The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme 2027 is a fully funded master’s scholarship offered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) to outstanding students from developing and emerging countries pursuing degrees in public policy, governance, law, development studies, and related fields at selected German universities. Benefits include a monthly stipend of €992, full tuition fee exemption, health insurance, travel allowances, a pre-study German language course, and family and rent allowances where applicable. The application deadline is 31 July 2026.
Program Highlights
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Opportunity Type | Fully Funded Master’s Scholarship |
| Organising Body | German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) |
| Host Universities | Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University, University of Duisburg-Essen, University of Erfurt, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences, University of Passau |
| Mode | On-Campus (Offline) |
| Duration | Up to 2 Years |
| Location | Germany |
| Last Date to Apply | 31 July 2026 |
About the Program
DAAD established the Helmut Schmidt Programme — formally titled the Master’s Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance — to equip future leaders from developing countries with the theoretical frameworks, policy skills, and professional competencies needed to drive democratic governance and social justice in their home nations. The programme specifically targets graduates in social and political sciences, law, economics, and public administration who demonstrate both academic excellence and a tangible commitment to national development.
Furthermore, the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme 2027 places scholars within an internationally diverse academic cohort at some of Germany’s most respected universities, fostering cross-cultural professional networks that extend well beyond the scholarship period. Consequently, recipients gain not only postgraduate qualifications but also the practical leadership exposure and peer networks that strengthen their capacity to take on senior positions in public institutions, civil society, and international organisations upon returning to their home countries.
Eligibility Criteria
Academic Qualification
- Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree with above-average academic performance from an accredited institution.
- Eligible fields of study include social and political sciences, law, economics, public policy, public administration, development studies, and closely related disciplines.
- Applicants must meet the specific admission requirements of their chosen master’s programme at the applying host university.
- Applicants must be nationals of a developing or emerging country listed on the official DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme eligible countries list.
Experience & Other Conditions
- Relevant professional experience in government, civil society, or international organisations is required; internships, volunteering, community service, or political and social engagement all qualify.
- Applicants must demonstrate a strong and clearly articulated commitment to contributing to the social, political, and economic development of their home country.
- Applicants may apply for a maximum of two eligible master’s courses simultaneously, ranking their first and second preference clearly in the motivation letter.
- All application documents must be submitted directly to the host university — not to DAAD; shortlisted candidates receive a subsequent DAAD invitation to upload documents to the DAAD portal.
Stipend, Salary & Benefits
The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme 2027 provides a comprehensive financial package covering tuition, living costs, travel, language preparation, and family support.
| Component | Detail |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | Fully exempted |
| Monthly Stipend | €992 per month |
| Health Insurance | Covered for the full scholarship duration |
| Travel Allowances | Provided |
| Study & Research Grant | Included |
| Rent Subsidy | Available where applicable |
| Family Allowance | Available where applicable |
| German Language Course | Pre-study German language course in Germany provided |
| Networking & Events | Participation in seminars, workshops, and networking events |
| Academic Support | Mentoring and academic guidance throughout the programme |
Selection Process
- Initial application submitted directly to the chosen host university — not to DAAD
- University selection committee reviews the application against academic and programme-specific admission requirements
- Assessment of the motivation letter for quality, clarity, and alignment with programme goals
- Evaluation of academic record, practical experience, and professional engagement
- Joint review by the host university selection committee and DAAD
- Shortlisted candidates receive a DAAD invitation to upload documents to the DAAD portal for final scholarship confirmation
How to Apply
- Read the official DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme guidelines and FAQs carefully before beginning the application.
- Review the list of eligible master’s courses offered under the programme and select up to two, ranking your first and second choice clearly.
- Prepare all required documents: completed and signed DAAD application form, motivation letter (maximum 2 pages — same letter for both courses if applying to two), Europass CV in reverse chronological order, university degree certificates with certified translations, academic transcripts with grading system explanation, proof of practical experience on official letterhead, a current written reference from an employer or university lecturer, proof of English language proficiency, and the completed DAAD checklist form.
- Submit the application form and all required documents directly to your chosen host university — not to DAAD — before the deadline of 31 July 2026.
- If applying to two courses, submit the same motivation letter to both programmes and ensure your priority ranking between the two is clearly stated.
- Await contact from DAAD if shortlisted; subsequently upload all documents to the DAAD portal as directed.
Important Dates & Links
Key Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 31 July 2026 |
| Programme Start | 2027 (dependent on host university) |
| Duration | Up to 2 years |
Official Links
| Resource | Link |
|---|---|
| Apply Online | Click Here |
| Official DAAD Programme Page | Click Here |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme 2027?
Graduates from developing and emerging countries who hold a bachelor’s degree with above-average performance in social sciences, law, economics, public policy, public administration, or related fields, and who demonstrate relevant professional experience and commitment to national development, are eligible.
What is the monthly stipend for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme 2027?
Scholars receive a monthly stipend of €992, alongside full tuition exemption, health insurance, travel allowances, a study grant, a pre-study German language course, and family and rent allowances where applicable.
Do I apply to DAAD directly for the Helmut Schmidt Programme 2027?
No. Applicants submit their application and documents directly to their chosen host university. DAAD subsequently contacts shortlisted candidates and invites them to upload documents to the DAAD portal for final scholarship processing.
Can I apply to more than one master’s course under the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme 2027?
Yes. Applicants may apply to a maximum of two eligible master’s courses, using the same motivation letter for both and clearly stating their priority ranking between the first and second choice programmes.
When is the application deadline for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme 2027?
The application deadline is 31 July 2026. Applicants should prepare all required documents — particularly the motivation letter, proof of work experience, and reference letter — well in advance and submit directly to the host university before this date.