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DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Masters Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance 2025

July 17, 2025
written by Sidra Batool

DetailInformation
Deadline31 July 2025
Study InGermany
Next IntakeSeptember/October 2026

What Is the DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Scholarship?

The DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Programme offers fully funded Master’s degrees in disciplines relevant to public policy, governance, and development for outstanding graduates from developing and emerging countries. Funded by the German Federal Foreign Office, this scholarship is designed to empower future leaders to promote good governance and contribute to the social, economic, and political development of their home countries.

Image showing DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Masters Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance 2025

Apply Now:

Official Scholarship Website – DAAD Public Policy Scholarships

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must meet the following general eligibility requirements:

  • Hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a related field such as social or political sciences, law, economics, public policy, or administration
  • Come from an eligible developing or emerging country across Africa, Latin America, Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, or Central Asia
  • Demonstrate strong academic performance and professional experience relevant to governance or development
  • Show commitment to driving positive change in public policy or the public sector

Satisfy the specific language and academic requirements of the chosen program

What Does It Cover?

This scholarship provides comprehensive financial support. Below is a breakdown of benefits:

Coverage AreaDetails
Tuition FeesFully waived
Monthly Stipend€992 per month
Health InsuranceFull coverage provided
Travel AllowanceCovered (round-trip airfare) unless funded from another source
Research & Study SubsidyIncluded
Rent & Family SupportSubsidies for housing and dependents (if applicable)
Language Preparation4-month mandatory German language course before academic program begins

Which Universities and Programs Are Included?

Applicants can apply to one or more of the following Master’s programs in Germany:

InstitutionProgram
Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-SiegSocial Protection
University of Duisburg-EssenDevelopment and Governance
Willy Brandt School, University of ErfurtPublic Policy
Universität MagdeburgPeace and Conflict Studies
Hochschule OsnabrückManagement in Non-Profit Organisations
Universität PassauDevelopment Studies
University of PassauGovernance and Public Policy

These courses are internationally oriented and are taught in English and/or German.

When Is the Deadline?

You must submit your application between 1 June and 31 July 2025 to be considered for the 2026/2027 intake.

Key TimelineDate
Application Start1 June 2025
Application Deadline31 July 2025
Course Start in GermanySept/Oct 2026

How to Apply for DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Masters Scholarships?

Follow these steps to submit your application correctly:

  • Choose a university and program from the list above.
  • Apply directly to the university, not to DAAD.
  • Indicate clearly that you are applying for the DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Programme.
  • Review the program-specific selection criteria for each university.
  • Attach all required documents (CV, academic transcripts, language certificates, motivation letter, etc.).
  • Submit your application during the open window: 1 June – 31 July 2025.

This scholarship is more than funding, it’s a gateway to becoming a policymaker, strategist, or reformer. By studying in Germany with a world-class education, you gain:

  • Access to international faculty and peers
  • Experience in public sector innovation
  • Tools to transform policies and institutions in your country

Whether your goal is peacebuilding, good governance, or sustainable development, the Helmut-Schmidt Programme helps you lead with purpose.

DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Masters Scholarships – Apply Now