Fully Funded International PhD Research Scholarships in Economics, Social Sciences, and Humanities in Germany Hans Böckler Foundation in Germany

The Hans Böckler Foundation is offering fully funded international PhD research scholarships for doctoral candidates in economics, social sciences, and humanities who wish to conduct research in Germany. These prestigious scholarships, including the Dieter Schumacher and Ute and György Széll International PhD-Scholarships, support research stays at German universities, research institutes, foundations, or archives for periods ranging from 6 to 24 months. The program is open to outstanding international PhD students from all countries, with a particular encouragement for applicants from the global south.

Key benefits include a monthly stipend of €1550–€1750, an annual travel allowance of €1300–€1400, and opportunities for international academic collaboration. The scholarships are designed to support research linked to the world of work, fiscal and monetary policy, labor markets, income distribution, financial markets, and other fields relevant from an employee’s perspective. Applicants are expected to demonstrate political, cultural, and social engagement and an active interest in the core values of the Hans Böckler Foundation.

Eligibility requirements include enrollment in a relevant PhD program, submission of a detailed research proposal, a research paper outlining the project’s topic and methodology, an invitation letter from a host PhD supervisor in Germany, a recommendation letter from the home institution supervisor, a CV, and a diploma entitling doctoral studies. The Dieter Schumacher scholarship is open to candidates under 30, while the Ute and György Széll scholarship has no age limit and is specifically for social sciences and humanities.

Application deadlines are February 28 and July 30, 2026. Applications must be submitted by post and can also be sent by email (with encrypted documents recommended for data protection). For more information and to access the application form, visit the Hans Böckler Foundation’s official website. This is an excellent opportunity for PhD students seeking to advance their research in Germany with comprehensive financial and academic support.