciences: https://www.wiso.uni-hamburg.de/en/einrichtungen_service/graduate-school.html  

The respective doctoral degree regulations provide formal guidelines (available only in German).

Qualifying as a teacher or for jobs outside of academia

Universität Hamburg's Career Center offers classes and workshops for young researchers and doctoral students. We focus on teaching interdisciplinary skills.

PIASTA offers the following events for graduate students:

• Activities for Graduate Students
• Seminars and Workshops

There is also a special program for young researchers .

How to meet other doctoral students

The University offers several networks for doctoral students. Get in touch with students from outside your graduate school or research training group through:

• PIASTA (intercultural living and studying): Meet international graduates, doctoral students, and fellows of the University through our intercultural living and study program for all students and alumni.
• Alumni Universität Hamburg (ALUHH) : The University’s alumni network connects people within the University and offers a broad range of events, for example AlumniZirkel, AlumniSport, AlumniKultur, exclusive on-site visits, discussions, lectures, etc.
• Alumni Universität Hamburg (ALUHH) also on XING: Almost 10,000 alumni of Universität Hamburg use the premium group ALUHH for interdisciplinary and discipline-specific exchange.

After the doctorate ...

For more information about academic career options after your doctorate, see postdoctoral career options .

Useful links

How do I start a doctorate! For useful and practical advice visit

• doktorandenforum.de

Financial assistance

Funding sources for doctoral students

Bonn doctoral and postdoctoral theses online

The electronic doctoral theses and postdoctoral theses (habilitations) have moved and are now available on bonndoc , the repository of the university of bonn., you wanted to access a specific doctoral/postdoctoral thesis and were redirected to this page.

The previous publication server has been taken offline. You can now find all electronic theses on bonndoc . You have the following options to access the documents:

• If you have the URN of the thesis (e.g. urn:nbn:de:hbz:5-XXXXX), enter it here in the text field and you will be forwarded directly to the document on bonndoc.
• Search for the author and/or title of the thesis in the search field in bonndoc . You can also browse through all electronic theses of the respective faculty on bonndoc using the following links: The Faculty of Protestant Theology The Faculty of Catholic Theology The Faculty of Agriculture The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences The Faculty of Medicine The Faculty of Arts The Faculty of Law and Economics
• Alternatively, you can search for all available theses (print and electronic) in bonnus , the search portal of the University of Bonn.

If you cannot find a thesis, please contact [email protected] .

You would like to publish your thesis online?

All information on this can be found on the website of the dissertations department .

Contact persons: Elena Dyck Jaakko Kneissl eMail [email protected] Phone: +49 228 73-9533

© Universitäts- und Landesbibliothek Bonn | Stand: 22.10.2020

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German Language and Literature: Dissertations & Theses

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• Rare Books, Manuscripts & Archives
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Dissertation search tools available at Yale

• Orbis (Yale dissertations only) Orbis holds records for all Yale dissertations for which microfilm copies exist, i.e. all dissertations completed in departments of the Graduate School since 1965, plus select dissertations completed in departments of the Graduate School between 1892 & 1965. Yale dissertations can be located in Orbis by: (1) Entering the author / title in a Simple Search (2) Using the terms “dissertation” or “thesis” and words known to be in the bibliographic record in a Keyword search. more... less... If you do not locate a Yale dissertation in Orbis, check the card catalog at Manuscripts and Archives. Except for some early dissertations that are not available, all Yale dissertations are held at Manuscripts and Archives.
• ProQuest Dissertations & Theses This database makes nearly every dissertation ever filed in the United States available in PDF format. Not all dissertations are available, however, as authors with dissertations under contract with a press are sometimes encouraged not to make their dissertations freely available. In these cases you can at least read an abstract. Note that you can search by school, department, and adviser.

