International students can study in Germany through the Böckler Foundation Scholarships 2025
The Hans Böckler Foundation focuses on co-determination, research linked to the world of work, and supporting students on behalf of the Confederation of German Trade Unions (DGB). We offer scholarships to foreign doctoral candidates from various disciplines who wish to combine their research work with a stay in the Federal Republic of Germany. Below is an overview of the scholarships currently available with the corresponding application requirements.
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When is the Application Deadline:
- Dieter Schumacher PhD Scholarship: February 28, 2025
- Ute and György Széll PhD Scholarship: February 28, 2025
- Winter Semester: November 15, 2024 – February 1, 2025
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Tell Me About The Award:
The Hans Böckler Foundation offers scholarships to international doctoral students in economics, social sciences, and humanities. It fosters research on labor, social welfare, and fiscal policies. These scholarships support candidates from the global south who are socially engaged and aligned with the foundation’s values of co-determination and societal welfare.
#1. Dieter Schumacher International PhD-Scholarship
The Hans Böckler Foundation’s Dieter Schumacher PhD Scholarship program enables outstanding international PhD students in Economics to conduct a 12-24 months stay at a German university or research institute. The scholarship program is open to doctoral students under the age of 30.
#2. Ute and György Széll International PhD-Scholarship
The Ute and György Széll International Scholarship shall permit outstanding international PhD-students in Social Sciences and Humanities a six months-stay not only at a German university or research institute, but also at a foundation or archive. There is no limit on age.
Read Also: EPFL Switzerland is offering multiple PhD Studentship Positions 2025: Applications Are Open
Which Fields are Eligible?
- Economics (Dieter Schumacher Scholarship)
- Social Sciences and Humanities (Ute and György Széll Scholarship)
Type: Doctoral research scholarships for international students.
Who can Apply for the Böckler Foundation Scholarships?
International PhD students, especially those from the global south, with strong academic records, relevant research interests, and active social or political engagement.
How are Applicants Selected?
Selection is based on academic excellence, research alignment with the foundation’s focus, and the applicant’s social or political engagement. Applicants must provide a doctoral project proposal, recommendation letters, and an invitation letter from a German supervisor.
Which Countries Are Eligible? All countries are eligible, with a focus on applicants from the global south.
Where will the Award be Taken? At a German university, research institute, or foundation.
How Many Awards? The number varies based on funding and applicant qualifications.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Dieter Schumacher Scholarship: EUR 1,550/month plus EUR 1,400 annual travel allowance
- Ute and György Széll Scholarship: EUR 1,450/month plus EUR 1,300 annual travel allowance
How Long Will the Award Last?
- Dieter Schumacher Scholarship: 12–24 months
- Ute and György Széll Scholarship: Six months
How to Apply for the Böckler Foundation Scholarships:
- Submit a completed application form, a doctoral project description, an invitation letter from a German supervisor, and letters of recommendation.
- Apply via the Hans Böckler Foundation website: Böckler Foundation International Scholarships
