University of Hamburg Merit Scholarships 2025-26: Germany

University of Hamburg offers Merit Scholarships for the 2025-26 academic year to support outstanding international students from all disciplines. The University of Hamburg Merit Scholarships supports outstanding international students and doctoral researchers from all disciplines. It rewards academic excellence and social engagement, allowing recipients to focus fully on their studies.

The University of Hamburg Merit Scholarships is awarded for up to 12 months (2 semesters) and can be renewed for 2 years. These scholarships provide financial assistance, enabling recipients to focus entirely on their studies. In QS Ranking 2025, the University of Hamburg was ranked 191st in the world, and within the top 10 nationally. Application deadlines are 15 April 2025 and 15 October 2025.

University/Institution Details:

Name: University of Hamburg
Location: Hamburg, Germany
Ranking: Recognized as one of Germany’s leading universities
Programs: Offers a wide range of master’s, and doctoral programs
Duration:
- Masters: 2 Years
- PhD: 3-5 Year
Scholarship Duration: 2 semesters (total of 12 months)

Study Areas

The University of Hamburg Merit Scholarship is open to all academic disciplines, including but not limited to:

Humanities and Social Sciences
Natural Sciences and Mathematics
Engineering and Computer Science
Business and Economics
Medicine and Health Sciences
Law and Political Science
Environmental and Earth Sciences

University of Hamburg Merit Scholarship Benefits:

Financial Support: Up to €930 per month for two semesters (12 months);
Doctoral researchers may receive up to €1,200 per month, subject to funding availability.
Initial Duration: 2 semesters (12 months)
Renewal: Reapplication possible
Maximum Funding Duration: 2 years

Benefits Not Included:

Accommodation costs
Health insurance

Eligibility Criteria for University of Hamburg Merit Scholarship:

You can apply if you:

Have completed at least 2 semesters at the University of Hamburg (Master’s students in 2-year programs & PhD students can apply after 1 semester).
Do not hold German citizenship.
Are not eligible for the German federal student loan (BAföG).
Have good to excellent academic performance.
Show additional achievements (e.g., presentations, publications, awards, specialized skills).
Have engaged in social or intercultural activities (e.g., volunteer work).
Can demonstrate financial need.

Scholarship Disbursement

Payments start on the 1st of each month.
For April deadline: Funding begins on 1 October.
For October deadline: Funding begins on 1 April.
Funds cannot be sent to a foreign bank account.
Academic leave is not allowed during the funding period.

Required Documents:

CV
Letter of motivation (Use the official template)
Proof of social/intercultural activities (if applicable)
Academic transcript/record of achievements
Degree certificate (Master’s & PhD students)
- Bachelor’s & Staatsexamen Students: Upload STiNE printout of “Leistungskonto” or a current transcript of records.
- Master’s & PhD Students: Upload your most recent degree certificate with grades (in English or German).
Two evaluations from full-time teaching staff (Use the official template)

Additional Steps for Residency Verification (Mandatory):

Non-EU citizens: Present your residence permit.
EU citizens: Present your ID + residence registration certificate.

Verification Dates (via Zoom): Choose one:

03 April 2025 (10-11 AM)
09 April 2025 (2-3 PM)
11 April 2025 (9-10 AM)
15 April 2025 (1-2 PM)

How to Verify:
1. Email (stipend-internationalstudent@uni-hamburg.de) with your preferred date.
2. Receive a Zoom link for verification.
3. Join Zoom on the chosen date and wait for verification.

Important: Only complete applications submitted before the deadline will be considered. Late or incomplete applications will be rejected.

University of Hamburg Merit Scholarship Application Process:

Check Eligibility: Confirm that you meet all eligibility criteria.
Prepare Documents: Gather all required documents.
Log in to the application portal using your STiNE ID.
Register with your student email and complete the application.
Complete Application Form: Accurately fill out the official scholarship application form.
Submit Application: Submit the application and all required documents by the specified deadline through the University of Hamburg’s application portal.
Confirmation: Ensure receipt of application submission confirmation and monitor any additional communications from the scholarship office.

Tips for a Successful Application:

Academic Excellence: Maintain strong academic records.
Engagement: Participate in social and intercultural activities.
Personalization: Craft a compelling and personalized letter of motivation.
Recommendations: Secure strong evaluations from faculty members.
Timeliness: Submit your application well before the deadline.

Living Expenses for International Students in Hamburg (Approximate per month)

Accommodation: €300 – €600 (shared/private)
Food & Groceries: €200 – €300
Health Insurance: €110 – €120
Public Transport: €50 – €80
Utilities & Internet: €50 – €100
Miscellaneous (leisure, books, etc.): €100 – €200
Total Estimated Cost: €850 – €1,200 per month

Why Choose This Opportunity?

The University of Hamburg Merit Scholarship not only provides financial support but also offers access to world-class research facilities and a vibrant academic community. Living in Hamburg allows for immersion in German culture, enhancing both personal and professional growth.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the duration of the scholarship?
- The scholarship is awarded for two semesters (12 months) and can be renewed, with a maximum funding duration of two years.
Can I apply if I am in my first semester?
- No, applicants must have completed at least two semesters at the University of Hamburg. However, master’s students in two-year programs and doctoral researchers can apply after one semester.
Is proficiency in German required?
- While many programs are offered in English, having a basic understanding of German can enhance your experience both academically and socially.
Are there age restrictions for applicants?
- There are no age restrictions for this scholarship.
Can I hold another scholarship simultaneously?
- Recipients are generally expected not to hold another scholarship simultaneously. It’s advisable to consult the scholarship office for specific guidelines.

Official Link for More Details and Application:

For comprehensive information and application details, visit the official University of Hamburg Merit Scholarships page: