Volkskrant-IISH Thesis prize 2026

Have you written a great thesis or do you know someone who has? This year, de Volkskrant and the IISG are again looking for impressive theses on a historical subject. Students of studies other than history are also warmly invited to compete. The IISG will award € 1500 to the winning thesis. De Volkskrant will publish an interview with the winner.

Requirements

The prize is open to students who have written a master's thesis at a Dutch university (between 1 September 2025 and 31 August 2026) in the field of history or a thesis on a historical topic (national or international). When judging, the jury will look for theses that are clearly innovative. For example, think of a new topic or an innovative approach to a topic that has already been researched. Nominees will be available for an interview with de Volkskrant and will present their thesis in person at the award ceremony, which will take place on 4 March 2027.

Deadline for submissions: 25 September 2026.

Send two bound hard copies of your thesis to IISH, Cruquiusweg 31, 1019 AT Amsterdam, Attn. Maura Grimeijer. Please also send a digital version of your thesis and a letter of recommendation from your thesis supervisor to: maura.grimeijer@bb.huc.knaw.nl. For additional information please also contact Maura Grimeijer.

Juryleden

Timon de Groot - International Institute of Social History
Henk Looijesteijn - International Institute of Social History
Houssine Alloul - University of Amsterdam
Marlisa den Hartog - Leiden University
Jan Julia Zurné - Radboud University
Remco Raben - Utrecht University
Tonnie Mudde - De Volkskrant