DAAD GROW Scholarship 2026: Fully Funded Research Opportunities in Germany for Global South Academics

If you are an ambitious researcher looking to expand your academic horizons, strengthen international collaborations, and contribute meaningfully to global development, the GROW – Global Research Opportunities for the South programme by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) could be your breakthrough opportunity.

Designed with a strong focus on development impact, this prestigious scholarship supports researchers from Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and Asia by funding short-term research stays in Germany. Whether you are a doctoral candidate or an established academic, this programme offers a platform to sharpen your expertise while contributing to solutions aligned with global challenges.

What is the GROW Programme All About?

The GROW programme is aimed at empowering early-career and experienced researchers by providing funding for short-term academic stays in Germany. Its core objective is to promote development-oriented research and strengthen global scientific collaboration.

Funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the initiative focuses on building capacity in developing regions. Scholars benefit not only from financial support but also from access to world-class research institutions, networks, and expertise.

Participants are expected to return to their home countries and apply their newly acquired knowledge to enhance research, teaching, and institutional development. This ensures that the programme has a long-lasting impact beyond the duration of the scholarship.

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Who Should Apply?

The programme is open to a wide range of academic professionals, including:

• Doctoral candidates
• Postdoctoral researchers
• University lecturers and assistant professors
• Established academics and scientists

Applicants must be employed at a university or research institution in their home country and come from countries listed on the OECD DAC list—primarily in Sub-Saharan Africa, but also in parts of Latin America and Asia.

Importantly, the programme strongly encourages applications from women, individuals from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds, and underrepresented regions. This commitment to inclusivity ensures diverse perspectives in global research collaborations.

However, there are some restrictions. You are not eligible if you are already residing in Germany at the time of application or if your entire doctoral or postdoctoral research is being conducted at a German institution.

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What Does the Programme Fund?

The GROW scholarship is closely aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This means all funded projects must demonstrate a clear link to addressing global challenges such as:

• Climate change
• Public health
• Education systems
• Governance and social inclusion
• Innovation and economic development

The programme is structured into two distinct funding lines:

Programme Line 1: Preparatory and Cooperation Visits

This option supports short visits (1–2 months) to German institutions with the aim of developing research collaborations. Activities may include:

• Identifying joint research topics
• Developing publication ideas
• Preparing proposals for third-party funding
• Building long-term academic partnerships

Programme Line 2: Research Stays

This line is designed for researchers who want to carry out independent research projects in Germany. These stays last between 2–6 months and must include:

• A clearly defined research project
• A strong development relevance
• A practical plan for applying findings in the home country

Unlike many other scholarships, the GROW programme does not fund conference attendance or presentation-related travel. The focus is strictly on research and collaboration.

Duration and Timeline

The funding duration depends on the selected programme line:

• Preparatory Visits: 1 to 2 months
• Research Stays: 2 to 6 months

It is important to note that:

• The funding period cannot be split into multiple segments
• All research must take place in Germany
• The programme must begin in 2026 and end no later than 31 January 2027
• Extensions are not allowed

Applicants are required to indicate their preferred funding period, but the final decision is made by the selection committee based on project feasibility and scheduling.

Financial Benefits

One of the most attractive aspects of the GROW programme is its generous financial package. Successful applicants receive:

• Monthly stipend:
  • €1,400 for doctoral candidates and postdocs
  • €2,000 for assistant professors and lecturers
  • €2,150 for full professors
• Health, accident, and liability insurance coverage
• Travel allowance to and from Germany

In addition, scholars with disabilities or chronic illnesses may apply for extra financial support to cover necessary costs related to their stay.

These benefits ensure that researchers can fully focus on their academic work without financial stress.

Selection Process and Criteria

Applications are reviewed by an independent selection committee made up of experienced scientists. The selection process is rigorous and based on several key factors.

For Preparatory Visits (Programme Line 1)

• Academic achievements and qualifications
• Quality and development relevance of the proposal
• Feasibility of the research plan
• Potential for long-term collaboration and impact
• Contribution to capacity building in the home country

For Research Stays (Programme Line 2)

• Academic performance (including grades and publications)
• Originality and relevance of the research proposal
• Clear plan for transferring results back home
• Career development potential
• Motivation and societal engagement

The committee also places strong emphasis on equal opportunities, ensuring a fair and inclusive selection process.

Why You Should Apply

The GROW programme is more than just a scholarship—it is a career-defining opportunity. Here’s why it stands out:

• Global Exposure: Work with leading researchers and institutions in Germany
• Skill Enhancement: Gain advanced methodological and analytical expertise
• Networking: Build lasting international collaborations
• Impact: Contribute to solving real-world development challenges
• Career Growth: Strengthen your academic profile and future prospects

By participating in this programme, you position yourself at the intersection of research excellence and global development.

Final Thoughts

In a world increasingly shaped by complex global challenges, the need for collaborative, development-focused research has never been greater. The DAAD GROW programme offers a unique chance to be part of this transformation.

Whether you are looking to initiate international partnerships or deepen your research impact, this scholarship provides the tools, funding, and network you need to succeed.

If you meet the eligibility criteria and have a strong, development-oriented research idea, this could be your opportunity to take your academic career to the next level—while making a meaningful difference in your home country and beyond.