From European institutions

• DART-Europe The European portal for finding electronic theses and dissertations. DART-Europe is a partnership of research libraries and library consortia who are working together to improve global access to European research theses.
• Deutsche Nationalbibliothek German dissertations since 1998 are comprehensively collected by the National Library of Germany, so search its online catalog by clicking on the link above.
• Dissonline Searches electronic university publications held by the Deutsche Nationalbibliothek, including dissertations and "Habilitationen".
• Electronic Theses Online Service (EThOS) EThOS offers free access, in a secure format, to the full text of electronically stored UK theses--a rich and vast body of knowledge.
• Index to Theses A Comprehensive Listing of Theses with Abstracts Accepted for Higher Degrees by Universities in Great Britain and Ireland since 1716. Abstracts are available from many theses since 1970 and for all since 1986.
• Österreichische Dissertationsdatenbank This database references over 55,000 dissertations and theses held at Austrian universities; select dissertations are available online.

From international institutions

• CRL Center for Research Libraries Foreign Doctoral Dissertations Holds 800,000 dissertations from universities outside the U.S. and Canada. However, only 20,000 of these are cataloged in the database. If you know the exact title of a dissertation and do not find it in the database, CRL recommends searching the CRL Catalog. If the title does not appear in the database or the catalog, contact CRL directly to inquire if it is held. CRL continues to acquire about 5,000 titles per year from major universities.
• Networked Digital Library of Theses & Dissertations (NDLTD) The NDLTD is an international organization dedicated to promoting the adoption, creation, use, dissemination, and preservation of electronic theses and dissertations (ETDs). The NDLTD Catalog contains more than one million records of electronic theses and dissertations. For students and researchers, the Union Catalog makes individual collections of NDLTD member institutions and consortia appear as one seamless digital library of ETDs.
• The Universal Index of Doctoral Dissertations in Progress This site holds a database of voluntarily-registered, author-identified doctoral dissertations in progress around the world. Its goal is to avoid duplications in doctoral dissertations, create the ultimate meeting place for researchers, and allow for interaction between them. Bear in mind, though, that only dissertations which have been registered by their authors can be found in the database. Registration and access to the database are free.
• Theses Canada This is your central access point for Canadian theses. From here you will be able to: - search AMICUS, Canada's national online catalog, for bibliographic records of all theses in Library and Archives Canada's theses collection; - access & search the full text electronic versions of numerous Canadian theses and dissertations; - find out everything you need to know about Theses Canada, including how to find a thesis, information on copyright, etc.
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Doctoral candidates

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Doctoral Training in Heidelberg

Heidelberg University offers its PhD candidates a wide range of doctoral programmes with diverse levels of structuring – individual doctoral training, small and medium-sized training groups, or large Graduate Schools.

• Forms of Doctoral Training
• Doctoral Guidelines
• Structured Doctoral Programmes

The team at the Graduate Academy Service Point provides doctoral candidates from all faculties of Heidelberg University with comprehensive advice and services.

• Service Point of the Graduate Academy
• Dean’s Offices of the Faculties

The Graduate Academy assists doctoral candidates in their search and application for various types of funding.

• Doctoral Fellowships
• Fellowships in Structured Doctoral Programmes

The Graduate Academy of Heidelberg University offers doctoral candidates a seminar programme tailored to their specific needs and a wide range of further education opportunities.

• Seminar Programme for Doctoral Candidates
• Qualification and Further Training for Postdoctoral Researchers

International doctoral training

The Graduate Academy supports cooperation with international institutions and assists doctoral candidates in finding funding for research trips abroad.

• In Heidelberg - Incoming

Current News

Solidarity with ukraine.

The Graduate Academy offers information on support and offers of assistance.

Digital resources for doctoral candidates

The Graduate Academy has assembled a collection of online workshops and digital resources for self-study, which we will be updating continuously from now on. Visit our website to complete information about our digital program.

Places available

The course programme is open for registration. Further information on available places can be found on the Graduate Academy’s website.

Academic writing in English / German for doctoral candidates

The aim of the course is to support doctoral candidates who are not native speakers of English or German and who are writing their dissertation in English or German.

German Language Course

German Language Courses for doctoral candidates begin each April and October. Please see our website for more information.

