DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Programme 2027 in Germany (Fully Funded)

Applications are now open for the DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Programme 2027, one of Germany’s most prestigious fully funded scholarship programs for future leaders from developing and emerging countries. Funded by the German Federal Foreign Office and administered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the program supports outstanding students who wish to pursue a master’s degree in public policy, governance, law, economics, and related fields at leading German universities.

Scholarship Overview

• Host Country: Germany
• Scholarship Provider: German Academic Exchange Service
• Programme: Helmut-Schmidt Programme (Public Policy and Good Governance)
• Degree Level: Master’s Degree
• Funding: Fully Funded
• Eligible Applicants: Students from developing and emerging countries
• Programme Start: September/October 2027
• Application Deadline: 31 July 2026

Financial Benefits

Successful applicants will receive:

• Full tuition fee coverage
• Monthly scholarship of €992
• Health insurance coverage
• Travel allowance to and from Germany
• Study and research subsidy
• Rent subsidy (where applicable)
• Family allowance (where applicable)
• German language course in Germany before the start of studies

Participating Universities and Programmes

Applicants can apply for up to two master’s programmes under the Helmut-Schmidt Programme, including:

• University of Bonn – Social Protection
• University of Duisburg-Essen – Development and Governance
• Willy Brandt School of Public Policy – Public Policy
• Hochschule Osnabrück – Management in Non-Profit Organisations
• University of Passau – Governance and Public Policy
• University of Applied Sciences Bonn-Rhein-Sieg – Social Protection

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be citizens of a developing or emerging country.
• Hold a bachelor’s degree with above-average academic performance.
• Have completed their most recent degree within the last six years.
• Demonstrate strong commitment to social and political issues.
• Show leadership potential and willingness to contribute to the development of their home country.
• Possess relevant practical experience, such as internships, volunteer work, employment, or community engagement.

Required Documents

Applicants typically need:

• DAAD application form
• Motivation letter
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• University degree certificate
• Academic transcripts
• Proof of work experience or internships
• Language certificates (if required by the programme)
• Recommendation letters (if requested)

Selection Criteria

Candidates are assessed based on:

• Academic excellence
• Leadership potential
• Social and political engagement
• Professional experience
• Motivation to contribute to public policy and governance in their home countries
• Commitment to democratic values and good governance

Why Apply?

The Helmut-Schmidt Programme is among the most competitive public policy scholarships in Europe. It prepares future leaders for careers in:

• Government and public administration
• International organizations
• Development agencies
• NGOs and civil society organizations
• Public policy research institutions
• International diplomacy

Graduates become part of a global network of professionals working to strengthen governance, public administration, and sustainable development worldwide.