Hans Böckler Foundation Scholarship 2026

The Hans Böckler Foundation Scholarship is offered by the Hans Böckler Foundation in Germany. The foundation is closely associated with labour, social justice, and co-determination, and its funding programmes are known for supporting talented applicants who combine strong academic performance with social, trade union, or socio-political engagement.

The programme supports study and research in Germany, including doctoral funding. Reference postings show Hans Böckler Foundation-funded PhD scholarships at the University of Marburg for research on human-in-control artificial intelligence, natural language processing, and employee co-determination. In that example, funding was provided for up to three years, with a tax-free monthly stipend, research allowance, and a health insurance subsidy, with possible family-related support.

Depending on the specific call, the scholarship may support different subjects and institutions, but it is generally aimed at applicants with above-average academic achievement whose proposed study or research fits the relevant programme or project. For doctoral opportunities, applicants may be asked to submit a research proposal or exposé and show that their project aligns with the host research group or advertised theme.

A distinctive feature of Hans Böckler Foundation funding is the expectation that applicants demonstrate a meaningful record of social engagement, especially in socio-political, labour-related, or trade union contexts. Language requirements vary by programme and host institution; some doctoral projects may be completed in German or English.

Applications are usually submitted through the relevant scholarship call or host institution announcement. Because the foundation funds both broader scholarships and project-based doctoral positions, students should always check the specific call for exact eligibility, required documents, timelines, and funding details.