The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation (AvH) enables highly qualified researchers from developing countries (excluding Turkey, India and the PR of China; see list of eligible countries) to carry out academic projects of their own choice in Germany (age limit: 45 years). Applications may be submitted for long-term research stays of between 6 and 12 months; an extension of up to 24 months is possible.

Funding is not available for short-term study visits, participation in conferences, or training courses.

The research fellowships are announced internationally, on a competitive basis. Researchers from developing countries (see list of eligible countries) are eligible to apply. There are no quotas in respect of country or discipline. The subject of the research proposal must be of relevance to development policy and particularly suited to the transfer of knowledge and methods to developing countries. Approx. 50 research fellowships are available every year.

Decisions are based primarily on the quality and feasibility of academic projects proposed by candidates as well as the applicant's academic record to date. Applicants choose their own research projects and their own German hosts. Details of the research project and the time-schedule must be agreed upon with the prospective host in advance.

Applications to continue a research stay which has already begun may be considered in exceptional cases.

Application requirements	Download application documents
Information for hosts	Information for referees
Information for peer reviewers	FAQ's
Selection procedure	List of eligible countries
Support in Germany
Follow-up sponsorship

Contact: