FAQs

Do I need my MSc when I submit my application?
You don't need your MSc at the time of application. But you must have completed your studies and have received your MSc degree at the time when you start as a Graduate Student at HELENA.

Can I apply without a TOEFL?
TOEFL is not an absolute requirement but you need to convincingly explain that you are fluent in written and spoken English.

Is the graduate program in English or in German?
All lectures and instruction are in English. Standard language of communication in laboratories is English, too. 

Which institution will award my doctoral degree?
Typically, one of our partner universities, the Ludwig Maximilians University and the Technical University Munich will award the doctoral degree. International Graduate Students may also choose to have their doctoral degree awarded by a university of their home country.

What kind of visa do I need?
For the interview week you need to apply for a "Schengen Visa Type C (Business) ". For your doctoral studies you will have to apply for a specific visa that entitles you to conduct your doctoral studies in Germany ("National Visa Type D").

How to handle visa formalities?
Invited or accepted candidates will receive an official invitation letter from the Graduate Student Office together with a letter for the German embassy from the guest office. This letter must be submitted to the German embassy or a German consulate in your home country together with your visa application. Issuing a visa may take anything between a few days up to 2 months, dependent on country of origin and circumstances. In case problems arise, the guest office will assist.

Do I need a Resident Permit?
To stay in Germany every foreign student needs a residence permit (for details see Auswärtiges Amt and Eracareers Germany). This is not a requirement for candidates of member states of the European Union. The guest office will provide administrative support in visa formalities to students from non-EU countries.