The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme (Master’s Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance) is one of Germany’s most prestigious scholarship programmes. It funds future leaders from developing and emerging countries to pursue master’s degrees at top German universities in fields related to public policy, governance, and social development.
What makes this programme unique is its explicit focus on democratisation and reducing social inequality. The DAAD isn’t just funding your degree — it’s investing in your potential to drive institutional change in your home country.
What’s Covered
- €992 monthly stipend for the duration of your master’s programme (usually 12-24 months)
- Health insurance coverage in Germany (full)
- Travel allowance (lump sum for flights between Germany and your home country)
- Study and research grant for academic materials
- Rent subsidies where applicable
- Family supplements (if you have dependants)
- Preceding German language course in Germany (up to 4 months, mandatory)
Participating Universities and Programmes
Seven universities are part of the programme, each offering a specific master’s:
- Social Protection — University of Applied Sciences Bonn-Rhein-Sieg (blended learning, 4 semesters, English)
- Development and Governance — University of Duisburg-Essen (2 semesters, English)
- Public Policy — Willy Brandt School, University of Erfurt (4 semesters, English)
- Peace and Conflict Studies — University of Magdeburg (4 semesters, English)
- Management in Nonprofit-Organisations — University of Applied Sciences Osnabrück (4 semesters, English)
- Development Studies — University of Passau (4 semesters, English)
- Governance and Public Policy — University of Passau (4 semesters, English)
Eligibility Requirements
- Graduate from a developing or emerging country (check the DAAD country list)
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (political science, law, economics, public administration, etc.)
- Demonstrated interest in public policy, good governance, and social development
- Strong academic record
- English proficiency (all programmes are taught in English)
Application Process
The application window runs from 1 June to 31 July 2026. You apply directly to the university (or universities) of your choice — not to the DAAD. The selection committee meets in October/November 2026, with results by December 2026/January 2027. The programme starts September/October 2027.
What Makes a Strong Application
- Clear connection between your academic/professional background and public policy/governance
- Specific examples of how you’ve engaged with governance issues in your community or country
- A well-articulated vision of how you’ll apply your learning to improve governance in your home country
- Strong academic references emphasizing your potential for policy-focused work