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For information regarding PhD programs, please visit the following website:

https://www.jsec.uni-jena.de/en/phd-programs

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

How to Apply for a PhD in Germany: Programs, Funding, & FAQs

Germany is an excellent destination for both young and experienced researchers. 

The European country is third behind the U.S. and China for research & development expenditure . Plus, it is home to some of the most prestigious (and affordable!) research universities in the world.

If you’re considering doing a PhD in Germany, you will need to follow these steps:

The main steps to doing a PhD in Germany:

• Find a PhD Program and a Supervisor
• Decide Between Individual and Structured PhD Programs
• Meet All Requirements & Prepare Your Application
• Apply for Doctoral Studies
• Secure Funding
• Get a Student Visa or Resident Permit
• Arrive in Germany and Begin Your PhD Program

Why Pursue a PhD in Germany?

If you’re not yet sure if you should choose Germany for your PhD studies, here are some compelling reasons why you should consider it:

• Top-tier universities. Four German universities are ranked in the top 100 global universities, and many more are in the top 200.
• Large international student community. Germany welcomes a diverse and thriving international student community. Over 458,210 international students are currently studying in the country.
• Quality research institutions. There are over a thousand publicly funded research institutions (universities, universities of applied sciences, research institutes, businesses, and government bodies) that you can choose from in Germany.
• High investment in research and development. Germany’s public expenditure in the research and development sector reached a record high of 112.6 billion euros in 2021.
• Strong economy. Germany is known for its strong and stable economy. After completing your PhD, there are plenty of employment opportunities in the academic, business, and research sectors.

How to Apply for a PhD in Germany

From finding the perfect program for you to submitting your application and starting your PhD, here are all the steps you need to take:

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1. Find a PhD Program and a Supervisor

After all the years of studying leading up to this step, you most likely have a few areas of interest you want to do your research in.

This is the first important step: define your research focus by considering your interests and academic background. If you need more help, you can consult online resources from research universities. Or, even better, you can discuss your decision to pursue a PhD with academic communities online or offline and seek advice from current PhD students in Germany who can tell you more about their individual experiences.

If you already know what your research direction is, you can begin searching for suitable programs right ahead. 

• The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) has an extensive list of current opportunities, which you can look up at the  DAAD PhD Database . 
• Another option is to research universities in Germany individually to find the newest opportunities and offerings at each institution.

You will also have to find a supervisor. The best way to do this is to go to university websites and find faculty directories with profiles of professors and their research fields/current projects. Contact professors whose work aligns with your interests via email to inquire about supervision opportunities.

> Search PhD programs from 31,000 research institutions listed on the GERiT database .

Types of PhD Programs in Germany

There are two different paths you can take when pursuing a PhD: individual PhD programs and structured PhD programs. Each comes with its own set of advantages and requirements.

2. Verify That You Meet All Requirements & Prepare the Application

Requirements and application documents to apply for a PhD in Germany are specific to the institution and research area you’re applying to. But, as a general guideline, you should prepare the following:

• Academic degree recognized in Germany. You need a master’s degree or a German state examination (Staatsexamen) in a field relevant to the PhD program to qualify.
• Copy of master’s thesis. Submit a copy of your master’s thesis. The work should demonstrate your research skills and the depth of your academic work.
• Research proposal. Craft a clear and detailed research proposal that includes your intended research topic, objectives, methodology, and significance. 
• Statement of purpose. Write a statement of purpose why you want to do a PhD in your chosen field, your academic and career goals, and how this program aligns with them.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV). Prepare a detailed CV highlighting your academic achievements, research experience, relevant coursework, publications, and any other qualifications.
• Proof of language proficiency. Depending on the language of instruction, you may have to provide proof of language proficiency in English and/or German. You can do this with certificates like TestDaF and DSH for German or TOEFL and IELTS for English. Proof of previous studies in the language is also sufficient.
• Academic references. Provide contact information or recommendation letters from professors/ academic advisors who can attest to your academic abilities and potential.
• Predoctoral examination. Some programs ask that you pass a predoctoral examination as part of the application process.

