University of Cologne Schmittmann-Wahlen Doctoral Scholarship 2027

The Schmittmann-Wahlen Doctoral Scholarship at the University of Cologne, Germany, supports outstanding graduates pursuing a doctoral degree. The scholarship is aimed at academically excellent candidates who demonstrate strong social engagement and an interest in socially relevant issues, while also having a financial need.

Table of Content

• Summary
• Benefits
• Requirements
• Interview Process
• Application Documents
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineNovember 1, 2026
• Study LevelPhD
• SponsorUniversity of Cologne
• City to studyNorth Rhine-Westphalia
• School to studyUniversity of Cologne
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

• The scholarship amounts to €1,750 per month. 

Requirements

• Graduates from all faculties of the University of Cologne who have demonstrated exceptional aptitude for doctoral studies based on their excellent grades in their final exams.
• The foundation supports socially engaged individuals who wish to make a difference in society.
• Candidates should therefore have demonstrated a high degree of social commitment and have engaged with socially relevant issues.
• Financial need is another criterion for funding.

Selection Process

• The awarding of the scholarship is decided by a selection committee consisting of the Rector of the University (Chair), the Vice-Rector for Academic Career and Personnel Development, two members of the Board of the Schmittmann-Wahlen Foundation, the deans or vice-deans of the faculties and the spokesperson of the Albertus Magnus Center (AMC).

Application Documents

The following documents must be submitted:

• Candidate's CV
• Overview of social and other activities outside of school and university (preferably with relevant documentation)
• Outline of the planned work with timeline
• Copy of the high school diploma and university degree certificates
• Proposal report on the applicant
• Brief description of financial support needs (overview of the financial situation: How was the study financed? What funds are regularly available?)
• The completed application form for the doctoral scholarship

Check also:
2026 Fully Funded Humboldt Research Fellowship
2026 Eutopia PhD Co-tutelle Call

Application Deadline

How To Apply

• Suitable candidates must be nominated by a professor at the University of Cologne who will serve as the primary supervisor of the doctoral project. Direct applications are not accepted.
• Please submit nominations by email to sw-stipendium(at)verw.uni-koeln(dot)de by November 1, 2026.

For more information, kindly visit the University of Cologne webpage.