are phd programs free in germany

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List of Free Phd Programs In Germany

Mar 4, 2024 | 5 min read

Free PhD programs in Germany are offered at public universities to all students regardless of their nationality, for up to the standard length of a PhD (3 years).

International students looking for free PhD programs in Germany can check out public universities in Germany that offer free PhD programs to all students regardless of their nationality, for up to the standard length of a PhD (3 years). PhD programs are free also in the state of Baden-Württemberg where tuition fees were reintroduced for non-EU students in 2017.

Germany is one of the most popular study abroad destinations and is home to around 3,600 international graduates completing their doctorate every year. Having first introduced the PhD in the 19th century, German universities and specialist research centres continue to offer innovative, tuition-free, postgraduate programs in various specializations to students from all over the world.

Table of Contents

Why Study a PhD in Germany?

Types of free phd programs in germany, top universities for free phd programs in germany, eligibility requirements for free phd programs in germany, how to apply for free phd programs in germany, cost to study free phd programs in germany, scholarships for free phd programs in germany.

Germany has a global reputation as a world leader in technology innovation and research. It also has a robust economy and an attractive quality of life and is particularly renowned in fields such as engineering and manufacturing. Some reasons to study a PhD in Germany include:

• Several German universities have a strong international reputation of which 46 are ranked within the top 1000 in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2020
• Germany offers a high standard of living and welcomes international students with low costs of study and good funding opportunities
• PhD in Germany is usually tuition-free and more than a quarter of doctoral candidates in Germany receive public funding
• The German higher education system is also world-class that has produced some of history’s most formidable thinkers such as theoretical physicist Albert Einstein

There are two types of free PhD programs in Germany depending on their structure and their provider. More detailed information on each type of PhD in Germany can be found below:

Individual Doctorate: This traditional PhD program in Germany is the most popular where students produce their thesis or dissertation under the supervision of a professor, but will mostly be working independently. The duration of this doctoral program varies but usually takes between 3-5 years.

The individual doctorate is known for being flexible but also demands a high amount of personal initiative and responsibility. One can not only obtain a PhD degree by conducting research work at a university but also by completing a project at a non-university research organization or at a German company in the industrial sector.

Structured PhD Programs: These free PhD programs in Germany involves a group of doctoral students being guided by a group of supervisors. Over 600 programs are available for international students with English as the language of instruction.

The structured PhD programs differ from the individual doctorate programs as the research proposals of the students have to fit in with existing PhD programs and cannot be freely structured to suit the individual research project. Students are also required to attend lectures and seminars, and will normally have a mentor.

Several universities in Germany are ranked globally for their PhD programs by various ranking organisations such as Times Higher Education, QS Rankings, and more. Listed below are some of the top universities for free PhD programs in Germany for international students:

• Technical University of Munich
• Heidelberg University
• Humboldt University of Berlin
• Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
• University of Goettingen
• University of Freiburg
• Free University of Berlin
• RWTH Aachen University

The eligibility criteria for free PhD programs in Germany vary based on the university and chosen program. In general, students need to have a good higher education degree which is equivalent to a German master’s degree. Find below the other admission requirements for enrolling in free PhD programs in Germany:

• An entrance exam and interview is needed to enrol extremely well-qualified international applicants with a bachelor’s degree to a doctoral degree program in Germany via a fast-track program
• Students applying for a PhD in English need to prove their English language proficiency with an English language proficiency test such as IELTS or TOEFL
• Candidates studying or submitting their PhD in German need to prove their proficiency in the language with a test such as the DSH or TestDaF

Documents Required

• Master’s degree from a recognized institution
• Proof of language proficiency (English/ German)
• Motivation letter
• Work experience

The application process differs for admission to an individual doctoral program and a structured doctoral program. Students applying for a structured PhD program should apply directly to the chosen university. The steps below explain the procedure to be followed for admission to an individual doctorate program in Germany:

• Applicants should firstly find a suitable professor who is willing to be their supervisor
• The supervisor can be found through contacts from your previous university or by searching for institutes and research centres or teams related to your area of interest
• The next step after finding a supervisor is to get the confirmation of eligibility as a doctoral candidate from the responsible department or doctoral committee
• For this, one must complete an application that includes a statement from your doctoral supervisor, certified copies of certificates, proof of recognition of your qualifications from the Dean’s office, academic references and the university degree
• The application should also include an English or German language test result, if applicable

Doctoral programs at public universities in Germany are free for all students irrespective of their nationality for up to the standard length of a PhD (3 years). Students may be required to pay the fees if the doctoral degree exceeds this duration.

