By persmind team RISE Germany Research Internship: Summer Research in Germany for Undergraduate Students
Last Updated: September 25, 2025
If you’re a bachelor’s student in science or engineering seeking real international research experience in German universities and laboratories, the RISE Germany program (Research Internships in Science and Engineering) is one of the most recognized funded summer research programs in the world. It offers research placements supervised directly by German PhD students or researchers during the summer break, providing a monthly stipend, insurance, and logistical support. The program is open to undergraduates enrolled in universities in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Ireland.
Why Choose RISE Germany Research Internship?
Hands-on research experience in leading German universities and laboratories.
Direct supervision by PhD candidates or postdoctoral researchers on well-defined research projects.
Comprehensive funding, including a monthly stipend, health insurance, and logistical support.
Who Can Apply? (Basic Eligibility)
Target group: Undergraduate students currently enrolled at universities or colleges in the United States, Canada, the UK, or Ireland.
Eligible fields: STEM disciplines — biology, chemistry, physics, earth sciences, engineering, computer science, etc.
Academic level: Typically for mid- to late-year undergraduates who have sufficient availability during the summer.
(Check each project description for specific requirements.)
⚠️ Important: This program is specifically for undergraduates from the regions above. Other RISE programs exist:
RISE Worldwide: for German students abroad.
RISE Professional: for graduates and postgraduates.
Be sure to apply to RISE Germany (Undergraduates) only.
What Does the Funding Cover?
Monthly stipend: Amount updated annually. Recent calls list around €934–€992/month depending on year and policy.
Insurance: Comprehensive health, accident, and personal liability coverage for the entire program duration.
Travel support: Partial travel allowance (amount and policy vary by country and year; not always full airfare).
Housing assistance: Help from host institutions to arrange affordable accommodation.
Orientation meeting: A partially funded get-together (e.g., Heidelberg meeting during the summer, with local transport subsidy).
⚠️ Note: Travel coverage differs yearly. The final terms are confirmed in your official DAAD scholarship letter after selection.
Program Duration & Structure
Duration: Usually 10–12 weeks during the summer.
Period: Typically June to August/September, depending on your project and supervisor.
Workload: Full-time lab or research group work with practical assignments, progress reports, and a final presentation or report.
Available Fields and Projects
The RISE database publishes hundreds of projects every year across German universities and research institutes, covering basic sciences, engineering, and emerging technologies.
You can filter projects by keyword (e.g., Materials, AI, Bio, Energy, Environment, Nanotech).
Expected Timeline for 2026 Cohort
Application portal opens: Typically October 15 – November 30 (for the following summer cycle).
Matching & interviews: January–March 2026.
Internship period: Summer 2026 (exact dates agreed upon with your supervisor).
Always confirm final dates on the official DAAD application portal once it opens for your year.
Required Documents
Updated academic CV highlighting your coursework and technical/lab/analytical skills.
Official transcript in English.
Statement of motivation/interest tailored to your chosen projects (why you are a good fit and what you can contribute).
Academic recommendation letter following DAAD’s official format.
Valid passport (covering the full program period and visa process).
(Check individual project listings for any additional document requirements.)
How to Choose the Right Project & Strengthen Your Application
Use precise keywords in the database (discipline, technique, or tool).
Read each project description carefully: required skills, working language (EN/DE), and objectives.
Match your profile: In your application, describe your past experience using the Problem → Method → Result structure and attach verifiable outputs (GitHub, posters, reports).
Select 3–10 projects across at least three different German regions, if required by your year’s guidelines.
Prepare for interviews: Study the field, read related papers, and show curiosity and initiative in your discussion with potential supervisors.
Application Steps
Create an account on the RISE Germany Application Portal (once open).
Select and rank your preferred projects.
Upload all required documents (CV, transcripts, statement, reference letter).
Submit your application before the deadline (typically November 30).
Follow up via email for updates, matching, and interview invitations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the program open to all nationalities?
Yes — as long as you are enrolled at a university in the U.S., Canada, the UK, or Ireland, regardless of citizenship.
What language proficiency is required?
You must be proficient in the project’s working language (usually English; occasionally German). Check each project for details.
What is the stipend value? Does it include travel?
Stipends range around €934–€992 per month, with insurance and partial travel allowance depending on the host and funding cycle. The official grant letter confirms your final amount.
How many scholarships are available annually?
University reports indicate approximately 300 placements per year, though numbers vary.
Official Sources
RISE Germany (DAAD Official Site) — program overview, eligibility, and project search.
What Applicants Need to Know (2026 Edition) — eligibility for universities in the U.S., Canada, UK, and Ireland.
Application Portal — account creation and document submission once applications open.
Stipend Information (Recent Calls) — updated funding details.
⚠️ Reminder: Conditions (stipends, travel, deadlines) change annually. The final and binding reference is always the DAAD’s official call for your application cycle.
Conclusion
Ready to launch a research experience that could transform your academic path?
Check your eligibility, prepare your CV and statement of interest, and start exploring projects as soon as the portal opens (usually October 15 – November 30).
Plan your Summer 2026 ahead, and monitor your email for interviews and placement confirmations.
RISE Germany 2026 — where your international research journey begins.