DIW Berlin Graduate Center PhD Scholarship 2027 in Germany (Funded)
The DIW Berlin Graduate Center PhD Scholarship 2027 offers a prestigious fully funded doctoral study program in Berlin, Germany. Designed for exceptional international and domestic candidates passionate about economics and evidence-based policy research, this structured five-year program combines rigorous academic coursework with practical research experience. Operating in close partnership with the Berlin School of Economics (BSE), the program prepares researchers for high-impact careers across academia, economic policy institutes, and international organizations.
Key Details Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | German Institute for Economic Research (DIW Berlin) Graduate Center |
| Designation | Doctoral Researcher / PhD Scholar |
| Degree Level | PhD / Doctoral Degree |
| Research Area | Economics and Evidence-Based Policy Research |
| Location | Berlin, Germany |
| Financial Support | Funded (Year 1: €1,650/month stipend; Years 2–5: TVöD EG 13 75% employment contract) |
| Eligible Nationalities | Open to all nationalities worldwide |
| Application Deadline | January 15, 2027 (11:59 PM CET) |
Scholarship Description
The DIW Berlin Graduate Center (GC) provides a structured, top-tier doctoral program that equips aspiring scholars with deep theoretical knowledge and quantitative skills. The curriculum covers five years of funded study and research, directly connecting academic work with empirical policy analysis.
While the DIW Berlin Graduate Center and the Berlin School of Economics (BSE) share several course modules and research facilities, they operate as distinct entities. Applicants who wish to be evaluated by both institutions must submit separate applications to each.
Financial Benefits
- Tuition-Free Study: There are no tuition fees for participants in the program.
- First-Year Stipend: During the coursework phase (Year 1), scholars receive a monthly stipend of 1,650 euros.
- Years 2–5 Employment Contract: During the research phase, doctoral students typically hold a research position at one of DIW Berlin’s research departments (TVöD, EG 13, 75% contract), contingent upon meeting academic performance standards.
- University Enrollment & Benefits: Enrolling at a partner university in Berlin is encouraged, providing affordable student health insurance and free regional public transportation access (semester fee approximately 380 euros).
Designation
Selected applicants hold the official designation of Doctoral Researcher / PhD Scholar within the research departments of the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW Berlin).
Research Area
The program focuses primarily on Economics and quantitative policy analysis. Key research areas include:
- Applied Economics & Econometrics
- Evidence-Based Policy Analysis
- Public Economics & Labor Markets
- Macroeconomics, Financial Markets, and Energy/Environmental Policy
Location
The host location for this doctoral scholarship is Berlin, Germany.
Eligibility / Qualification Requirements
To qualify for the DIW Berlin Graduate Center PhD Scholarship, candidates must satisfy the following admission criteria:
- Academic Qualifications: A strong master’s degree or equivalent in economics or a related discipline with exemplary academic transcripts.
- Quantitative & Theoretical Aptitude: Demonstrated research capability and quantitative skills necessary for advanced doctoral work.
- Language Proficiency: Fluency in English is required. Proof of language proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL) may be required depending on educational background. German language skills are not required for admission or program completion, though helpful for daily living.
- Standardized Tests: GRE General Test scores should be submitted if applicable according to general admission guidelines.
- Inclusivity: Applicants of all nationalities are eligible to apply.
Required Application Documents
- Completed online application form
- Official academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Letter of motivation
- GRE General Test results (where required/recommended)
- English language proficiency test results
- Two academic recommendation letters from university professors or researchers
- Copy of a valid passport
How to Apply
Candidates must complete their application online through the official portal by following these steps:
- Review the complete prerequisites and application instructions on the official DIW Berlin portal.
- Assemble all required documentation, including your CV, transcripts, motivation letter, and standardized test scores.
- Contact two senior scholars to serve as referees and direct them to submit their evaluations via the official recommendation portal.
- Complete the application form in English once the submission window opens on October 15, 2026.
- Upload all files in the required formats and submit your application prior to the deadline. Email submissions are not accepted.
To access the online application form and official guidelines, visit the DIW Berlin Graduate Center Application Page.
Last Date for Apply
The deadline to submit complete online applications for the DIW Berlin Graduate Center PhD Scholarship is January 15, 2027, at 11:59 PM CET.