Germany Government DAAD Conference Travel Scholarship 2026
The DAAD Conference Travel Scholarship Program 2026, funded by the Federal Foreign Office of Germany, offers doctoral candidates and researchers the opportunity to actively participate in international scientific conferences and congresses. This prestigious program supports both in-person and online participation, enabling scholars to present their research globally and strengthen academic collaboration.
Program Objective
The main aim of the DAAD Conference Travel Scholarship is to promote international scientific exchange and support researchers based in Germany in showcasing their work abroad. Participants can attend recognized global conferences, contribute to scientific discussions, and enhance their research visibility.
As of September 10, 2025, the DAAD has announced that funding category 4 (long-distance travel) is closed for applications until February 2026 due to high demand. However, applications for funding categories 1–3 remain open.
Degree Level
- PhD
- Research
Available Subjects
- All subjects
Benefits
The DAAD Conference Travel Program provides financial support across four funding categories, depending on the travel distance and mode of participation:
1. Online Participation (Category 1)
- Covers registration and membership fees (up to one year)
- Reimburses abstract fees (for one abstract)
- Funding can be granted up to three times per calendar year
2. In-Person Short-Distance Travel (Category 2)
- For travel distances up to 600 km (except to the UK)
- Travel must be climate-friendly (train, bus; no air travel)
- Travel allowance
- Daily subsistence allowance
- €300 material cost allowance
- Green Mobility Top-Up (€50 minimum each way)
3. In-Person Medium-Distance Travel (Category 3)
- For travel distances 601–3,700 km
Covers:
- Travel allowance
- Daily subsistence allowance
- €300 material cost allowance
- Optional Green Mobility Top-Up for eco-friendly travel
- Reimbursement of 50% CO₂ offset costs for flights
4. In-Person Long-Distance Travel (Category 4)
- For travel distances over 3,700 km
- Includes the same benefits as above
- Limited to 40% of the annual DAAD budget
- Optional 50% reimbursement for CO₂ offset payments
Note: As of February 2026, Category 4 funding is temporarily suspended due to over-subscription.
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible applicants include:
- Doctoral researchers and PhD students enrolled at a German university.
- Researchers at German higher education institutions or non-university research institutes whose main place of residence is in Germany.
- Scholars abroad whose stay is financed by a German funding organization, provided that organization does not fund conference participation.
Applicants must demonstrate active participation in the conference — such as delivering a presentation, poster, or panel contribution.
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Official acceptance of your presentation at an internationally recognized conference
- Academic achievements and publication record (last five years)
- Cost-effectiveness of the proposed travel
- Available DAAD budget
Application Procedure
Application Process and Deadlines
Applications are accepted year-round, but strict deadlines apply:
- Attachments K1–K4: must be submitted at least 4 months (120 days) before the event.
- Attachments K5–K7: must be submitted no later than 1 month (30 days) before the event.
Required Application Documents
DAAD Application Form (via the online portal)
- Congress Questionnaire (K1) – choose online or in-person version
- Curriculum Vitae (without photo) and list of publications (K2)
- Abstract (K3)
- Latest academic transcript or PhD certificate (K4)
- Conference details and screenshots (K5)
- Proof of acceptance of your presentation (K6)
Optional: Other supporting documents such as awards, scholarships, or travel waivers (K7)
Applications can be submitted in English or German. If your documents are in another language, a free translation should be provided.
Processing Time
Decisions are made after all documents are received and reviewed. The DAAD does not provide interim updates on application status, so applicants are encouraged to plan accordingly.
Sustainability Focus
The DAAD strongly encourages eco-friendly travel and offers a Green Mobility Top-Up or CO₂ offset reimbursement. This initiative reflects Germany’s commitment to sustainable academic mobility.
Why Apply?
The DAAD Conference Travel Grant is a highly valuable opportunity for doctoral candidates and researchers to:
- Showcase their work on a global platform
- Network with international experts
- Strengthen their academic profile
- Access financial support for participation in global conferences
If you are pursuing your PhD or research in Germany and plan to present at an international conference, this program is one of the best ways to fund your participation and expand your academic reach.
