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Dear DAAD Friends and Alumni!🎓
Welcome to the Winter edition of the DAAD Australia Newsletter!
This issue celebrates the diverse pathways that lead students and researchers to Germany. From German@Uni Day and Learning Abroad Fairs to DAAD Winter Courses and PhD opportunities, we showcase programmes and events that encourage the next generation of globally engaged scholars to explore Germany as a destination for study and research.
We highlight initiatives that strengthen the German language community and promote intercultural exchange. Together, these activities demonstrate how language learning, academic mobility, and international collaboration foster connection, cultural understanding, and academic engagement.
Key topics in this issue include:
- DAAD IC Sydney at the National Learning Abroad Fair Circuit 2026
- DAAD Australia at Futures Night - Adelaide University
- DAAD IC Sydney at German@Uni Day at UNSW Sydney
- DAAD Netzwerkforum 2026 in Bonn, Germany
- Talking German: Language and Community through Podcasting
- Research in Germany Newsletter: PhD in Germany
- AGTV Teacher Workshop at the University of Melbourne
-
DAAD University Winter Courses for Foreign Students and Graduates in Germany
- DAAD Scholarships, Grants and Programmes
- University Advertisements
We hope you enjoy this edition!
With kind regards,
Silke Schoppe and Michael Rieke
Photo: IC Sydney
| | DAAD Australia Information Centre Sydney Contact Details | | |
For enquiries and information, please contact the DAAD Information Centre in Sydney:
Telephone: +61272088119
Email: info@daad-australia.org
Teleconferencing: please contact us via email, and our friendly staff will arrange an appointment and provide you with an access link.
Photo: IC Sydney
| | DAAD IC Sydney at the National Learning Abroad Fair Circuit 2026 | |
Strong Interest in Germany at Sydney Learning Abroad Fairs
Throughout autumn, the DAAD Information Centre Sydney participated in the National Learning Abroad Fair Circuit, connecting with students across Sydney who are considering international study opportunities.
The team was pleased to take part in the Think Global Fair at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and the Exchange Expo at the University of New South Wales (UNSW). Both events attracted strong interest from students eager to learn more about studying, researching, and living in Germany.
Visitors to the DAAD stand had the opportunity to explore Germany's diverse higher education landscape, learn about exchange and degree opportunities, and discuss scholarship and funding options. The enthusiasm and curiosity shown by students highlighted Germany's continuing appeal as a destination for high-quality education and innovative research.
The fairs also provided a valuable opportunity to engage with university staff and alumni, strengthening connections within the broader international education community and promoting academic exchange between Australia and Germany.
Students and researchers interested in pursuing opportunities in Germany can find further information about study programmes, research pathways, and DAAD funding opportunities here.
Photo: IC Sydney
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DAAD Australia at Futures Night -
Adelaide University
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Dr Stefan Hajduk, DAAD Research Ambassador as Keynote Speaker
The German Club of Students at Adelaide University recently hosted a Futures Night, where I was invited as keynote speaker in my role as DAAD Research Ambassador at Adelaide University. The event was aimed at German Studies students and other interested participants seeking to explore the academic and professional opportunities associated with German language skills in both Australia and Germany.
In my presentation, I pointed out Germany’s culture of “Bildung” (education as well as formation) still alive in today’s society, I highlighted the higher education landscape, outlined study opportunities at German universities, and provided information on funding options for Australian students.
Overall, I found the event highly successful, with around 30 participants including the organisers, which is a strong turnout for this type of engagement. The evening followed a professional format with a moderator, panel discussions, individual presentations, and networking opportunities. It allowed for meaningful interaction between students and speakers. The German community was well represented besides the DAAD by the Goethe-Institut (Mathias Jakus), the South Australian German Association (The German Club), the Federation of Bavarians (Reinhard Struve/Bund der Bayern), and Prof Carolin Plewa, Pro Vice Chancellor, Researcher Education and Development (Adelaide University).
The discussion was lively, with active audience participation, and the atmosphere struck a good balance between professionalism and openness.
Adelaide University Student Association - German Club
Dr Stefan Hajduk,Senior Lecturer for German Studies, Adelaide University
Photo: Adelaide University German Club
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DAAD IC Sydney at German@Uni Day 2026
UNSW Sydney
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Around 200 Year 9 and 10 students from schools across Sydney gathered at UNSW Sydney for German Day, offering an excellent opportunity to promote future study pathways for learners of German.
For the DAAD Information Centre Sydney, the event provided a valuable platform to engage with students at an early stage of their language-learning journey and introduce them to the study opportunities available in Germany. During her presentation, Silke Schoppe provided an overview of DAAD Australia’s services and highlighted opportunities to study in Germany through exchange programmes, degree studies, and DAAD scholarships.
A particular highlight was the conversation between Silke and Charlie Fine, a University of Sydney student who received a DAAD University Winter Course Scholarship in Munich in 2024 before undertaking an exchange semester at Humboldt University of Berlin. Charlie shared his experiences of living and studying in Germany and reflected on how the intensive language course strengthened his German skills. His insights offered students a firsthand perspective on the academic and personal benefits of studying abroad and demonstrated the impact of DAAD funding opportunities.
