DAAD Research Proposal Guide

Proposal Structure (5–10 pages)

DAAD caps the proposal at 10 pages in total, and it must be discussed with your academic adviser in Germany. We suggest aiming for 5–10 pages in seven parts, in this order. Here's what evaluators expect to see in each one.

1. 1
   Title & Abstract
2. 2
   Background
3. 3
   Research Question
4. 4
   Methodology
5. 5
   Timeline
6. 6
   Significance
7. 7
   References

1. Title and Abstract

Use a clear, specific title. Then write an abstract of 150–200 words that summarizes your entire proposal.

The abstract is the first thing evaluators read, so make it count.

2. Literature Review / Background

Show you know the field. Cite the key works and identify the gap your research will fill.

Don't just summarize. Show how existing work leads logically to your question.

3. Research Question

State it clearly and precisely. A good research question is specific and testable. A bad one is something vague, like “exploring the relationship between X and Y.” Include sub-questions if they help.

4. Methodology

How will you answer your question? Be specific about your methods, data sources and analysis techniques, and show that the work is feasible.

If you need special equipment or access, explain how you will get it.

5. Timeline

Break your research into phases with realistic dates. Show you can complete the work within the funding period, and include milestones and deliverables.

6. Significance

Why does this research matter? What will it contribute to the field? How is it relevant to your home country?

7. References

Use a consistent citation style (APA, Harvard, etc.) and include 15–30 key references.

• Every citation in the text appears in the reference list.
• Every entry in the reference list is cited in the text.