DAAD Re-Invitation Program 2026 in Germany

The DAAD Re-Invitation Programme 2026 offers former DAAD scholarship holders the opportunity to return to Germany for 1–3 months to carry out research or professional projects at universities, research institutes, or relevant institutions in sectors like business, media, or culture. There are two tracks: one for general former scholarship holders and another specifically for alumni of Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS).

It supports former DAAD scholarship holders who wish to return to Germany for further research and academic collaboration. The DAAD Re-Invitation Program 2026 is ideal for maintaining professional relationships and continuing collaborative research. Applicants must not have lived in Germany for at least three years and must arrange their project with a German host institution. Funding is available only once every three years. Applications for the 2026 round must be submitted by October 31, 2025.

University/Institutions:

Applicants can choose any officially recognized public or state-accredited German university or research institution, such as:

• Funded By: Daad
• Host Country: Germany
• Location: German Universities or Institutes
• Duration: 1 to 3 months (non-renewable)

Types of Programs

There are two types of Programs:

1. Re-invitation Program for Former Scholarship Holders
   • Former holders of DAAD research grants or study scholarships, who were funded with funds of the Federal Foreign Office for a period of over six months
   • Former scholarship holders of the GDR who studied for at least one year in Germany
2. Re-invitation Program for Former Scholarship Holders of the Development-Related Postgraduate Courses
   • Former DAAD scholarship holders of the “Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS)” who successfully finished their studies

Study Areas

You may conduct research in any academic field, including but not limited to:

• Natural Sciences
• Engineering and Technology
• Social Sciences
• Humanities
• Health and Medical Sciences
• Economics and Law

DAAD Re-Invitation Program Benefits

1. Re-invitation Program for Former Scholarship Holders
   • €2,000/month for assistant teachers, assistant professors, and lecturers.
   • €2,150/month for professors.
   • Adjusted payments for non-academic applicants based on qualifications.
   • Travel allowance (if not covered elsewhere).
   • Optional subsidy for disability-related expenses.
   • Health insurance provided and deducted from stipend (if not already insured).
2. Re-invitation Program for Former Scholarship Holders of the Development-Related Postgraduate Courses
   • €2,000/month for assistant teachers, assistant professors, and lecturers.
   • €2,150/month for professors.
   • Travel allowance.
   • No additional payments provided.

Benefits Not Included

• Housing assistance or accommodation guarantee
• Support for dependents or family members
• Visa costs

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Eligibilities for DAAD Re-Invitation Program

Re-invitation Program for Former Scholarship Holders

Who Can Apply

• Former DAAD research/study scholarship holders (funded for 6+ months by the German Federal Foreign Office).
• Former East German scholarship holders (studied at least 1 year in Germany).

What Can Be Funded

• Research or work projects at German universities or research institutes.
• Working stays in business, culture, media, or administration sectors (for non-academics).
• Projects may involve more than one host institution.
• Funding available only once every 3 years.

Re-invitation Program for Former Scholarship Holders of the Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS Alumni)

Who Can Apply

• Graduates of DAAD’s Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) who completed their studies successfully.

What Can Be Funded

• Research or project work at German universities or research institutes.
• Work stays in business or public sectors (for non-academic EPOS alumni).
• Visits may include multiple institutions.
• Funding only once within three years.

Selection Criteria

There are two types of Programs:

1. Re-invitation Program for Former Scholarship Holders
   • Academic performance and publications.
   • Strong, feasible research or work plan.
   • Relevance and long-term impact of the visit.
   • Potential for collaboration and multiplier effects.
   • Equal opportunity considerations.
2. Re-invitation Program for Former Scholarship Holders of the Development-Related Postgraduate Courses
   • Academic achievements and relevant publications.
   • Clear and well-structured project proposal.
   • Long-term professional and academic impact.
   • Potential to strengthen existing partnerships.
   • Consideration of equal opportunity.

Required Documents

Ensure you have:

• Online application form via the DAAD portal
• Detailed research proposal and timeline
• Letter of invitation from a German host
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• List of academic publications
• Previous DAAD certificate(s)
• Letter of reference (if applicable)
• Evidence of current academic employment

DAAD Re-Invitation Program Application Process

Here’s how to apply:

1. Visit the DAAD Portal
2. Register and complete the online application form
3. Upload all required documents
4. Submit the application before the October 31, 2025 deadline
5. Wait for the selection results, typically released 3–4 months after the deadline

Tips for Successful Application

• Start the application early and plan ahead
• Make your research proposal clear and goal-oriented
• Establish strong communication with your host professor or institution
• Demonstrate how your stay will benefit your home institution
• Ensure your documents are complete and well-organized
• Use professional and academic language in your proposal

Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Germany

Living costs vary by city but typically include:

• Rent: €300–€600
• Food: €150–€250
• Health insurance: €110
• Transportation: €50–€80
• Miscellaneous: €100–€200
  Total Estimate: €800–€1,200 per month

Why Do You Need to Choose This Opportunity?

This program gives you a rare chance to strengthen your international research ties, gain access to Germany’s world-class academic resources, and enrich your career with global exposure. It’s a perfect platform to enhance your expertise, publish collaborative work, and develop long-term academic partnerships—all while revisiting the country that once shaped your academic journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I apply if I had a DAAD scholarship more than 10 years ago?
Yes, there’s no upper time limit, but preference may be given to those actively engaged in academic roles.

Q2: Can I bring my family members with me?
Yes, but the DAAD does not provide financial support or housing assistance for dependents.

Q3: What if I’m not currently employed at a university?
You must be actively involved in academic research or teaching. Proof of affiliation is required.

Q4: Can I extend my stay beyond 3 months?
No, the grant is non-renewable and limited to a maximum of 3 months.

Q5: Do I need German language skills?
Not necessarily, but strong English or German skills are essential depending on your host institution’s language preference.

Official Link for More Details and Application

👉 Visit the Official DAAD Re-Invitation Program Page

Programme line A: Re-Invitation Programme for Former Scholarship Holders
Programme line B: Re-Invitation Programme for Former Scholarship Holders of the Development-Related Postgraduate Courses