DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme in Germany | Fully Funded
Last updated: 10 September 2026 at 1:17 pm
About the Scholarship
The DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme supports graduates from developing and emerging countries who want to pursue selected Master’s programmes in public policy, governance and related fields in Germany. The scholarship includes monthly funding, tuition exemption, insurance, travel support and a mandatory German language course.
Scholarship Snapshot
Eligibility Criteria
The following details help you understand the scope of the scholarship and the requirements mentioned in the listing.
Eligible Countries
Developing and Emerging Countries
Study Fields
Public Policy, Good Governance, Political Science, Economics, Law, Public Administration, International Relations, Development and Social Policy
Languages
English, mandatory German language course before study
Study Levels
Master
Transcripts
Yes
Degrees
Yes
Essay
Yes
Recommendation Letters
Yes
Apply Now
Available
Contact Information
Applicants should contact the participating Master’s programme they intend to apply to. Applications must be submitted directly to the selected Master’s course or courses, not to DAAD. Applicants may choose a maximum of two participating programmes. Email: postmaster@daad.de
Background and Purpose
The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme is hosted by selected German universities offering internationally recognized master’s programmes in public policy and governance-related fields. These universities are known for excellence in political science, economics, law, public administration, social sciences, and international relations. Students benefit from advanced research facilities, experienced faculty members, modern campuses, and multicultural academic environments. Many programmes are taught entirely in English, making them accessible to international students from diverse backgrounds. German universities emphasize research-based learning, critical thinking, policy analysis, and practical leadership development. Scholars also gain opportunities to participate in seminars, workshops, internships, and international networking activities. The programme prepares graduates for influential careers in government institutions, NGOs, international organizations, diplomacy, policy-making, and development sectors worldwide.
Why this matters
Scholarships like this are presented in a stable layout so readers can scan the important details quickly, then open the official application link when they are ready.
More About This Scholarship
The DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme gives graduates from developing and emerging countries an opportunity to complete a fully funded Master’s degree in Germany while preparing for careers in public policy, governance and development. Scholars currently receive €992 per month, tuition fee exemption, insurance, travel support and additional academic assistance, making the programme especially valuable for future leaders who want to contribute to social and economic development in their home countries.
The programme is not open to every Master’s degree in Germany. Applicants must choose from a limited group of participating programmes and submit their scholarship application directly to those universities.
Who Can Apply?
The programme targets graduates from developing and emerging countries who already hold a strong Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
Applicants are expected to have an academic background related to areas such as:
Political and social sciences
Public policy
Public administration
Law
Economics
Governance
Development studies
Relevant practical experience is also important. DAAD states that this can include professional employment, internships, volunteering or other community involvement.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
The Helmut-Schmidt-Programme provides comprehensive financial support.
Current benefits include:
€992 monthly scholarship
Tuition fee exemption
Health insurance
Accident and liability insurance
Fixed travel allowance
Annual study and research grant
Possible rent subsidy
Possible spouse or child allowance
Mandatory German language course before study
DAAD also states that scholarship holders may still need to pay semester registration fees.
How to Apply
Applicants do not send their scholarship application directly to DAAD.
Instead, they may choose up to two participating Master’s programmes and submit the required documents directly to those programmes.
Applicants choosing two programmes must rank them clearly in their motivation letter and use the same application materials for both choices.
The application period opens on June 1 and closes on July 31 each year.
How to Prepare a Strong Application
Academic grades matter, but this programme also looks for applicants who can connect their education with real social, political or economic development.
A strong application should demonstrate:
Relevant academic background
Practical or professional experience
Clear career goals
Leadership potential
Community involvement
Understanding of development challenges
A convincing reason for selecting the chosen Master’s programme
Write a Focused Motivation Letter
The motivation letter should not simply say that studying in Germany is a personal dream.
Applicants should explain how the selected degree relates to their previous education and experience, why it is relevant to their career plans and how they intend to use their skills after completing the programme.
Applicants choosing two programmes should clearly explain why each programme was selected and rank them in order of preference.
German Language Course
Applicants do not necessarily need German proficiency to apply because participating Master’s programmes are mainly taught in English.
However, scholarship recipients must complete a German language course in Germany before beginning their Master’s studies.
Common Mistakes
Applicants should avoid:
Sending the scholarship application directly to DAAD
Applying to more than two participating programmes
Using different motivation letters without consistent programme ranking
Ignoring the practical experience requirement
Using the incorrect USD stipend amount
Assuming tuition exemption also removes all semester charges
Submitting incomplete documents
Missing the July 31 deadline
DAAD warns that applications can be excluded for missing documents, incorrect information or failure to follow the application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme fully funded?
Yes. DAAD describes it as a full scholarship programme covering monthly financial support, tuition exemption, insurance, travel and additional benefits.
How much is the monthly stipend?
The current standard scholarship payment is €992 per month.
What is the deadline?
Applications open on June 1 and close on July 31.
Is work experience required?
Relevant practical experience is required. It can include professional work, internships, volunteering or community activities.
Can applicants apply to several universities?
Applicants may choose a maximum of two participating Master’s programmes.
Is German required?
The Master’s programmes are mainly taught in English, but scholarship holders must participate in a German language course before their studies begin.
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