Students pursuing free PhD programs in Germany are required to make a semester contribution of between €150 to €200 (~US$175-230) for administration and other costs like all other students. The main expenses for free PhD programs in Germany are living expenses.

International students applying for a student visa for Germany need to have access to a minimum of €10,236 (~US$11,266) per year in a blocked account. This amount covers the living expenses, which include rent, food, clothing, transportation, working materials, recreation and other costs.

Most doctoral students in Germany work on a paid research project or receive a scholarship. Students willing to obtain a scholarship to cover their living expenses in Germany can find various funding options on the official website of the university they wish to study at.

Students pursuing free PhD programs in Germany can also take a part-time job to supplement their funding, either within the university or outside. Full-time students from outside the EU are limited to working up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year before applying for a work permit. One can also receive graduate assistantships and fellowships from their university as well as public funding provided by the German government.

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Is College Free in Germany in 2025? Here’s The Truth!

The truth is that you can earn a degree in Germany by paying little to no tuition fees — if you study at a public university. Since public universities in Germany are funded by taxes, you don’t have to pay any tuition fees.

Here’s an overview with key information about free higher education in Germany:

• Public universities in Germany offer tuition-free education.
• Public universities are funded by taxes, making them accessible to national and international students.
• Private universities in Germany charge tuition fees, which can vary depending on the institution and program (can go up to €20,000/year for Master’s programs).
• Additional costs for students at public universities include semester fees, which cover administrative and other expenses (max ~€300 per semester).
• Scholarships, grants, and part-time work opportunities are available to help students cover living expenses and tuition fees.
• International students in Germany are allowed to work part-time during their studies .

Why Are Public Universities in Germany Free?

Public universities in Germany are free because they are operated and owned by the state. Up until 2014, tuition fees were around €1,000 per year.

Today, almost all public universities in Germany are free of charge, even for international students. 

There is one federal state that is the exception. The state of Baden-Württemberg charges non-EU/EEA students a fee of €1,500 per semester, unlike the usual small semester fee of €100 to €300 in other German states. 

This fee is still quite affordable compared to the quality of education you receive. 

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Is College Free for International Students Too?

Yes, in most federal states in Germany, studying at public universities is free for both national and international students. While studying at a public university in Germany is free, there is a small semester fee you have to pay. This ranges from €100 to €300, totaling about €700 per year. 

Here are some of the top tuition-free universities for international students in Germany:

• Free University of Berlin . Ranked as one of the best universities in Germany, the Free University of Berlin is mostly known for the excellence of its arts, humanities, and social sciences programs.
• Technical University of Berlin (TU) . TU is highly regarded for its technology and engineering programs in Germany. While its campus is spread across Berlin, the main buildings are in the Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf borough.
• Humboldt University of Berlin . Humboldt University is a public research university in Berlin. It offers degree programs in nearly 200 different fields. One impressive feature of this university (that you might have not known) is that Albert Einstein worked here. 
• Heidelberg University . Heidelberg, another public research university, is located in a charming German town. Currently, there are many English-taught Master’s programs available, covering various subjects like international health, international studies, economics, literature, and more.
• Ludwig Maximilian Munich University (LMU Munich) . LMU Munich University is Germany’s second-largest university and a host to a large number of international students. The university offers a wide range of study programs. It’s located in the vibrant city of Munich, known for its exciting places to explore, which adds extra fun to your studies. 

What About Master’s and PhD Programs?

The free cost of tuition mostly refers to bachelor’s degrees in Germany. Some master’s programs in Germany are still tuition-free, while others may have modest fees. Whereas, Ph.D. programs often have no tuition fees, with students receiving research stipends.

> Master’s Degree in Germany

> PhD in Germany   

What Are the Exceptions?

Private universities .

