University of Hamburg Scholarships for International Students 2025/26
Introduction
The University of Hamburg (Universität Hamburg), one of Germany’s leading research universities, offers numerous opportunities for international students. To help reduce financial barriers, the university provides various scholarships, merit awards, and funding programs for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students. Unlike many countries, Germany already offers tuition-free education, but scholarships at Hamburg provide additional support for living costs, research, and academic excellence.
Why Choose University of Hamburg Scholarships?
- Tuition-free study at one of Germany’s top universities.
- Scholarships help with living expenses, research funding, and mobility grants.
- Opportunities available for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students.
- Located in Hamburg, one of Europe’s most international and vibrant cities.
- Strong support for international student integration.
Types of Scholarships at the University of Hamburg
| Scholarship / Program | Benefits | Eligibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merit Scholarships for International Students | €850 per month (up to 2 semesters) | Enrolled international students with excellent results | Open to all degrees |
| Degree Completion Grants | €400–850 monthly for 6 months | International students close to graduation | Need-based |
| Hamburg Research Scholarships | Funding for 1–12 months | Doctoral and postdoctoral researchers | Research-focused |
| External Scholarships (DAAD, Erasmus+, etc.) | Full/partial funding (tuition, living, travel) | International students in Germany | Apply via DAAD/other bodies |
| Faculty-Specific Awards | Travel or research funding | Based on department (e.g., Law, Science, Economics) | Varies by faculty |
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be an international student (non-German nationality).
- Enrolled in a full-degree program (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD).
- Good academic performance with above-average grades.
- For need-based grants: proof of financial difficulty.
- For research scholarships: submission of a research proposal and supervisor’s recommendation.
Application Process
- Enroll in a degree program at the University of Hamburg.
- Submit an online application via the university’s scholarship portal.
- Provide required documents:
- Academic transcripts
- CV / Resume
- Motivation letter or research proposal
- Recommendation letters (for research grants)
- Proof of financial need (if applying for need-based grants)
- Deadlines vary depending on the scholarship program.
Key Deadlines
- Merit Scholarships: April and October 2025 (twice a year).
- Degree Completion Grants: Applications accepted year-round.
- Research Scholarships: Rolling deadlines depending on the faculty.
- DAAD Scholarships: October 2024 – January 2025 (for 2025 intake).
Benefits of Hamburg Scholarships
- Financial support from €400 up to €850 per month.
- Extension possible for high-performing students.
- Helps cover living expenses in Hamburg, including housing and food.
- Research funding available for PhD and postdoctoral students.
- Opportunity to combine Hamburg scholarships with DAAD or Erasmus+ awards.
Tips for Success
- Apply early, as scholarships are competitive.
- Maintain excellent academic records.
- Write a strong motivation letter explaining your goals.
- Seek faculty supervisor support for research-based scholarships.
- Combine university and external scholarships for maximum funding.
FAQs
Q: Does the University of Hamburg charge tuition fees?
No, tuition is free, but semester contribution fees apply (~€350 per semester).
Q: Are scholarships fully funded?
Most University of Hamburg scholarships are partial, covering living expenses, not tuition.
Q: Can I apply for DAAD scholarships while studying at Hamburg?
Yes, DAAD and other external funding programs can be combined with university support.
Q: Who can apply for Degree Completion Grants?
International students close to finishing their degree who need financial help.
Conclusion
The University of Hamburg offers excellent opportunities for international students to succeed academically while reducing financial burdens. With merit scholarships, need-based grants, and research funding, students can focus on their studies in one of Germany’s most dynamic cities. Combined with Germany’s tuition-free system, Hamburg is an ideal destination for international education.
