Germany continues to be one of the top destinations for international doctoral studies, offering world-class universities, strong research funding, and globally respected degrees. Among the most prestigious opportunities now open is the DAAD-funded Doctoral Scholarship in Law & Society (2026–2030) at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin.
This fully funded PhD scholarship is offered by the Integrative Research Institute Law & Society (LSI) in cooperation with the DFG Graduate School “DynamInt – Dynamics of Law”, and is designed for outstanding international students interested in interdisciplinary legal research.
In this detailed guide, you will find everything you need to know about the DAAD Doctoral Scholarships in Germany, including eligibility criteria, financial benefits, research focus areas, required documents, and the complete application process.
Overview of the DAAD Doctoral Scholarship in Law & Society
- Host University: Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin (Germany)
- Research Institute: Integrative Research Institute Law & Society (LSI)
- Partner Programme: DFG Graduate School “DynamInt”
- Funding Body: German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
- Scholarship Duration: Up to 4 years (2026–2030)
- Start Date: Preferably 1 September 2026
- Number of Scholarships: 2 doctoral positions
- Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
This opportunity is ideal for students seeking fully funded PhD scholarships in law, social sciences, and interdisciplinary research in Europe.
About the Doctoral Programme: Law & Society
The Doctoral Programme Law & Society focuses on understanding the role of law in addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing democratic societies today. The programme adopts a genuinely interdisciplinary approach, combining law with social sciences, political theory, and comparative studies.
Key Research Themes Include:
- Climate change and environmental governance
- The rise of populism and democratic backsliding
- Rule of law and constitutional resilience
- European legal harmonisation vs. legal plurality
- Global governance and transnational law
The research environment at Humboldt University places doctoral researchers in the heart of Berlin, one of Europe’s most important academic and political hubs, offering constant exposure to international debates, conferences, and research networks.
Language of Instruction and Dissertation
- Programme Language: English
- Dissertation Language: English or German
- German Language Requirement:
- Not required at the time of application
- Scholarship holders must acquire working knowledge of German during their PhD
- Fully funded German language courses are included in the scholarship
This makes the programme especially attractive for international students searching for PhD scholarships in Germany taught in English.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
The DAAD Doctoral Scholarships in Law & Society welcome applications from highly qualified international students with a strong interest in interdisciplinary research.
Academic Requirements
Applicants must:
- Hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in:
- Law
- Social sciences
- Or closely related fields
- Propose a research project aligned with the Law & Society doctoral programme
- Demonstrate strong academic excellence and research potential
Key Selection Criteria
- Quality and originality of the research proposal
- Relevance to the Law & Society thematic agenda
- Clear interdisciplinary contribution
DAAD-Specific Conditions
At the time of nomination to DAAD:
- The final Master’s exam must have been completed no more than six years ago
- Applicants must not have lived in Germany for more than 15 months
- Non-German citizens are strongly encouraged to apply
This makes the scholarship highly suitable for international applicants seeking DAAD PhD scholarships for international students.
DAAD Doctoral Scholarship Benefits (Fully Funded)
Successful candidates will receive a comprehensive funding package covering living, research, and study-related expenses.
Core Financial Benefits
- Monthly stipend: €1,400
- Travel allowance: Provided
- Health, accident, and personal liability insurance
- Research allowance:
- €460 per year (for applicants from DAC-listed countries)
- €260 per year (for other countries)
Additional Benefits (If Eligible)
- Monthly rent subsidy: Approx. €50–€125
- Family allowances:
- €200 per month per child
- €275 per month marriage allowance
- Disability or chronic illness support: Additional funding if required
- Preparatory German language course
- Material and supervision allowance: €1,000 per year paid to the host institution
These benefits place this programme among the top fully funded PhD scholarships in Germany.
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
The selection process follows two stages:
Step 1: Application to Law & Society Doctoral Programme
Applicants must first apply directly to the Integrative Research Institute Law & Society, which will nominate suitable candidates to DAAD.
Step 2: DAAD Final Selection
Shortlisted nominees submit a formal application via the DAAD online portal, where the final decision is made by the DAAD selection board.
Required Application Documents (Step 1)
All documents must be submitted as one single PDF file (maximum 10 MB) in English or German, in the order below:
- Letter of Motivation (maximum 1,000 words)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research Proposal
- Includes abstract and work plan
- Maximum length: 5 pages
- Two Letters of Recommendation
- Issued by university professors
- Must be from the last two years
- DAAD recommendation form required
- Academic Certificates and Transcripts
- School certificate qualifying for university admission
- Bachelor’s and Master’s degree certificates
- Official transcripts
- Language Certificates
- English: TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge, or proof of English-taught degree
- German: Optional (Goethe, TELC, DSD, or German-taught degree)
- Certificates of Practical Experience (if applicable)
- List of Publications (if applicable)
How to Submit Your Application
- Submission Method: Email
- File Format: Single PDF
- Email Subject Line: Application DAAD grant Law & Society
- Deadline: January 31, 2026
Official Submission Email:
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Why Choose Humboldt University of Berlin?
Founded in 1810, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin is one of Europe’s most prestigious research universities. It has produced:
- Nobel Prize winners
- Influential legal scholars
- Global political thinkers
Studying in Berlin offers:
- Access to international organizations
- A vibrant academic and cultural life
- Excellent career prospects in Europe and beyond
This makes the scholarship ideal for students aiming for academic, policy, or international research careers.
Key Dates to Remember
- Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
- Scholarship Start Date: September 1, 2026
- Duration: Up to 4 years
Contact for Further Information
Eva Herzog
Integrative Research Institute Law & Society
Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin
Unter den Linden 6
10099 Berlin, Germany
📧 Eva.marguerite.herzog@hu-berlin.de
Conclusion
The DAAD Doctoral Scholarships in Law & Society 2026–2030 represent a rare opportunity to pursue a fully funded PhD in Germany at one of Europe’s most respected universities. With generous financial support, interdisciplinary research freedom, and access to a global academic network, this programme is perfectly suited for ambitious international scholars.
If you are searching for DAAD scholarships 2026, fully funded PhD in law, or doctoral scholarships in Germany for international students, this opportunity should be at the top of your list.
Application Link: https://www.huberlin.de/en/studies/admission/enrolment-office/phd-studies.
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