DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Scholarships 2026. Germany (Public Policy & Governance)

The DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Programme is one of Germany’s most prestigious fully funded scholarships for international students who want to pursue a master’s degree in public policy, governance, economics, development, and related social sciences. Funded by the German Academic Exchange Service, this programme is designed to train future leaders who aim to contribute to democratic governance, social development, and public sector reform in their home countries.

For the 2027 intake, the scholarship continues to attract high-potential graduates from developing and emerging countries who have both academic excellence and real-world experience in social, political, or development work.

Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: Germany
• Scholarship Provider: DAAD
• Programme Name: Helmut-Schmidt Programme (Public Policy and Good Governance)
• Degree Level: Master’s (Postgraduate)
• Funding Type: Fully funded
• Monthly Stipend: €992
• Duration: 2 to 4 semesters (depending on programme)
• Fields of Study: Public Policy, Governance, Development, Economics, NGO Management
• Application Period: June to July 2026
• Selection Period: October to November 2026
• Result Announcement: December 2026 – January 2027

Selected candidates receive a comprehensive funding package, including:

• Monthly stipend of €992
• Full tuition fee exemption
• Health insurance coverage
• Travel allowance for international students
• Rent subsidies in some cases
• Study and research grants
• Mandatory German language course before studies
• Access to leadership and policy training seminars
• Networking with international scholars
• Participation in governance and development workshops

In some programmes, stipend conditions may vary during online or blended learning semesters.

This scholarship supports:

• Master’s degree programs in Germany
• Public policy and governance-related postgraduate studies
• Development-focused academic programs
• International English-taught master’s degrees

Applicants can apply for selected programs in:

• Public Policy
• Economics and Development Studies
• Governance and Public Administration
• Peace and Conflict Studies
• Nonprofit and NGO Management
• Social Protection
• International Development
• Political Science and related fields

• Open to applicants from developing and emerging countries
• Applicants must meet DAAD country eligibility criteria
• Strong preference for candidates with social or development engagement experience

Applicants must:

• Hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification
• Demonstrate above-average academic performance (top academic tier)
• Be from a developing or emerging country
• Show strong motivation for public service or social development
• Have relevant practical experience such as:
  • NGO work
  • Volunteering
  • Political or community engagement
  • Internships or professional experience in development fields

Additional important conditions:

• Last degree should typically not be older than 6 years
• Applicants with a previous master’s degree must justify the need for another one
• Some programs may require specific academic backgrounds or language proof

Required Documents

Applicants generally need to submit:

• DAAD application form
• Motivation letter (maximum 2 pages)
• Europass CV
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates
• Proof of work or internship experience
• Volunteer or community service evidence
• Language proficiency certificate (English)
• Recommendation letter (academic or professional)
• APS certificate (for applicants from some countries such as China and India)

Application Process

1. Choose eligible master’s programs under the Helmut-Schmidt scheme
2. Prepare motivation letter and CV
3. Gather academic and professional documents
4. Obtain recommendation letters
5. Apply to a maximum of two programs only
6. Rank selected programs in motivation letter
7. Submit application within the official DAAD portal or partner universities
8. Wait for selection results after evaluation and interviews

Important: Applying to more than two programs leads to disqualification.

Key Features of the Programme

• Focus on leadership and public service careers
• Strong emphasis on real-world development experience
• Fully funded study opportunity in Germany
• English-taught master’s programs
• Structured training for future policymakers and governance experts
• Designed for applicants committed to social change.