University of Hamburg Merit Scholarships 2026 in Germany

Applications for the University of Hamburg Merit Scholarships 2026 in Germany are available now. The scholarship provides international students up to €1,200 per month for doctoral researchers or €930 per month for others. It is a need-based and merit-based award for students already enrolled at Hamburg University who show excellent grades and financial need. You can reapply each semester if you still qualify. It helps with living costs and study expenses so you can focus on your Master’s or PhD. Applications for summer semester close 15 April 2026 and for winter semester 15 October 2026. Also see the Top Fully Funded Fellowships and Scholarships in 2026 For International Applicants.

University of Hamburg Scholarship Overview

What is the University of Hamburg Merit Scholarship 2026?

Hamburg University is a top research school in Germany with strong programs in many fields. This scholarship helps international Master’s and PhD students who do very well but have financial problems. It is not for new students — you must already be enrolled. Bachelor’s students apply from 3rd semester Master’s from 2nd semester (or 1st if you did Bachelor’s at Hamburg). You get help each semester so you can keep studying without worry. It is funded by the university and supports good students to finish their degrees.

Scholarship Benefits

You get money for expenses.

• Monthly stipend €930 (standard) or up to €1,200 (for doctoral researchers if funds allow).
• Help with living costs like rent food and daily needs.
• Support for study-related things like books or travel.
• Re-apply possible every semester.
• Maximum support up to 36 months.
• No tuition help (Germany public universities have low or no tuition for most).
• Chance to focus on research and classes.

Also See: Fully Funded 2026-27 MAECI Scholarship in Italy

Eligibility Criteria

• You must be an international student at Hamburg University.
• You cannot be eligible for BAföG because of your nationality.
• Bachelor’s students: at least 3rd semester.
• Master’s students: at least 2nd semester (or 1st if from Hamburg Bachelor’s).
• You need excellent to outstanding grades at Hamburg.
• You must show real financial need (low income for you and parents).
• You should have achievements like publications, awards or volunteer work.

Required Documents

You need these papers.

• Online application form.
• CV or resume.
• Current grade report from TUMonline or STiNE printout.
• Two recommendation letters.
• Motivation letter explaining your financial need.
• Proof of income (you and parents last 12 months bank statements etc).
• Non-German/English documents need certified translation.
• All in PDF format.

How to Apply for University of Hamburg Merit Scholarship

1. Make sure you are enrolled at Hamburg University and meet the rules.
2. Wait for the application window (13–26 April 2026 for summer semester).
3. Go to the TUM scholarship portal (note: some info refers to TUM but this is Hamburg — check uni-hamburg.de).
4. Fill the online form.
5. Upload all papers in PDF.
6. Submit before deadline.
7. They check your grades and need.
8. Winners get told by mid-July 2026 (summer semester).

Scholarship Dates / Deadline

• Applications are open now.
• Summer semester window: 13 April to 26 April 2026.
• Results by mid-July 2026.
• Winter semester has different dates (usually October).
• Apply during open windows only.

Official Link

University of Hamburg Merit Scholarships