Description

Ready to elevate your academic journey and launch a successful career in science? The Max Planck Schools offer a unique opportunity to engage in cutting-edge interdisciplinary research in fields such as Cognition, Matter to Life, and Photonics. Application portals for the Fall 2025 intake are now open, inviting ambitious and promising candidates from all over the world to apply. Discover what makes the Max Planck Schools the perfect environment for pursuing PhD studies in Germany. 

 Why Choose the Max Planck Schools? 

 As a member of the Max Planck Schools, you will become part of a distinguished scientific network comprising 27 top-tier universities and 35 institutes from non-university research organizations across Germany. This joint graduate program brings together some of the country’s leading scientists, providing the chance to pursue topics at the forefront of both fundamental and applied research. 

• Engage in Cutting-Edge Research: Explore diverse fields like Cognition, Matter to Life, and Photonics, supported by state-of-the-art research infrastructures. 
• Exceptional Mentorship: Benefit from close supervision by renowned scientists and researchers, ensuring a tailored and enriching academic experience. 
• Flexible Program Options: Choose between an integrated MSc and PhD program or a standalone PhD program based on your academic background and career aspirations. 
• Innovative Teaching Formats: Access unique teaching methodologies that prepare you for the challenges of modern research. 
• No Tuition Fees and Competitive Funding: The Max Planck Schools offer a fully funded program, allowing you to focus entirely on scientific work. 

Funding Opportunities

The Max Planck Schools provide a comprehensive full funding package for up to five years, making it possible for students to dedicate themselves fully to research. During the first program phase, typically suited for those with a Bachelor’s degree, students receive a generous scholarship and, if eligible, a subsidy for health insurance and material costs. Upon successful completion of this phase, candidates move into the second phase, where they are offered a contract according to the local Public Service Wage Agreement (TVöD/TV-L, E 13).

Degree Level

Max Planck School Germany Graduate Scholarships Fall 2025 (Fully Funded) is available to undertake PhD level programs at Max Planck Research School.

Available Subjects

Following subject are available to study under this scholarship program.

• Photonics
• Matter to Life
• Cognition

Benefits

Funding Opportunities 

The Max Planck Schools provide a comprehensive full funding package for up to five years, making it possible for students to dedicate themselves fully to research. During the first program phase, typically suited for those with a Bachelor’s degree, students receive a generous scholarship and, if eligible, a subsidy for health insurance and material costs. Upon successful completion of this phase, candidates move into the second phase, where they are offered a contract according to the local Public Service Wage Agreement (TVöD/TV-L, E 13).

Eligible Nationalities

This scholarship is open to international students of all nationalities.

Eligibility Criteria

Who Can Apply?

Applications are welcomed from highly motivated and talented individuals from all over the globe. The Max Planck Schools offer an inclusive environment that nurtures the next generation of scientists. The programs are open not only to Master's graduates but also to exceptional Bachelor's graduates looking to establish their scientific careers.

• Diverse Applicant Pool: Students from varied academic backgrounds in the sciences are encouraged to apply.
• International Opportunities: Join a globally competitive program that emphasizes diversity and excellence.

Application Procedure

How to Apply

Applications for the Fall 2025 intake must be submitted by December 1, 2024, through the exclusive online APPLICATION PORTAL. Each Max Planck School—Cognition, Matter to Life, and Photonics—has a competitive, multi-stage selection process. 

Details on the recruitment process for each School can be found here:

• Max Planck School of Cognition
• Max Planck School Matter to Life
• Max Planck School of Photonics

Please make sure to check the individual FAQ sections as well.

Note: applications via email are not accepted.

Become Part of an Elite Scientific Community

Joining the Max Planck Schools means more than just academic achievement—it’s about becoming a part of a vibrant, collaborative, and internationally recognized research community. For those who aspire to conduct groundbreaking research and work alongside some of the brightest minds in science, this is the opportunity.

Apply Now for the Max Planck Schools and Kickstart Your Career!