Admission
The IMPRS LIFE will not accept applications in 2026.
The next application round is expected in October/November 2027.
Detailed information about the application process will be published on this page when the application period begins.
Below you will find general information about the application process.
General Information
The IMPRS aims to have a high share of international students. The official language of the LIFE Research School is English. Candidates must have a proven record of academic excellence. The legal right to award a doctoral degree lies within the universities in Berlin, Ann Arbor, Charlottesville, and Zurich.
Eligibility
To be admitted to LIFE in Berlin students must have recently finished an M.A., Magister, or Diploma in a discipline relevant to the School's program (developmental and cognitive psychology, neuroscience, sociology, educational science, evolutionary biology, developmental and aging biology).
Benefits
Students admitted to LIFE will receive a doctoral contract which will be paid according to TvöD 13 (75%). Depending on the funding institution, a stipend-based position could also be possible. Doctoral students at the IMPRS have a fully equipped shared office and full access to the libraries of the MPI and the Berlin Universities.
Disability and Accessibility
The IMPRS LIFE is committed to employing more people with disabilities and strongly encourages them to apply. We are happy to further adjust working conditions to accommodate the needs of applicants with disabilities.
Application Procedure
There are two ways to be admitted to LIFE. One is to apply directly to LIFE after fellowships are announced. Alternatively, an already active doctoral student from one of the participating universities or institutions may be recommended by a LIFE faculty member to the Steering Committee. These so-called "external" fellows are funded by their respective home institutions or other funding agencies (e.g., DFG). They fully participate in the training and all LIFE activities.
Typical Admission Schedule for LIFE Berlin
Announcement |
| October |
Application Deadline |
| November 30 |
Interviews |
| January/February |
Decision |
| February/March |
Entry into LIFE |
| April 1 or October 1 |