Are you an ambitious student or early-career researcher seeking a fully funded PhD opportunity in Germany? The Nationales Hochleistungs Rechnen (NHR) Scholarships 2026 are among the most prestigious scholarships in Europe for those passionate about High-Performance Computing (HPC), computational science, and advanced research. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know: eligibility, application process, benefits, and expert tips to help you secure your place in this competitive program.
Basic Information about the NHR Scholarships
- Scholarship Name: Nationales Hochleistungs Rechnen (NHR) Graduate School Scholarships
- Host Country: Germany
- Study Level: PhD (Doctoral Studies)
- Application Deadline: September 15, 2025 (for 2026 intake)
- Program Start Date: April 1, 2026
- Program End Date: March 31, 2029
- Number of Scholarships: Up to 9 fully funded positions annually
- Duration: Up to 36 months (3 years)
University/Institution Details
The NHR Graduate School is a collaborative initiative involving leading German universities and research centers specializing in high-performance computing. Any of the following NHR Centers can host scholars, each affiliated with a top-tier German university:
These institutions are internationally recognized for excellence in computational science, numerical simulation, AI, and data analytics.
Study Areas (Available Program Names)
The Nationales Hochleistungs Rechnen (NHR) Scholarships support research in a wide range of cutting-edge fields related to high-performance computing. Applicants can choose from (but are not limited to):
- High-Performance Numerical Simulations
- Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Applications in HPC
- Computational Fluid Dynamics
- Parallel and Distributed Computing
- Data Analytics and Scientific Modeling
- Scientific Visualization
- Software Engineering for HPC
- Quantum Computing (in selected centers)
- Computational Biology and Bioinformatics
Applicants may select up to three research interest areas in their application.
Nationales Hochleistungs Rechnen (NHR) Scholarships Benefits
The NHR Scholarships offer a comprehensive financial and academic support package:
- Monthly Stipend: €2,200 (approx. $2,400 USD) for up to 36 months
- Supervision: By internationally recognized experts in HPC and computational science
- Secondment: Six-month research stay at another NHR Center in Germany
- Training: Access to workshops, seminars, and soft skills development
- Mentoring: Ongoing career coaching and academic mentoring
- Networking: Opportunities to connect with leading researchers and peers in the HPC community
- No Tuition Fees: Enrollment at top German universities is tuition-free for scholarship holders.
Benefits Not Included
While the NHR Scholarship is generous, some expenses are not covered:
- Health Insurance: Must be arranged and paid by the student
- Travel Costs: International and domestic travel are not reimbursed
- Visa Fees: Applicants are responsible for their visa application costs
- Accommodation: Monthly stipend is intended to cover living expenses, including rent
- Family Allowance: No additional support for dependents or family members
- Social Security Contributions: The stipend is not subject to German social security, but does not include pension or unemployment insurance.
Eligibility Criteria for the Nationales Hochleistungs Rechnen (NHR) Scholarships
To be eligible for the NHR Scholarships 2026, applicants must:
- Hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in computer science, mathematics, engineering, natural sciences, or a closely related field
- Meet the doctoral admission requirements of the hosting NHR Center/university
- Demonstrate proficiency in English (TOEFL iBT ≥ 79, IELTS ≥ 6.5, or equivalent)
- Submit a research proposal relevant to high-performance computing or computational science
- Have completed their Master’s degree before the program start date (April 2026)
- Show a strong academic record and motivation for research
- Open to all nationalities and backgrounds; women and underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.
Required Documents for the Application
Prepare the following documents (combine items 1–6 into a single PDF, max 10 MB):
- Completed Application Form (via the NHR online portal)
- Letter of Motivation (1–2 pages)
- Curriculum Vitae (max 2 pages)
- Research Statement (1–2 pages, including preferred NHR center(s))
- Academic Transcripts (with English or German translation if applicable)
- Proof of English Language Proficiency
- Letter of Recommendation (sent separately by your recommender)
- Copy of Passport (for identification).
