The DAAD GROW Scholarship 2026 offers a funded research opportunity in Germany for academics and researchers from developing regions, including Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and parts of Asia. Administered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the programme is designed to strengthen global research collaboration and support development-focused academic work.
This scholarship enables selected researchers to undertake short-term research stays at German universities and institutions, focusing on projects aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It is particularly suited for scholars seeking to enhance their research capacity while building long-term academic partnerships.
Details
The GROW programme, which stands for Global Research Opportunities for the South, is a research-focused initiative rather than a degree programme. It supports short-term academic stays in Germany, allowing participants to collaborate with German institutions and access advanced research infrastructure.
The programme is divided into two main funding lines:
• Programme Line 1: Short-term preparatory or cooperation visits lasting between one and two months
• Programme Line 2: Research stays lasting between two and six months
All funded research activities must begin within 2026 and be completed no later than 31 January 2027. The programme is specifically designed for research projects that contribute to sustainable development and address real-world challenges in eligible regions.
Benefits
The DAAD GROW Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support tailored to the applicant’s academic level.
Key benefits include:
• Monthly stipend based on academic status:
– €1,400 for doctoral candidates and postdoctoral researchers
– €2,000 for assistant professors and lecturers
– €2,150 for full professors
• Travel allowance covering international transportation to and from Germany
• Health, accident, and personal liability insurance coverage
• Additional financial support for applicants with disabilities or chronic illnesses, where applicable
The scholarship ensures that participants can focus fully on their research without financial constraints during their stay in Germany.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements to be eligible for the DAAD GROW Scholarship:
• Must be a doctoral candidate, postdoctoral researcher, university lecturer, or established academic
• Must be affiliated with a university or research institution in their home country
• Must be a citizen of a country listed on the OECD DAC list of eligible developing countries
• Must not be permanently based in Germany at the time of application
• Postdoctoral applicants must have completed their PhD within the last four years
• Must demonstrate strong academic qualifications and research experience
• Must propose a research project aligned with development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals
• Must have established contact with a host institution or academic supervisor in Germany
The programme encourages applications from women, underrepresented groups, and individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Required Documents
Applicants are required to submit a complete application with supporting documentation, which typically includes:
• Detailed research or cooperation proposal
• Curriculum Vitae outlining academic achievements and experience
• Proof of academic qualifications and institutional affiliation
• Letter of invitation or confirmation of supervision from a German host institution
• Timeline and work plan for the proposed research stay
• Statement outlining the expected impact and transfer of research outcomes to the home country
All documents must be submitted in accordance with DAAD application guidelines.
Application Process / How to Apply
Applicants must submit their applications through the official DAAD scholarship application system.
The process involves preparing a comprehensive research proposal, identifying a suitable host institution in Germany, and securing confirmation of collaboration or supervision. Candidates must clearly demonstrate how their research contributes to development goals and how the results will be applied in their home country.
Applications are evaluated by an independent selection committee based on academic merit, the quality and relevance of the research proposal, and the potential for long-term impact and collaboration.
Applicants are advised to carefully plan their research timelines to ensure compliance with the programme’s funding period.
Deadline
Applicants should refer to the official DAAD scholarship timeline for specific submission dates for the 2026 cycle. All funded research activities must take place within 2026 and conclude by 31 January 2027.
Applt Now: https://www2.daad.de/deutschland/stipendium/datenbank/en/21148-scholarship-database/?detail=57862427
