Germany Today

DAAD’s Information Tour “Germany Today” is designed to give participants a broad overview of Germany’s higher education landscape. This includes:

• An overview of Germany’s higher education and research systems
• An update on current developments, innovative projects, and structural reforms
• Details about BA and MA programs, as well as PhD training at various institutions
• Information on funding opportunities for academic exchange and institutional cooperation

This year’s program focuses on innovation and transfer activities at German universities and research institutions. The overall aim is to strengthen the exchange and networking between the higher education systems of Germany and North America. The cities Berlin, Leipzig, Jena, and Fulda are recognized for their long-standing cooperation with partners in the United States and Canada, particularly at the academic and research levels.

The Germany Today Tour focuses on deepening transatlantic academic exchange by both reinforcing established partnerships and fostering the development of new collaborative networks. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with a diverse range of German higher education institutions, including universities in Berlin, Leipzig, Jena, and Fulda that are distinguished by their international outlook as well as non-university research organizations focusing on applied sciences, innovation and transfer.

A networking event at the DAAD headquarters in Berlin, bringing together German partner institutions from across the higher education and research landscape, will offer you the opportunity to engage in discussions on current topics in transatlantic academic cooperation.

The tour will also introduce participants to Germany’s universities of applied sciences model. These institutions are internationally recognized for their practice-oriented education, close collaboration with industry, start-ups and their pivotal role in regional innovation, workforce development, and knowledge transfer.

The program will be conducted in English. DAAD covers program-related costs in Germany, including accommodation, domestic travel, and most meals. The program officially commences in Berlin on Sunday afternoon, June 21, 2026, and concludes with a dinner on Friday evening, June 26, 2026, in Fulda. Accommodations for the night from Friday, June 26, to Saturday, June 27, are also arranged and covered by DAAD. Intercontinental travel expenses are the responsibility of the participants.

The program is designed to be interactive, with hosts sharing valuable insights while encouraging participants to contribute their perspectives and expertise. Typically, North American participants in this program are senior administrators at leading universities in the U.S. and Canada, such as provosts, deans, vice-presidents, or heads of international offices. Also included are policy makers from federal and state/provincial governments or associations, along with other experts in higher education and related research topics. We especially invite applications from universities which have not yet taken part in this program.

Prospective applicants must hold U.S./Canadian citizenship or permanent residency, possess a demonstrated interest in Germany and transatlantic cooperation, and hold a relevant professional position. Applicants should not have recently participated in another information trip to Germany. Special consideration will be given to universities that have not yet participated in the Germany Today program or that so far have only limited contacts and cooperation with Germany.