FAQ

Is there already a new date?

yes, 20 - 25, September, 2026

What can participants expect?

The lectures have school character, instead of a conference style. That means we set high value on basic introductions, elementary tutorials and general overviews [Recommendations of DPG]. Questions during class and discussions are very welcome. A lecture takes 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Several lecturers stick to the students all over a day to get in touch with each other.

How should the poster presentation look like?
Posters with reference to applied photonics are desired. Nevertheless off-topics are possible.
1. Posters will be published on the website.
2. Award for best poster presentation.
2.a. Student must be the presenting author at the poster session
2.b. Student must be the leading author of the poster contribution
A panel of experts will evaluate the posters, both for quality and content.
In order to be considered for this award, the student must meet the following requirements:
▪Student must be the presenting author at the poster session
▪Student must be the leading author of the poster contribution
▪Posters submitted by graduate and undergraduate students are eligible
◦The award is designed to encourage and acknowledge excellence in presentation skills in scientific environments and poster design. A panel of experts will evaluate the posters, both for quality and content.
Registration Procedure

Is there any deadline for registration?

There currently is no deadline for the 2026 Applied Photonics DPG Physics School.

Requirements:

Participants with basic knowledge of photonics are desirable.

Fees, costs:

Fees: 200€ prepaid, for DPG members 100€ prepaid. Besides the travelling expenses beverages at the Physics School have to be paid. Mineral water, coffee, tea is offered for free.

Number of participants?

Up to 80 students and young researchers.

If a participant needs a visa

If you received an acceptance to the Summer School, paid the fee for Applied Photonics and need a visa, we can send you an invitation. This invitation cannot, however, guarantee that you will be granted a visa, as that is entirely up to the German Consulate. If you are not granted a visa and have to cancel your participation, we will be able to refund you the service fee only with deduction. 

Certificate

The Bad Honnef Physics School will hand over a certificate to each student who successfully take part in the Summer School.

Insurance?

Does the Summer School have insurance for its students?

No. We strongly recommend that all students obtain travel insurance prior to leaving their home country. 

What do participants should bring along?

The Bad Honnef Physics School is similar to a hotel. There is no need for bedsheets or towels.
Do not bring along alcohol. Traditional German beverages will be arranged. Wine is to pay for. Strong alcohol is not permitted.
The weather can differ from day to day in Germany. In addition to summer clothes, be sure to bring something warm. Sportswear and a raincoat might come in handy as well.
Plan for a hike on Wednesday afternoon.

How many people share a room?

Lecturers get single rooms.

Participants get single rooms. In the case that there are not enough single rooms – some will get double rooms.

Male and female participants have separated rooms – if not wished differently.

Meals?

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included!

Please specify diet habits as appropriate in the application form.

How to reach the Physics School?

Hauptstraße 5

53604 Bad Honnef

Germany

Please find a detailed description on the Physics School's website.

Can I participate without a poster?

Yes you may also register for the Applied Photonics Physics School without a poster, but you will miss out on a potential win of the prize. Additionally registrations with posters will be prioritized.