Studying at a private institution in Germany will cost you around €10,000–€15,000 per year for Bachelor’s programs and between €10,000 to €20,000 per year for Master’s programs. 

Non-Consecutive Master’s Programs 

Non-Consecutive Master’s programs offer postgraduate education that is not directly related to the field of study you have completed your bachelor’s degree in.  

To enroll in a non-consecutive master’s program you must have at least one year of relevant professional experience. Unlike many consecutive master’s Programs, non-consecutive Master’s programs usually charge tuition fees.

Secondary Degrees (“Zweitstudium”)

A Zweitstudium refers to obtaining a second Bachelor’s degree in a new subject when you already have a Bachelor’s degree or pursuing a Master’s degree in a different field after already holding a Master’s in another area. Fees for these programs usually range from €500 to €650 per semester.

Public Universities in the State of Baden-Württemberg 

Among the 16 federal states in Germany, Baden-Württemberg is the only one that charges non-EU/EEA students with tuition fees at its public universities. These fees are around €1,500 per semester, or a total of €3,000 per year.

Public Universities in the State of Bavaria

Public universities in the state of Bavaria can charge tuition fees according to its Bavarian Higher Education Innovation Act (BayHIG) — which was updated in 2023. This revision permits universities to charge tuition fees to international students from non-EU countries. 

Currently, TUM is the only Bavarian university to charge non-EU international students with tuition fees , starting winter 2024/25. You can expect to pay from €2,000- €3,000 for bachelor’s programs and €4,000-6,000 for master’s programs per semester.

So, What Expenses Do I Consider?

To cover your living expenses in Germany and these include rent, utilities, food, entertainment, transportation and the like, you need a total of €11,904 per year. That makes a total of €992 per month — if you don’t count tuition. 

The amount of €11,904 must be deposited into your German blocked account when applying for a German student visa. 

Here are the living expenses of two of the most popular student cities in Germany:

*The accommodation price is based on a one-bedroom apartment in the city center. Various cheaper options, such as dormitories, homestays, or apartment-sharing, are available.

Some other expenses you should consider include but are not limited to the following:

• Visa-Related Expenses: If you’re a non-EU/EEA student, you will likely need to apply for a student visa to study in Germany. This may involve fees for visa application (which is €75), document authentication, translation services, and health insurance requirements. 
• Health Insurance: Germany requires students to have health insurance coverage . You can choose between public or private health insurance, and the price ranges from €130 to €150 per month.
• Pocket Money: You will also need to set aside some money for personal expenses, fun activities, and unexpected costs while studying in Germany. It’s always best to be prepared financially, especially when you’re in a foreign country. 

Are There Scholarships for Living Expenses in Germany?

Yes, there are scholarships that cover living expenses in Germany . These scholarships are available to both domestic and international students studying in Germany. Here are some of the main sources for you to consider:

DAAD Scholarships

If you’re interested in a scholarship that covers living costs, accommodation and health insurance, DAAD scholarships are a great option. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers some of the most sought-after scholarships for international students in Germany.

DAAD scholarships are available to students of all study levels. So, it does not matter whether you’re pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree.

Good to know. These scholarships are highly competitive. Make sure you have a strong, well-prepared application that can improve your chances of earning the scholarship. 

Erasmus+ Scholarships

These scholarships are quite famous in Europe (they are funded by the European Union). The Erasmus+ program has excellent benefits. You receive coverage of living expenses and travel costs. You get to experience diverse cultures. Plus, you’ll have access to unique academic and social experiences within Germany.

University Scholarships

Many universities in Germany offer specialized scholarships for international students. These scholarships can cover a variety of expenses, including living costs, tuition fees and accommodation assistance.

Research the universities you are going to apply to and find out if they have scholarships that offer coverage that suits your interests and needs. 

Private Organization Scholarships 

Germany is also home to several private organizations and foundations that can offer you financial support. These scholarships can help with a range of expenses, such as accommodation, study-related costs and general living expenses.

Applying to multiple private scholarships can increase your chances of receiving financial aid, easing the overall cost of living in Germany.

Gautam Sawala: Living in Germany, I’ve never felt more at home anywhere else. I come from India, and there we always find order in chaos and diversity. While Germany is like a well oiled machine that runs at high efficiency.