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Nationales Hochleistungs Rechnen (NHR) Scholarships Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Register Online
- Visit the official NHR Graduate School application portal.
- Create an account using your email address and password.
2: Complete the Application Form
- Fill in personal and educational details.
- Upload abstracts of your Bachelor’s and Master’s thesis.
- Select up to three research interest areas.
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
- Combine application form, motivation letter, CV, research statement, transcripts, and English proficiency proof into a single PDF (max 10 MB).
4: Submit Application
- Email the merged PDF to: scholarship@nhr-verein.de
- Use the subject line: Application NHR Graduate School
Step 5: Submit Letter of Recommendation
- Your recommender must email their letter separately to the same address, using the same subject line.
Step 6: Confirmation
- Await confirmation of receipt and further instructions from the NHR Graduate School.
Important: Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. Carefully follow all instructions and check for updates on the official NHR website.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early: Gather documents and contact recommenders well before the deadline.
- Tailor Your Research Statement: Align your proposal with the research interests of your chosen NHR Center(s).
- Highlight Relevant Experience: Showcase your background in HPC, computational science, or related fields.
- Proofread: Ensure your documents are clear, concise, and free from errors.
- Follow Guidelines: Adhere strictly to formatting and submission instructions.
- Demonstrate Motivation: Clearly articulate your passion for research and your long-term career goals.
- Show English Proficiency: Provide valid and recent language test scores if required.
- Contact Supervisors: If possible, reach out to potential supervisors at NHR Centers to discuss your research interests.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Germany (in USD)
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (shared flat) | $450 – $700 |
| Food | $200 – $300 |
| Health Insurance | $120 – $150 |
| Transportation | $50 – $100 |
| Internet/Utilities | $50 – $80 |
| Miscellaneous | $100 – $200 |
| Total | $970 – $1,530 |
The NHR stipend of €2,200 (approx. $2,400) per month is generally sufficient to cover these expenses, allowing for a comfortable student lifestyle in most German cities.
Why Choose the NHR Scholarship? (Top 5 Reasons)
- Fully Funded Excellence: Receive a generous monthly stipend and tuition-free enrollment at Germany’s top universities.
- World-Class Research: Collaborate with leading experts and access cutting-edge HPC infrastructure.
- International Exposure: Work in a vibrant, multicultural academic environment and expand your global network.
- Career Development: Benefit from training, mentoring, and networking opportunities to boost your academic and professional growth.
- Flexibility and Mobility: Conduct research at multiple NHR Centers and gain diverse experiences through secondment opportunities.
- No Application Fees: The application process is completely free.
- Open to All Nationalities: The program welcomes applicants from around the world, promoting diversity and inclusion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is the NHR Scholarship open to all nationalities?
Yes, international students from any country can apply.
Q2: What is the monthly stipend amount?
Successful applicants receive €2,200 (approx. $2,400 USD) per month for up to three years.
Q3: Can I apply if I haven’t finished my Master’s yet?
You must complete your Master’s degree before the program starts in April 2026.
Q4: Can I choose my NHR Center?
Yes, you can specify your preferred NHR Center(s) in your research statement.
Q5: Are there application fees?
No, applying to the NHR Graduate School is free of charge.
Q6: What happens if I submit documents after the deadline?
Late applications will not be considered. Submit all materials by September 15, 2025.
Q7: How many scholarships are available?
Up to nine fully funded PhD scholarships are awarded each year.
Q8: Is German language proficiency required?
No, the program is conducted in English, but you must provide proof of English proficiency.
Q9: What is a secondment?
It’s a six-month research stay at another NHR Center, allowing you to broaden your academic experience.
Q10: Are family members supported?
No, the stipend does not include additional allowances for dependents or family members.
Conclusion
The Nationales Hochleistungs Rechnen (NHR) Scholarships 2026 offer an exceptional opportunity for talented researchers to pursue doctoral studies in Germany’s most advanced computational science environments. With generous funding, world-class supervision, and access to state-of-the-art resources, this program is a launchpad for a successful research career in high-performance computing and beyond.
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