University of Hamburg International Students Merit Scholarships

In 2025, Universität Hamburg will offer merit-based scholarships to support exceptional international students and doctoral researchers from all disciplines and degree levels who are interested in studying in Germany. These scholarships allow recipients to focus on their academic pursuits and enhance their abilities without financial constraints.

Concerning the University of Hamburg:

Universität Hamburg, or UHH, is a distinguished public research institution situated in northern Germany. It is one of the largest institutions in Germany, with a capacity of 40,000 students, and was established in 1919 through the collaborative efforts and civic pride of Hamburg’s residents. The primary campus of UHH is located in the vibrant city of Hamburg, where it is surrounded by a variety of structures and amenities that are dispersed throughout the urban landscape. This environment fosters a dynamic and diverse educational environment.

The University of Hamburg offers a wide range of academic programs across its faculties, which include subjects such as Law, Business, Economics, Social Sciences, Medicine, Education, Humanities, Mathematics, Informatics, Natural Sciences, Psychology, and Human Movement Science. UHH is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach to research and education, which is exemplified by numerous collaborative initiatives and partnerships across a wide range of academic disciplines.

The University of Hamburg has consistently achieved high positions in both national and international contexts. It was ranked among the top 200 universities in the world by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings and the QS World University Rankings. Additionally, in 2019, the German government granted the university the prestigious title of “University of Excellence,” which recognized its exceptional achievements in the fields of research and education.

Otto Stern, Wolfgang Pauli, and Isidor Isaac Rabi are among the numerous Nobel laureates who have served as faculty and graduates of the University of Hamburg. Several other distinguished graduates, including philosopher Ernst Cassirer, art historian Erwin Panofsky, and former German Chancellor Helmut Schmidt, have made significant contributions to their respective fields.

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University of Hamburg Research:

The University of Hamburg is distinguished by its commitment to sustainability and the resolution of global issues. The institution has established numerous research centers and initiatives that are dedicated to climate change, infection research, and other critical issues, thereby illustrating its dedication to addressing modern challenges. Additionally, the university’s diverse campus community and extensive international partnerships provide students with the opportunity to engage in intercultural activities and develop a global perspective.

Academic Level:

International students in Germany are eligible to apply for the University of Hamburg Merit Scholarships 2025, which are available for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs.

Benefits of University of Hamburg International Students Merit Scholarships:

• Financial Support: The scholarship provides monthly financial assistance to meet living expenses, enabling students to concentrate on their studies without the additional burden of financial hardship. This assistance can be especially advantageous in a city with a high cost of living, such as Hamburg.
• Encourages Academic Excellence: Merit-based scholarships foster a culture of academic excellence by rewarding students for their academic accomplishments and encouraging them to maintain high performance throughout their studies.
• Concentrate on Research and Studies: Students can prioritize their studies, projects, and research with financial support, rather than engaging in part-time labor. This can result in a more immersive learning experience and improved academic outcomes.
• Global Recognition: Achieving a merit-based scholarship from a reputable institution such as the University of Hamburg is a prestigious accomplishment that is highlighted on a resume, thereby showcasing an academic commitment to potential employers and enhancing future career prospects.
• Networking Opportunities: Merit scholarship recipients frequently have the opportunity to participate in seminars, events, and networking opportunities with other scholars, faculty, and professionals, which aids in the development of valuable connections within their respective fields.
• Cultural and Social Integration: Scholarships for international students frequently include supplementary assistance to facilitate the adjustment to life in Germany, such as language resources and cultural programs, thereby facilitating the transition into a new country and culture.
• Pathway to Research and Advanced Studies: The scholarship may provide students with the opportunity to pursue research, internships, and advanced studies, which may lead to PhD programs or research positions in their respective disciplines.
• Encourages Personal Development: Scholarship programs frequently offer mentoring or career advice, which can assist students in achieving their personal and professional development objectives, thereby providing them with a head start on career planning.
• Reduces Tuition Fees for Non-EU Students: Although Germany generally provides free or low-cost education, certain programs, particularly those that are open to non-EU students, may still require fees. Scholarships can mitigate these expenses, guaranteeing that students have access to a high-quality education without financial constraints.
• Enhances Cultural Competence and Language Proficiency: Scholarship programs may provide language courses or cultural activities, which enable international students to enhance their German language proficiency and more effectively integrate into German society.
• Encourages Diversity and Inclusion: International students who receive scholarships at the University of Hamburg are able to enrich their global perspective by contributing to and benefiting from a diverse, multicultural academic environment.
• Enhances Future Opportunities in Germany: Students may establish a foundation for future career or residency opportunities in Germany by studying there on a merit scholarship. Especially for students who have exhibited merit, German employers frequently prioritize degrees from local universities.

Significant Notice:

• This scholarship program is not available to students who meet the requirements of Section 8 of the German Federal Training Assistance Act (BAföG).

Nationalities That Qualify:

International pupils of all nationalities are eligible to apply for this grant.

Eligibility Requirements:

• To qualify, you must be an international student without German citizenship.
• You must be enrolled in your program at Universität Hamburg for a minimum of:
• The preponderance of programs require two semesters.
• One semester for doctoral candidates and students enrolled in two-year Master’s programs.
• You are not eligible for the federal student loan program in Germany.

Application Process:

Are you considering applying? We strongly recommend that you schedule an advising session before submitting your online application.

The following is a list of significant dates and procedures:

Submission Deadlines:

(Financing for the period from October 1st to September 30th of the same year) April 15th

October 15th (financing for the period of April 1st to March 31st of the subsequent year)

Prepared to Submit an Online Application?

• Here is an available comprehensive guide.
• Log in with your STiNE ID and select the application period you wish to apply for. Separate application forms are accessible for each deadline (April 15th and October 15th).
• Utilize your official student email address to register.

Necessary Documentation: (Submit using the online application portal)

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Motivational Letter
• Evidence of social and/or intercultural interactions (if applicable)

Scholarly Record:

• STiNE printout of “Leistungskonto” or current academic transcript required for students pursuing a Bachelor’s degree or State Examination.
• For graduate or doctoral students, the most recent degree certificate with grades (in either English or German) is required.
• Evaluations: Two evaluations from full-time faculty members who possess doctoral degrees at Universität Hamburg.
• Guarantee that you adhere to the deadline. Applications that are either insufficient or submitted after the deadline will not be assessed. Begin the accumulation of your documents as soon as possible to ensure a smooth application process.

Supplementary Requirement:

• Proof of Residence Permit: Please submit this document to the program coordinator in advance of the deadline.
• European Union citizens: Please submit your identity card and German domicile registration certificate (“Meldebescheinigung”).
• To schedule an appointment, contact the program coordinator via email. These materials will not be retained.

Selection Procedure:

The bursaries will be awarded on the basis of merit by a committee that includes faculty members and representatives from the student council (ASTA).

Outcomes:

A notification will be sent to you via email approximately 8-11 weeks after the application deadline. Furthermore, the web portal may be employed to confirm the status updates of the application.

Frequently Asked Questions: