The ABCD Future Environmental Leaders Scholarship 2026 is now open for applications. This program helps young researchers from developing countries to study and conduct research in Germany. It focuses on solving global problems related to water, climate, and the environment. The scholarship supports doctoral students who want to bring real solutions to environmental challenges.
About the Scholarship
The ABCD Future Environmental Leaders Scholarship is offered by the Global Water and Climate Adaptation Centre (ABCD-Center). It is a joint project between RWTH Aachen University, Technische Universität Dresden, United Nations University (UNU-FLORES), Asian Institute of Technology in Thailand, and Indian Institute of Technology Madras. The scholarship provides a chance for PhD students to conduct part of their research in Germany under expert supervision.
Host Country
Germany
Host University
Selected scholars can carry out their research at:
RWTH Aachen University, Aachen
Technische Universität Dresden
United Nations University – UNU-FLORES, Dresden
Scholarship Type
Fully funded research-based scholarship
Degree
Doctoral (PhD) level
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
Be enrolled as full-time doctoral students at a university in a developing country.
Have started their PhD studies within the last three years.
Propose a research topic that fits the ABCD Centre’s main themes.
Have strong academic performance and good English skills.
Be committed to spending nine months in Germany.
Fields of Study
Applicants can choose research topics related to:
Water Security and Water Treatment
Ecosystem Resilience and Nature-Based Solutions
Climate Adaptation and Traditional Knowledge
Sustainable Building Materials
Digitalization and Modelling for Climate Change
Sustainable Business Models for Water Resources
Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship covers:
Monthly living allowance: €1,200
Insurance support: up to €105 per month
Travel grant: up to €1,000 (one-time)
Research materials and equipment: up to €1,000 These benefits help cover accommodation, living expenses, insurance, and travel during the research stay.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit all documents in one PDF file:
Motivation letter (2–3 pages)
A sample of a written scientific paper
Updated CV
Two recent recommendation letters
Proof of ability to work online (if needed)
Enrollment certificate and latest transcript (issued within six months)
Copy of passport Additionally, applicants and their supervisors must prepare:
A clear research topic matching ABCD themes
A detailed timeline of the PhD project
A description of the research work in Germany
Plans for future research collaboration
Contributions to ABCD-Centre outreach
Application Process
Applicants must email the complete PDF file to abcd-centre@rwth-aachen.de by November 15, 2025. The email should include all required documents and a clear subject line mentioning “Application for ABCD Future Environmental Leaders Scholarship 2026.”
Registration Deadlines
Deadline: November 15, 2025 Research Period: March 1, 2026 – November 30, 2026
Selection Process
Selection is made by the Steering Committee of the ABCD-Centre based on:
Academic excellence
Relevance and quality of the research proposal
Motivation and leadership potential
Commitment to environmental issues
Willingness to spend the full research period in Germany The committee values diversity and equal opportunity.
Tips to Succeed
Start preparing early and contact your supervisor for guidance.
Write a clear, realistic, and innovative research proposal.
Show how your project will solve environmental problems.
Highlight your motivation and how this opportunity fits your goals.
Proofread all documents before submission.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can master’s students apply? No. Only current PhD students can apply. 2. How long is the scholarship? It lasts for nine months. 3. Do I need IELTS or TOEFL? English proficiency is required, but an official test may not be mandatory if your study is already in English. 4. Can I apply if I am from a developed country? No. This program is only for students from developing countries. 5. What if I cannot travel to Germany? Online participation may be possible, but in-person research is preferred.
Why Choose This Scholarship
This scholarship gives you a unique chance to work in Germany with top researchers in water and climate adaptation. You will learn modern scientific methods, join a global network, and contribute to real environmental solutions that can help your country.
Career and Future Opportunities
After completing the program, you will gain international research experience, strengthen your academic profile, and build professional connections for future collaborations. Many scholars later work in research institutions, government agencies, or international organizations.
Student Experiences
Past participants describe the program as life-changing. They gained new technical skills, made friends worldwide, and developed confidence in leading environmental projects.
The ABCD Future Environmental Leaders Scholarship 2026 is an excellent opportunity for PhD students from developing countries who want to make a difference in water and climate research. With full funding and expert mentorship, it helps young researchers grow and bring positive change to their communities.
