About the Scholarship
The Hans‑Böckler Foundation (HBS), Germany, invites applications for the Fully Funded International PhD Scholarship in Humanities through the Ute and György Széll Program. This prestigious scholarship supports outstanding international PhD candidates from all countries, with a particular focus on the Global South, to undertake a six-month research stay at a German university, research institute, foundation, or archive. Scholars benefit from interdisciplinary research opportunities, professional development, and integration into Germany’s academic community while pursuing research aligned with the foundation’s priorities of co-determination, societal studies, and cultural research. Funding covers a monthly stipend, travel allowance, and access to research resources, fostering global academic exchange and enabling researchers to strengthen their career trajectory in the humanities.
Scholarship Details
- Scholarship Name: Ute and György Széll International PhD Scholarship
- Institution/Provider: Hans‑Böckler Foundation
- Administering Organization: Hans‑Böckler Stiftung
- Location: Germany
- Level of Study: PhD
- Field of Study: Humanities and Social Sciences
- Mode of Study: Full-time research stay
- Duration: 6 months
- Start Date (Expected): Flexible within 2026
- Application Mode: Email / Post Submission
- Scholarship Type: Fully-funded
Supported Fields of Study
- Sociology
- Political Science
- Literary Studies
- Cultural Studies
- History
- Related Humanities & Social Sciences
Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements
- Academic Qualifications: Enrolled in a PhD programme in Social Sciences or Humanities
- Nationality/Residency: International applicants (any country)
- Language Proficiency: Proof required by host institution
- Age Limit: None
- Enrollment Status: Current PhD students
Preferred Qualifications
- Demonstrated academic excellence, research potential, cultural or social engagement
Not Eligible
- Applicants not enrolled in a relevant PhD programme
- Candidates without a host supervisor invitation
Financial Coverage / Funding Benefits
- Tuition Fees: Not applicable (research stay)
- Monthly Stipend/Allowance: €1,450
- Travel Grant: €1,300 annual allowance
- Accommodation Support: Variable by host arrangement
- Health Insurance: TBC
- Books & Materials: Dependent on host resources
- Additional Perks: Integration into German academic networks
Scholarship Benefits
- Tuition Coverage
- Living/Monthly Stipend
- Travel Assistance
- Access to Archives & Research Resources
- Networking & Research Development Opportunities
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain active research engagement
- Complete research plan milestones
- Liaise with the host supervisor
Application Process
How to Apply
- Application Mode: Email Submission / Post
- Official Link: Click here
Required Documents
- Completed Application Form
- CV / Resume
- Academic Transcripts
- Personal Statement / Motivation Letter
- Letters of Recommendation
- Research Plan / Proposal (3 pages)
- Host Supervisor Invitation
- Diploma or Equivalent Qualification
Important Dates
- Application Deadline (Cycle 1): 28 February 2026
- Application Deadline (Cycle 2): 30 July 2026
Applications are accepted twice annually for planned research stays in Germany
Where to Apply
- Institution Website: Hans-Böckler-Stiftung
- Official Notification: Click here
- Apply Here: Submit via post or email to bewerbung@boeckler.de
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