3. Apply for Doctoral Studies

After finding a suitable PhD program and mentor, and making sure your academic qualifications are recognized, you can send in your application.

You can send in your application online or by post, depending on the hosting institution’s preferences. To make sure, check their guidelines and specifications. Admission committees are selective, so you may also have to attend an interview soon in the application process.

4. Secure Funding

You must demonstrate access to a minimum of €934 per month (€11,208 per year) to meet visa requirements and live comfortably while you’re in Germany. You can prove this through an admission agreement or relevant PhD contract, or you can open a blocked account with individual funds.

There are many ways to support yourself financially while pursuing a PhD in Germany:

• PhD scholarships. DAAD offers the highest number of doctoral scholarships. PhD students get an average monthly stipend of €1,139. 
• Paid PhD positions. Many universities and research institutions offer paid PhD positions in Germany. You will work on specific research projects on a contract and receive a salary.
• Research associate positions. You can also work as a research associate in a university, research institution, or company and receive a salary as compensation.
• Part-time jobs. Some PhD students/researchers work part-time jobs that are not related to their studies for extra income.

> Read more about the costs of studying in Germany.

> Discover PhD scholarships in Germany.

5. Get a Student Visa or Resident Permit

If the institution confirms your place in the PhD program, next in line is applying for a student visa or residence permit. The requirements for a German PhD visa or permit can vary depending on your nationality and circumstances: 

Visa Requirements

If you’re a citizen of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, you don’t need a special permit or visa for a PhD in Germany. You can enter the country for research and work purposes with a valid passport or ID card.

Otherwise, you will need a visa and/or a residence permit to do your PhD in Germany. Nationals of some countries, including the United States, Australia, Israel, Japan, and Korea, don’t need a visa but must apply for a residence permit.

Depending on the circumstances, you need one of the following visas:

• Study visa. If you’re pursuing a full-time doctoral program.
• Research visa. If your focus is on research and you have a formal affiliation with a research institution in Germany.
• EU Blue Card. If your PhD contract pays a gross annual salary of at least €45,300 (or €41,041.80 in certain professions), you can apply for an EU Blue Card . This is a special residence title for international academics and other professionals.

Residence Permit Requirements

If you come to Germany on a visa, you will need to apply for a residence permit within three months of arrival. This also applies to nationals of countries outside the EU, EEA, and Switzerland who are exempt from the visa requirement.

You can apply for one of the following residence permits:

• Study permit. If you’re accepted into a PhD program at a German university, apply for a study-based residence permit. It lasts up to two years, extendable.
• Research permit. If you’re a researcher with the right qualifications for doctoral programs, apply for a research permit. This requires a contract with a research institution for your project.
• EU Blue Card. With a PhD offer that has a minimum salary of €45,300 per year, or €41,041.80 for some bottleneck professions , you may be eligible for the EU Blue Card. Apply for this permit if you meet the criteria.

> For more specific information tailored to your situation, we recommend contacting the German embassy or consulate in your home country. You can also use this visa navigator.

6. Arrive in Germany and Begin Your PhD Program

The most exciting step of all is near—time to unpack your bags and begin your life as a PhD student or researcher in Germany. Once you’re settled in, there are some formalities you need to take care of.

The international office at the university or another representative can guide you best on this. However, here are some of the main things you need to do once you arrive in Germany:

Register Your Residence

Shortly after your arrival, you must register your residence at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt). This is mandatory, and you typically have a window of two weeks to complete this process. 

Get Health Insurance

Everyone in Germany is required by law to have health insurance coverage. This includes international PhD students. Depending on the source of your funding, you are eligible for one of the following health insurance coverages: 

• Doctoral candidates with an employment contract are automatically insured with a state-regulated health insurance provider (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung-GKV) in most cases.
• Doctoral candidates without an employment contract (with a fellowship or private funding) can choose between:
• Voluntary health insurance coverage with a state-regulated provider.
• Coverage with a private health insurance company.

There are some exceptions in which you can use your insurance from your home country. These apply to students from a European Union (EU) country or other countries with social security agreements with Germany.

