Apply to the IPP
Projects Offered FAQsFAQs
If you need more information about the IPP and the application process, please check below the most frequently asked questions (FAQs).
If you have any questions that are not answered here, please contact our IPP Team (email). To be able to assist you most efficiently, we kindly ask you to always include your name (as you wrote it in the application) when you contact us.
Who can apply to International PhD Programme (IPP)?
We are looking for creative and ambitious students in the field of life sciences. You should have or expect a Master's degree qualifying you to work on one of our Research Topics. Fluency in English is also required.
Do I have to provide a certificate as proof of my English skills?
No. This is not a requirement, but proficiency in English, both written and verbal, is a prerequisite for entry to the IPP.
Is there an age limit?
There is no age limit to enter the IPP.
What is the working language in the IPP?
The official working language in the IPP is English.
I do not have a Master's degree. Can I apply?
If you finished your university studies with at least four years of fully credited education (typically 4 x 60 ECTS or equivalent), practical research work and a diploma, Master's or similar degree, you are eligible to apply. In case of outstanding grades in only a bachelor’s degree, please contact the IPP team.
Do I have to provide my own funding?
No. All PhD projects in the IPP are fully funded.
How can I apply?
If we have an ongoing call, please register under Registration & Application. Once you registered as an applicant, you will receive a link to the online application form. Please be aware that we open calls for applicants to the IPP only twice a year - once in the second quarter and once in the fourth quarter of the year.
Will I receive confirmation after registering online?
Yes. Once you have submitted your registration, you will receive an email with a personalised link to the application form.
Can I make changes to my application after submitting it?
No, unfortunately you cannot make changes after submitting your application. We advise that you prepare all the necessary documents and information listed under Registration & Application before you start filling in the online application form.
If my application is unsuccessful, can I apply again for future calls?
Yes, you are welcome to apply again. However, please note that our system will not save your application, so you will have to register and fill out the necessary forms again.
What is the success rate for applications to the IPP?
We receive about 500 formally eligible applications and invite 20-30 candidates for interview days each call for typically 10-12 positions.
How many reference letters do I need to support my application?
You need at least two reference letters.
How much time do the referees have to upload their reference letters?
Referees can upload their letters via the link provided until the deadline provided.
My referee has not received an email with the link and the request to submit the reference letter for me. What should I do?
Please contact your referee to check if perhaps their spam filter has blocked our email. If this is not the case, please contact the IPP team.