The Hanns Seidel Foundation, which is affiliated with the political party "Christian Social Union" (CSU), sponsors highly-qualified doctoral candidates either from EU member states or with the legal status of German educational nationals (as per BAföG § 8). Applicants from all disciplines completing promising doctoral theses at a higher education institution in Germany are welcome to apply. The support aims at helping the academics become competent and responsible citizens who uphold Christian social values and co-operate actively in forming and strengthening Germany's liberal and democratic constitutional order.

Independent of income, scholarship holders are granted a monthly sum of 1,450 EUR plus a research cost allowance of 100 EUR as well as child- and family allowances, if necessary. The scholarship also entails comprehensive non-material support.

highly-qualified doctoral candidates with the legal status of German educational nationals (as per BAföG § 8) of any subject area who are regularly enrolled at a state or state-recognised higher education institution. Applicants propose a thesis that shows promise for excellence in their field of research. They furthermore demonstrate unusual potential for contributing to research as well as personal integrity.

admission to post-graduate studies (certificate of higher-education degree required)

• at a state or state-recognised higher education institution in Germany or in EU countries plus Switzerland, if the applicants are German nationals or so-called educational nationals
• at a state or state-recognised higher education institution or research institute in Germany, if the applicants are international doctoral students.

The scholarship is initially granted for 3 years. Under extraordinary circumstances the scholarship may be extended for 6 months.

Application forms and further information on the application procedure can be found here.

15 January and 15 July of each year