Most universities in Germany offer top of the line education. With almost zero tuition fees and flexibility to do studies in ones own time. This relieves pressure off the back of students.

Meanwhile, many students also work as a part time employees to cover up living expenses. Except for IT jobs, it can be challenging for a foreign student to find a part time job in a related field if you do. not know German. [ Quora ]

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List of 35 Public Universities in Germany that Offer Free Studies for International Students

Germany is known for its high-quality education system and its commitment to making education accessible to all. One way this commitment is demonstrated is through the many public universities in Germany that offer free studies for both German and international students. In this list, we will highlight some of the top public universities in Germany that offer free studies international students.

In this article, we have listed 35 public universities in Germany that offer free studies for international students. For each university, we have provided its location, website, and application information. We have also emphasized the importance of researching each university’s admission requirements and deadlines, as well as considering the cost of living expenses when studying in Germany.

Public Universities in Germany that Offer Free Studies

Table of contents, certainly here’s some more information on tuition-free education and scholarships for international students in germany (public universities in germany that offer free studies), tuition-free education.

Public universities in Germany generally do not charge tuition fees for both domestic and international students. However, this applies to undergraduate programs only. Master’s degree programs may have some tuition fees depending on the university, program, and the student’s country of origin. In some cases, non-EU international students may also have to pay administrative fees or other charges, which are typically lower than tuition fees.

Living expenses

While tuition fees are not charged for international students in Germany, they will still need to cover living expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other costs. The average cost of living in Germany varies depending on the city and lifestyle, but it’s estimated to be around 850-1,000 Euros per month.

Health insurance

All students in Germany are required to have health insurance coverage. International students who are not from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland are required to have health insurance coverage through a public or private health insurance provider. The cost of health insurance varies depending on the provider and the coverage.

Scholarships

In addition to tuition-free education, there are also various scholarship programs available for international students in Germany. These scholarships can cover living expenses, accommodation, and even tuition fees, depending on the program and the institution. Scholarship programs may be funded by the German government, private organizations, or the universities themselves.

Some popular scholarship programs for international students in Germany include:

• DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) scholarships: These scholarships are funded by the German government and are available for international students at all levels of study.
• Deutschlandstipendium: This scholarship program is funded by the German government and private organizations and is available for high-achieving students.
• Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships: This scholarship program is available for international students who are pursuing a Master’s or PhD degree in Germany.

Application process: To apply for admission to a public university in Germany, international students can typically apply through the university’s online application portal. The application requirements and deadlines may vary depending on the university and the program. It’s important to check the specific university’s website for detailed information on the application process and requirements.

List of Public Universities in Germany that Offer Free Studies for International Students

• University of Bonn Location: Bonn Website: https://www.uni-bonn.de/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Hamburg Location: Hamburg Website: https://www.uni-hamburg.de/en.html Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• T echnical University of Munich Location: Munich Website: https://www.tum.de/en/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is May 31 for the winter semester and November 30 for the summer semester.
• Humboldt University of Berlin Location: Berlin Website: https://www.hu-berlin.de/en Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Freiburg Location: Freiburg Website: https://www.uni-freiburg.de/en/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Stuttgart Location: Stuttgart Website: https://www.uni-stuttgart.de/en/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• Technical University of Berlin Location: Berlin Website: https://www.tu.berlin/en/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is May 31 for the winter semester and November 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Bremen Location: Bremen Website: https://www.uni-bremen.de/en/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Cologne Location: Cologne Website: https://www.portal.uni-koeln.de/en/home.html Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Leipzig Location: Leipzig Website: https://www.uni-leipzig.de/en/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Mannheim Location: Mannheim Website: https://www.uni-mannheim.de/en/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Duisburg-Essen Location: Essen Website: https://www.uni-due.de/en/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Göttingen Location: Göttingen Website: https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/1.html Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Heidelberg Location: Heidelberg Website: https://www.uni-heidelberg.de/en Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Kiel Location: Kiel Website: https://www.uni-kiel.de/en/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Konstanz Location: Konstanz Website: https://www.uni-konstanz.de/en/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Marburg Location: Marburg Website: https://www.uni-marburg.de/en Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Münster Location: Münster Website: https://www.uni-muenster.de/en/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Potsdam Location: Potsdam Website: https://www.uni-potsdam.de/en/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Rostock Location: Rostock Website: https://www.uni-rostock.de/en/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Tübingen Location: Tübingen Website: https://uni-tuebingen.de/en/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Würzburg Location: Würzburg Website: https://www.uni-wuerzburg.de/en/home/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Bayreuth Location: Bayreuth Website: https://www.uni-bayreuth.de/en/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Hildesheim Location: Hildesheim Website: https://www.uni-hildesheim.de/en/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Koblenz-Landau Location: Koblenz and Landau Website: https://www.uni-koblenz-landau.de/en Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Siegen Location: Siegen Website: https://www.uni-siegen.de/en/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Vechta Location: Vechta Website: https://www.uni-vechta.de/en/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Erfurt Location: Erfurt Website: https://www.uni-erfurt.de/en/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.
• University of Greifswald Location: Greifswald Website: https://www.uni-greifswald.de/en/ Application information: International students can apply through the university’s online application portal. The application deadline for most programs is July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.

