DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarships 2026 in Germany | Fully Funded Master’s Degree
Are you a passionate graduate from a developing country looking to pursue a career in public policy or governance? The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarships 2026 in Germany—also known as the Master’s Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance (PPGG)—offer fully funded opportunities to study at top German universities. Funded by the German Federal Foreign Office and administered by DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst), this prestigious scholarship program empowers future leaders from developing countries by providing them with high-quality academic training in Germany.
The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme is designed to foster sustainable development, good governance, and democratic values by equipping talented individuals with the skills and expertise to drive positive change in their home countries. If you’re committed to building strong institutions and enhancing public administration, this opportunity is for you.
DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme 2026 Overview
- Host Country: Germany
- Scholarship Provider: German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
- Funded By: German Federal Foreign Office
- Study Level: Master’s Degree
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Eligible Applicants: Graduates from developing and emerging countries
Scholarship Benefits
The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarships 2026 cover a wide range of expenses, including:
- Monthly stipend of €992 throughout the study duration
- Full tuition fee waiver at partner universities
- Health insurance coverage in Germany
- Travel allowance to and from Germany
- Study and research grants
- Monthly rent subsidies and family allowances (where applicable)
- 4-month mandatory German language course before the start of the program
- Participation in exclusive seminars and professional networking events
Note: The “Social Protection” course has a blended learning format, and recipients receive €500/month during the online phase.
Eligible Universities
The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme partners with leading German universities known for excellence in public policy and governance. Eligible institutions include:
- Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg
- University of Duisburg-Essen
- University of Erfurt
- Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg
- University of Applied Sciences Osnabrück
- University of Passau
- University of Potsdam
Fields of Study Available
Applicants can choose from a variety of master’s programs related to governance and development, including:
- Public Policy
- Development and Governance
- Public Management (MPM)
- Peace and Conflict Studies
- Analysis and Design of Social Protection Systems
- Governance and Public Policy
- Management in Non-Profit Organizations
- Development Studies
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Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2026, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree with above-average academic results (top third of class)
- Graduated no earlier than January 1, 2019
- Have relevant professional experience through internships, employment, or volunteer work
- Show a strong commitment to development and public service in their home country
- Meet the English language proficiency requirements (varies by program)
- Must not reside in a non-DAC country for more than 15 months prior to application
Eligible Countries
The scholarship is open to candidates from developing and emerging countries. You can check the full list of eligible countries via the official DAAD link here.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Completed and signed DAAD application form
- A motivational letter (max. 2 pages covering both course choices)
- Europass CV with explanations for any academic or professional gaps
- Bachelor’s degree certificate (with official translation if not in English/German)
- Transcript of records with grading scale
- Language proficiency certificate (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS)
- Proof of practical experience (with signature and stamp)
- Letter of recommendation from university or employer
- APS certificate (mandatory for Chinese applicants)
- Signed and dated application checklist
How to Apply for DAAD Helmut Schmidt 2026
- Select up to two eligible Master’s courses from the list of participating universities.
- Download and complete the DAAD application form and checklist.
- Write one motivation letter addressing both course preferences.
- Submit the complete application package directly to the respective universities—not to the DAAD.
- Do not upload your documents to the DAAD portal unless officially requested.
For official details and access to the application portal, visit the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme Official Website.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2026 is 31st July 2025. Early application is highly recommended.
Why Apply for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship?
This scholarship offers a life-changing chance to study in Germany for free, build a global network of professionals, and return home with the skills to drive change. It is ideal for students committed to social justice, governance reform, and sustainable development in their home countries.
