How can I apply?
Application to the program is a two-step online procedure: First you will be asked to register online. After successful registration, you will receive a confirmation link via email that allows you to log in and to submit your online application. For further information please visit How to apply on our website.
Can I apply for a summer internship only?
Sorry, we do not offer such a possibility. Our program is designed for doctoral students only. However, it is possible to do internships with some of the faculty members. If you are interested in such an opportunity, please contact the respective group leader directly. Alternatively, you could apply to the AMGEN scholars programme organised by the LMU or to Summer Internship Program (MaxSIP) run by Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology and the Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry.
I missed the deadline. What can I do?
IMPRS-LS recruits students only once a year. If you have missed the deadline, all you can do is apply next year.
Do I need my MSc (or BSc) when I submit my application?
You do not need to have completed your degree program at the time of application. However, you must have completed your studies and have received your qualifying degree at the time when you start your PhD studies at IMPRS-LS.
Can I use an outdated TOEFL test report as proof of proficiency in English?
Yes, please upload your latest certificate, even if it is a few years old.
Can I apply without a TOEFL?
An English language test is not an absolute requirement but it helps us to reliably assess a candidate's language skills. Without a test, you need to convincingly explain that you are fluent in written and spoken English.
Is it possible to hand in missing documents at a later stage?
Late document submissions is not possible unless there is an exceptional reason. You would have to discuss the matter with the coordination office beforehand.
My academic records are not in English or German. Do I need to provide a translation?
Yes, translations of your documents into English or German have to be provided. Please submit translations in addition to copies of your original documents.
Do I need to provide certified translations of my academic records?
Yes, translations of all required documents such as your academic records have to be certified.
Can I select a research group for my PhD project, which is not listed as “recruiting” on the IMPRS-LS webpage?
No, you can only choose research groups that are actively recruiting in the current round of application. Only research groups listed as “recruiting” do have vacancies and are in a position to hire new students
Do I need to upload a separate CV during the application process?
Yes, we will ask you to upload a separate CV. This gives you the opportunity to structure the layout of your CV according your own ideas. Clear and concise communication and presentation skills are considered important assets.
How can I be sure that the referees I have listed will be contacted by IMPRS-LS?
Your referees will be contacted automatically by us as soon as you submit the referee contact details in the application form. You will receive a notification once a referee has submitted a recommendation letter on your behalf.
My referee has not received a request to submit the reference letter for me. What should I do?
Please double check if your referee’s data, email in particular, is correct. If yes, contact your referee to check if perhaps her/his spam filter has blocked our email. If this is not the case, please contact the IMPRS-LS Coordination office
Will I be informed once the referees have submitted their references?
Yes, you will be informed by us through email. You also will find this information in your "My Progress" page at the online application portal. Please note that you will not be able to see the actual reference letter.
I already have letters of recommendation. Would it be possible for me to forward the letters directly to the coordination office?
No, we will not accept letters of recommendation submitted by applicants.
Can I edit my application after I have submitted it?
No, once formally submitted, you cannot modify your application any longer. However, you can edit, save and revisit your application before you press the “submit application” button as many times as you wish.
Is it possible to have skype interviews rather than personally coming to Munich?
No, that is not possible. Interaction with our faculty and students is an integral part of the selection process that requires all applicants to participate in the interview week in Munich. However, we routinely organize skype interviews with candidates coming from overseas before inviting them to the interview week.
Is there an age limit for applicants?
No, there is no age limit for applicants. However, most students are under 26 when they start their doctoral studies and very few are over 30.
If I am accepted to the IMPRS-LS. When am I supposed to start with my doctoral studies?
Successful applicants can commence their PhD any time after the interviews and should start no later than October 01. Starting dates are decided upon in agreement with the respective group leader.