The programme also featured presentations from UNSW, the University of Sydney, and the Goethe-Institut Sydney, showcasing opportunities to continue German studies beyond school. Interactive speaking sessions concluded the day, giving students the chance to practise their German in mixed groups and connect with peers from other schools in a collaborative and engaging environment.
Further information about studying in Germany and studying German at university in Sydney:
Study in Germany
German Studies at UNSW
Germanic Studies at University of Sydney
Photo: Brangwen Stone
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DAAD Netzwerkforum 2026 in Bonn, Germany | |
The DAAD headquarters in Germany welcomed members of its global network to Bonn for a conference in May. At one of the largest DAAD Networking Forums to date, more than 50 participants took part in discussions, workshops, and networking activities.
The forum provided valuable insights into the work and achievements of the DAAD’s global network, fostered connections and the exchange of ideas between regions, and strengthened collaboration between the DAAD headquarters and its offices around the world. Throughout the week-long conference, participants identified opportunities for greater cooperation and explored potential synergies to address current geopolitical and financial challenges affecting international academic exchange.
A particular highlight was a visit to RWTH Aachen, where representatives of the International Office shared how the university supports international students and researchers on campus. The visit offered participants a deeper understanding of the services and structures that help international academics succeed in their studies and research careers in Germany.
Photo: DAAD
| | Talking German: Language and Community through Podcasting | | |
SBS Radio - Deutsch Talk with DAAD Lecturer Andreas Wiebel
On the occasion of Melbourne German Week 2025 I developed and hosted the podcast project Deutsch Talk in cooperation with SBS German, with the aim of making key aspects of German language accessible to a broader audience in Australia. The podcast focused on teaching and learning German, connecting academic perspectives with lived linguistic and cultural experience.
Across six episodes, Deutsch Talk addresses some of the most relevant and formative dimensions of German language: pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary, literature and theatre, dialects, and the role of German in a global context. The format relies on conversations with a wide range of speakers, including colleagues from universities, representatives of Goethe-Institut and DAAD, Deutsche Schule Melbourne, and voices from Melbourne’s wider German-speaking community, including the Hofbräuhaus Melbourne.
On a personal level, the project offered valuable insights into the strength and diversity of the German community in Melbourne. At the same time, it highlighted the extensive background work involved in podcast production. Deutsch Talk for me became a collaborative outreach project, developed in partnership with Julia Grewe from SBS German, and an example of how German Studies can engage meaningfully with the public beyond the university.
Listen to the podcast 'Deutsch Talk' here.
Text and photos: Andreas Wiebel, DAAD-Lektor University of Melbourne
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'Literarische Texte im Deutschunterricht'
AGTV Teacher Workshop
at the University of Melbourne
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On 2 May 2026, the German Program at the University of Melbourne hosted the professional development workshop Literarische Texte im Deutschunterricht for German teachers from across Victoria. The event was organised by DAAD-Lektor Andreas Wiebel, DAAD Teaching Assistant Sara-Marie Weinkopf, and the Association of German Teachers in Victoria (AGTV).
The workshop explored the role of literary texts in contemporary German language teaching and highlighted practical approaches to working with poetry, prose, and drama across different proficiency levels. Participants discussed the benefits and challenges of literature in the DaF classroom and engaged in hands-on activities based on texts by May Ayim, the Brothers Grimm, and Bertolt Brecht.
A collaborative workshop phase invited teachers to design their own literature-based learning activities, focusing on language development, intercultural learning, creativity, and critical thinking. The highly engaged discussions and overwhelmingly positive feedback demonstrated the continued relevance of literature as a powerful resource for German language learning and teaching in Australian schools.
Text and photos: Andreas Wiebel, DAAD-Lektor University of Melbourne
| DAAD Annual Report 2025 (in German) | |
Join us in looking back on the DAAD’s anniversary year, explore inspiring stories, and stay informed about key developments in international academic exchange in the DAAD Annual Report 2025.
Find the DAAD annual report here
Photo: DAAD
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Research in Germany - Latest Newsletter
Focus on PhD's in Germany
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Spotlight on: Doing a PhD in Germany
Thinking about pursuing a PhD in Germany? The country offers a wide range of opportunities for international researchers, including universities and leading research institutions as well as industry-driven projects. But where to start?
The PhD section on our website offers you all the information you need. Learn about the two main paths to a doctorate in Germany – the individual route or a structured programme – and find out how to search and apply for positions. You’ll also discover key funding options, organisations and useful resources such as databases and job portals.
Another great way to explore PhD opportunities in Germany is our PhD Pathfinder, a tool designed for international graduates interested in doing a doctorate in Germany. It will help you find your way through the German PhD landscape and might be the first step towards joining the 28,000 graduate students who complete a doctorate in Germany every year. Start exploring your options now! here.
Further information about PhD in Germany
Photo: DAAD/Lichtenscheidt
| | DAAD University Winter Courses for Foreign Students and Graduates in Germany | |
The Hochschulwinterkurs is back on offer again!
