German DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2026-Fully Funded
Applications are now open for the German DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2026, a transformative Fully Funded Master’s Program, invites aspiring global leaders from 190+ countries to pursue cutting-edge postgraduate studies in Germany. Launched in 2009 by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), this prestigious scholarship, funded by the German Federal Foreign Office, Aligned with UN SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), it fosters good governance, public policy innovation, and social justice, empowering scholars to drive impactful change through advanced education.
The 2026 cycle, themed “Shaping Global Governance”, emphasizes three core pillars: Leadership Development, cultivating policy expertise; Cross-Cultural Dialogue, promoting inclusive solutions; and Sustainable Impact, advancing democratic systems.Judged by academic experts and DAAD representatives, applications are evaluated for academic excellence (40%), motivational alignment (30%), and professional relevance (30%), using AI-assisted authenticity checks. The program, offered in English, connects scholars from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe at seven elite German universities, ensuring global accessibility.
The program has empowered 800+ scholars from 100+ countries, with 95% graduating with distinction and alumni influencing UN agencies and national ministries.Conducted in English, it ensures universal reach, with applications from Brazil, Kenya, India, and Vietnam. Managed by DAAD, the 2026 cycle projects 3,000+ entries, advancing policy leadership, sustainable development, and global collaboration.
The scholarship covers all the expenses funded by the German Federal Foreign Office. The Academic Program will begin in September 2026 and is offered in English. Applicants can only apply for the Eligible Master’s Program in an Eligible German University that is selected by the DAAD for the Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2026. Below are more details about the Scholarship requirements, financial benefits, and the application process.
Details About the German DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2026:
- Host Country: Germany
- Scholarship Name: Helmut Schmidt Program
- Degree Level: Master’s Degree
- Financial Benefits: Fully Funded
Benefits of German DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship:
- Tuition Fee Covered
- Round Airfare Tickets Travel Allowance
- Monthly Stipend
- Health Insurance
- Study and Research Subsidy
- Monthly Rent
- Allowances for Spouses and/or Children, where applicable
- 6-month German language course.
Course Duration:
• One-Year Master
• Two-Year Master
Focus Area:
Public policy, Good Governance, International Relations, Public Management, Public Administration, Civil Society, Social Protection, Peace and Conflict Studies, Development and Socioeconomic Policies.Eligible Universities and Master’s Programs:
Applicants can apply for up to two of the Master’s courses listed below. Scholarships are available for seven Master’s programs at the following universities:- University of Applied Sciences Bonn-Rhein-Sieg: Social Protection
- University of Duisburg-Essen: Development and Governance
- Willy Brandt School of Public Policy at the University of Erfurt: Public Policy
- University of Magdeburg: Peace and Conflict Studies
- University of Applied Sciences Osnabrück: Management in Nonprofit Organisations
- University of Passau: Development Studies
- University of Passau: Governance and Public Policy
Eligibility Criteria for DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship:
- Applicants from developing and emerging countries can apply.
- Check theList of Eligible Countriesfor the Helmut Schmidt Scholarship.
- Applicants who hold a bachelor’s degree in Social and Political Sciences, Law, Economics, Public Policy, and Administration, or from a relevant field.
- Applicants must have completed a 16-year bachelor’s degree program from a University.
- Applicant must apply for the indicated Master’s degree program.
- You can apply for up to two Master’s degree programs.
- All applications must be submitted in English or German.
- There is no age limit.
Documents required for DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship:
- DAAD Application Form
- Letter of Motivation
- CV
- University Certificates
- Transcript
- Currently written reference
- Proof of English language skills
- Practical experience relevant to the Helmut-Schmidt Programme (gained through professional experience, internships, political/social commitment).
Selection Criteria:
- Motivation (academic, professional, personal, relating to the program’s goals)
- Relevant practical experience
- Above-average first-degree grades (upper third)
Timeline:
- October/November 2025: Selection by the committee.
- Selection process: December 2025/January 2026.
- Scholarship Begins: Sept/Oct 2026
How to Apply for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Program?
1. Review Eligibility and Requirements: Check the eligibility criteria and required documents listed on the respective scholarship program page.2. Option 1 - Apply Independently: Apply directly through the official scholarship program website using the provided link.
3. Option 2 - Apply with Expert Help: Click the “Apply with Expert Help” button to begin the assisted application process.
4. Complete the Application Form: Fill out the application form accurately with all required details.
5. Upload Required Documents: Submit all documents specified on the program page.
6. Verify and Submit: Carefully review the form for accuracy before proceeding with submission.
7. Expert Review and Support: Our expert team will verify your documents, complete the application process, and keep you updated throughout.
Scholarship Deadline:
• Registration for 2026 is now open with a deadline in 31st July 2025!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.
