Are you passionate about linguistics, literature, or language studies and seeking a prestigious PhD program in Germany? The Class of Language at the Graduate School of Language & Literature, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU), is now accepting applications for PhD positions starting in the Winter Semester 2025/2026. With a deadline of April 1st, 2025, this is your chance to join one of Germany’s top universities and advance your academic career.
The program offers two types of positions: one DAAD-funded GSSP PhD Scholarship and regular non-funded PhD positions. The DAAD scholarship provides significant financial benefits, including a monthly stipend, travel allowance, health insurance, and research funding. This is an excellent opportunity for international students, especially those from developing countries and emerging nations, to pursue their doctoral studies in a world-class academic environment.
Scholarship Overview
- Host University: Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU)
- Degree Level: PhD
- Available Subjects: Languages, Literature, Linguistics
- Eligible Students: International Students
- Host Country: Germany
- Application Deadline: April 1st, 2025
Degree Level
The LMU Munich GSSP/DAAD PhD Scholarships are available for PhD level programs at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich.
Available Subjects for the LMU Munich Germany GSSP/DAAD Scholarships
The scholarship is open to students pursuing research in the following fields:
- Languages
- Literature
- Linguistics
Benefits for the LMU Munich Germany GSSP/DAAD Scholarships
The DAAD-funded GSSP PhD Scholarship provides the following financial and academic benefits:
- Monthly Stipend: €1,300 to cover living expenses.
- Travel Allowance: Financial support for travel to and from Germany.
- Health and Liability Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for the duration of the program.
- Research Allowance: An annual allowance of €460 – €260 to support research activities.
- Support for Research Phases Abroad: Funding for research phases outside Germany, provided they do not exceed 25% of the total funding period.
Why Choose LMU Munich for Your PhD in Language Studies?
LMU Munich is one of Germany’s most prestigious universities, renowned for its excellence in research and teaching. The Class of Language offers a structured, interdisciplinary PhD program designed to foster academic growth and innovation. As a PhD candidate, you will benefit from:
- Individual and Supportive Supervision: Work closely with leading experts in linguistics and related fields.
- Research-Oriented Curriculum: Engage in cutting-edge research with opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Academic Exchange: Participate in regular academic exchanges with peers, professors, and international guest scholars.
- Vibrant Academic Community: Join a dynamic academic environment in one of Europe’s most culturally rich cities.
Eligible Nationalities
This scholarship is open to international students of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria for the LMU Munich Germany GSSP/DAAD Scholarships
To apply for the PhD program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
General Eligibility Requirements
- Degree Level: A university degree graded above average (e.g., Master of Arts with thesis, Magister Artium, or equivalent) in a relevant field such as:
- Albanian Studies
- Cognitive Linguistics
- English Linguistics
- German Linguistics
- Romance Linguistics
- Slavic Linguistics
- Theoretical Linguistics
- Academic Performance: The final thesis grade and overall grade must not fall below 2.50.
- Language Skills: Proficiency in at least two European academic languages, with German being mandatory. Knowledge of a non-European academic language is an advantage.
Additional DAAD Scholarship Requirements
- Applicants must be international students who have not resided in Germany for more than 15 months prior to May 1st, 2025.
- Graduation should not be older than six years by May 1st, 2025.
- Research phases outside Germany are supported but must not exceed 25% of the total funding period.
Application Procedure
The application process involves the following steps:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:
- Motivation Essay: 1-2 pages outlining your academic interests and reasons for applying.
- Exposé of Dissertation Project: 10-12 pages (less than 35,000 characters) detailing your proposed research.
- Recommendation Letters: Two letters of recommendation using the DAAD template (for scholarship applicants).
- Curriculum Vitae: A detailed CV highlighting your academic background and achievements.
- Academic Certificates and Diplomas: Copies of your university degrees and transcripts.
- University Thesis: A copy of your thesis or a 2-3 page abstract if written in a lesser-used language.
Step 2: Submit Online
- Register and upload your documents on the online application portal, which will open on February 26th, 2025.
- Ensure all documents are submitted before the April 1st, 2025 deadline.
Selection Process
Applications are evaluated based on the quality of the dissertation project, academic qualifications, and interdisciplinary research potential. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, which can be conducted online upon request.
The LMU Munich GSSP/DAAD PhD Scholarships for Winter 2025 offer an unparalleled opportunity for international students to pursue advanced research in languages, literature, and linguistics at one of Germany’s leading universities. With generous financial support, a structured PhD program, and a vibrant academic community, this scholarship is your gateway to making a significant contribution to the field of language studies.
Mark your calendars for the April 1st, 2025 deadline and start preparing your application today!
For more details, visit the official LMU Munich website. Don’t miss this chance to take your academic career to the next level!