How does the DFG decide on funding proposals?

The decision on whether to fund a research project is based on the principle of competition. The DFG has developed a multi-stage procedure so as to provide funding for the best projects from among all the proposals received.

The decision-making procedure involves a separation of review, evaluation and decision. The researchers elected by the communities to the review boards always have an essential role to play. The mechanisms that apply to proposals submitted for individual grants differ from those submitted under coordinated programmes.

Every decision on a funding proposal is ultimately derived from or based on a decision made by the Joint Committee or another DFG decision-making body.

The DFG Head Office coordinates these procedures.

DFG Statutory Bodies

Further Information