In Turkey and many other parts of the world, the doctoral process for young academic candidates can be interrupted due to reasons such as financial difficulties, bureaucratic obstacles and loss of motivation. Some academics, especially those who migrate, are forced to leave their doctoral studies unfinished. However, a doctorate is not only the foundation of an academic career, but also of independent thinking, disciplined work and knowledge production.

Doctoral education is of great importance not only for those who want to stay at universities, but also for preparation for research and leadership positions in think tanks, NGOs, international organizations and the private sector. Doing a doctorate provides ethical responsibility, methodological competence and critical analysis skills in knowledge production.

Moreover, at a time when academic production is under such pressure, doctoral studies are becoming a tool of knowledge-based opposition, intellectual autonomy and scientific resistance.

Scholarship Opportunities for Doctoral Studies in Germany

DAAD Scholarships: The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers doctoral scholarships to candidates from all disciplines.

Humboldt Foundation – Feodor Lynen Research Fellowship: Ideal for those who want to do research at postdoc level but want to continue their doctorate.

Gerda Henkel Foundation: Focuses on humanities, history and cultural heritage.

Rosa Luxemburg Foundation: For those interested in issues such as social justice, equality and the environment.

Examples of University-Sponsored Scholarships

• Uni Trier – PhD Completion Scholarship

• Uni Marburg – Philosophy of Law and Criminal Law Scholarship

• HHU Düsseldorf – Scholarship List

German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF): The BMBF provides scholarships through various institutions to support doctoral research.

Those who drop out of their doctorate can take part in more flexible, part-time or modular programs. After all, a doctorate is not just an academic title, but a way of knowledge-based solidarity, intellectual freedom and shaping the future. There are always opportunities for those who embrace the principle of “from cradle to grave”.