Fully Funded PhD in Management Sciences at Esade Business School, Barcelona Universitat Ramon Llull in Spain

Esade Business School, part of Universitat Ramon Llull in Barcelona, Spain, is inviting applications for its fully funded MRes/PhD in Management Sciences program starting in September 2026. This prestigious program is designed for highly motivated candidates from diverse academic backgrounds such as management, economics, engineering, psychology, sociology, and other related fields who are passionate about research and aspire to an international academic career.

The doctoral program offers a rigorous academic environment and a vibrant, global research community. It is structured as a two-year Master of Research (MRes) with specialized coursework, followed by three years dedicated to the PhD dissertation. Direct entry to the PhD is possible for candidates holding an eligible MRes in business and management sciences from another university. The program is full-time, on-campus, and conducted in English at Esade’s Barcelona-Sant Cugat campus.

For the 2026 intake, Esade seeks 12 outstanding applicants across several specialization areas: Strategy and Entrepreneurship, Social Innovation and Sustainability, Supply Chain & Operations Management, Innovation and Knowledge Management, Economics, Accounting & Finance, and Geopolitics and Public Management. Each area offers intensive research training and opportunities to conduct high-quality research under the guidance of leading faculty.

All admitted students receive a comprehensive scholarship package. This includes full coverage of tuition fees (25,000€ for the MRes; 5,000€ per year for the PhD) and a generous living stipend (17,406€ per year for the MRes; 17,650€ per year for the first two PhD years; 18,912€ for the third PhD year). Additional financial support is available for conference presentations and research visits, ensuring students can fully engage in academic activities and professional development.

Applicants must hold at least a Bachelor degree or equivalent. For direct PhD entry, an eligible MRes is required. The application process involves submitting an online form with your research interests, a research proposal (up to 3 pages), a detailed CV, and contact details for two referees. Supporting documents include transcripts and degree certificates (officially translated into English or Spanish), GRE or GMAT scores (valid for 5 years), and proof of English proficiency (waived for native speakers or those with at least two years of university studies in English, with justification).

Applications open in November 2025 and close on 23 January 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in February, with final decisions communicated in March 2026. For more information or to apply, visit the Esade application portal or the official program page. Prospective students are also encouraged to join online information sessions to learn more about the program and the application process.

Esade is consistently ranked among Europe’s top business schools by Financial Times, Business Week, The Economist, and Forbes, offering a dynamic and supportive environment for doctoral research and academic growth.