How to apply as a doctoral student in Germany?

There are some peculiarities for applying as a doctoral student in Germany. The aim of this paper is to explain the most important ones for foreign graduates considering doctoral studies in Germany. Doctoral studies are free in Germany and one can get even a paid job at the university or a stipend while writing one’s dissertation. There are some formal requirements for doctoral students but it is most important to convince a professor to accept one. For this end and in one's own interest it is decisive to look for a good match, particularly similar research interests.