How to Apply

The IMPRS-SPCE only accepts applications through our online application system. Please do not send your application by post or email, as it will have to be rejected. Furthermore, we can only consider fully completed applications.

Since your application cannot be changed once it has been submitted, it is important for you to read this entire section carefully.

We strongly recommend you to first prepare all of your application documents (see below) and then to apply through the application system. Start compiling your documents early. You will need a fair amount of time to get all the information together.

It is possible to temporarily save the application by clicking "continue later" (bottom right). You will receive a link for this by email. Important note: This link is valid for 30 days only! After this period, all data and documents will be irretrievably deleted. If you do not complete your application within the 30 days you will have to start the application process again.

Step by Step through the Application Process

Step 1:

Check the Information for Applicants to make sure you are eligible to apply.

Step 2:

Write and compile the following documents:

A cover letter including your motivation for applying to the IMPRS-SPCE and the names of one or two preferred advisors (in English only!).
Your curriculum vitae including your academic training and professional experience (in English only!).
One example of scholarly work, up to 20 pages (seminar paper, chapter of your master's thesis, etc.) (preferred in English, but German is possible, too).
A short research proposal describing one or two possible dissertation topics (up to 5 pages in total) (in English only!).
Scans of official transcripts/records of studies from all colleges/universities you have attended as well as the document proving your eligibility to study at a college or university (high-school diploma, A-levels, “Abiturzeugnis,” or equivalent) (English or German).
Please provide the names of 2 referees. Referees are senior researchers who know your academic work well and are able to evaluate it adequately. Should you progress in the application process and be invited for an interview, we will contact these referees in advance and ask them for a reference letter.
Certification of disability status: Applicants who are registered as having a severe disability or a disability that is classified as being equivalent to a severe disability are under no obligation to disclose this information. However, please note that we can only take disability status into account in the application process if this information is provided here (English or German).

Step 3:

Calls for Applications will be announced here.

Step 4:

Fill out the application form. Please note that your application will only be accepted by the system if all of the required fields contain valid data.

Step 5:

Upload your application materials (see list above) as a single PDF file. The file should not exceed 10 MB. When scanning your documents, choose a lower resolution to ensure a smaller file size.

Step 6:

Before sending, you can have your entries displayed again as a preview. Then click on "Send application". You will receive an acknowledgement of receipt shortly. Your spam filter might sort out the confirmation email, so check your spam folder if you do not receive the confirmation email within an hour. Reminder: Pausing the digital application process is possible but only within a time frame of max. 30 days. Once your application has been submitted it cannot be changed. We do not accept documents via email.