FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ – concerning application
When will the next application round open and when will it close?
Please have a look here
The program has several participating institutions. Is the program based in MPQ? Do all of the lectures take place in MPQ? Can I work with groups in any of the institutions?
The program is based at MPQ, but most lectures are at LMU and TU, the two big universities in Munich. You can chose from every course they offer. All participating IMPRS groups are listed on the IMPRS web site.
Do new PhD students begin working on a specific project with a specific group as soon as the program begins or does the program encourage flexibility for the first few months?
At IMPRS, we are not as flexible because we only accept students who have found an advisor. Of course, if things don't work out students may switch groups, but this is quite unusual.
Next steps:
- You need to hand in your complete application documents before the scheduled deadline
- Selection of candidates to be invited for the interviews; the announcement of interviews is expected a few weeks after the deadline
- Interviews at MPQ - approximately 6-8 weeks after the deadline.
- Final selection of the members of the IMPRS-APS will be announced (travel expenses will be covered)
I missed the deadline. What can I do?
Please check the next application deadlines here
Do I need my Diploma (equivalent degree) when I send my application?
You don't need your Diploma at that time. But you must present your Diploma when you start your PhD studies at IMPRS-APS.
Can I apply without a TOEFL?
TOEFL is not an absolute requirement but it will increase your chance of acceptance. In any case, you are expected to be fluent in written and spoken English.
Payment?
The students should discuss the details of their contract with their thesis advisor.
Is there an age limit for applicants?
No, there is no age limit, but most students are under 26 when they start their doctoral studies and very few are over 30.
FAQ – concerning the program
Are the lectures in English or in German?
The medium of all instruction is English; examinations are in English, too.
From where I will obtain my PhD / M.D. degree?
The Ludwig Maximilian University, the Technical University Munich, the Vienna University of Technology or the Graz University of Technology will award the PhD / M.D. degree.
FAQ – concerning visa
Can I apply for a tourist visa?
You can use a tourist visa only for the interview/selection round. Make sure you apply for an appropriate visa before you start your studies and before moving to Germany.
Where can I get my visa?
You will get an official invitation letter (in English) and a letter for the German embassy of your country in German from the coordination office. This letter must be submitted to the German embassy or a German consulate in your home country. Provided your visa application is complete, you will obtain your visa within a few days up to 2 months. In case problems arise please inform the coordination office.
The German embassy told me that I don't need a visa.
That is correct for EU countries and for some other countries (e.g. U.S.A., Canada, South Korea). However, please make sure that you inform yourself before moving to Germany which documents/permission you exactly need so that you are able to start working immediatly after your arrival (might be possible to request them already from your home country) and to apply in-time for your residence permit. Contact us if you have questions.
FAQ – concerning general issues
What do I need to bring?
You need your visa, passport and all your original certificates. All other administrative issues can be dealt with once you've arrived here.
FAQ – Finances
What are the estimated living costs in Munich / Garching ?
The costs of living in Munich/Garching are approx. 1200 Euro per month for a single person (accommodation, food, health insurance).
FAQ — concerning IMPRS-APS certificate
What are the requirements for obtaining an IMPRS-APS certificate?
You need to successfully defend your PhD degree, and you need to gather 6 IMPRS-APS credit points. At least 3 credit points must be obtained by attending IMPRS-APS lectures.
What are IMPRS-APS credit points given for?
Please check our credit point system here
Do non-IMPRS lectures or lectures attended during master studies count for IMPRS-APS credit points?
No.