Max Planck School Matter to Life Scholarship 2027 supports a fully funded integrated five-year Master’s and PhD programme in Germany that emphasises quantitative modelling of life processes and biological dynamics. The focus is on a two-year master’s phase at Heidelberg University and the University of Göttingen, followed by a funded PhD phase.
The programme is offered by the Max Planck School of Matter to Life in collaboration with leading German universities and partner Max Planck Institutes. It accepts applicants of all nationalities and targets students with backgrounds in chemistry, physics, molecular biology, biochemistry, materials science, biotechnology, engineering and related natural sciences.
Matter to Life Benefits
- Monthly scholarship of approximately €1,500 to €1,565
- Up to €100 monthly health insurance support where applicable
- No tuition fees
- A fully funded research employment contract under German public-sector salary agreements (typically TV-L E13 or TVöD) during the PhD phase
Max Planck School Matter to Life Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- A Bachelor of Science degree in a relevant field, or
- A Bachelor of Engineering degree in a relevant field, or
- An equivalent natural science or engineering qualification comprising at least six semesters (three academic years).
- Strong academic performance.
- Significant coursework in natural sciences and mathematics.
- English language proficiency.
- Students who already hold a master’s degree may apply but must still begin in the master’s phase.
- Applicants from China, India, and Vietnam must provide an APS certificate unless their qualification was obtained in Hong Kong, Macau, or Taiwan.
Where will the award be taken?
Germany, primarily at:
- Heidelberg University
- University of Göttingen
- Partner Max Planck Institutes and research organaisations
How to Apply for Max Planck School Matter to Life Scholarship?
- Register through the official Max Planck Schools application portal.
- Select “Max Planck School Matter to Life – Graduate Program”.
- Choose your preferred study focus in Heidelberg or Göttingen.
- Upload academic certificates, transcripts, and certified translations where required.
- Complete the online motivation form.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Max Planck School Matter to Life Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, selection criteria, and how to apply based on the programme information.
What is the Matter to Life Scholarship?
The Matter to Life Scholarship is a fully funded integrated five-year Master’s to PhD programme in Germany offered by the Max Planck School of Matter to Life. It focuses on quantitative modelling of life processes and includes a two-year master’s phase at Heidelberg and Göttingen followed by a funded PhD phase.
Who can apply for the programme?
Applicants of all nationalities are eligible. Candidates must hold or obtain before enrolment a Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Engineering, or an equivalent natural science or engineering qualification of at least six semesters (three academic years).
Which fields are eligible to apply?
Eligible academic backgrounds include chemistry, physics, molecular biology, biochemistry, materials science, biotechnology, molecular systems engineering, bioengineering, related natural sciences, and related engineering disciplines.
What financial support does the scholarship provide?
During the master’s phase, students receive a monthly scholarship of approximately €1,500 to €1,565, up to €100 monthly health insurance support where applicable, and no tuition fees. During the PhD phase, students receive a fully funded research employment contract under German public-sector salary agreements.
How long does the programme last?
The integrated programme lasts five years in total: a two-year master’s phase followed by a three-year PhD phase, as stated in the programme information.
What are the English language requirements?
Accepted proofs include IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 90, TOEFL Paper-Based 570, Cambridge Advanced (C1), or other recognised equivalents. Requirements may be waived for eligible English-taught studies or qualifying professional experience in an English-speaking country.
Are recommendation letters required?
Recommendation letters are not required and are not accepted for this programme, according to the application details provided.
How are applicants selected?
Selection is based on academic excellence, relevance of previous studies, motivation and research potential, academic transcripts and qualifications, and fulfilment of programme requirements.
When is the application deadline?
Applications for the 2027 intake must be submitted by 1 December 2026 (11:59 p.m.). Applications opened on 1 September 2026 and must be submitted through the official Max Planck Schools application portal.
Where can I apply and find more details?
Applicants must register and submit their application through the official Max Planck Schools application portal. Further details and the application link are provided on the programme page and via the official application webpage.
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