Germany DAAD PRIME Fellowship 2025 (Fully Funded)
Description
If you're a postdoctoral researcher aiming to build a long-term academic career in Germany with valuable international experience, the DAAD PRIME Fellowship 2025-2026 offers a unique and prestigious opportunity. Funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the Postdoctoral Researchers International Mobility Experience (PRIME) supports research stays abroad combined with reintegration in a German university.
This fully funded postdoc fellowship provides competitive salaries, mobility support, and global exposure for early-career researchers across all disciplines.
What Is the DAAD PRIME Fellowship?
DAAD PRIME is a mobility funding programme for postdoctoral researchers who want to establish themselves in Germany but benefit from international research collaboration. The fellowship includes:
- A 12-month research stay abroad
- A 6-month reintegration period at a German university
Researchers are employed under a German university contract, making them eligible for social security benefits and a structured postdoctoral experience.
Degree Level
Germany DAAD PRIME Fellowship 2025 (Fully Funded) is available to undertake Fellowship level programs at Germany Universities.
Available Subjects
Following subjects are available to study under this scholarship program.
- All Subjects
Benefits
This Germany-based postdoctoral fellowship provides:
- Full employment under TV-L E13 salary scale (€5,000–€6,400/month pre-tax)
- Additional mobility and expatriate allowances during the international phase (€1,500–€2,800/month approx.)
- Lump sum travel allowance based on destination
- 18-month funded position with research autonomy
- Access to top German and international research institutions
- Family, disability, and chronic illness support (up to €10,000 extra aid possible)
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants of any nationality and from any discipline
- Must have completed their PhD (no later than 6 years before the start date)
- Prior DAAD funding does not disqualify applicants
- M.D. holders are eligible only if their degree is equivalent to a PhD
- A strong link to a German host university is recommended
- Applicants must not have stayed in the target country for more than 12 months in the past 3 years
- Both EU and non-EU citizens can apply, with some restrictions on destination countries
Application Procedure
PRIME Fellowship 2025: Key Dates
- Applications open: 12 May 2025
- Application deadline: 29 August 2025
- Selection results: February 2026
- Fellowship start: Between 1 June and 1 November 2026
Application Process
Step 1: Online Application
- Access the DAAD application portal via the "Stipendiendatenbank für Deutsche"
- Enter your subject, country of stay abroad, and select “Programme für: Promovierte”
- Choose English language settings for easier navigation
Step 2: Required Documents
- Completed application form
- Project proposal
- Curriculum Vitae (no photo required; Europass format optional)
- PhD certificate
- Host university declarations (Forms 1 & 2)
- Ethics checklist
- Language proof (if applicable)
- Letters of invitation from both German and foreign institutions
Note: All documents must be submitted before the deadline to be considered.
Program Structure
- 1–month preparation phase in Germany (optional)
- 12-month research abroad
- 5–6 month reintegration at the German host university
This structure ensures international mobility with secure employment and academic reintegration in Germany.
Selection Criteria
- Academic excellence and originality of research proposal
- Scientific independence and career progression
- Strength of collaboration between host institutions
- Feasibility of project and potential impact
- Clarity and structure of application documents
Funding Restrictions
- Fellows may not receive additional salaries or scholarships
- DAAD does not cover conference travel or research infrastructure costs
- Additional funding may be pursued for these purposes separately
- Visa fees are not reimbursed, but DAAD provides documentation for visa processing
FAQs
Can I apply if I haven’t completed my PhD yet?
You must have your PhD completed before the fellowship start date.
Can I choose my current German university as the host?
Yes, but it's advisable to show independence by moving away from your PhD supervisor or institution.
Can I stay 18 months abroad?
No, the program is split into 12 months abroad and 6 months in Germany. Both phases are mandatory.
Can I reapply if I was not selected?
Yes, one reapplication is allowed the following year, with an improved proposal.
Final Thoughts
The DAAD PRIME Fellowship is one of the most prestigious postdoctoral funding opportunities in Germany. It is ideal for researchers seeking to combine international mobility with a stable academic career path in Germany.
With a competitive salary, structured reintegration, and strong institutional support, PRIME helps ambitious scholars shape their global academic future. Apply by 29 August 2025 and take the next big step in your research journey.
