The DAAD Re-Invitation Programme scholarship enables former DAAD scholarship holders to return to Germany for research and working projects. This fully funded initiative invites graduates, post-doctoral researchers, and faculty members from all nations to spend one to three months at state-recognized German universities or institutes, continuing collaborative work and advancing their professional networks.
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is the world’s largest funding organisation for international academic exchange, supporting over 2.8 million scholars since 1925. The Re-Invitation Programme is part of its alumni funding initiatives, backed by the German Federal Foreign Office, to strengthen research ties and maintain long-term academic cooperation between Germany and the global community.
DAAD Re-Invitation Programme Benefits
- Monthly stipend for living expenses during the stay
- Travel expenses to and from Germany
- Health insurance coverage arranged by DAAD
- Funding for research or working projects at authorized German institutions
DAAD Re-Invitation Programme Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a former DAAD scholarship holder (research/study grant of at least six months funded by the Federal Foreign Office)
- Former GDR scholarship recipients who studied in Germany for at least one year are also eligible
- Former DAAD EPOS scholarship holders who have completed their studies can apply
- Open to all nationalities; no restriction on country of origin
- Applicants must not have resided in Germany for more than three years
- A research or working project must be arranged with a German host institution in advance
- An official invitation or offer from the German partner is required
Types of Program
- Re-invitation Program for Former Scholarship Holders
- Re-invitation Program for Former Scholarship Holders of the Development-Related Postgraduate Courses
1) Re-invitation Program for Former Scholarship Holders:
- Previous DAAD scholarship recipients (research or study, with more than six months of Federal Foreign Office funding).
- Former GDR scholarship recipients who studied in Germany for at least a year.
2) Re-invitation Program for Former Scholarship Holders of the Development-Related Postgraduate Courses:
- Former DAAD EPOS scholarship holders who have finished their studies.
How to Apply for DAAD Re-Invitation Programme
- Apply online through the official DAAD website portal
- Select your country of origin to access specific application guidelines
- Prepare all required documents as listed in the application criteria
- Upload your completed application and supporting materials before the specified deadline
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the DAAD Re-Invitation Programme. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and the application process to help you prepare your research visit to Germany.
What is the DAAD Re-Invitation Programme?
It is a fully funded scheme that enables former DAAD scholarship holders to return to Germany for short-term research or working stays. Participants spend one to three months at state-recognized universities or non-university research institutes, fostering continued academic cooperation.
Who is eligible to apply for this programme?
Eligible applicants are former DAAD scholarship recipients who held a grant of at least six months under Federal Foreign Office funding, former GDR scholars who studied in Germany for one year or more, and former DAAD EPOS course graduates. Applicants must not have lived in Germany for more than three years.
What costs are covered by the scholarship?
The programme covers a monthly stipend for living expenses, round-trip travel costs to and from Germany, and health insurance arranged by DAAD. The host institution’s project work is also supported, making it a fully funded research visit.
Is there an application deadline?
There is no fixed deadline mentioned; applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. However, candidates should check the DAAD website for any updates and submit their applications well in advance of their intended visit.
How long can a research stay last?
The research or working stay is flexible, lasting between one and three months. The exact duration can be agreed upon with the German host institution and depends on the project scope.
Can I apply if I am not a DAAD alumnus?
No, this programme is exclusively for former DAAD scholarship holders. You must have previously received a long-term DAAD grant, including the Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) programme, to be eligible.
Do I need a confirmed host institution before applying?
Yes, applicants must coordinate a research or work project with a German partner institution and obtain an official invitation. The application must include details of the host institution and the planned project.
Can the stay be split across multiple institutions?
Yes, a working or research visit can be carried out at several host institutions within Germany during the same funding period, as long as all are properly arranged and documented in the application.
How often can I receive this funding?
Funding under the Re-Invitation Programme can only be claimed once every three years. This ensures the opportunity is available to a broad range of alumni over time.
How do I apply for the programme?
Applications must be submitted online via the DAAD portal. Select your home country to view tailored requirements, prepare the required documents, and upload everything before your planned travel dates. No paper application is needed.
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