DAAD GROW Scholarships 2026 for Global Researchers
Early career researchers from developing countries have a new chance to advance their work in Germany. The DAAD GROW – Global Research Opportunities for the South Scholarships 2026 offer funding for short stays that build skills and partnerships. This program targets those from Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and Asia to tackle global challenges tied to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Who Can Apply?
The DAAD GROW scholarships welcome doctoral candidates, postdoctoral researchers, university teachers, and established academics or scientists. You must come from countries on the OECD DAC list, mainly in Sub-Saharan Africa, but also Latin America and Asia. Employment at a university or research institute in your home country is required.
Women, people from low-income backgrounds, and those from underserved areas or groups get special encouragement to apply. You cannot apply if you are already in Germany or doing your full doctoral or postdoctoral work at a German institution. Postdocs must have finished their PhD no more than four years before the deadline.
What Does the Program Fund?
The program supports projects linked to at least one UN Sustainable Development Goal, like health, education, climate action, governance, social inclusion, or innovation. It has two main lines.
Programme Line 1: Preparatory and Cooperation Visits
This funds stays of 1 to 2 months at a German university or research institute. The goal is to spot joint research topics, plan publications, or seek funding together. It helps build networks with high impact for development.
Programme Line 2: Research Stays
These last 2 to 6 months for independent projects with clear plans to apply results back home. You work with a host supervisor in Germany and can add cooperation activities. Travel for conferences or talks is not covered.
Funding Duration and Timeline
All funded periods start in 2026 and end by January 31, 2027. No extensions are possible. Scholarships cannot be stretched beyond that date.
Scholarship Value
Monthly payments vary by career stage: 1,400 euros for doctoral candidates and postdocs, 2,000 euros for assistant professors and lecturers, and 2,150 euros for full professors. You also get coverage for health, accident, and liability insurance. A travel allowance helps with costs.
Application Details
The deadline is April 30, 2026. Check the official DAAD webpage for full steps and forms. Focus your proposal on development benefits and SDG links to stand out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for DAAD GROW Scholarships 2026?
Doctoral candidates, postdocs, university teachers, and academics from OECD DAC countries like Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and Asia who work at home institutions qualify. Women and those from low-income or underserved groups are especially encouraged.
What projects does the program support?
It funds stays tied to UN SDGs such as health, climate action, and innovation through preparatory visits or research stays at German hosts.
What is the funding amount and duration?
Stays last 1-6 months starting in 2026 and ending by January 31, 2027, with monthly payments of 1,400-2,150 euros, insurance, and travel support based on your career level.
When is the application deadline?
Submit by April 30, 2026, via the official DAAD website, focusing on development benefits and SDG links.