Germany’s historic and highly-ranked universities make it an excellent choice for studying abroad. Having offered the PhD since the nineteenth century, they know a thing or two about delivering innovative, high-quality postgraduate programmes. Best of all, most universities do not charge tuition fees.
Why study a PhD in Germany?
Globally ranked institutions – Germany is home to more globally-ranked institutions than any other country outside the USA and UK. Nine of them feature in the current top 100
Dedicated research institutes – Germany is also home to networks of dedicated research centres. These include the prestigious Max Planck Institutes, as well as specific collaborations between universities and research institutes.
Max Planck Schools – The Max Planck Schools is a network that brings together experts from different institutions to address joint research objectives. They bring together international PhD students with Germany's best scientists. Research takes place in three interdisciplinary fields: Cognition, Matter to Life and Photonics. The Schools offer fully financed PhD positions. Candidates benefit from unique expertise, infrastructure and training opportunities.
Affordability – Most German universities charge no tuition fees for PhD students, regardless of nationality.
The home of the PhD – The PhD (in its modern form as a thesis-based research degree) was actually developed in Germany. Perhaps this ‘original contribution to knowledge’ can help inspire yours?
Think Germany could be your study abroad destination of choice? Check out more information on applications, fees, funding and visas below.
Think you’re ready to find the perfect project for you?
There are no fees for PhD study at most German universities and funding is available from a range of government agencies, research societies and other organisations.
Have a question about studying in Germany? Check if we've answered it in our detailed FAQ, covering fees, funding, accommodation, applications and more.
Looking for the best universities to study PhDs in Environmental Sciences in Germany? Compare ranking tables from top sources here, along with their methodologies.
Looking for the best universities to study PhDs in Biological Sciences in Germany? Compare ranking tables from top sources here, along with their methodologies.
We cover everything you need to know about studying for a postgraduate study in Frankfurt, including top universities, living costs, accommodation and more.
We cover everything you need to know about studying for a postgraduate study in Hamburg, including top universities, living costs, accommodation and more.
We cover everything you need to know about studying for a postgraduate course in Germany's third largest city, including top universities, living costs, accommodation and more.
We cover everything you need to know about studying for a postgraduate study in Germany's capital, including top universities, living costs, accommodation and more.
Interested in studying a PhD degree in Germany? Our guide tells you all about the different universities that offer PhD programmes and how they rank on global tables so that you can make the best decision.
Rent and living costs make up a large percentage of your postgraduate budget. Here are five German cities to live in as a student without running your savings dry.
Just how cheap is postgraduate study in Germany? We explain whether studying a German Masters or PhD is really free, and if there are any hidden costs.
Considering studying abroad in Germany? From Munich to Berlin, using the world rankings we've taken a look at Germany's best universities for Masters and PhD study.
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