Habilitation Degree (HDR)

A habilitation degree (HDR) is a postdoctoral diploma that can be awarded after obtaining a doctoral degree. Awarded to scholars since 1984, it has been the highest French university degree allowing to :

• obtain the highest scientific qualification
• supervise doctoral candidates and young researchers independently
• be eligible, in most disciplines, for full professor positions at universities

The HDR is regulated by the French decree of 23 November 1988 (following its amendments in 1992, 1995 and 2002)

The ED SMRE strongly encourages applying for a habilitation degree

For you to be eligible to apply, you must hold a higher level diploma, such as

• a doctoral degree, supported by publications or other work
• a postdoc, supported by publications or other work and by at least five years of research or teaching in primary, secondary or higher education
• any other diploma, work or experience equivalent to a doctoral degree

Applicants are only allowed to apply to one institution per academic year

Before being awarded an HDR, you need to complete the three steps :

• Step 1: Submit an application for an HDR to your doctoral school
• Step 2: Complete the registration
• Step 3: Defend your HDR