The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship Program is a fully-funded initiative designed for students from developing countries who aspire to excel in the fields of public policy and governance. Renowned for its focus on nurturing future leaders, this program equips participants with the knowledge and skills to foster democracy, social justice, and sustainable development in their home countries. Hosted by top German universities, the scholarship covers a range of disciplines, including economics, political science, and administrative sciences, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.
With its generous funding and academic opportunities, the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship not only supports participants financially but also immerses them in a globally recognized education system. Participants benefit from tuition fee waivers, monthly stipends, health insurance, and additional allowances for travel and research. This program is a gateway to advanced education, fostering global perspectives while preparing candidates to lead impactful initiatives in their communities.
Details of the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship
- Host Country: Germany
- Host Institutions:
- University of Applied Sciences Bonn-Rhein-Sieg
- University of Duisburg-Essen
- Willy Brandt School of Public Policy at the University of Erfurt
- University of Magdeburg
- Hochschule Osnabrück
- University of Passau
- Program Level: Master’s Degree
- Scholarship Duration: Minimum of two years
Eligible Courses for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship
The following master’s courses are part of the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme
(Master’s Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance):
- Social Protection
- University of Applied Sciences Bonn-Rhein-Sieg
(teaching language: English, duration: 4 semesters)
Blended learning concept:
1st semester at the higher education institution 2nd semester online, in Germany or the home country/a developing country 3rd semester, practical term in Germany/home country/third country 4th semester online, dedicated to preparing the master’s thesis in the home country/a developing country - Email: msc-socialprotection@h-brs.de
- University of Applied Sciences Bonn-Rhein-Sieg
- Development and Governance
- University of Duisburg-Essen
(teaching language: English, duration: 2 semesters)
Email: ma-devgov@uni-due.de
- University of Duisburg-Essen
- Public Policy
- Willy Brandt School of Public Policy at the University of Erfurt
(teaching language: English, duration: 4 semesters)
Please apply online.
Email: admissions-mpp@uni-erfurt.de
- Willy Brandt School of Public Policy at the University of Erfurt
- Peace and Conflict Studies
- University of Magdeburg
(teaching language: English, duration: 4 semesters)
Email: pacs@ovgu.de
- University of Magdeburg
- Management in Nonprofit-Organisations
- University of Applied Sciences Osnabrück
(teaching language: English, duration: 4 semesters)
Email: ppgg@hs-osnabrueck.de
- University of Applied Sciences Osnabrück
- Development Studies
- University of Passau
(teaching language: English, duration: 4 semesters)
Email: information.ppgg@uni-passau.de
- University of Passau
- Governance and Public Policy
- University of Passau
(teaching language: German and English, duration: 4 semesters)
Email: information.ppgg@uni-passau.de
- University of Passau
Benefits of the Scholarship
- Tuition fee exemption
- A monthly stipend of Euro 934
- Health insurance coverage
- Travel allowances
- Study and research grants
- Rent subsidies and family supplements
- Preceding German language course
Also, check the Complete Process for the Opportunity Card of Germany
Eligibility Criteria
- Graduates from developing countries
- Good academic record in relevant fields
- Relevant work experience
- Passion for socio-political and economic development
How to Apply
- Apply online through the official website in English or German.
- Prioritize preferred courses (maximum of two).
- Complete the DAAD application form carefully.
- Submit the application along with the required documents directly to the chosen master’s course university.
- Selection criteria include academic record, motivation letter quality, practical experience, and alignment with program goals.
- Selected candidates will be contacted by the DAAD and required to upload documents on the DAAD portal.
Documents Required
- DAAD Checklist form
- DAAD Application form
- CV in reverse chronological order
- Motivation letter
- Higher education degree certificates
- Transcripts
- Work experience certificate
- Proof of English Language proficiency
- Written references from current employer or university teacher
Also check the complete process of Germany’s Job seeker Visa
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Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the scholarship is July 31, 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship?
The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship is a fully-funded program for master’s students from developing countries, focusing on Public Policy and Good Governance.
What are the benefits of the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship?
Benefits include tuition fee exemption, a monthly stipend of Euro 934, health insurance, travel allowances, study and research grants, rent subsidies, family supplements, and a preceding German language course.
Who is eligible to apply for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship?
Graduates from developing countries with good academic records and relevant work experience, who are passionate about socio-political and economic development, are eligible to apply.
How can I apply for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship?
Applicants must apply online, prioritize their preferred courses, complete the DAAD application form, and submit it with the required documents to the chosen master’s course university.
What are the selection Criteria for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship?
Selection criteria include academic record, motivation letter quality, practical experience, and alignment with program goals. Selected candidates will be notified by DAAD and asked to upload their documents on the DAAD portal.
Seize this unique opportunity to advance your career and contribute to the development of your home country with the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2025. Apply now and take the first step towards becoming a leader in public policy and good governance.