DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Programme

DAAD is announcing applications for the Helmut-Schmidt Programme (Public Policy and Good Governance), a fully funded Master’s scholarship in Germany for 2027 study. This opportunity is aimed at academically strong graduates from developing countries who want to build leadership skills and contribute to stronger, more sustainable public and private institutions.

The programme supports study at selected German universities in fields such as Public Policy, Good Governance, Public Administration, Law, Economics, Development, and related areas. It is especially relevant for students interested in governance reform, policy analysis, institutional development, and sustainable development.

Funding includes a full tuition waiver, monthly living stipend, health insurance, international travel tickets, additional financial support when needed, and an intensive German language course before the degree begins. The DAAD EPOS page also notes possible travel allowance, rent subsidy, and family allowance under certain conditions.

Eligibility highlights: applicants should hold a Bachelor’s degree (usually four years), have at least two years of relevant professional experience after the first degree, and show above-average academic performance. For German-taught courses, a minimum German level of B1 is required at application, with DSH 2 or TestDaF 4 needed before enrolment. For English-taught courses, applicants must meet the language requirements of the chosen programme. Applicants should normally not have lived in Germany for more than 15 months by the deadline.

Application process: candidates apply directly to the chosen postgraduate course(s) at the participating university or programme website, not to DAAD first. Up to three courses may be selected, and a single motivation letter should explain the choices and priority order. Shortlisted candidates are later contacted by DAAD to upload documents to the DAAD Portal.

Deadline: 31 July 2026.