The University of Hamburg Merit Scholarship offers outstanding international students the opportunity to pursue higher education at one of Germany’s top universities without financial stress.
This prestigious scholarship recognizes academic excellence across all disciplines, providing substantial financial support to help students focus entirely on their studies and research.
Below is the scholarship details:
Opportunity Summary
- Host Country: Germany
- Host Institution: University of Hamburg (Universität Hamburg)
- Study Level: Masters and PhD
- Eligibility: International Students
- Maximum Monthly Funding: €930 (up to €1,200 for doctoral researchers)
- Duration: 2 semesters (12 months), with possibility of renewal
- Application Deadlines: April 15, 2025 and October 15, 2025
- Funding Period: October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026 (for April deadline) or April 1, 2026 – March 31, 2027 (for October deadline)
About the Scholarship
The University of Hamburg Merit Scholarship program aims to support exceptional international students and doctoral researchers who demonstrate outstanding academic achievements and active involvement in social or intercultural contexts.
Established to recognize and reward high-achieving individuals, this scholarship enables talented students to reduce financial burdens while benefiting from a world-class education in Germany.
The scholarship serves as a gateway for ambitious scholars to achieve their academic and professional goals while experiencing Germany’s vibrant academic culture.
By alleviating financial stress, recipients can dedicate themselves fully to their coursework and research, developing valuable skills and expertise in their chosen fields.
Courses Available
The University of Hamburg Merit Scholarship is available for international students in all subjects and at all degree levels.
Whether you’re pursuing undergraduate studies, a master’s program, or doctoral research, you can apply for this scholarship regardless of your field of study.
This inclusive approach ensures that talented students from diverse academic backgrounds have the opportunity to receive financial support.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the University of Hamburg Merit Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be registered as a student at the University of Hamburg
- Have completed at least 2 semesters at the University of Hamburg (students in 2-year master’s programs and doctoral researchers can apply after 1 completed semester)
- Demonstrate outstanding to excellent academic performance
- Show evidence of achievements through publications, awards, presentations, or other accomplishments
- Not hold German citizenship
- Not be eligible for the German federal student loan scheme (BAföG)
The selection committee also considers:
- Previous financial support or volunteer activities
- Social and intercultural engagement
- The applicant’s financial needs or social situation
Who Should Apply
This scholarship is ideal for:
- High-achieving international students already enrolled at the University of Hamburg
- Students who have demonstrated academic excellence in their current studies
- Individuals who have been socially committed and actively involved in international contexts
- Students seeking financial support to focus on their academic pursuits
- Those who wish to develop their skills and expertise in a world-class German university
Benefits
Recipients of the University of Hamburg Merit Scholarship enjoy numerous advantages:
- Financial support of up to €930 per month (doctoral researchers may receive up to €1,200 monthly, depending on funding availability)
- Scholarship duration of 2 semesters (12 months) with the possibility to reapply
- Access to world-class research facilities and academic resources
- Opportunity to join a vibrant academic community
- Extensive networking opportunities with peers, faculty, and industry professionals
- Immersion in German culture, language, and traditions
- Personal development and cultural enrichment in a historic city
- Enhanced career prospects with a globally recognized degree
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the University of Hamburg Merit Scholarship:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet all requirements before proceeding with your application.
- Prepare Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Letter of motivation (using the specified PDF template)
- Proof of social and/or intercultural activities (if applicable)
- Academic records:
- Bachelor’s and State Exam students: STiNE printout of “Leistungskonto” or current transcript
- Master’s and doctoral students: Most recent degree certificate with grades (in English or German)
- Two evaluations from full-time teaching staff with doctorates at the University of Hamburg
- Access the Application Portal:
- For April 15 deadline: Use the application form available on the university website
- For October 15 deadline: Use the application form available on the university website
- Log in using your STiNE ID
- Register and Complete Application:
- Register with your student email address (not personal email)
- Fill out all required fields accurately
- Upload all necessary documents
- Document Verification:
- Non-EU Citizens: Present your residence permit
- EU Citizens: Present your identity card and registration certificate of residence (“Meldebescheinigung”)
- Schedule an appointment with the program coordinator before the application deadline
- Submit Application:
- Ensure all documents are uploaded correctly
- Submit your complete application before the deadline
- Incomplete applications will not be considered
Tips for Successful Application
- Start Early: Begin preparing your application at least 6-8 weeks before the deadline.
- Request Evaluations in Advance: Contact your evaluators at least 6 weeks before applying to ensure they have sufficient time to prepare their assessments.
- Follow Instructions Precisely: Use the specified templates and formats for all documents.
- Highlight Achievements: Clearly demonstrate your academic excellence and other accomplishments in your application.
- Showcase Social Engagement: Provide concrete evidence of your social and intercultural activities.
- Prepare a Compelling Motivation Letter: Clearly articulate your academic goals, research interests, and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
- Ensure Document Completeness: Double-check that all required documents are included, as incomplete applications will be rejected without further notice.
- Meet All Deadlines: For document verification appointments, request them well before the final cutoff (e.g., for the October 15, 2024 deadline, request appointments by October 11, 2024, at 11 a.m.).
Deadline
The application deadlines for the University of Hamburg Merit Scholarship 2025 are:
- April 15, 2025 (for funding period: October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026)
- October 15, 2025 (for funding period: April 1, 2026 – March 31, 2027)
For document verification appointments, ensure you request them at least 4-5 days before the application deadline.
Conclusion
The University of Hamburg Merit Scholarship represents an exceptional opportunity for international students to pursue their academic dreams at one of Germany’s leading universities.
Don’t miss this chance to advance your academic career in a world-class institution.
Prepare your application thoroughly, submit all required documents on time, and take the first step toward a financially supported educational journey at the University of Hamburg.
Also Read:
Fully Funded KAAD Scholarships 2025 in Germany: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Apply
Apply Now: 2025 i-Scholar Initiative Scholarship – Your Path to Academic Success
