The University of Kassel Exposé Scholarships 2026 are now open, offering vital support to motivated doctoral candidates preparing their PhD dissertation proposals (exposés). This partial funding program provides financial assistance and academic supervision, making it an excellent stepping stone for both international and domestic students beginning their doctoral journey in Germany.
For ambitious researchers, this is one of the most valuable PhD scholarships in Germany 2026, designed to ensure a successful start to doctoral studies.
Host Institution: University of Kassel, Germany
Degree Level: Doctoral (PhD preparation stage)
Funding Type: Partial funding
Application Deadline: December 1, 2025
Funding Start Date: April 1, 2026
This highly competitive program attracts top candidates from across the globe, providing both financial security and strong academic mentorship.
The University of Kassel Exposé Scholarships are open to all disciplines, including:
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
Social Sciences
Humanities and Arts
Economics
Cultural Studies and more
Monthly Stipend: €1,300 to cover living expenses
Family Allowance: €200 per month (upon request)
Duration: Up to 9 months
Academic Supervision: Structured guidance from a University of Kassel professor while preparing the dissertation exposé
This support provides an essential foundation for candidates to secure full PhD funding in Germany.
To qualify, applicants must:
Have secured doctoral supervision from a University of Kassel professor
Be first-time doctoral candidates
Submit only one application (reapplication allowed in cases of childbirth, illness, or family care)
Hold any nationality – open worldwide
Motivation Letter (max. 2 pages) including:
Why you want to pursue a doctorate
Why the University of Kassel is your choice
How you plan to finance your PhD after this scholarship
Abstract of the Doctoral Project (max. 2 pages + bibliography)
Curriculum Vitae (table format)
Degree certificates / transcripts
Recommendation Letter from supervising professor (confirming supervision + funding plans)
Submit the complete PDF via the University of Kassel Application Portal before December 1, 2025.
Applications are reviewed by the Doctoral Scholarship Committee, based on:
Strength of motivation letter
Academic background and achievements
Quality and feasibility of the project abstract
Recommendation from supervising professor
The committee includes the Vice President of the University of Kassel, three professors, and one academic staff member, ensuring transparency.
One of the most competitive doctoral scholarships in Germany
Provides financial stability and academic mentorship during the proposal stage
Open to all fields of study and all nationalities
Excellent pathway to securing full PhD scholarships and research funding in Germany
1. What is the Exposé Scholarship?
It’s a partial funding scholarship supporting doctoral candidates in preparing their PhD proposals.
2. Who can apply?
Both international and domestic students supervised by a Kassel professor.
3. How much funding is provided?
€1,300 per month + €200 family allowance.
4. What is the duration?
Up to 9 months.
5. Can I reapply if unsuccessful?
Reapplication is possible in cases of childbirth, illness, or family responsibilities.
6. Is it open worldwide?
Yes, applicants of all nationalities may apply.
7. When does the funding begin?
April 1, 2026.
8. Is it fully funded?
No, it’s partial funding, but provides significant academic and financial support.
9. What documents are required?
Motivation letter, project abstract, CV, transcripts, and supervisor’s recommendation.
10. Why University of Kassel?
It offers strong academic supervision, international research opportunities, and pathways to advanced doctoral funding in Germany.