Research Grants - Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees / Cotutelle • DAAD

The Research Grants for Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees, commonly referred to as Cotutelle, are offered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) to support doctoral candidates pursuing joint PhD programs between a German university and a partner institution abroad. This scholarship facilitates the completion of a doctoral degree under the supervision of advisors from both institutions, promoting international academic cooperation and cross-cultural research exchange. The program is designed to encourage young researchers to engage in bi-national doctoral studies, enabling them to benefit from the academic resources, expertise, and research environments of two countries. The grant supports candidates in conducting research in both countries, contributing to the development of international networks and enhancing the global visibility of their work. The Cotutelle scheme is particularly relevant for candidates whose research topics benefit from interdisciplinary and cross-border perspectives. It also fosters collaboration between universities and research institutions, strengthening ties between Germany and partner countries. Eligibility criteria, application procedures, and grant amounts vary depending on the participating institutions and bilateral agreements. The scholarship typically covers living expenses, travel costs, and research-related allowances during the doctoral period. Candidates are advised to consult the DAAD website and their respective universities for detailed and updated information regarding application deadlines, required documents, and specific funding conditions.

The DAAD Research Grants for Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees (Cotutelle) provide structured support for doctoral candidates enrolled in joint PhD programs between German universities and partner institutions abroad. This funding scheme is aimed at facilitating the successful completion of a doctoral thesis under dual supervision, thereby fostering international academic cooperation and the exchange of knowledge across borders. The Cotutelle model requires candidates to fulfill the academic requirements of both institutions, often including spending significant research periods at each university. This arrangement allows doctoral candidates to access diverse academic resources, laboratories, libraries, and expert guidance, which can enrich their research quality and scope. The grant amount and duration vary depending on the specific bilateral agreements and the candidate’s research plan. Typically, the funding covers a monthly stipend intended to cover living expenses in Germany and the partner country, travel costs for research stays, and sometimes additional allowances for research materials or conference participation. Candidates must comply with the application procedures set by both institutions and the DAAD, which often include submitting a detailed research proposal, letters of recommendation, and proof of academic qualifications. The Cotutelle program not only supports individual research projects but also strengthens institutional partnerships and promotes the internationalization of doctoral education. Candidates are encouraged to carefully review the eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and funding conditions on the official DAAD website and coordinate closely with the doctoral offices of the involved universities. The program is open to doctoral candidates from a wide range of academic disciplines, reflecting the diverse research collaborations between Germany and partner countries. While the Cotutelle grants provide substantial financial support, candidates should also consider additional funding sources or scholarships to cover all expenses related to their doctoral studies.