DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme 2026 (Fully Funded)

Level of Study
Master's
Host Country
Germany
Offered By
The German Federal Foreign Office
Eligible Nationalities
... Show more
Eligible Programs
... Show more
Eligible Institutions
... Show more
Number of Recipients
Not Specified
Scholarship Category
Full Funding
Scholarship Duration
2 Years
Scholarship Type
Government
Application Deadline
Varies by Institution

The Helmut Schmidt Programme, funded by the German government and administered by DAAD, is a fully funded scholarship designed for future leaders from developing and emerging countries who aim to promote democracy, social justice, and good governance in their home countries. It supports selected candidates in pursuing a Master’s degree in public policy, governance, development studies, and related fields at top German institutions. The program combines academic training with practical experience and networking opportunities, helping scholars build the skills needed for impactful careers in the public sector, NGOs, or international organizations.

DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme Coverage

This government fully funded scholarship for international students covers the following:

  • Full tuition fee waiver
  • Health Insurance
  • A monthly stipend of €934
  • one-time research allowance
  • Family benefits
  • Monthly rent subsidy under certain circumstances
  • Language Course Funding

DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme, you need to meet the following criteria:

  • Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in social sciences, political science, law, economics, or related fields
  • Students from developing or emerging countries

Please refer to the Eligibility Page for detailed information on the eligibility requirements for the DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme.

DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme Application Process

In this section, we'll provide a clear general overview of requirements and steps to guide you through the application process for DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme.

DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme Application Requirements:

To begin your application for DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme, you'll need to prepare and submit the following documents:

  • Completed application form
  • CV (europass format recommended)
  • Motivation letter
  • Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts
  • Proof of english proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Proof of relevant work experience (if applicable)
  • APS certificate (for certain countries, if required)

DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme Application Procedure:

To apply for DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme, please follow these steps:

  1. Choose up to two eligible master’s programs under the Helmut Schmidt Programme
  2. Apply directly to the selected universities (not through DAAD portal)
  3. Apply directly to the selected universities (not through DAAD portal)

Important Note: The application procedures and required documents for DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme may vary depending on your degree, program, nationality and other factors. For specific details regarding the requirements, kindly visit the official website of DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme.

DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme Deadlines

Now that you’re familiar with the application procedure, it’s time to know the application dates! Knowing the dates for DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme will help you prepare early and it will also give you the time you need to put together a competitive application.

The application deadlines for DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme vary. It’s important to review official guidelines on the official website or contact administrators for specific deadlines. Make sure to regularly check the DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme page for the latest and most accurate information on application deadlines.

DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme Eligible Institutions

The eligible institutions for DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme are Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, University of Applied Sciences, University of Duisburg-Essen, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Osnabrück University, and University of Passau.

DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme Official Page

With the help of DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme, you’ll surely be able to support your studies abroad! To learn more about DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme, and its coverage, application process and deadlines, make sure to visit their official page!

Official Scholarship Page

DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme Scholarship Recipients

Hajrah

Master’s in Public Policy and Governance
Pakistan
University of Passau

Hajrah from Islamabad, Pakistan, is a DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholar pursuing a Master’s in Public Policy and Governance at the University of Passau, Germany. With a Bachelor’s in Social Sciences from SZABIST University, she developed a keen interest in governance, inequality, and policy-making.

Hajrah’s internship at UNDP Pakistan in climate change adaptation strengthened her application, particularly with a strong recommendation letter from her supervisor. Her self-prepared IELTS strategy and thorough research on DAAD programs and application requirements also played a crucial role in securing the scholarship.

Read Hajrah’s journey to learn how she won the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship.

Hamza Ijaz

Hamza Ijaz

Master’s in Governance and Public Policy
Pakistan
University of Passau

Hamza Ijaz from Pakistan earned his Master’s in Governance and Public Policy at the University of Passau in Germany through the fully funded DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship. He holds a BSc in Economics with minors in Political Science and History from Government College University, Lahore, where he was actively engaged in debating and editorial leadership. Hamza prepared for the scholarship by aligning his academic background with the program’s focus, achieving a TOEFL score of 118, and submitting a tailored application that reflected his commitment to public policy and governance reform in the Global South.

Explore his journey and discover how he obtained this fully funded scholarship.

Aiana

Master’s in Analysis and Design of Social Protection Systems
Kyrgyzstan
University of Applied Sciences Bonn-Rhein-Sieg

Aiana from Kyrgyzstan is pursuing a Master’s in Analysis and Design of Social Protection Systems at the University of Applied Sciences Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, supported by the DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Programme. With a background in Psychology and two years of NGO experience, Aiana aims to strengthen social development and policy reform through academically grounded solutions for vulnerable communities.

Explore her story and learn how she secured this fully funded scholarship.

Wahidullah Azizi

Master's in Public Management
Afghanistan
University of Potsdam

Wahidullah Azizi from Afghanistan is a 2020 DAAD alumnus of the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme, through which he completed a Master’s in Public Management at the University of Potsdam, Germany. The fully funded scholarship covered tuition fees and a living allowance totaling close to EUR 30,000. With a background in anti-corruption and climate finance, and experience at organizations such as Transparency International, he chose Potsdam for its strong alignment with his goals in public policy and good governance.

Read his story to discover how he secured this fully funded scholarship.

Maame Adwoa Kyeremaa Ntow

Master of Arts in Development and Governance
Ghana
Universität Duisburg-Essen

Maame Adwoa Kyeremaa Ntow from Ghana is pursuing a Master of Arts in Development and Governance at Universität Duisburg-Essen through the fully funded DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Master’s Scholarship for Public Policy and Good Governance. The award covers living expenses, insurance, and travel costs, allowing her to focus entirely on her academic and professional growth in Germany.

Read her story to discover how she secured this fully funded scholarship.

Read More Stories

Leave A Comment