2026 DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme (Master’s Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance)

If you are a passionate graduate from a developing or emerging country with a strong interest in good governance and public policy, the prestigious DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme 2026 will be accepting applications starting June 1st, 2025. This highly competitive scholarship aims to empower future leaders who are committed to fostering social justice, democracy, and sustainable development in their home countries.

Funded by the German Federal Foreign Office, the programme offers full scholarships to study a master’s degree in Germany in fields critical to public administration and governance. With a focus on preparing scholars for leadership in politics, law, economics, and administration, this opportunity is ideal for those ready to make impactful contributions to their societies.

🎓DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Scholarship Summary

• Location: Germany

• Host Institutions: 7 selected German universities

• Study Level: Master’s degree

• Target Group: Graduates from developing and emerging countries (See list here)

• Fields of Study: Public Policy, Governance, Development Studies, Social Protection, Nonprofit Management, Peace & Conflict Studies

• Funding:

  • €992/month stipend

  • Travel allowance

  • Health insurance

  • Preceding German language course (up to 4 months)

  • Rent subsidy and family support (if applicable)

  • Study and research grants

• Duration: Varies by programme (typically 2 to 4 semesters)

• Application Deadline: 1 June to 31 July 2025

• Start Date: September/October 2026

• Eligible to: Citizens of DAC-listed developing and emerging countries

📚 Scholarship Overview

The DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme supports future leaders aiming to work towards the development of social, political, and economic systems in their home countries. The programme is particularly suitable for those who:

• Hold an excellent first degree (top third of their class),

• Have practical experience in relevant fields (government, NGOs, community work, etc.),

• Demonstrate clear motivation aligned with good governance goals,

• Intend to return home after graduation and assume leadership positions.

🏫 Participating Master’s Courses

Participants can choose up to two of the following English-taught programmes:

1. MA in Social Protection – Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University of Applied SciencesBlended learning: includes online and practical phases in Germany/home country.

2. MA in Development and Governance – University of Duisburg-EssenTwo-semester programme focusing on development issues and governance.

3. Master of Public Policy – Willy Brandt School, University of ErfurtComprehensive 4-semester course with strong interdisciplinary focus.

4. MA in Peace and Conflict Studies – University of MagdeburgFocus on conflict resolution, peacebuilding and international security.

5. MA in Management in Nonprofit Organisations – University of Applied Sciences OsnabrückTraining for effective leadership in civil society and nonprofit sectors.

6. MA in Development Studies – University of PassauFocus on international development, policy-making, and research skills.

7. MA in Governance and Public Policy – University of PassauExplores governance processes and institutions in a global context.

🌐 For extra information about the courses and universities, review this PDF document

🎁 Scholarship Benefits

• Full waiver of tuition fees

• Monthly stipend of €992

• Comprehensive health insurance in Germany

• Travel allowance between Germany and home country

• Study and research grants

• Rent subsidies and family allowances where applicable

• 4-month mandatory German language course before studies

• For the “Social Protection” course: €500/month during online semester in home country

✅ Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be a graduate from a developing or emerging country (DAC list)

• Hold a first academic degree with excellent grades (top third)

• Show strong motivation and commitment to public policy and good governance

• Have practical experience through work, internships, or community engagement

• Have earned their last degree after 1 January 2019

• Not have lived in a non-DAC country for more than 15 months as of the application deadline

📄 Application Procedure

You may apply to up to two programmes. Submit your full application in English or German directly to the universities of your choice (not to DAAD). The same motivation letter should be sent to both courses.

📂 Required Documents:

• DAAD application form

• Signed checklist and list of criteria

• Motivation letter (max. 2 pages) indicating course preferences

• CV (Europass format, dated and in reverse-chronological order)

• Academic transcripts and certificates (translated, if necessary)

• Proof of relevant practical experience

• Proof of English proficiency

• A current reference letter (academic or professional)

• APS certificate (for applicants from China)

📅 Application Timeline

• Application Window: 1 June – 31 July 2025

• Selection Process: October/November 2025

• Notification of Results: December 2025 / January 2026

• Programme Start: September/October 2026

📝 Extra Tips

• Prioritize the two courses clearly in your motivation letter

• Use professional and precise language throughout your application

• Ensure all documents are complete and signed before submission

• Do not send applications to the DAAD; send them directly to the universities

ℹ️ For more information, visit the official programme page on DAAD or reach out to the respective universities listed in the section above.

📂 LIST OF DOCUMENTS

• Current Announcement

• Checklist

• Application Form

• List of Countries

• Frequently Asked Questions

• Information about the Master's Courses

🔗 OFFICIAL LINK

DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Master's Scholarships 2026