Are you interested in learning Public Policy, Governance or Development Studies in Germany as a leader from a developing country? For example, the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2026 is now open and offers people who want to make a difference a fully funded place on a Master’s degree. Outstanding graduates from developing nations seeking to study Public Policy, Governance or Development Studies at the Master’s level can participate in the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2026 which is sponsored by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).

The goal of this program is to prepare students who will take part in democratic governance, social equality and sustainability in their home lands.

Key Benefits of the Scholarship

All major expenses such as tuition and other fees, are covered by the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme:

• No payment of tuition fees at taking part in German universities.
• Monthly Stipend – each month, students get €992 for living expenses.
• Fully Health Insurance 
• This type of allowance helps with expenses for flights going to or coming from Germany.
• Additional financial support such as Rent Subsidy & Family Support, may be provided if the situation requires it.
• A free course on the German Language will help you in your daily life in Germany.

List of Participating Universities & Master’s Programs

The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme 2026 is offered at 8 top German universities and every university has its own specialized programs.

University of Duisburg-Essen

• Master’s in Development and Governance
• Policy analysis, solving conflicts and enhancing the way government works make up my field.

Hertie School (Berlin)

• Master of Public Policy.
• Concentrate on global governance, the advancements in technology and the defense of human rights.

University of Passau

• Graduate program in Governance and Public Policy
• Instead, I explore comparative politics, examine policies and study how the EU is governed.

University of Potsdam

• Public Management is now called Master of Public Management (MPM).
• Assignments are mainly on administrative improvements, financial policies and e-governance projects.

University of Applied Sciences Bonn-Rhein-Sieg

• Graduate degree in Social Protection
• Concentrated goals: Ensuring fewer people are also poor, development of health policies and improvements in social policy.

University of Erfurt’s Willy Brandt School

• The Master of Public Policy (MPP) program
• Expertise: International development, policy making and leadership.

The University of Münster is ranked seventh.

•  Completed Master Democratic Governance and Civil Society.
• Democracy promotion, supporting civil society and human rights are the focus of this country’s aid.

Hochschule Osnabrück

• Mastering Management and Practices in Non-Profit Organizations
• Main themes: NGO management, social entrepreneurship and collecting donations.

Eligibility Criteria

To participate in the Helmut Schmidt Programme, you are expected to meet some requirements.

• You need to be from a developing country.
• An excellent educational background begins with a Bachelor’s degree (taking at least 4 years of classes).
• You should have experience working for at least 2 years, including internships.
• Highlight early leadership ability in policymaking and administration.
• It is not necessary to know German before this study (make sure you can use English well).

Application Deadline & Process

The submission deadline is set for July 31, 2025.
Application Guide

• Pick a University Program – Go with one of the available universities.
• You should prepare your CV, documentation of your grades, motivation letter and any reference materials.
• Click here or visit the DAAD portal to access the application.
• If you reach the last round, you will be interviewed by DAAD and a final verdict will follow.

Apply Here: DAAD Helmut Schmidt Application

5 Tips for a Strong Application

• Demonstrate how you have led in your positions in government and in NGOs.
• Explain in your letter why you picked the program you are applying to.
• Strong performance at school increases your opportunities.
• Get references that are familiar with your qualifications such as well-known employees or professors.
• Apply Now – Do not risk any last-minute problems.

FAQs About the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme

1. Is it possible to apply without having worked before?

• It is not possible. You must work for at least 2 years (paid/internship) first.

2. Is there a requirement to do IELTS?

• Yes, except if you have an English degree.

3. Am I allowed to take my family with me?

• It is possible with more financial resources.

4. What is the scheduled time for the results to come out?

• You can expect this to happen between December 2025 and January 2026.

The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme 2026 is an excellent chance for those who want to be leaders in Public Policy & Governance. Thanks to the funding, high stipend and superb education, this scholarship has the potential to change your career and help your home country.

Official Link: DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme

For more information about other Admissions