The Hilde Domin Programme—financed by the German Federal Foreign Office and administered by the DAAD—is a highly respected, fully funded scholarship intended to support students and doctoral researchers who are at risk in their home countries. It is specifically developed for individuals who experience political persecution, civic repression, or threats to their basic human rights, making it a gateway to academic freedom and safety.
This project offers a comprehensive support package to enable beneficiaries continue or complete their higher education in Germany. Scholars can pursue a master’s degree or doctorate studies at any state-recognized German university, benefiting from full financial coverage that includes monthly stipends, health insurance, travel fees, and supplementary allowances if necessary.In addition to financial assistance, the program offers a safe academic setting where participants can concentrate on their studies and research without worrying about personal or political harm.
The Hilde Domin Program essentially acts as an intellectual haven for gifted people whose safety and education are in jeopardy, assisting them in reconstructing their academic and career trajectories in Germany.
Host Country: Germany
University: Germany Universities
Opportunity Type: Masters, PhD
Subject: All Subjects
Eligibility Country: International Students
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Eligibility Criteria:
Exhibit personal risk
- Applicants must produce evidence—or a plausible explanation—that they are subjected to:
- Physical damage or danger
- Risk of arrest or persecution
- Restrictions on civil liberties
- Denial of access to education
- threats stemming from their civic engagement or from their ethnic, religious, gender, sexual, or political identities
- Possess valid academic qualifications: In order to be admitted to a university, applicants must possess educational credentials that are validated by the Anabin database.
- Reside outside Germany and the EU: At the time of nomination, candidates cannot reside in Germany or any other EU nation.
- Fulfill language requirements: German or English proficiency at a minimum of B2 level is necessary by the nomination deadline.
Benefits:
Monthly Stipend
- €992 per month for Master’s students
- PhD applicants receive €1,300 a month.
Extra Advantages
- Comprehensive health, accident, and personal liability insurance
- Travel allowance based on the applicant’s country of origin
- Optional German language course (2–6 months)
- Financial support throughout the duration of the selected degree program
- Possibilities to participate in multidisciplinary training and development initiatives
- Ongoing academic assistance and personal support throughout the stay in Germany
Deadline: 15 April 2026