Open a Bank Account 

You should open a German bank account as soon as possible. Most financial transactions in Germany, including receiving your stipend or salary, are done through a German bank account.

Enroll at the University

If your PhD program is part of a university degree, you need to enroll as a student at the university. Follow your university’s instructions to submit the necessary documents to the enrollment office. These usually include your admission letter, passport, proof of health insurance, and semester fee.

After you complete this process, you will receive an Enrollment Certificate (Immatrikulationsbescheinigung). This is a very important document that you most likely need in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

There’s a lot of planning involved if you’re considering doing a PhD, especially if it’s in a foreign country. We’re sure you’ve got more questions, and we’re here to help.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Germany?

A PhD in Germany usually takes between three to six years to complete. Just like in other countries, it can take longer or shorter than expected, depending on several factors. The type of PhD you choose (structured programs can be more rigid), your subject area, and individual progress can all make a difference in the time it takes to get a PhD in Germany.

Are PhD Programs in Germany Tuition-Free?

The majority of PhD programs in Germany are tuition-free, at least for the first six semesters. However, if need to enroll at a university for your PhD, there is a small semester fee you need to cover. The fee can be higher or lower depending on the university, but it usually falls within the range of €100 to €350.

Is German Mandatory to Pursue a PhD in Germany?

You don’t necessarily have to know German to do a PhD in Germany. In fact, most PhD programs in Germany are in English, especially in fields such as science, engineering, and humanities. In these programs, you can both write your thesis and communicate with your advisor and peers in English.

There is of course the chance that the program you’ve chosen is in German or requires knowledge of German (in most cases, in addition to English). In this case, you have to prove your proficiency through a recognized language certificate or proof of previous studies in German.

Even if German isn’t mandatory, we strongly encourage you to learn the basics. They will be super helpful in daily interactions and getting accustomed to life in Germany.

How Much Does a PhD Student Earn in Germany?

Most PhD candidates in Germany receive financial support in the form of a salary or grant. This includes candidates affiliated with universities, research institutes, or company collaborations.

The majority of doctoral positions are structured under either the Collective Agreement for Civil Service TVöD (Tarifvertrag für den öffentlichen Dienst or the Collective Agreement for the Civil Service of Individual Federal States TV-L (Tarifvertrag der Länder). Since universities are funded by their respective federal government, if your PhD is affiliated with one, your salary will be structured under the TV-L.

Doctoral positions fall within the TV-L 13 category, with a salary range spanning from €4,188 (Tier 1) to €6,037 (Tier 6). The difference between the tiers (Stufe) depends on prior experience in the field. If you don’t have any research experience, you will fall under Tier 1 and progress to the other tiers throughout your PhD.

Your salary will ultimately be determined based on a wage agreement that specifies the contract tier (Stufe) and working hours (percentage-based). Many entry-level PhD students start with tier 1 contracts that are not full-time. For example, if your contract places you in Pay Group E-13 Tier 1 of the TV-L and you work at 75% capacity, your monthly gross salary will be €3,141.

> Learn more about pay ranges for PhD students using this convenient calculator .

Can I Work While Pursuing a PhD in Germany?

Part-time work is an option in most cases unless it’s strictly stated otherwise in your contract. Whether or not you are allowed to work on the side as a PhD in Germany depends on the working hours stated in your PhD contract, supervisor, and other specific circumstances. 

However, since the PhD is considered a job in itself, it’s usually frowned upon to have a side hustle. Even if you have a 50% contract, a PhD is demanding and requires long hours of work and research. If you choose to work on the side, make sure to find the right balance between work and your PhD commitments. To be on the safe side, it’s best to talk to your supervisor and go over all the legal and contractual obligations related to your PhD.

What Is the Process for Defending a PhD Thesis in Germany?

