FAQ

What deadlines should I attend to when applying for a fellowship?

There are no formal deadlines; the Wissenschaftskolleg accepts applications at all times. However, selection generally takes place about two years in advance – from submission of the application to the beginning of the fellowship at the Wissenschaftskolleg in September of each year. This is to ensure that the Fellows can carry out the necessary arrangements with their home institution, to enable the invitation of families, and to ensure the quality of the selection.

When can I expect a decision?

The Academic Advisory Board meets twice a year, in May and in November. Immediately thereafter, the candidates are informed about the decision. If an application is not discussed or the decision is postponed, the candidates are informed of the postponement to the next meeting of the Board. In general, the decision is made in May or November of the calendar year preceding the residency.

Must I apply for a specific academic year?

The Wissenschaftskolleg offers a choice between two academic years. You can apply either for a specific academic year or, if you are flexible about time, you can give both academic years as options. The invitation is made for a specific year.

Do I need letters of recommendation?

Letters of recommendation are not necessary. All applications are evaluated by the Academic Advisory Board and by external specialist evaluators.

Can my life partner apply at the same time?

Yes. In such cases, the applications of the two partners are evaluated and decided individually and independently of each other. But the Wissenschaftskolleg makes numerous offers also to partners accompanying accepted Fellows, so that they can spend their time at the Wissenschaftskolleg as productively and pleasantly as possible.

What offers are there for my family?

The Wissenschaftskolleg supports Fellows and partners in the search for schools and childcare and makes contact with Berlin institutions for partners. Partners can also use all the institution’s services (library, IT, etc.) and are welcome at all events and meals.

Can I view the specialist evaluations?

No. The decisions to invite or reject are based on a comparative reading of the applications and the associated evaluations. The individual specialist evaluations are thus not conclusive and are not made available to applicants.

Can I apply another time?

Renewed applications are possible only with a new research project and after a period of five years after the previous decision of the Academic Advisory Board.

May I apply if I live in Berlin?

Yes. But at the time of your application, you may not be affiliated with a research institution in Berlin.

Can I apply again if I was already a Fellow once before?

No. Second fellowships are not possible.

Can I apply also for a shorter period (less than 10 months)?

Shorter residencies are possible only in the framework of special programs (for example of the College for Life Sciences) or at the special invitation of the Rector. For the latter category, self-application is not possible.

Are my chances of being invited better if I am suggested?

No. The Wissenschaftskolleg welcomes both suggestions and self-applications and treats them equally.