Germany has once again opened one of its most prestigious fully funded doctoral opportunities in the humanities, and it is already drawing attention from early-career researchers worldwide. The Gerda Henkel PhD Scholarships 2026–2027 are now open, offering outstanding junior academics the chance to pursue a fully supported PhD in Germany or abroad with a strong monthly stipend, family allowances, and research-focused funding freedom. Designed for scholars with exceptional academic promise, this scholarship removes financial pressure and lets you focus entirely on producing a high-impact doctoral thesis in the historical sciences.
What makes the Gerda Henkel PhD Scholarships especially attractive is the balance between academic prestige and practical financial security. Successful candidates receive a generous monthly stipend of EUR 1,920, along with additional allowances that can significantly raise total support. With funding available for up to two years—and extensions possible—this program is built for serious researchers who want uninterrupted time to think, write, and contribute meaningfully to their field.
What Does the Gerda Henkel PhD Scholarship 2026–2027 Offer?
Winning the Gerda Henkel PhD Scholarship means more than just funding—it means academic freedom backed by one of Germany’s most respected foundations. Scholars receive a monthly base scholarship of EUR 1,920, complemented by a standard foreign residence allowance of EUR 480 per month where applicable. Additional financial support is available for research-related travel, material costs, and family needs.
For doctoral researchers with dependents, the scholarship includes a family allowance of EUR 480 for one child, with an additional EUR 120 per month for each extra child, making it one of the few PhD funding programs that actively supports researchers with families. Funding is awarded initially for 12 to 24 months, with the possibility of an extension of up to 12 additional months in justified cases. Importantly, this is a dedicated scholarship—employment income and scholarship income cannot be combined—ensuring full academic focus throughout the funded period.
Eligibility Requirements for Gerda Henkel PhD Scholarships 2026-2027
This scholarship is aimed at exceptionally talented early-career researchers who are ready to demonstrate academic excellence and originality.
- Applicants must be admitted to doctoral studies.
- Candidates should be highly qualified junior academics with excellent academic records.
- The proposed doctoral project must show clear originality and strong scholarly promise.
- Research must fall within priority disciplines such as archaeology, historical sciences, historical Islamic studies, history of art, history of law, prehistory and early history, or history of science.
- Applicants of any nationality and from any country of residence are eligible to apply.
How to Apply for the Gerda Henkel PhD Scholarship 2026–2027
The application process is designed to be researcher-friendly and flexible. Start by carefully reviewing the official application guidelines and preparing the required academic documents, including your doctoral admission confirmation and research proposal.
Once your materials are ready, complete the online application form and submit your full application package through the DAAD official portal. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, allowing candidates to apply at the time that best fits their academic timeline rather than waiting for a single annual call.
Application Deadline for Gerda Henkel PhD Scholarships
The Gerda Henkel PhD Scholarships 2026–2027 operate on an open rolling deadline, meaning applications may be submitted at any time throughout the year, giving doctoral candidates maximum flexibility to apply when their research plans and doctoral admission are fully in place.