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Grants
On-Site
About the Call for Grant
The FMSH "Directeurs d'Études Associés" (DEA) Programme is an international mobility scheme that invites university professors and senior researchers from around the world to conduct research in the humanities and social sciences (HSS) in France. The foundation specifically encourages applications from researchers in countries with limited local funding opportunities for HSS, positioning this grant as a vital bridge for international scientific collaboration. The program is not intended for simple writing retreats; it requires an active, field-oriented research design.
Eligibility
The program sets high academic standards for applicants:
- Rank Requirement: Exclusively intended for full university professors or researchers of equivalent status in higher education/research institutions.
- Age Limit: Candidates must be under 65 years of age at the time of their research stay.
- Scientific Focus: Priority is given to projects requiring physical presence in France for fieldwork: conducting surveys, extensive work in French libraries, or accessing specific national archives.
- Language: Applications may be submitted in English or French.
Priority Research Fields
- Innovation in Humanities and Social Sciences (Sociology, Anthropology, History, Philosophy, Political Science).
- Projects requiring deep engagement with French scientific networks and specialized archival data.
Format:
Mobility Mechanics & Financial Support
💰 Funding & Logistics:
- Allowance: A monthly grant of €3,400 is awarded to cover transport and living expenses during the stay in France.
- Administrative Support: The FMSH provides dedicated assistance for visa applications, simplifying the bureaucratic process for international scholars.
⏱️ Project Duration & Timing:
- Stay Length: Fixed duration of 4 to 6 weeks.
- Constraints: No research stays can be scheduled between July 15 and August 31 (French university summer break).
📅 Application Deadlines & Cycle Status:
- Cycle Status: The current call for the 2026 academic year is closed (deadline was November 2025).
- Future Intakes: This is an annual programme. The call typically opens in early September and closes in late November of the preceding year. Applicants should monitor the official FMSH portal in late summer.
🔄 Evaluation Criteria:
- Scientific Quality: Originality of the project and the robustness of the methodology.
- Necessity of Presence: Clear justification for why the research must be conducted specifically in France.
- Feasibility: A detailed work plan confirming that the project can be realistically achieved within the 4-6 week timeframe.
- Institutional Support: A mandatory letter of support from a French research laboratory confirming they will host the applicant.