Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees / Cotutelle
Supports doctoral candidates in conducting collaborative, bi-national research for a jointly supervised PhD between their home university and a German university.
Funder: German Academic Exchange Service USA
Due Dates (Anticipated): June 2026 (application opens, projected) | October 2026 (application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: €1,400/month for up to 24 months (extendable to 36 months); research allowance (€460); travel and insurance support; additional benefits possible.
Summary: Supports doctoral candidates pursuing a bi-nationally supervised PhD between their home university and a German university, with joint research and supervision under two flexible models.
Key Information: All dates are projected; check program page for official updates.
Description
This program enables doctoral candidates to pursue a bi-national doctoral degree at their home university and a university in Germany, under two possible models:
- Bi-national supervision ("sandwich model"): The candidate begins their doctorate at their home university with joint supervision from both home and German university faculty, including research trips to Germany. The degree is awarded by the home university.
- Cotutelle model: The candidate's doctoral project is jointly supervised and conducted at both institutions based on an individual cooperation agreement, resulting in a jointly awarded doctoral degree from both universities.
The program emphasizes collaborative research, joint supervision, and the integration of academic resources from both countries to enhance the quality and international relevance of the doctoral project.
