In its over 200 years of existence, the Humboldt University of Berlin in Germany has become a strong university, a symbol of excellence, equality, and social responsibility. It has risen from its dark past of collusion to violation of human rights. The university has gone a long way from political subservience into being independent of political and social influence. Its excellent teaching methods and reformed values have made it a model for many universities in Germany and Europe.
The Humboldt University is a public research university that supported several notable researchers such as Einstein, Planck, Koch, and Ehrlich, who went on to win the prestigious Nobel Prize Awards. In its pursuit of gender equality, the university has also produced competent female scientists and educators. The university has also earned substantial and constant support from its alumni and partners to provide opportunities for both domestic and international students. In this article, we will take a look at the Humboldt University of Berlin scholarships for international students.
How do I apply to Humboldt University of Berlin scholarships?
International students who are interested in applying for a scholarship at the Humboldt University of Berlin may find various scholarships from HU and external sources. Make sure to check the guidelines for scholarships to confirm which to do first: to register to HU or to secure funding from the sponsors.
Documentary requirements may take time to prepare, so you should find out as soon as possible which ones are required by the degree program and the scholarship program. You will also need to prepare an updated CV, letters of recommendation, and certificates.
Bachelor’s Degree applicants must have German language proficiency since undergraduate courses are taught in this language. You may select an external scholarship sponsor that provides financial assistance for German language courses.
Doctoral programs at Humboldt University do not charge a tuition fee. However, international students are free to apply for financial assistance from outside sources. Most outside sources of scholarships require a letter of recommendation from a Humboldt University professor. Applicants may need to make a research proposal and get in touch with a university professor before applying for a scholarship.
When registering to Humboldt University as an international student with other scholarships, you will need to access the external application site through this link. Visit this page to check the most recent updates on schedules and deadlines.
For further inquiries after ensuring a scholarship from an external organization, you may try to contact the concerned office at The International Department of the Humboldt University of Berlin.
Humboldt University of Berlin Scholarships for International Students
1. Humboldt Scholarship
- Scholarship Amount: €300 per month
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s Degree; Master’s Degree
The Humboldt Scholarship offers €300 per month for at least two semesters to qualified international students. When selecting beneficiaries, the committee considers the applicants’ academic achievement, family background, and social circumstances.
The federal government and some private companies, foundations, and alumni fund this scholarship at Humboldt University.
Interested applicants may apply through the application portal in late November or Early December 2024 for the 2022-2023 programs.
2. Master’s in Research Training Program
- Scholarship Link
- Scholarship Amount: free tuition
- Degrees Offered: Master’s in Research Training Program
Unlike other Master’s programs at the Humboldt University of Berlin, this program does not charge any tuition fees, but students have to pay a miscellaneous fee. The university does not have guaranteed scholarships, but students may reach out to the office of the program for available scholarships at Humboldt University.
External sources of scholarships for this program may also be accessed through this page.
3. Study Foundation of the Berlin House of Representatives
- Scholarship Link
- Scholarship Amount: €1,100 – 1,630 per month
- Degrees Offered: Master’s Degree; Ph.D. related to Berlin and German issues
The Berlin House of Representatives awards this scholarship to students from the US, France, Great Britain, and the successor states of the Soviet Union. Scholars are expected to gain a deep understanding of the political and social system of Germany.
Applicants must secure a supervision confirmation from a Humboldt University professor and a detailed research plan before applying for this scholarship.
This Humboldt University scholarship is valid for one academic year starting on October 1. Scholars must provide significant updates on the progress of their research to secure continued funding for the second semester of the academic year.
4. DAAD Scholarship
- Scholarship Amount: €861 per month
- Degrees Offered: Master’s Degree
Applicants who have to take German language lessons before a two-year postgraduate or Master’s degree may avail of the DAAD scholarship earlier. The scholarship amount is provided between 10-24 months, depending on the duration of the program.
The scholarship at Humboldt University of Berlin may also include travel allowance, insurance coverage, monthly rent subsidy, and even a monthly stipend for an accompanying family member.
5. Elsa-Neumann Stipend for Doctoral Candidates
- Scholarship Amount: €1,000 per month
- Degrees Offered: Doctoral Degree
The Elsa-Neumann Stipend for Doctoral Candidates is awarded to international students whose scientific project has a significant contribution to research. The scholarship is valid for up to two years for a regular doctoral degree. Scholars may request a one-year extension by submitting a work report or statement from an academic supervisor.
Depending on the year or period, this scholarship may be offered only to domestic students. International students must contact the person in charge for the latest scholarship coverage at Humboldt University of Berlin. You may find the updated contact information by visiting the scholarship link.
Interested applicants must fill out the application form here and may register only through this link. Please check the scholarship link for deadlines or cut-off dates.
6. Yousef Jameel Scholarship
- Scholarship Link
- Scholarship Amount: €1,340 per month
- Degrees Offered: Doctoral Degree
The Yousef Jameel Scholarship is intended for international students from Arabic countries applying to the Humboldt University of Berlin. It covers three years’ worth of monthly allowance for the scholar, travel costs for a return trip, and a one-time German language course stipend worth €2,000.
Applicants must submit an updated CV with grades, a research proposal, an abstract, a letter of purpose, and two letters of recommendation.
For short-term scholarships at Humboldt University, international students may visit this page.
You may also find other foundations that offer scholarships for international students here.
