Berlin Mathematical School – PhD Programme
Joint doctoral programme in mathematics across three Berlin universities with eight research areas from pure math to AI.
Best for:Best for mathematics graduates seeking a structured, English-taught doctoral programme in a collaborative multi-university environment spanning pure and applied mathematics.
Overview
The Berlin Mathematical School (BMS) is the joint doctoral programme of Technische Universität Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin, and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and serves as the graduate school of the Cluster of Excellence MATH+. The programme covers eight research areas ranging from geometry and topology to mathematics for AI, and is structured in two phases: Phase I comprises Master's-level coursework culminating in a qualifying exam, while Phase II is dedicated to original doctoral research leading to a Dr rer nat degree. All courses are taught in English, and students regularly attend the MATH+ Friday Colloquia featuring distinguished international speakers. Applicants may enter Phase I with a Bachelor's degree or Phase II directly with a Master's degree, and scholarships are available for both phases.
What you'll do
- Complete five core courses and at least two advanced courses including a seminar during Phase I
- Pass an oral Qualifying Exam at the end of Phase I to advance to the doctoral research phase
- Identify and secure a dissertation supervisor during Phase I
- Conduct original doctoral research in one of the eight BMS research areas during Phase II
- Attend the MATH+ Friday Colloquia on a regular basis throughout the programme
- Participate in mentoring activities and soft skills seminars for academic and professional development
- Engage with international research training groups and Max Planck Research Schools available in Berlin
- Optional: serve as a tutor in undergraduate or graduate mathematics courses at one of the three universities
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor's degree in mathematics (or equivalent) for Phase I entry; Master's degree in mathematics (or equivalent) for Phase II entry
Degree offered: Dr rer nat (PhD equivalent)
Language: English required: TOEFL 550 (paper-based), 213 (computer-based), or 79 (Internet-based); alternatively IELTS 6.5, CPE level C, or CAE level C. German is not required.
Instruction: English (courses); dissertation may be written in English or German
- Strong foundational knowledge in mathematics
- Readiness to complete rigorous coursework across core and advanced mathematical topics
- Ability to pass a comprehensive oral qualifying examination
- Phase I applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in mathematics
- Phase II applicants must hold a Master's degree (or equivalent) in mathematics
- German language proficiency is not required for admission
- Proof of English language proficiency must be provided via one of the accepted standardised tests
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2025-12-01
Download and read the BMS PhD Application Guidelines before starting. Submit the application through the BMS online application portal. The first-round deadline of 1 December 2025 is for Phase I applicants needing a scholarship and Phase II applicants starting April–July 2026. The second-round deadline of 1 April 2026 is for Phase I applicants seeking admission only and Phase II applicants starting August–October 2026.
- Proof of English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, CPE, or CAE)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Completed online application via BMS portal
Contact
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