The University of Hamburg, one of Germany’s most prestigious institutions, has announced its Merit Scholarships for the 2024-25 academic year. This opportunity is open to international students enrolled in bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs at the university. The scholarships aim to provide financial support to talented students from around the world, enabling them to focus fully on their studies without the burden of financial constraints.
No IELTS Requirement for Merit Scholarships
A key feature of the University of Hamburg’s Merit Scholarships is that students do not need to submit IELTS scores to be eligible. This makes the scholarship accessible to a wider pool of applicants, particularly those who may not have the resources to take standardized language tests.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for these scholarships, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- International Students Only: The scholarships are open exclusively to students from outside Germany. German citizens are not eligible to apply.
- Enrollment Requirements: Applicants must have been enrolled in their current program at the University of Hamburg for at least two semesters. However, students in two-year master’s programs and doctoral researchers can apply after completing just one semester.
- Academic Performance: Candidates must demonstrate strong academic performance, with good to excellent grades.
- Social or Intercultural Involvement: Applicants who have participated in social or intercultural activities, such as volunteer work, will have an added advantage. Proof of such involvement is encouraged.
- Financial Need: Consideration will also be given to applicants’ financial situations, with a preference for those who can demonstrate a clear need for financial assistance.
Benefits of the Scholarship
The Merit Scholarships provide substantial financial support to recipients. Here’s what students can expect:
- Monthly Funding: Undergraduate and master’s students can receive up to €930 per month, while doctoral researchers may receive up to €1,200 per month, depending on available funds.
- Duration: The scholarship covers two semesters (a total of 12 months). Recipients have the opportunity to reapply for additional funding, and in exceptional cases, the scholarship period can be extended to three years.
- No Age Limit: There is no age restriction for applicants, making the scholarship accessible to a broad range of students.
Application Process
Interested students must submit their applications online through the University of Hamburg’s designated application portal. The process involves:
- Online Application: Applicants must fill out the application form with their STiNE ID and submit it online before the deadline. Apply here.
- Required Documents: The application must include a curriculum vitae (CV), a letter of motivation, evidence of social or intercultural activities (if applicable), and a record of academic achievements.
- Evaluations: Two evaluation forms from full-time teaching staff members with doctorates at the University of Hamburg are required. These forms are crucial for the application to be considered.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the University of Hamburg Merit Scholarships is October 15, 2024. Successful applicants will begin receiving funding from April 1, 2025.
The University of Hamburg’s Merit Scholarships represent a valuable opportunity for international students to pursue higher education in Germany without the financial burden. With no IELTS requirement and a strong focus on academic and social contributions, these scholarships are an excellent way for students to achieve their educational goals while experiencing life at one of Germany’s leading universities.
