Deadline: February 28, 2026
Hans-Böckler Foundation Dieter Schumacher PhD Scholarship Program 2026
The Hans-Böckler Foundation Dieter Schumacher PhD Scholarship Program 2026 is a prestigious international scholarship opportunity designed to support outstanding doctoral candidates in Economics who wish to undertake a funded research stay in Germany. The programme is aimed at young researchers whose work aligns with labour-related economic issues, social justice, and employee-focused policy research.
This post provides a complete and detailed guide to the Hans-Böckler Foundation Dieter Schumacher PhD Scholarship Program 2026, including eligibility requirements, benefits, application materials, deadlines, and selection criteria.
About the Hans-Böckler Foundation
The Hans-Böckler Foundation (Hans-Böckler-Stiftung) is affiliated with the German Trade Unions Confederation (DGB). The foundation supports academic research and young scholars whose work contributes to a deeper understanding of labour markets, economic policy, income distribution, and social development, with a strong focus on workers’ perspectives.
Scholarship Overview
- Scholarship Name: Dieter Schumacher International PhD Scholarship
- Host Organisation: Hans-Böckler Foundation
- Study Level: PhD (Doctoral Research)
- Field of Study: Economics
- Scholarship Location: Germany
- Target Group: International PhD candidates
- Scholarship Duration: 12 to 24 months
The scholarship supports a temporary research stay in Germany and does not replace full doctoral enrolment at the candidate’s home institution.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be international PhD candidates currently enrolled in a doctoral programme in Economics
- Must be under 30 years of age at the time of application
- Research focus must relate to economics topics relevant to employees and labour markets, including but not limited to:
- Labour market economics
- Fiscal and monetary policy
- Income and wealth distribution
- Financial markets
- Employee-related economic and social policy research
- Must demonstrate strong academic performance
- Must show social, political, or civic engagement in line with the foundation’s values
Applicants from all countries are welcome, with particular encouragement given to candidates from the Global South.
Research Stay in Germany
Successful applicants will carry out a 12–24 month research stay at a German university or recognised research institute. Candidates must secure a host academic supervisor in Germany and provide an official invitation letter confirming supervision and institutional support for the research stay.
Scholarship Benefits
The Hans-Böckler Foundation Dieter Schumacher PhD Scholarship Program 2026 provides financial support to help cover living and research-related costs during the stay in Germany:
- Monthly stipend: €1,550
- Annual travel allowance: €1,400
- Duration of funding: 12 to 24 months (depending on the approved research plan)
These funds are intended to allow scholars to focus fully on their doctoral research while in Germany.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit a complete application package consisting of the following documents:
- A 3-page description of the doctoral research project
- A 3-page research plan outlining objectives, methodology, and the relevance of the research stay in Germany
- An official invitation letter from the German host supervisor or research institution
- A letter of recommendation from the doctoral supervisor at the home institution
- A tabular curriculum vitae (CV)
- A copy of the degree certificate/diploma confirming eligibility to pursue doctoral studies
- A completed and signed application form from the Hans-Böckler Foundation
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Application Deadline
- First application deadline: 28 February 2026
- A second application cycle is typically available later in the year (usually around July)
Applicants are advised to begin preparations early, particularly to secure a host invitation and recommendation letters.
Selection Criteria
Applications are assessed based on:
- Academic excellence and research quality
- Relevance of the proposed research to labour, economic, and social policy issues
- Feasibility and clarity of the research plan
- Motivation and commitment to the foundation’s social values
- Evidence of social, political, or civic engagement
Why Apply for the Hans-Böckler Foundation Dieter Schumacher PhD Scholarship Program 2026?
- Opportunity to conduct high-level economic research in Germany
- Financial support for living and travel costs
- Access to German academic networks and research institutions
- Strong focus on socially relevant and policy-oriented research
The Hans-Böckler Foundation Dieter Schumacher PhD Scholarship Program is an excellent opportunity for young economists seeking international research exposure and academic growth.
Need Support With Your Application?
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review to strengthen your research plan and improve your chances of success.
