Germany has officially opened applications for the DAAD-Hilde Domin Scholarship 2026, a unique and transformative program for students and doctoral candidates who face serious risks to their education, academic freedom, or fundamental rights in their home countries. This prestigious scholarship is administered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and funded by the Federal Foreign Office of Germany, providing not only financial support but also a secure academic environment and the opportunity to pursue higher education in dignity and safety.
Inspired by the life and legacy of German poet Hilde Domin, the program embodies resilience, intellectual courage, and the fundamental right to learn without fear. It extends these values globally by offering scholarships to scholars whose studies or research are under threat.
What the DAAD-Hilde Domin Scholarship Offers
The Hilde Domin Scholarship is designed to remove barriers—financial, structural, and societal—so recipients can fully focus on their studies or research in Germany. Key benefits include:
- Full financial support covering living expenses during the study or research stay in Germany
- Funding for undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degree programmes, depending on individual qualifications
- Coverage of study-related and research-related costs at a recognized German higher education institution
- Access to interdisciplinary training and academic enrichment activities
- A protected academic environment enabling long-term personal, professional, and societal impact
Beyond immediate academic benefits, the program empowers scholars to contribute meaningfully to political, economic, and social development—whether in their home countries, Germany, or elsewhere.
Who Can Apply
The DAAD-Hilde Domin Scholarship 2026 targets international students and doctoral candidates whose academic journeys are at risk but who demonstrate strong potential for academic success. Eligible candidates typically:
- Face formal or de facto denial of education or academic rights in their home country
- Possess strong academic records and a clear path to success in Germany
- Are nominated by German higher education institutions or organizations active in academia, human rights, peace, democracy, or rule of law
- Demonstrate sufficient German or English proficiency (B2 level) to complete their studies
- Can credibly document and assess their personal risk situation
Important: Direct applications are not permitted. All candidates must be nominated through an official German institution or recognized organization.
Application Process
The DAAD-Hilde Domin Scholarship 2026 follows a two-stage process:
- Nomination Stage: Eligible German institutions and organizations must submit nominations by 15 March 2026.
- Full Application Stage: Shortlisted candidates invited by DAAD must submit their full applications between 17 March 2026 and 15 April 2026.
Selected scholars will have the opportunity to begin their studies in the Summer Semester 2027, gaining access to world-class research facilities, interdisciplinary mentorship, and a secure academic environment.
Why Apply
The DAAD-Hilde Domin Scholarship is more than just funding—it is a gateway to academic freedom, personal safety, and professional growth. Scholars benefit from:
- A fully funded and secure study experience in Germany
- Integration into Germany’s leading universities and research networks
- Access to mentorship and interdisciplinary training programs
- A strong foundation for future careers in academia, research, human rights, and public service
For students and doctoral candidates facing barriers to education in their home countries, this scholarship represents a life-changing opportunity to continue academic pursuits without fear while contributing meaningfully to society.