Here are the main steps to defending your PhD thesis in Germany:

• Submit your thesis. The first step is submitting submit your thesis and supporting documents in adherence to all the formal requirements. A commission will be formed, and in some cases, you can suggest reviewers.
• Oral defense. The next step is preparing and undergoing an oral defense, which can take between 30 minutes to 2 hours. During this time, you will present your research and discuss it with the committee. The defense can be either public or private.
• Receive the title and publish your work. The outcome of the discussion determines your final grade, to be received after the defense. If everything goes well, you’re granted the Ph.D. title and have about two years to publish your dissertation.

What Are the Career Prospects Like After Doing a PhD in Germany?

Career prospects after a PhD in Germany are quite promising. 

The most common paths for PhD holders in Germany are either in academia as professors or post-doctorate researchers or in industry positions. 

Technology, healthcare, and finance, in particular, are some of the most in-demand industries in Germany. The country’s strong economy and research-oriented environment make it an attractive place to develop your career.

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• How to Write Research Proposal for PhD in European Universities

Meridean Overseas

Updated On 25 May 2024 & Read Time 9 minutes

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Have you ever thought about the role of a research proposal for a PhD or any other degree? As a student, you must have written it for the sake of your grades. Well, here we intend to tell you what a research proposal actually means.

A research proposal is an essential instrument that academics and college students may use to finish their dissertations, get financing for projects, or finish prerequisites for their courses. It highlights the significance of your investigation and provides an overview of your research problem-solving strategy. It's generally helpful to have some basic knowledge about this kind of document and the most effective ways to arrange it before beginning work on a project.

Therefore, today’s blog elaborates on the meaning and importance of a research proposal and describes how to write research proposal for PhD . So, without any more delays, let’s begin!  

Table of Contents

What is research proposal, what is the purpose of the research proposal, how to write research proposal for phd, tips for research proposal for phd.

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A research proposal is a well-organised document that outlines the subject of your study and the methodology you will use to explore and evaluate a certain question. It usually thoroughly examines the ideas that back up your hypothesis, which is an anticipated response to this question.

It also demonstrates the research approaches, significance, data collection tools you intend to employ, and the useful actions you will take to carry out your research. In addition to introducing readers to your topic, a research proposal goes over the main goals of your study and how it could advance knowledge in an academic discipline or add value to the existing field of study. 

To get help with a research proposal for admission to European universities, you can contact our counsellors at Meridean Overseas

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There are various reasons for a person to write a research proposal; some of the reasons are-

Applying to work for a firm or research organisation.

Persuading a university or research supervisor that your work may fulfil the criteria for a degree program.

Demonstrating to institutions that might provide financial support for the significance of your study.

Proving your expertise in a topic of study and your capacity for research.

Outline the main ideas and aims of your research.

Claiming that the subject of your study has applications in the neighbourhood or in larger society.

Recognising potential obstacles in your research approach.

Bringing your project's topic closer to the readers' attention so they may comprehend your thoughts and methods.

Also, read: How to Write a Letter of Motivation? A Complete Guide with Example

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The section sheds light on the structure and formatting required for writing a research proposal for PhD; here is the guide for research proposals for PhD in European Universities and the essentials:

Research Proposal Guide for PhD in European Universities

The essential components of a strong research proposal are as follows. Below are the items that fit perfectly for a research proposal format for a Ph.D.:

Although this is subject to change, be careful to include crucial "keywords" that will connect your submission to funding opportunities, suitable supervisors, and other relevant details.

Project Summary

A reader who is not an expert in this topic should be able to understand the purpose, importance, and anticipated results of the study in this part.

Project Details

In this area, make sure to create a strong and engaging base for your study. The further subsections that need to be included in this are as follows:

Research Questions

This section should include the hypothesis or problem to be addressed along with an explanation of the research question(s) (1-3 should be sufficient).

Your main strategy and justification (conceptual, theoretical, empirical, and normative, where applicable);

Importance of the study (both in academic and, if applicable, extracurricular domains).

Aims/Objectives of the Project

What information, evidence, example, analysis, testing, investigation, or examination are you seeking? Set up your objectives logically, for example.

This project's objective is to:

Give a study project synopsis.

Make it possible for a potential student to draft a research project.

