The pursuit of doctoral education in the humanities is both intellectually rewarding and demanding. For many international students, financial constraints often stand in the way of pursuing advanced research at world-class institutions. The BerGSAS DAAD Scholarships 2026 in Germany address this challenge by providing fully funded support for outstanding scholars in the fields of archaeology, philology, theology, ancient studies, and related disciplines

.Offered by the Berlin Graduate School of Ancient Studies (BerGSAS) in partnership with the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), this scholarship program gives talented early-career researchers the opportunity to study and conduct research at two of Germany’s most prestigious universities: Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Freie Universität Berlin.

Running from October 2026 to September 2030, the program supports doctoral candidates financially and academically while fostering international collaboration. With a strong focus on interdisciplinary approaches, the scholarships provide a platform for young scholars to explore the ancient world in depth, while also gaining professional training and international research experience.

Scholarship Summary

Why Choose the BerGSAS DAAD Scholarship?

The BerGSAS DAAD Scholarships are more than just financial support. They represent an entry point into one of Europe’s leading academic communities dedicated to the study of antiquity. Scholars will benefit from:

• Access to world-class faculty and mentors in ancient studies.
• A vibrant academic environment in Berlin, a hub for research, culture, and history.
• Opportunities to work in libraries, archives, and museums with unparalleled collections.
• Full financial support that enables scholars to dedicate themselves entirely to their research.
• International networking opportunities that strengthen academic careers.

Benefits of the BerGSAS DAAD Scholarships 2026

One of the strongest features of the BerGSAS DAAD program is its comprehensive funding package. The financial support ensures that students can focus fully on their doctoral work without worrying about living or research expenses.

Financial Support

• Monthly stipend: €1,300 for living expenses.
• Travel allowance: Covers international travel to and from Germany.
• Health, accident, and liability insurance: Full coverage provided for the scholarship period.
• Study and research funding: Additional resources available to support doctoral research activities.
• Material resources: €1,000 annually to support study-related needs.
• Family and rent allowances: Additional financial aid available depending on family situation.

Academic and Professional Benefits

• German language training: Pre-sessional courses available to help students integrate academically and socially.
• Research mobility support: Up to 25% of the funding period may be spent abroad for research stays.
• Mentorship and guidance: Scholars are supported by experienced supervisors and the BerGSAS academic community.
• Career preparation: Access to professional development workshops, teaching experience, and research presentation opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria

To ensure fairness and consistency, applicants must meet the eligibility requirements established by DAAD and BerGSAS.

• Nationality: Applicants must be non-German citizens.
• Academic qualifications:
  • A completed Master’s degree in a relevant field.
  • Degree must have been obtained after March 1, 2020.
  • Applicants completing their Master’s by the deadline are also eligible, provided the thesis grade is available.
• Residence requirement: Candidates must not have lived continuously in Germany since before December 1, 2024.
• Previous PhD: Candidates who have already earned a doctoral degree are not eligible.
• Language requirements:
  • Minimum B2 level in English (CEFR scale).
  • C1 level required for admission to Freie Universität Berlin programs.
  • German is not mandatory at the time of application but is encouraged.

Required Documents for Application

Applicants should carefully prepare all required documents before submitting their application. Missing or incomplete files may lead to disqualification.

• Copy of Bachelor’s and Master’s degree certificates.
• Official academic transcripts.
• Proof of English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent).
• Research proposal (detailed, innovative, and aligned with BerGSAS fields).
• Two letters of recommendation (one must be from the applicant’s home university).
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) in academic format.
• Optional: Proof of German language skills (if available).

Fields of Study Supported

The BerGSAS DAAD Scholarships 2026 offer three main research tracks, each designed to advance scholarship in different areas of ancient studies.

1. Ancient Languages and Texts (ALT)

Focus: Study and interpretation of ancient languages, philology, and texts, often supported by digital humanities.Eligible Fields:

• Ancient History (Late Antiquity, Early Middle Ages)
• Greek, Latin, Coptic, Ancient Oriental Languages
• Egyptology, Iranian Studies, Jewish Studies
• Comparative Indo-European Linguistics
• Protestant Theology, Religious Studies, Roman Law

2. Ancient Objects and Visual Studies (AOViS)

Focus: Material culture, image communication, and interpretation of archaeological artifacts.Eligible Fields:

• Ancient Oriental Studies
• Classical, Near Eastern, and Prehistoric Archaeology
• Egyptology and Northeast African Archaeology

3. Landscape Archaeology and Architecture (LAA)

Focus: Archaeological landscapes, urban planning, and architectural history using advanced geostatistical methods.Eligible Fields:

• Classical, Near Eastern, and Prehistoric Archaeology
• Egyptology with a landscape and spatial focus

How to Apply for BerGSAS DAAD Scholarships 2026

Applying for the BerGSAS DAAD Scholarships requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Below is a step-by-step guide:

• Visit the official application portal of the Berlin Graduate School of Ancient Studies.
• Prepare all required documents in PDF format, including transcripts, CV, research proposal, recommendation letters, and language certificates.
• Ensure your Master’s degree completion date falls after March 1, 2020.
• Complete the online application form carefully, filling in personal, academic, and research details.
• Upload supporting documents in the correct format.
• Review your application thoroughly before final submission.
• Submit your application before the deadline on 15 October 2025, 00:00 CET.
• Wait for communication from BerGSAS. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for online interviews between November and December 2025.
• Final selection decisions will be made by DAAD based on academic merit, research potential, and interview performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the BerGSAS DAAD Scholarships 2026?

They are fully funded PhD scholarships for non-German students to pursue doctoral research in ancient studies at the Berlin Graduate School of Ancient Studies.

2. Who can apply?

Applicants with a Master’s degree earned after March 1, 2020, who have not resided in Germany since December 1, 2024, and who have not previously completed a PhD.

3. What benefits are included?

The scholarship includes a €1,300 monthly stipend, insurance, travel allowance, annual research funds, family and rent support, and international mobility options.

4. Is German proficiency required?

Not at the time of application, though German language training is supported. English proficiency at B2 level (C1 for FU Berlin) is required.

5. Can research be conducted outside Germany?

Yes. Up to 25% of the scholarship period can be spent abroad to support fieldwork and international collaboration.

6. When is the deadline?

Applications close on 15 October 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

7. What is the duration of the scholarship?

Four years, from October 2026 to September 2030.

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