Frequently Asked Questions
ZEF seeks to attract exceptional scientists globally, who have earned an excellent Master's degree or equivalent in fields such as economics, sociology, anthropology, political science, agricultural and resource economics, agronomy, nutrition, public health, medical science, biology, ecology, forestry, mathematics, or earth sciences. A strong interest in interdisciplinary research is mandatory.
Within the application portal, you will encounter fields prompting you to enter the title of your research concept, your research questions, the operationalization (including theories/approaches/data), and the most significant publications.
The grading systems at universities vary, therefore it is mandatory to include the grading scale of your university in your application. 'Excellent grades' typically refer to a GPA above 3.0, a percentage of 80% or higher, or a grade of 2.0 or higher in the German system.
BIGS-DR is a program offered in English. Applicants must prove their level of English proficiency with either an IELTS (Band 6) or TOEFL (minimum score: 550 paper-based, 213 computer-based, 80 internet-based) certificate. Applicants who completed their university education in English submit proof thereof instead, e.g. the transcript of records stating that the medium of instruction for your degree was English.
No, BIGS-DR is a full-time program.
Yes. BIGS-DR welcomes students with scholarships to join the program. You must apply through the online platform by May 1st for the October intake providing the proof of funding for a minimum of three years, covering living expenses. A monthly stipend of 1200 EUR or more is generally needed.
BIGS-DR is a structured program designed for young talents at the beginning of their careers. The last academic degree obtained should be within the last six years, counting backward from the application deadline.
No prior contact with professors at ZEF/ University Bonn or senior researchers at ZEF is necessary. Upon acceptance to the program, ZEF will assist you in finding the appropriate main supervisor. The professors who have supervision capacities are listed in the application portal.
The option for DAAD EPOS program is closed due to funding cuts by DAAD. Check the DAAD website for alternatives:
https://www2.daad.de/ausland/studieren/stipendium/de/70-stipendien-finden-und-bewerben/?status=&target=&subjectGrps=&intention=&daad=&q=&page=1&back=1
The University of Bonn provides information on scholarships here:
https://www.uni-bonn.de/en/studying/consultation-and-service/financing-and-support/scholarships?set_language=en
And on positions for doctoral students here:
https://www.uni-bonn.de/en/university/working-at-the-university/job-opportunities/vacancies-for-researchers
Yes, you need to upload documents from the Akademische Prüfstelle (APS). Otherwise, your documents are incomplete. More details:
https://www.uni-bonn.de/en/studying/application-admission-and-enrollment/special-application-matters/applicants-from-non-eu-eec-countries?set_language=en
The Europass CV- format is mandatory. Your CV must include information on publications, funding from third parties, lecturing, conferences, and research activities, among other things.
EUROPASS
Yes, as long as you have completed a Master's thesis.
Yes, you must submit your degree certificate by end of October of the year of application. In the meantime, you will need to provide us with copies of your most recent transcripts.
No.
Yes, with updated documents.
Incomplete applications will be rejected.
If you are accepted, your application documents will be kept on file at BIGS-DR. Your personal information will be stored in the University of Bonn application portal for the amount of time necessary to register your application and scholarship. ZEF adheres to the German Federal Data Protection Act. Applications that are unsuccessful or incomplete will be deleted after the review process.