Application - Max Planck School Matter to Life
The application portal for a study start in fall 2023 has closed.
The next application period begins in the fall of 2023 for admission in 2024.
What does the ideal applicant look like?
Applicants with a Bachelor of Science (e.g. in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Materials Science, Molecular Biology, Physics) or a Bachelor of Engineering (e.g. in the subjects Bioengineering, Molecular Systems Engineering) or a completed a course of study in a related natural science or engineering discipline in at least six semesters are welcome to apply for the 5-year Master to PhD Direct Track program in the Max Planck School Matter to Life.
The school language is English, therefore a proof of English language skills is required. Please see the Program page for more details regarding the site-specific scientific foci.
How does the selection process work?
- Register at the application portal (link will be provided), upload your files and submit your application.
- Your application will be reviewed by the admissions committee which will consider your grades and your suitability for the program based on your motivation letter.
- Suitable candidates will be invited for a video conference interview to further assess your motivation and suitability for the program.
- Candidates who progress to the second round will be invited for another round of interviews where they will discuss a publication from one member of the Matter to Life Faculty. This will be sent to you beforehand.
Based on the evaluation of all three stages, the final top twenty candidates will be selected.
Which application documents are required?
Application documents for applicants with a qualifying degree:
- Certificates/Diplomas of all higher education degrees (e.g. BSc, etc.) - if already obtained
- Official transcripts of all completed and ongoing degrees
- Letter of motivation (~ 3-4 pages, font: Times New Roman, font size 12, line spacing 1.5 - see portal)
- Proof of English language proficiency in the case of non-native English-speaking applicants* (FAQ page)
There is no fee to submit your application!
* Note: The English language test can be taken and submitted after the application deadline (but no later than July 15th of your program start year).
If you have any further questions, please check our FAQ page. If you can’t find an answer there, we are happy to help mattertolife@maxplanckschools.de
The Max Planck Schools wish to increase the participation of women wherever they are underrepresented; therefore, applications from women are particularly welcome. Following its commitment to an equal opportunities employment policy, the Max Planck Schools also especially encourage persons with a disability to submit their applications.