Friedrich Schlegel Graduate School Opens 2026 PhD Call
The Friedrich Schlegel Graduate School of Literary Studies (FSGS) at Freie Universität Berlin has officially opened its 2026 call for doctoral applications — a rare opportunity for outstanding scholars worldwide to pursue a fully funded PhD in one of Europe’s literary capitals.
Why FSGS is a Game-Changer for Aspiring Scholars?
If you dream of studying the philosophy of literature, global comparative studies, or the deep cultural frameworks that define storytelling — this is your moment. FSGS is not just a school; it’s a research hub that redefines literary scholarship. The program welcomes research that explores literature through transregional, transtemporal, cultural-historical, and intermedial perspectives — making it one of the most interdisciplinary literary PhD programs in the world.
Funding Opportunities and Open Positions
The 2026 call offers a range of prestigious, fully or partially funded PhD positions:
- Up to 10 PhD positions at FSGS for 3–4 years — available to applicants with or without external funding.
- 5 Scholarships (€1103/month for nine months) starting in June 2026, paired with professional workshops to help secure long-term funding.
- 2 DAAD Grants for international students specializing in German literature and culture, funded for 3–4 years.
- 3 Fellowships for students from the Global South, supporting 3-month research stays in Berlin.
- 1–2 CSC Fellowships for graduate students from China, focusing on German Studies under the FUB-CSC program.
Candidates without direct funding will receive mentorship and support to obtain external grants. Self-financing through part-time non-academic work is discouraged — FSGS is a full-time, immersive doctoral program designed for serious researchers.
Who Should Apply?
Applicants should hold a Master’s or Magister degree in one of the following fields:
- American Studies
- English Studies
- German Studies
- Philosophy
- General Literary Studies
- Comparative Literary Studies
The working languages are English and German, ensuring an inclusive environment for both domestic and international scholars.
Berlin — The Literary Capital Awaits You
Imagine writing your PhD in a city where literary theory meets cultural revolution. Berlin offers not just historical richness but also access to global conferences, archives, and collaborative networks. As part of Freie Universität Berlin, FSGS provides world-class research infrastructure, interdisciplinary seminars, and exclusive academic mentorship from Germany’s top literary scholars.
Application Process
Applicants must submit a complete online application through the official portal:
https://www.geisteswissenschaften.fu-berlin.de/en/friedrichschlegel/foerderung
Required documents include:
- A detailed research proposal aligned with the school’s focus areas.
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
- Proof of language proficiency (German or English).
- A strong motivation letter outlining your research vision.
- Two academic recommendation letters.
All applications must be submitted online before the deadline.
Application Dates to Remember
The application process for the Friedrich Schlegel Graduate School of Literary Studies (FSGS) PhD Program 2026 is officially open for aspiring literary scholars worldwide. The application deadline is 16 November 2025 (23:59 CET), and all submissions must be made online through the FSGS portal.
Successful candidates will begin their doctoral journey on 1 October 2026 in Berlin, Germany, with the program spanning a full four years of intensive, research-driven study at one of Europe’s leading literary research institutions.