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The is one of the leading economic research institutes in Germany. Four departments conduct academic research in , , , and . The is a structured programme with a compact course phase during the first 1,5 years and full funding for five years. We were rated among the top 20 PhD programs according to the INOMICS Handbook 2024 and equip our PhD graduates with a rigorous economic training and comprehensive research insights. The IWH provides an excellent environment for students with an interest in economic policy who wish to enter the international academic job market or research-intensive policy institutions as indicated by our , for example at universities, central banks, and ministries. PhD candidates join one of the four research departments, are supervised by dedicated supervision teams, work closely with leading senior researchers in their field from day one of the programme, and receive mentoring from experienced peers. Information on the topics that prospective students can specialise in within each of the four departments can be found on our website. We cooperate with the ; doctoral degrees are awarded by our local and international partner universities, depending on the supervisor(s).

We encourage outstanding students with a Master’s degree in economics or related fields, such as mathematics, statistics, business administration, accounting and finance, to apply for admission. The deadline for applications is 15 January 2026 (24:00 CET). Interviews will take place in Halle on 27 and 29 January 2026 and decisions will be communicated shortly after. The following information is required for an application:

• Personal details
• Letter of motivation: Explain your goals, career plans, and motives to apply to the IWH-DPE. Discuss your study plans, areas of interest, and which department you prefer. Your statement should be written in English and should not exceed 500 words.
• Certificates and transcripts: An English or German transcript including courses, grades, and awarded degrees is required, degree certificates alone are insufficient. If you have not yet completed your current degree, attach a provisional transcript.
• Letters of recommendation: Two recommendations from faculty members that describe your academic ability and potential should be uploaded to our application portal. If the letters of recommendation are not available, they can also be sent directly to LOR-DPE@iwh-halle.de by the recommenders.

The following documents may be submitted:

• GRE: Applicants are encouraged, but not required, to submit their GRE scores. Ask the Educational Testing Service (ETS) to report your scores using the DI code 4051.
• Writing sample: For example, submit a paper written in English during your studies, such as a Bachelor’s or Master´s thesis.
• Any additional information relevant to your application.