Applications are open for the Max Planck Schools PhD programmes in Germany, offering funding for up to five years and opportunities for Bachelor’s and Master’s graduates.
The Max Planck Schools PhD programmes offer ambitious candidates from around the world an opportunity to pursue interdisciplinary graduate research in Germany.
The programme brings together scientists from 30 universities and 33 non-university research institutes, allowing PhD candidates to work on research topics at the forefront of fundamental and applied science.
Applications are open from September 1 to December 1 for candidates planning to start their programme in the fall of the following year.
Max Planck Schools PhD Programme Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | Max Planck Schools Graduate Programme |
| Location | Germany |
| Study level | Integrated MSc & PhD or standalone PhD |
| Fields | Biomedical AI, Cognition, Matter to Life, Photonics |
| Funding | Full funding for up to 5 years |
| Tuition fees | No tuition fees |
| Eligible applicants | Bachelor’s and Master’s graduates |
| Nationality | Candidates worldwide |
| Application period | September 1 – December 1 |
| Start | Fall of the following year |
What Does the Programme Offer?
The Max Planck Schools provide an interdisciplinary research environment connecting leading scientists across German universities and research organizations.
The programme focuses on four major research areas:
- Biomedical Artificial Intelligence
- Cognition
- Matter to Life
- Photonics
Students receive close supervision from scientists at participating universities and research organizations, together with access to research infrastructure and innovative teaching formats.
Full Funding for Up to Five Years
Admission to a Max Planck School includes full funding for up to five years.
During the initial programme phase, typically for candidates entering with a Bachelor’s degree, PhD candidates receive a scholarship. Depending on the circumstances, funding may also include subsidies for health insurance and material costs.
After successfully completing the first phase, candidates receive a contract for the second phase in accordance with the TVöD/TV-L E 13 public-service wage agreement.
The programme also states that there are no tuition fees.
Who Can Apply?
The Max Planck Schools welcome highly ambitious candidates from around the world.
Importantly, applicants do not necessarily need to already hold a Master’s degree. The programme is open to:
- Bachelor’s graduates seeking an integrated MSc and PhD pathway.
- Master’s graduates applying for PhD programmes.
- International candidates from around the world.
- Candidates interested in interdisciplinary scientific research.
Individual schools may have additional eligibility and application requirements, so applicants should carefully check the requirements of their selected school.
Available Research Schools
Applicants can explore four Max Planck Schools:
Biomedical Artificial Intelligence
This school focuses on interdisciplinary research connecting biomedical sciences and artificial intelligence.
Biomedical AI application information
Max Planck School of Cognition
The Cognition programme focuses on research into cognition and related interdisciplinary scientific questions.
Cognition application information
Max Planck School Matter to Life
Matter to Life brings together research at the intersection of life sciences, chemistry, physics and related disciplines.
Matter to Life application information
Max Planck School of Photonics
The Photonics school focuses on interdisciplinary research in photonics and related scientific fields.
Photonics application information
Application Deadline
Applications for a programme starting in the fall of the following year must be submitted between:
September 1 and December 1.
The application information states that applications should be submitted exclusively through the Max Planck Schools application portal.
How to Apply
Applicants should first select the Max Planck School that matches their academic and research interests and review its individual requirements.
Applications are submitted through the official application portal:
Max Planck Schools Application Portal
Each school conducts its own competitive multi-stage selection process, so applicants should also review the relevant school’s FAQ and recruitment information.
Application Tips
Before applying, prospective candidates should:
- Choose the research school that matches their academic background and interests.
- Review the specific requirements of that school.
- Read the relevant FAQ carefully.
- Prepare application materials well before the December 1 deadline.
- Make sure the application clearly reflects their research interests and academic preparation.
- Submit the application through the official Max Planck Schools portal.
Opportunities Feed Assessment
The Max Planck Schools programme is particularly relevant to candidates interested in pursuing interdisciplinary scientific research in Germany. Its stated funding structure can cover up to five years, while the programme accepts both Bachelor’s and Master’s graduates.
However, selection is competitive and individual schools may have different requirements. Applicants should therefore assess the specific programme they wish to join before submitting an application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Max Planck Schools PhD programme fully funded?
The programme states that admission includes full funding for up to five years, with scholarship funding during the initial phase and a public-service employment contract during the second phase.
Can Bachelor’s graduates apply?
Yes. The Max Planck Schools specifically state that talented Bachelor’s graduates are encouraged to apply. Some candidates may enter an integrated MSc and PhD pathway.
Can international students apply?
Yes. The programme invites candidates from around the world to apply.
Are there tuition fees?
The programme states that there are no tuition fees.
What are the research areas?
The four current areas are Biomedical Artificial Intelligence, Cognition, Matter to Life and Photonics.
When is the application deadline?
Applications are accepted from September 1 through December 1 for a programme start in the fall of the following year.
Where do I apply?
Applications are submitted through the official Max Planck Schools application portal.
Is the selection process competitive?
Yes. The Max Planck Schools state that each school selects candidates through a competitive multi-stage process.
Official Application
Apply to the Max Planck Schools
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