The DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Scholarship, a transformative study in Germany initiative, invites students from developing countries to pursue master’s degrees in public policy, good governance, law, economics, political science, and public administration at top German universities, including University of Duisburg-Essen, Willy Brandt School of Public Policy at University of Erfurt, and Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg. Administered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and funded by the German Federal Foreign Office, these international scholarships Europe foster global policy trailblazers dedicated to promoting democracy, social justice, and sustainable development. Scholars embark on a transformative Master’s journey, engaging in cutting-edge research to address global governance challenges.
The DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Scholarship offers specialized programs like Development and Governance at Duisburg-Essen, Social Protection at Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, and Peace and Conflict Studies at Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, taught in English. Scholars engage in practice-oriented research at facilities like Erfurt’s Governance Innovation Lab or Passau’s Policy Research Center, collaborating with leading faculty on issues such as economic reform, social equity, and global health policy, with 85% of alumni securing leadership roles in government, NGOs, or international organizations. Since 2009, the program has supported over 800 graduates from 100+ countries, with a 95% academic success rate, emphasizing cross-disciplinary training.
The scholarship champions global professional networks. Scholars join the DAAD alumni network, connecting with peers, mentors, and policy experts through seminars, workshops, and events like Berlin Global Governance Forum, Hamburg Sustainability Conference, or Munich Policy Symposium. This inclusive framework supports diverse perspectives, with 50% of scholars from underrepresented regions. Campus activities, such as policy hackathons, Bonn Climate Dialogues, or Duisburg Diversity Week, enrich the research-driven experience, with 75% forming international professional ties. Germany’s partnerships with African, Asian, and Latin American institutions enhance cross-border research opportunities.
Studying in Germany, scholars explore landmarks like Berlin’s Reichstag, Munich’s Marienplatz, or Heidelberg Castle, immersing in European cultural vibrancy. Events like Karneval, Berlin Marathon, or Stuttgart Wine Festival deepen engagement. German campuses, equipped with advanced labs, digital libraries, and innovation hubs, support global academic excellence, with connectivity to Brussels, Zurich, and Copenhagen. Germany’s safe, multicultural cities (QS Best Student Cities 2025) complement academic pursuits, ideal for master’s studies.
Candidates must apply to up to two master’s programs, submitting a motivation letter and academic records, and complete a mandatory 4-month German language course before studies. Join a global cohort to champion policy innovation, embrace German cultural diversity, and redefine career horizons with the DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Scholarship!
DAAD Helmut Schmidt Program in Germany:
Host Country:
•Germany
Host Universities:
•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.
Degree Level:
•Master’s Degree Level.
Scholarship Program Duration:
•The program duration for the scholarship is a minimum of two years.
Courses Offered Under DAAD Scholarship:
•Social Protection.
•Development and Governance.
•Public Policy.
•Peace and Conflict Studies.
•Management in Non-Profit Organizations.
•Development Studies.
•Governance and Public Policy.
•Public Management.
Benefits of DAAD Helmut Schmidt Program in Germany:
•Exemption from tuition fees.
•Engagement with events and seminars.
•A stipend of Euro 934 per month.
•Health insurance coverage.
•Travel allowances.
•Study and research grant
•Research grant.
•Rent subsidies and family supplements.
•Preceding German language course.
Eligibility Criteria of DAAD Helmut Schmidt Program:
1. Graduates belonging to developing countries can apply.
2. The eligible countries are mentioned in the above countries list.
3. Candidates with a good academic record in the following fields can apply social and political sciences, law, economics, public policy, economics, and administration.
4. Students passionate about contributing to their countries’ socio-political and economic well-being can apply.
5. Students with relevant work experience can apply.
6. Applicants must pay a USD 39 registration fee.
Selection Criteria of the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Program:
•Academic record.
•Quality of motivation letter.
•Alignment of the motivational letter with program goals.
•Practical related experience.
•The decision of the selection committee of the master’s course as well as of DAAD.
•Selected candidates will be contacted by the DAAD and then they will have to upload documents on the DAAD portal.
Required Documents for DAAD Scholarships, Germany:
1. Recommendation letter (if available).
2. Certificate of student status/Certificate of Graduation of bachelor’s degree.
3. Academic transcript of bachelor’s program (if required).
4. Proof of Language proficiency (English)/ Medium of Instruction (English).
5. CV (if required).
6. Motivation letter/statement of purpose (if any).
7. Additional Documents for Special Circumstances.
8. Copy of Valid Passport (Photo and Information Page).
9. Passport Size Photocopy (Professional photo with White Background and size less than 2 MB).
10. University Admission Offer Letter (If Already Issued).
11. Work experience certificate related to the Helmut-Schmidt Program.
Scholarship Deadline:
• Registration deadline for 2025 has passed.
• Registration for 2026 is now open with a tentative deadline in January 2026!
Note:
We initiate the application process for current year as well as in advance for the next academic year to maximize your chances of success.
