Are you aiming to pursue a fully funded PhD in Europe? The Barcelona Institute of Economics (IEB) is offering prestigious PhD Scholarships in Economics 2026 at the University of Barcelona. This is a golden opportunity for international students to study in Spain with financial support while conducting cutting-edge research.
About the Scholarship
The IEB PhD Scholarships are designed for talented students who want to enroll in the PhD in Economics program at the University of Barcelona School of Economics. Selected candidates will work under expert supervision and contribute to impactful research in economics.
These scholarships are highly competitive and ideal for students aiming for academic or research careers.
Scholarship Benefits
The IEB PhD Scholarships provide generous funding, including:
- Annual stipend of approximately €18,000
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Travel grants for conferences and research activities
- Social security benefits
- Opportunity to work on real-world research projects
Duration: 3 years (extendable to 4 years)
Research Areas
Selected candidates will conduct research within IEB programs, including:
- Public Economics
- Energy & Environmental Economics
- Fiscal Policy
- Urban & Regional Economics
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must:
- Hold a Master’s degree in Economics (completed before program start)
- Meet the admission requirements of the PhD program at UB
- Have a strong academic background in:
- Microeconomics
- Macroeconomics
- Econometrics
- Mathematics
- Demonstrate proficiency in English (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent)
Program Structure
- Research-based PhD with expert supervision
- Participation in seminars, workshops, and conferences
- Teaching opportunities in undergraduate economics
- Thesis based on original research
The program prepares students for careers in academia, research institutions, and global organizations
Application Process
To apply, candidates must complete two steps:
Apply for the PhD Program
Submit your application to the PhD in Economics at UB.
Apply for the Scholarship
Send a Statement of Purpose to the IEB (as per call instructions).
Make sure your application is complete before submission.
Important Dates (Expected for 2026)
- PhD Application Window: March – April 2026
- Scholarship Deadline: Typically March-end (varies each year)

Nabeel Akhter is an international education advocate and scholarship mentor dedicated to helping students access global academic opportunities. He studied in the United States at the University of Massachusetts Amherst through the Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSI) for Student Leaders program funded by the U.S. Department of State.
Inspired by this journey, Nabeel now actively mentors and guides students in finding and applying for scholarships, exchange programs, and global learning opportunities, helping them navigate pathways to study and grow internationally.