International Doctorates

The Welcome Centre is the central point of contact for all international doctoral candidates spending a research stay at Leibniz University Hannover or studying at LUH for the entire duration of their doctorate.

We also promote the internationalisation of doctoral studies via advisory services for all doctoral candidates at LUH who intend to complete a research stay abroad, as well as through the implementation of jointly supervised doctoral programmes (Cotutelle) at LUH.

COTUTELLE/DOUBLE DEGREE FOR DOCTORAL CANDIDATES

Doctorates can be completed entirely at Leibniz University Hannover or at a university abroad. Moreover, it is possible to obtain a doctoral degree conferred by two universities by completing a jointly supervised doctoral programme (Cotutelle). This is particularly suitable for doctoral candidates focusing on international topics who are jointly supervised by academic staff at another university located abroad.

Cotutelle agreement

For this purpose, an individual Cotutelle agreement outlining the framework of the programme must be concluded.

Model Cotutelle agreement

The agreement must comply with the doctoral regulations of both universities. If necessary, the agreement must be adapted to accommodate the individual interests of both universities and the doctoral candidate. The agreement must cover the entire doctoral process, from enrolment to the graduation ceremony.

Once the agreement has been approved by both universities, it must be signed by the university management, the deans of the faculties involved, the supervisors, and the doctoral candidate.

Guideline for cotutelle at LUH
Cotutelle – Funding opportunities

Cotutelles usually include a research stay at the partner university. If you wish to receive funding, you should apply in time. Cotutelle students are eligible to apply for research mobility grants. In addition, they have access to specific funding programmes designed for jointly supervised doctoral programmes.

DAAD funding
The DAAD provides grants for international doctoral candidates completing a jointly supervised doctoral programme with a German university.

Funding opportunities for specific countries
The Université franco-allemande (DFH-UFA) awards mobility grants to doctoral candidates and supervisors involved in jointly supervised doctoral programmes with French universities.
Cotutelle – Database

The following database contains information on LUH partner universities that have previously concluded collaboration agreements and/or individual Cotutelle agreements. These agreements can be used as a template or as a basis for new agreements.