Call for Applications:
The DAAD University Winter Courses program offers students, graduates, and doctoral candidates the opportunity to spend four weeks in Germany during January or February, strengthening their German language skills while experiencing German culture and regional studies firsthand. Combining intensive language training with cultural immersion, the programme provides an excellent opportunity to enhance academic, professional, and intercultural competencies in an international learning environment.
Eligibility
- Open to students, graduates, and doctoral candidates from all disciplines.
- Undergraduate students must have completed at least two years of university study.
- Applicants must be enrolled at an Australian university.
- Minimum German language level: B1.
Scholarship Benefits
- Course fees
- Accommodation
- €475 allowance
- Travel subsidy (€1375)
- Health, accident, and liability insurance
Application Requirements
- Online application
- CV and motivation letter (both in German)
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of German language proficiency
Application Deadline
- Applications open: 1 June
- Deadline: 31 July 2026
Program description and further details can be found here.
Photo: Bridget Gard
| | Scholarships, Grants and Programmes | | |
Call for Applications
Funding opportunities from the
German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) for the German academic year 2027/2028
Would you like to study or do research in
Germany? The DAAD offers a wide range of opportunities for international students, doctoral candidates and early career researchers!
The DAAD scholarship programme for the 2027/2028 academic year in Germany has been updated and is now available. The DAAD portal for the new application round is already open.
Find scholarships and other funding opportunities for applicants from Australia here.
Photo: Canva
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Call for Applications
Australia-Germany Joint Research Cooperation Scheme
Exciting opportunity for Early Career Researchers in Australia and Germany! Join the Australia-Germany Joint Research Cooperation Scheme 2026, an initiative by Universities Australia and DAAD that fosters high-quality research collaboration. This scheme supports researchers from member universities to exchange and collaborate at partner institutions in Germany and Australia.
Applications for the 2026 round are open from 1 April to 12 June 2026, with funding commencing in 2027.
Learn more about past projects and how to apply here.
Photo: Canva
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Call for Applications
AI Master in Germany with the SECAI
MSc Programme
SECAI (School of Embedded Composite AI) scholarships for Master students were created to support outstanding students who intend to study AI or a related field at TU Dresden or Leipzig University.
AI is viewed as an interdisciplinary undertaking that requires talents in computer science, engineering, mathematics, social science, law, the natural sciences, and application areas such as medicine. The scholarships cover living expenses in Germany to allow students to focus on their studies, kick-start their research career, and build their professional network.
SECAI is part of the Zuse Schools and financed with funds from the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space.
Application deadline: 30 June 2026
Find more information on SECAI and the scholarships here.
Photo: Canva
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Call for Applications
DAAD VORsprung - A digital head start for Engineering and Science studies in Germany
Applications are now open for VORsprung, a free 6–8 month online programme by the DAAD that prepares international students for STEM studies in Germany. Participants can focus on two STEM subjects (physics, math, chemistry, or IT) while also improving their German language skills.
Application deadline: 30 June 2026
(German intensive course begins: August 2026, Regular study programme starts: September 2026)
Funded by the DAAD with funds from the German Federal Foreign Ministry.
Further information is available here.
Photo: Canva
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Call for Applications
DAAD Study Scholarships - Postgraduate Studies in the Field of Architecture
This scholarship offers funding for projects in the area of design and planning. Lasting 10-24 months, the scholarship is suitable for foreign applicants who have gained a first university degree in the areas of Architecture, Interior Design, Monument Conservation, Urban Planning/Urban Development, Regional Planning, Landscape Architecture & Landscape Planning.
Application deadline: 23 September 2026
(Start of funding in September 2027)
Funded by the DAAD with funds from the German Federal Foreign Ministry.
Further information is available here.
Photo: Canva
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Call for Applications
AI Master in Germany with the relAI MSc Programme
The relAI Konrad Zuse School of Excellence offers scholarships and additional AI-training alongside master’s studies at Technical University of Munich (TUM) and LMU Klinikum München (LMU). Applications are open to outstanding German and international students enrolled in, or applying for, AI-related master’s programmes.
Research areas include the mathematical and algorithmic foundations of reliable AI, learning and instruction, algorithmic decision-making, medicine and healthcare, and robotics and interacting systems.
The Zuse Schools are financed with funds from the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space.
Further information is available here.
Photo: Canva
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Call for Applications
DAAD Study Scholarships - Postgraduate Studies in the Field of Music
This scholarship programme offers students with a first degree the opportunity to continue their academic education in Germany with a postgraduate or continuing course of study in the field of music. The scholarships also promote the exchange of experience and networking amongst colleagues.
Application deadline: 24 September 2026 (Start of funding in October 2027)
Funded by the DAAD with funds from the German Federal Foreign Ministry.
Further information is available here.
Photo: Canva
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Albert–Ludwigs–Universität Freiburg
Winter School: German & Carnival in Freiburg
Join the January‑February Winter School in Freiburg! Intensive German plus a Carnival Journey – explore Fasnacht, historic sites, and European culture. Two bookable modules, field trips, a graded course certificate. Boost language, confidence & intercultural insight!
Further information is available here.
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