Introduction to University of Münster DAAD PhD Scholarships
Are you an ambitious international researcher with a background in literary or cultural studies? The University of Münster DAAD PhD Scholarships offer a fully funded path to academic excellence in Germany. This exclusive opportunity is ideal for students aiming to deepen their expertise while engaging in interdisciplinary research in a globally renowned environment.
The Graduate School Practices of Literature (GSPoL) at the University of Münster invites international applicants to apply for the DAAD-funded Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP) for the term April 2026 to March 2029.
Key Highlights at a Glance
| Scholarship Name | University of Münster DAAD PhD Scholarships 2025–2029 |
|---|---|
| Host University | University of Münster (WWU Münster), Germany |
| Study Level | PhD (Doctoral Degree) |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded (Monthly stipend, health insurance, research support) |
| Scholarship Duration | 3 Years (with a possible 1-year extension) |
| Eligible Applicants | International Students from All Nationalities |
| Fields of Study | Literary and Cultural Studies (English, Arabic, German, Latin, Comparative Literature & more) |
| Application Deadline | 31 May 2025 |
| Program Start Date | 1 April 2026 |
| Apply Now | Email application to Dr. Anna Thiemann: thiemann.gspol@uni-muenster.de |
Why Choose the University of Münster DAAD PhD Scholarships?
The University of Münster DAAD PhD Scholarships are designed to support outstanding students from around the world. Funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), these scholarships cover all essential expenses and offer unparalleled academic mentorship.
Key DAAD PhD Scholarships Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| University | University of Münster (WWU Münster), Germany |
| Graduate School | Practices of Literature (GSPoL) |
| Scholarship Provider | DAAD (GSSP Program) |
| Duration | 3 years (with a possible 1-year extension) |
| Start Date | 1 April 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 31 May 2025 |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded (Monthly stipend, insurance, research support) |
| Location | Germany |
| Target Group | International Students |
Eligible Fields of Study
Applicants can pursue research across a wide range of literary and cultural disciplines. These include:
English and American Studies
Arabic and Islamic Studies
German Studies
Latin and Neo-Latin Philology
Dutch, Scandinavian, Romance (French, Spanish, Italian), Slavic Studies
Sinology
Comparative Literature and Literary Theory
Whether your interest lies in postcolonial literature, cultural semiotics, or medieval texts, this program welcomes diverse scholarly pursuits.
PhD Research Themes
The GSPoL structures its doctoral research across three interdisciplinary clusters:
1. Literature, Culture, and Society
Focuses on literature’s role within broader social and cultural systems.
2. Theories of Literature and Culture
Centers on methods, theoretical concepts, and emerging fields like science studies.
3. Literary and Cultural Studies in the Professional World
Explores how literary training applies to careers outside academia.
GSPoL integrates academic lectures, colloquia, workshops, and professional internships into its curriculum to offer a dynamic learning experience.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
These fully funded scholarships come with a comprehensive package of benefits:
Monthly stipend (based on DAAD rates)
Health insurance and mobility allowance
Funding for research stays abroad (up to 25% of total duration)
Personalized mentorship from a team of three supervisors
Access to transferable skills training (e.g., academic writing, career workshops)
Who Can Apply?
The University of Münster DAAD PhD Scholarships are open to international applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Requirements
✅ A Master’s degree in a literary or cultural discipline
✅ Minimum GPA of 2.0 (German system) or exceptional Bachelor’s degree (≥1.5 GPA)
✅ Language Proficiency:
English or German: C1
The other language: minimum B1 ✅ Additional language proficiency as outlined in program regulations
✅ Not residing in Germany for more than 15 months prior to nomination
✅ Last academic degree obtained within the last 6 years
✅ Must not already hold a PhD
✅ Willingness to reside in Germany during the program
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Apply to GSPoL
Submit the following documents in one single PDF file by email (except letters of reference):
Motivation letter
CV (no photo)
Degree certificates & transcripts (plus certified translations)
Language certificates
PhD proposal (10 pages) + abstract
Timeline for research (including international travel plans)
2–3 academic references (submitted separately using DAAD template)
📧 Send applications to:
Dr. Anna Thiemann
📩 thiemann.gspol@uni-muenster.de
⏳ Deadline: 31 May 2025
Step 2: Interview
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an online or in-person interview conducted by GSPoL.
Step 3: Nomination to DAAD
Final candidates nominated by GSPoL will then submit a formal online application to DAAD.
Quick Reference Table
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic Degree | Master’s (preferred) or exceptional Bachelor’s |
| Language Skills | C1 in English or German, B1 in the other |
| Residency Condition | Not living in Germany more than 15 months before nomination |
| Degree Validity | Earned within the last 6 years |
| Application Deadline | 31 May 2025 |
| Start of Program | 1 April 2026 |
👉 Apply Now
Final Thoughts: Start Your DAAD PhD Scholarships in Germany
The University of Münster DAAD PhD Scholarships offer more than financial support—they provide an intellectual home for passionate scholars. With a strong focus on interdisciplinary research, global perspectives, and professional development, this program equips you with tools to succeed both inside and outside academia.
Don’t miss this life-changing opportunity—submit your application by 31 May 2025 and join one of Germany’s top research communities.
