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Excellence Strategy

Excellence Strategy — Universities of Excellence Round 2 (decision, funding from)

Funds German universities strengthening long-term excellence through institutional research programs.

The Universities of Excellence (ExU) funding line is the institutional pillar of Germany's Excellence Strategy, designed to strengthen top German universities as research institutions and expand their international leadership on the basis of their Clusters of Excellence performance. A university or university network wishing to apply must host at least two Clusters of Excellence (three for a netwo

Lasting institutional funding for universities or university networks hosting at least two (single) or three (network) Clusters of Excellence. Strengthens international leadership in research.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Triennial
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.25%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.

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Last verified: 24 Jul 2026Source: www.bmbf.de