Helmut-Schmidt-Programme Master’s Scholarships by DAAD

Applications are now open for the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme (Master’s Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance) offered by DAAD. This fully funded scholarship programme supports future leaders from developing and emerging countries who want to promote good governance, democracy, and social justice in their home regions.

It funds master’s studies in Germany in fields related to public policy, governance, development, and social sciences. The programme is fully funded, including a monthly stipend, health insurance, travel costs, and more. There is no application fee. The scholarship is open to graduates with relevant professional or community experience. The application deadline is 31 July 2026. You can check out BS, MS, PhD and postdoc positions here.

Key Details:

• Degree Level: Master’s degree programmes.
• Host Country: Germany.
• Application Deadline: 31 July 2026
• Eligible Nationalities: Graduates from developing and emerging countries (Check the list Below)
• Scholarship Type: Fully funded.
• Application Fee: None.

What This Scholarship Offers:

• A monthly stipend of €992.
• Full health insurance coverage in Germany.
• Travel allowances for round trips between Germany and their home country.
• A study and research grant.
• Rent subsidies and possible family allowances.
• A mandatory German language course (up to 4 months) before the start of the master’s programme.
• Exemption from tuition fees.

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Eligibility Criteria:

To apply successfully, you must meet these requirements:

• Hold a first university degree (bachelor or equivalent) with above-average grades (upper third).
• Come from a developing or emerging country on the DAC list (Click here to check the complete list).
• Have relevant practical experience such as professional work, internships, volunteering, or political/social commitment.
• Your last university degree must have been awarded on or after 1 January 2020.
• You must not have lived in a non-DAC country for more than 15 months at the time of application.
• Show strong motivation to contribute to good governance and development in your home region.
• Meet the specific academic and language requirements of the chosen master’s programme.

Note: Candidates who already hold a master’s degree must explain clearly why they need a second one.

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Programs Available:

The following master’s programmes are eligible under this scholarship:

• Social Protection
• Development and Governance
• Public Policy
• Peace and Conflict Studies
• Management in Nonprofit-Organisations
• Development Studies
• Governance and Public Policy

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How to Apply:

Follow these steps to submit a strong application:

1. Choose up to two master’s programmes from the list above.
2. Complete the official DAAD Application Form (only once).
3. Write one Letter of Motivation (maximum 2 pages) that explains your reasons, ranks your course choices if applying to two, and links your goals to the programme’s objectives.
4. Prepare all required documents.
5. Print the checklist, tick all items, sign it by hand, and scan it.
6. Submit your complete application directly to the chosen master’s course(s) — not to DAAD.

Only complete applications submitted by the deadline will be considered. Shortlisted candidates will later upload documents to the DAAD portal.

Selection Process and Timeline:

A joint committee of professors and DAAD representatives selects candidates in October/November 2026. Final results are expected in December 2026 or January 2027.

For the most accurate and updated information, always visit the official DAAD website and the individual programme pages. Good luck with your application!

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