International students who want to study in Germany should also be aware of the health insurance requirements. All students in Germany are required to have health insurance, whether they are enrolled in a public or private insurance plan. International students can purchase insurance from a German insurance provider or use their own insurance if it meets the requirements set by German law.

To apply to any of these universities, international students will need to gather the required documents, such as academic transcripts, language proficiency certificates, and proof of financial resources. They should also check the specific admission requirements for their chosen program, as well as any additional requirements for international students.

Once the application is submitted, students may need to attend an interview or take an entrance exam, depending on the program. After the admission decision is made, students will need to apply for a student visa and may need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of health insurance coverage.

It is important to note that while tuition is free at these universities, international students may still need to cover living expenses such as accommodation, food, and transportation. They may also need to purchase health insurance and pay semester fees, which vary depending on the university and program.

International students who are interested in studying at a tuition-free university in Germany should start their research well in advance to ensure they meet all the application requirements and deadlines. They should also consider reaching out to the university’s international student office for further information and support.

In addition to the universities listed above, there are also other universities in Germany that offer free or low-cost tuition for international students, depending on the program and country of origin. Some examples include the Frankfurt School of Finance and Management, the University of Stuttgart, and the Technical University of Munich. Prospective students are encouraged to research all options and consider their individual needs and preferences before making a decision.

Overall, studying at a tuition-free university in Germany can be a great opportunity for international students to receive a high-quality education without incurring significant debt. With proper planning and research, students can take advantage of this unique opportunity and make the most of their academic experience in Germany.

Conclusion – Public Universities in Germany that Offer Free Studies

Studying at a tuition-free university in Germany or Public Universities in Germany that Offer Free Studies can be a great opportunity for international students to receive a high-quality education without incurring significant debt. With proper planning and research, students can take advantage of this unique opportunity and make the most of their academic experience in Germany. We encourage prospective students to research all options and consider their individual needs and preferences before making a decision on where to study.

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6 Free Online PhD Programs in Germany (Plus Scholarships)

Even though it’s promising to further your education through PhD level – we won’t deny that it will totally boost your career and even make you an authority in your field – it doesn’t come cheap, you won’t only be sacrificing your money but also your time. Because, at this moment you probably have a family you’re responsible for, and you’re now a working adult, so no more quick conclusion.

In fact, a lot of decision goes on before anyone undertakes a Postgraduate Programme, because it may exceed the minimum time and might even hit ×2 of the years projected (depending on your research), so it won’t only cost you your time but also your money. The bright side is, that several colleges including FernUniversität in Hagen (which is the only open university in Germany) now provide some of their programs online, making it easy for anyone in any country to still partake in a Ph.D. program without travelling outside their home.

Also, FernUniversität in Hagen provides some free online PhD programs in Germany through scholarships and other financial assistance. As a scholarship or other grant, you don’t need to pay them back.

The United Kingdom and Canada also provide some free online PhD programs.

Before we list these programs, let’s briefly explain why an online PhD might be the best fit for you.

Reasons to Study Online PhD in Germany

More affordable.

