Germany Leipzig University DAAD Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP) 2026 (Fully Funded)

The DAAD Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP) 2026 at the Graduate School Global and Area Studies (GSGAS), Leipzig University, offers an excellent opportunity for international PhD candidates to pursue their doctoral studies in Germany. Funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), this prestigious scholarship supports outstanding researchers interested in exploring global and transregional issues.

About the DAAD GSSP 2026

Leipzig University’s Graduate School Global and Area Studies (GSGAS) invites applications for two fully funded PhD scholarships under the DAAD GSSP 2026. The program focuses on research that examines regional, transregional, transnational, and global topics within both historical and contemporary frameworks.

This interdisciplinary environment allows PhD candidates to address major global challenges such as conflicts, revolutions, climate change, pandemics, decolonisation, migration, and economic transformation.

Successful applicants will receive:

• Monthly stipend: €1,300
• Health, accident, and liability insurance coverage
• Research and study allowances

• PhD

The scholarship supports PhD projects in Global and Area Studies, which intersect disciplines such as:

• History (including trans-imperial and global history)
• Political Science
• Sociology
• Cultural Studies
• Anthropology
• Economics and Economic History
• Law and Legal History
• Development Studies
• Migration and Refugee Studies

Research Focus Areas

Dissertation topics should explore regional, transregional, transnational, or global issues - for example:

• Climate change and global crises
• Post-colonialism and decolonisation
• Global governance, security, and conflict
• Migration, mobility, and inequality
• Comparative analysis of world regions
• Economic and political transformations in global contexts

Open to applicants of all nationalities.

To be eligible for the DAAD GSSP 2026:

• Applicants must be international candidates who have not lived in Germany for more than 15 months at the time of application.
• The last final exam (Master’s degree) must have been completed within the past six years.
• Applicants should propose a dissertation topic related to global, transregional, or transnational issues.

The selection process consists of three steps:

Written Application to GSGAS

• Deadline: 15 November 2025
• Submit all required documents using the official application form available on the GSGAS website.

Selection Interviews & Nomination by GSGAS

• Timeline: January–February 2026

Final Application via DAAD Portal

• Nominees submit the official DAAD application (by May 2026).
• The final decision is made by DAAD.

Key Dates

• Application deadline (GSGAS): 15 November 2025
• Interviews: January–February 2026
• DAAD Application (by nominees): until May 2026
• Scholarship start: October 2026

Why Choose Leipzig University?

Founded in 1409, Leipzig University is one of Europe’s oldest and most respected universities. It provides a vibrant academic environment, global research networks, and an interdisciplinary approach - ideal for scholars pursuing PhDs in Global and Area Studies.

Conclusion

The DAAD Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP) 2026 at Leipzig University is an exceptional opportunity for international PhD candidates to engage in interdisciplinary research addressing global issues. With full financial support and access to a world-class academic environment, this program stands among the best fully funded PhD scholarships in Germany.