The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2027 officially called the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme (Master’s Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance) offers a funded opportunity for graduates from developing and emerging countries. This programme supports master’s level study, in fields related to policy, good governance, development, public administration, social protection, peace and conflict studies and other similar disciplines. The programme is funded by the German Federal Foreign Office. Managed by DAAD.

Selected scholars get assistance that includes a monthly scholarship of €992 health insurance, travel support and other benefits based on the rules of the specific programme.

The 2027 programme offers selected master’s courses at German higher education institutions, with the studies beginning in September or October 2027.

Scholarship Quick Facts

About the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship

The Helmut-Schmidt-Programme, also called Public Policy and Good Governance is made to get future leaders ready for jobs in public administration, politics, law, economics, civil society and development work. The Helmut-Schmidt-Programme looks at subjects that help the political and economic growth of developing and emerging countries.

For the 2027 intake the chosen master’s programmes have a feel and are taught in English. Students start the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme in September or October 2027. Applicants should carefully read the rules of the master’s course they want.

Applicants can hand in applications for, up to two master’s courses. If you apply for two courses you need to show which one you want first in your motivation letter.

Eligibility Criteria

• I think that Applicants must have completed a university degree in a developing or emerging country.

  I believe that Applicants must hold a well‑qualified university degree or an equivalent qualification.

  I feel that Applicants should have academic results, preferably within the top third of their graduating class.

  I think that the academic background should generally be related to political sciences, law, economics, public policy, administration or a relevant field.

  I believe that Applicants should demonstrate experience such as professional work, internships, political or social engagement, volunteering or community involvement.

  I feel that Applicants must be willing to contribute to the political and economic development of their home country or region.

  I think that Applicants must satisfy the language requirements of their selected master’s programme.

  I believe that the final university degree must meet the programme’s applicable recency requirement. For the 2027 intake Applicants should carefully check the announcement, for the exact degree‑date rule.

Scholarship Benefits

• 🏆 Monthly scholarship of €992
• 🏆 Health, accident and personal liability insurance support
• 🏆 Travel allowance, subject to the applicable programme rules
• 🏆 Study and research allowance
• 🏆 Possible rent subsidy where applicable
• 🏆 Possible family allowance where applicable
• 🏆 German language preparation before the master’s programme, according to the applicable programme rules
• 🏆 Academic support, seminars and networking opportunities

The exact funding package can vary according to the selected master’s course and programme rules. Applicants should therefore consult the official DAAD announcement before applying.

Required Documents

• Signed checklist and required criteria documents
• Completed DAAD application form
• Motivation letter, according to the applicable programme requirements
• Curriculum Vitae, preferably in reverse chronological order
• Copies of higher education degree certificates
• Complete transcript of records
• Explanation of the grading system
• Evidence of relevant professional experience, internships or practical activities
• Evidence of political, social or community engagement where applicable
• Proof of language proficiency required by the selected programme
• Required academic or professional reference letters
• APS certificate where applicable to the applicant’s country and circumstances

Documents that are not in German or English may require certified translations. Always follow the document checklist and instructions in the current official announcement.

How to Apply

Follow these steps to prepare your application for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship:

1. Visit the official DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme page.
2. Read the latest official programme announcement and check the eligibility requirements.
3. Review the participating master’s courses and their individual admission requirements.
4. Select up to two eligible master’s courses.
5. If you are applying to two courses make sure to list your choices in your motivation letter.
6. Fill out the DAAD application form that is required exactly as the official instructions say. Get your motivation letter and all the supporting documents ready.
7. Make sure you meet the language requirements and include the proof of your language skills.
8. Submit the application directly to the selected master’s course or courses before the applicable deadline.

Important: Applications for the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme are not simply sent directly to DAAD. Applicants must follow the programme’s specified procedure and submit their application to the participating master’s course or courses.

Frequently Asked Questions