Training Courses Announcement – Germany Government DAAD Conference Travel Scholarship 2026

 Training Courses Announcement – Germany Government DAAD Conference Travel Scholarship 2026

About the Organization

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is one of the world’s leading organizations supporting international academic exchange. Funded by the Federal Foreign Office of Germany, DAAD provides scholarships, research grants, and training programs to enhance global academic cooperation and innovation. Since its founding, DAAD has supported millions of scholars and researchers across various disciplines, promoting international collaboration and sustainable scientific growth.

About the Program

The DAAD Conference Travel Scholarship 2026 offers researchers, PhD candidates, and postdoctoral scholars a unique opportunity to participate in international scientific conferences and congresses. The program supports both online and in-person participation, helping scholars present their research to global audiences and collaborate with peers across different fields.

This scholarship is particularly valuable for those who aim to expand their professional network, gain international exposure, and contribute to the exchange of knowledge within their research area. It allows participants to present papers, lead panels, and engage with the global academic community while representing German research excellence abroad.

Program Objectives

The primary goal of this program is to foster international academic mobility and strengthen Germany’s global research presence. By funding conference participation, DAAD encourages scholars to share innovative findings, develop international collaborations, and gain feedback from experts worldwide.
Through this initiative, DAAD also promotes environmentally responsible academic travel by supporting eco-friendly mobility options and CO₂ offset programs.

Degree Levels

This program supports:

• Doctoral (PhD) candidates

• Postdoctoral researchers

• Academic staff members conducting active research

Available Fields of Study

All disciplines and scientific fields are eligible, including but not limited to:

• Engineering and Technology

• Medicine and Life Sciences

• Social Sciences and Humanities

• Environmental and Sustainability Studies

• Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence

Program Benefits

The scholarship provides financial support based on four funding categories, depending on the mode of participation and travel distance:

1. Online Participation (Category 1)

   • Covers registration and membership fees (for up to one year).

   • Reimburses abstract submission costs (for one accepted paper).

   • Can be awarded up to three times per year.

2. In-Person Short-Distance Travel (Category 2)

   • Applies to travel distances up to 600 km (excluding the UK).

   • Travel must be environmentally friendly (train, bus).

   • Includes travel allowance, daily subsistence, €300 materials allowance, and Green Mobility Top-Up (€50 minimum each way).

3. In-Person Medium-Distance Travel (Category 3)

   • For travel distances between 601 km and 3,700 km.

   • Covers travel and subsistence costs, €300 materials allowance, and optional Green Mobility Top-Up.

   • Includes reimbursement of 50% CO₂ offset costs for flights.

4. In-Person Long-Distance Travel (Category 4)

   • For travel distances exceeding 3,700 km.

   • Includes all the above benefits.

   • Note: Category 4 funding is temporarily suspended until February 2026 due to budget constraints.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be doctoral or PhD students enrolled at a German university.

• Be researchers affiliated with a German higher education institution or research institute.

• Be scholars abroad whose stay is funded by a German organization, provided that organization does not already cover conference participation.

• Must demonstrate active participation at the conference, such as delivering a presentation, presenting a poster, or participating in a panel discussion.

Selection Criteria

The evaluation process is competitive and based on:

• Confirmation of accepted presentation at a recognized international conference.

• Academic excellence and publication record (within the past five years).

• Relevance and quality of the proposed conference contribution.

• Cost-effectiveness of the application and availability of DAAD funds.

Application Process and Required Documents

Applications are accepted year-round, but candidates must adhere to strict deadlines:

• Attachments K1–K4: Submit at least 4 months (120 days) before the event.

• Attachments K5–K7: Submit no later than 1 month (30 days) before the event.

Incomplete or late applications will not be processed.

Required Documents include:

• DAAD Online Application Form

• Congress Questionnaire (K1) – for online or in-person participation

• Curriculum Vitae (without photo) and publication list (K2)

• Abstract (K3)

• Latest transcript or PhD certificate (K4)

• Conference details and screenshots (K5)

• Proof of presentation acceptance (K6)

• Optional supporting materials (K7), such as awards or travel waivers

Applications can be submitted in English or German, and any additional documents in other languages must be accompanied by a free translation.

Sustainability Commitment

The DAAD places strong emphasis on sustainable travel practices. Applicants are encouraged to choose eco-friendly transportation methods such as trains and buses. The scholarship offers Green Mobility Top-Up incentives and reimburses up to 50% of CO₂ offset fees for air travel, aligning with Germany’s environmental goals for academic exchange.

Program Timeline and Processing

Applications are reviewed after submission of all required materials. The DAAD does not provide interim updates, and processing time varies based on event dates and applicant volume. Scholars are advised to apply well in advance to secure timely approval.

Why You Should Apply

This scholarship offers exceptional advantages for aspiring researchers and academics:

• Gain international recognition by presenting at top-tier conferences.

• Build valuable research partnerships with global experts.

• Strengthen your academic profile and enhance your career development.

• Receive financial support for participation costs and travel expenses.

• Contribute to the global exchange of scientific knowledge while promoting sustainable research practices.

Apply for the program here:

Germany Government DAAD Conference Travel Scholarship 2026