First of all, the tuition of a distance learning Ph.D. program is more affordable than an on-campus degree. Then the cost of living also adds up especially if you’re an international student.

More Flexible

As now a working adult and perhaps a spouse, creating time for evening classes can be complicated and might make your life more stressful, and we believe no one wants to add more headaches to their lives. Online PhD gives you the flexibility of coming to class, performing your research and reporting back to your supervisor in your comfort zone.

Maintain Job

If you’re already working, an online Ph.D. will help you to remain on your job, unlike an on-campus Ph.D. that might require you to change your city or if possible country.

This is not to say that a campus-based PhD doesn’t come with its own perks.

Free Online PhD Programs in Germany

FernUniversität in Hagen is the online university that provides different free online Ph.D. programs in Germany, and we’ll focus on these programs. With, more than 76,000 students annually, it makes them the University with the highest number of students in Germany, and 80% of their students study through distance learning.

The University provides its free online PhD programs in Germany through both internal and external non-fundable research funding.

Some of their internal research funding includes;

• FernUniversität research award: worth €20,000
• Completion Scholarship Doctorate
• Funding for female postdocs: own budget for material costs
• Postdoctoral funding: Postdoctoral fellowship

Some of their Research funding by external third-party include;

• Research grants from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation
• Grants from the Heinrich Hertz Foundation
• Max Weber Foundation – German humanities institutes abroad
• Discipline-open doctoral scholarships from gifted organizations

And many more.

Let’s now focus only on the programs FernUniversität in Hagen provides

1. Research Topics in Mathematics (English & German)

FernUniversität in Hagen provides several research topics in mathematics that you can focus on, including Discrete Mathematics and Optimization; Research in Algebra; Research in Numerical Mathematics; Applied Stochastics; Stochastics and Mathematical Physics; Applied Mathematics; Analysis.

2. Research Topics in Computer Science (English & German)

Here are some of the research topics in Computer Science FernUni offers; Software Engineering and Theory of Programming; Data Science; Cooperative Systems; Multimedia and Internet Applications; Parallelism & VLSI; Research Professorship for Educational Technologies for Digital Transformation; Enterprise-wide Software Systems; Technical Informatics; Human-Computer Interaction; Theoretical Computer Science; Artificial Intelligence Group, etc.

3. Humanities and Social Sciences (German)

This is among the free online PhD programs in Germany that you’ll focus on analyzing and explaining the mechanisms of action, the history or the level of knowledge in our society from different perspectives.

4. Research at the Faculty of Psychology (German)

Faculty of Psychology has three (3) research topics you can focus on, they include;

• Psychology of Digitized Education
• Psychology, diversity and social cohesion
• forensic psychology

5. Faculty of Business Administration and Economics (German)

Some of the research topics provided through the Faculty of Business Administration and Economics include Douglas Endowed Chair for Service Management; Investment Theory and Business Valuation; Production and Logistics; Quantitative Methods and Business Mathematics; International Economy, Empiricism of the Foreign Exchange and Financial Markets. etc.

6. Research at the Faculty of Law (German)

FernUniversität in Hagen provides different PhD research topics in 3 Law areas, these areas are Civil Law, Public Law, and Criminal Law.

Questions to Ask Before You Choose Any Online PhD Program

Will this program benefit me and my career.

It’s best to enrol in a PhD program that aligns with our current full-time job, even though there could be a few cases where you want to pursue your passion. Since most PhD programs teach you things you can apply immediately at your work, that’s why it’s important to focus on programs that are in line with your work.

And, don’t say because a program is free or almost free, you can just enrol in it, remember your time is not free.

Is the Flexibility Perfect for Me?

Even though online programs are flexible, it is not fitting for everyone, because you need to be self-motivated to always show up, and now you have so many other responsibilities, some emergencies might even take the particular time you intend to always come to class or perform your research. 

You know doctoral programs can take a minimum of 2½ years and up to 7 years, so be sure that you can balance both, and complete your degree on time.

Conclusion  

You can see that FernUniversität in Hagen is the only school that provides free online PhD programs in Germany through several financial assistance. Be sure if their programs are best for you or better look for other countries that provide the program you need for free or through scholarships.

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