PhD

Graduate School of Economics (BGSE)

University of Bonn

Bonn, Germany

Program Overview

The Bonn Graduate School of Economics (BGSE) offers a highly selective, research-intensive doctoral programme designed for students with exceptional quantitative and analytical...

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EUR

Financials

Tuition FeesNone

Living ExpensesLiving expenses covered through funding, scholarships, or employment contracts (TV-L E13, typically 50–100%)

Note: Most public universities in Germany are tuition-free. You only pay a semester contribution (~EUR 300) which usually includes a public transport ticket.

INFO

Intakes and Duration

Intake Season

Winter (October)

Duration

9 semesters or more

Career Outcomes

Postdoctoral ResearcherAssistant Professor / University LecturerAcademic Research EconomistEconomist in Central Banks or International OrganisationsPolicy AnalystQuantitative Economist in Finance or ConsultingResearch Scientist (Public or Private Sector)

You can always explore various career paths after completing this program. The listed options are some of the most popular among graduates.

EUR

Salary Outlook

Typical range

TV-L E13 salary typically €50,000–€65,000 per year for a 100% position; many PhD contracts are 50–75%, with salary proportional to employment percentage

Fresher, mid-level, and experienced ranges are linked to external sources so they stay auditable for applicants.

LANG

Language & Exams

Teaching Language

English

Applicants must provide proof of English proficiency if English is not their native language and if their previous degree was not taught exclusively in English. Accepted minimum scores: TOEFL iBT 100 (minimum 23 in each section) or IELTS Academic 7.0 (minimum section scores: Reading 6.5, Listening 6.5, Writing 7.0, Speaking 6.5).

IELTS not requiredNo extra certification required

REQ

Requirements

Academic Admission

Outstanding (top 10%) applicants holding a Bachelor's or Master's degree (or equivalent) in Economics or closely related fields such as Mathematics, Statistics, Business Administration, Accounting, or Finance. Strong quantitative background is essential. Mandatory documents include GRE General Test (Quantitative score ≥160), two academic letters of recommendation, CV, motivation letter, academic transcripts, and proof of English proficiency (if required).

APS Certificate

Not required for PhD/doctoral programmes.

IELTS Score

IELTS required if English is not the native language and prior degree was not fully taught in English

Application Deadline

Application deadlines are subject to changes. Please refer to the above university course link for the most accurate information.

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