Significance/ Contribution to the Discipline

This section should provide justification for the project on the basis of a review of the relevant academic sources or literature. You should also explain which texts you think are most crucial to the project, show that you understand the research questions, and point out any gaps in the body of knowledge that the study aims to fill. 

Your Research Capabilities

Please provide proof of your suitability for the proposed research project (past academic work, experiences, completed projects, etc.).

References Cited/Bibliography of Planned Reading (no word limit applies)

The reader should be able to tell from your references how well-versed in the literature you are and how you can add to it. In addition to the readings you have scheduled, make sure to cite any texts and other sources that you believe will be important to your analysis.

NOTE: Research Proposals vary in length according to university requirements, and the word limit varies from university to university. 

Also, read: Study PhD in Europe

The following tips will help you draft a research proposal that most closely adheres to the requirements of the institution:

Make sure your remarks are brief and to the point. A typical study proposal is four to seven pages long, or 2,500 to 3,500 words. When writing, remember that you should utilise exact terminology and precise words to stay within this length.

Concentrate solely on important research topics. Try concentrating on important topics and broad questions in your study project. These can help readers, particularly those who are not knowledgeable about the subject, understand the goal of your project and its general emphasis.

Edit and proofread your work. To ensure you're correctly expressing the facts, proofread each section of your research proposal for spelling and grammar mistakes. To find these mistakes in a digital file, think about employing a proofreading service or program from a reputable source.

Make use of an extensive vocabulary. Institutions frequently favour research proposals with academic language and formal terminology. Examining any publications your university has released could be beneficial if you want to know about its writing requirements and what your readership expects.

Make sure your research project has a distinct title. It is imperative that your project title utilises common language to ensure that readers grasp it right away. This strategy may help you obtain financing from an outside source.

Give credit to the authors of any works that are cited. It's critical to credit the writers of all books and articles you use in your work to prevent plagiarism concerns. Consider putting cited material in quotation marks or paraphrasing it in your own words, depending on the style you choose.

Do not send the same research proposal to several universities; this tends to affect the authenticity of the research.

Do not make the mistake of using online templates. As tempting as it sounds, evaluate the online research proposal templates and choose wisely.

Be very clear while writing your research proposal, as you are writing it for your PhD. If you wish to pursue your PhD and present a research proposal, in that case, you can exclude research findings, in-depth analysis and a comprehensive literature review.

Also, read: Upcoming Intakes in Europe

To sum up, a research proposal is an important document you should carefully draft. There are various kinds of research proposals, and they need a proper format and an in-depth study so that they remain authentic, accurate and reliable. Keep all the details in mind while drafting your research proposal for PhD in European universities , as your admission to the PhD degree depends mainly on the effectiveness of your research proposal.

We hope this blog will help you make a great research proposal for PhD in European Universities. However, if you have doubts and want to study in Europe , contact our expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC). You can also take free online counselling through our website. Our expert counsellors will provide you with the best support and guidance you need for admission and visa. In addition, they will help you shortlist the universities according to your profile. For more information or any queries, contact [email protected] or 1800-1230-00011 .

Question: Is a research proposal necessary for PhD?

Answer: Yes, it is an important document for anyone wanting to pursue a PhD or who is already pursuing a PhD.

Question: Is there a set format for writing a research proposal?

Answer: Yes, all universities follow a standard structure for writing a research proposal, but a few headings may change according to their requirements.

Question: Is there a word limit to follow while writing a research proposal?

Answer: The word limit for writing a research proposal varies depending on the university guidelines and requirements. In general, the word count can be between 1550 to 3000 words.

Question: What is the requirement of a research proposal?

Answer: The prime aim of writing a research proposal for a PhD is to show the investors that your topic and research are relevant for them to invest in, along with making the institute affirm that it is relevant to your area of study and will help the neighbourhood.

Question: What are certain tips for writing a good research proposal?

Answer: There are many good tips that you can follow while starting your research proposal; some of them are that the topic be concise, you edit it after completion, make it crisp and detail-oriented, and many more; for more details, you can refer to our blog on MOEC.

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