DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarships in Germany 2026

The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme 2026, also known as the Master’s Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance, provides an outstanding opportunity for talented graduates from developing and emerging countries to study in Germany with full financial support. Funded by the German Federal Foreign Office and administered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), this prestigious program is specifically designed to prepare future leaders who are committed to social justice, sustainable development, and strong governance in their home countries.

This program supports Master’s degrees in disciplines related to public policy, governance, development, social protection, and nonprofit management. Courses are offered by top German universities and are taught entirely in English. Participants gain access to advanced academic knowledge, extensive training in leadership and public service, and exclusive DAAD-organized seminars and networking events.

DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme 2026 – Overview

Host Country: Germany
Scholarship Provider: DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service)
Funded By: German Federal Foreign Office
Study Level: Master’s Degree (Postgraduate)
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Eligible Applicants: Students from developing and emerging countries
Application Deadline: July 31, 2025

Financial Benefits of the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship

Selected scholars will receive a comprehensive funding package, including:

Monthly stipend: €992 during in-person study (reduced to €500 during online semesters for select programs)
Full tuition coverage at participating universities
Travel allowance for round-trip international airfare
Health, accident, and liability insurance
One-time study and research grant
4-month intensive German language course before the start of the academic program
Optional family and rent subsidies, depending on personal circumstances
Access to special seminars and professional development workshops

Participating Universities and Master’s Programs

Applicants can select up to two of the following eligible degree programs:

Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg – Social Protection
University of Duisburg-Essen – Development and Governance
University of Erfurt – Public Policy
Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg – Peace and Conflict Studies (PACS)
University of Applied Sciences Osnabrück – Management in Nonprofit Organisations
University of Passau – Development Studies
University of Potsdam – Public Management (MPM) and Governance & Public Policy

These universities are known for academic excellence and strong international partnerships in the fields of governance, development, and civil society.

Eligibility Criteria for DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme 2026

To be considered, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) completed with above-average grades (top one-third of class).
Graduation date must not be earlier than January 1, 2019.
Demonstrate relevant professional or volunteer experience in areas related to public service, civil society, or social responsibility.
Show a strong commitment to returning to their home countries to contribute to development and good governance.
Submit a language proficiency certificate (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent) as per the requirements of the selected program.
Must not have resided in a non-eligible country (i.e., non-DAC list) for more than 15 months at the time of application.

Eligible Countries

The program is open to citizens of countries classified as developing or emerging by the OECD-DAC. Click here to check the full list of eligible countries

Required Application Documents

Prepare the following documents for your application:

Completed DAAD Application Form (signed)
Letter of Motivation (max. 2 pages, covering both chosen degree programs)
Curriculum Vitae (Europass format) with full educational and work history
Bachelor’s degree certificate and official academic transcripts
Grading scale explanation (if not included in the transcript)
Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)
Reference letter (signed and stamped by a university professor or employer)
Proof of relevant professional or voluntary experience
APS certificate (for applicants from China only)
Signed checklist confirming all required documents are submitted

All documents must be translated into English or German if they are in another language.

How to Apply for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme 2026

Follow these steps to apply successfully:

Select Up to Two Programs: Choose no more than two eligible master’s courses from the list above.
Prepare One Motivation Letter: Clearly explain why you’re applying for both programs and how they align with your goals.
Complete the DAAD Application Form and Checklist.
Submit Applications to Universities Directly: Send the full application package to the selected universities only (not to DAAD).
Do Not Upload to DAAD Portal: Applications must be sent directly to university departments, unless you are nominated.
Check University-Specific Requirements: Some institutions may request additional documents.

Final Thoughts

The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2026 is one of the most competitive and fully funded opportunities for future leaders dedicated to public policy, development, and governance. With full financial support, immersive academic training, and unmatched professional development resources, this program offers a life-changing pathway to shape the future of public service and global leadership.

Apply Here via DAAD Official Portal

Visit our scholarship section to explore more opportunities.