The University of Bonn International Fellowships 2026 offer an exceptional opportunity for internationally renowned scholars to engage in short-term academic stays in Germany. Hosted by one of the country’s leading research universities, this program is designed to foster global collaboration, intellectual exchange, and long-term research partnerships.
Fellows—postdoctoral researchers and senior academics—are invited to spend up to 12 days at the University of Bonn. During their stay, they will participate in public lectures, academic seminars, collaborative meetings, and other scholarly events, helping to enrich Bonn’s vibrant research environment.
Application Deadline: September 22, 2025
Program Duration: January 1 – December 31, 2026
Location: University of Bonn, Germany
Funding Type: Fully Funded
Level: Fellowship (Postdoctoral / Experienced Faculty)
Eligible Applicants: International Scholars
Fields of Study: All Disciplines
The program’s mission is to:
Promote interdisciplinary academic exchange
Support international research collaborations
Strengthen ties with strategic global partner institutions
Enhance the University of Bonn’s visibility and global reach
Fellows will play a pivotal role in advancing academic dialogue by contributing their expertise and engaging with the Bonn community through various forums.
All academic disciplines are eligible under this fellowship program.
The Bonn International Fellowship offers a comprehensive funding package:
Travel Allowance: Covers round-trip transportation to and from Bonn (amount based on the fellow’s country of origin)
Daily Stipend: €160 per day for up to 12 days, including arrival and departure
Event Support: Up to €500 for hosting academic events, seminars, or receptions (e.g., catering: €50 per guest, €40 for university members)
Public Relations Support: Additional funds for promotional activities associated with the fellowship
Note: The fellowship period must fall between January 1 and December 31, 2026, and all allocated funds must be used within this timeframe.
Eligibility: Open to applicants from all nationalities
Target Group: Postdoctoral researchers and experienced faculty with a strong international academic profile
Host Requirement: Applicants must be invited by a faculty member or department at the University of Bonn. Only University of Bonn researchers can submit the application on behalf of the invited fellow.
To be considered for the fellowship, the following criteria must be met:
Demonstrated international reputation and scholarly excellence in their respective field
An invitation from a University of Bonn host
Clear potential to contribute meaningfully to the academic life at Bonn during the visit
Alignment with the university’s strategic goals for global engagement and research development
Fellows are selected based on:
Academic reputation and achievements
Potential contribution to Bonn’s academic community (lectures, collaborations, knowledge exchange)
Long-term collaboration potential, including future research partnerships or joint initiatives
The application must be submitted by the University of Bonn host researcher and should include the following documents:
Project Description: A detailed overview (max. 6 pages, PDF) of the visit’s objectives and the fellow’s background
Timeline: Proposed dates for the visit within the 2026 calendar year
Collaboration Overview: Summary of any prior or ongoing collaboration
Integration Plan: How the fellow will be involved in the university’s academic activities
Expected Outcomes: Short- and long-term goals of the visit (e.g., publications, future joint research)
Declaration of Consent: Informal letter of acceptance from the invited fellow
Curriculum Vitae: Comprehensive CV of the fellow
Invitation Letter: Formal letter of invitation from the University of Bonn host
Financing Plan: A detailed funding plan (Excel format) outlining the use of fellowship resources
Call Opens: May 29, 2025
Application Deadline: September 22, 2025 (by 5:00 PM CET)
Notification of Results: Early December 2025
Fellowship Period: January 1 – December 31, 2026
The Bonn International Fellowships provide a dynamic platform for advancing scientific dialogue, fostering intercultural understanding, and building lasting research networks. Scholars benefit from academic exposure in one of Germany’s premier research institutions, while the University of Bonn strengthens its role as a hub for global academic exchange.
Whether you’re a global researcher seeking to expand your academic influence or a faculty member at Bonn looking to initiate impactful partnerships, this fellowship offers a unique opportunity for collaborative growth and scholarly innovation.
📩 Interested? Make sure your host at Bonn submits the application before the deadline!