DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Masters Scholarship 2027/28 (Public Policy and Good Governance)

Overview

The Helmut-Schmidt Programme is DAAD’s flagship Masters scholarship for future leaders in public policy from developing and emerging countries. It funds a two-year, English-taught Masters in Public Policy or Good Governance at one of nine partner universities in Germany. Open to applicants from across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. Around 60 scholars per cohort. The 2027/28 cycle closes 31 July 2026.

Benefits

• Full tuition fees at the partner university.
• Monthly stipend of EUR 934.
• Travel allowance to and from Germany.
• Health, accident, and personal liability insurance.
• Monthly rent subsidy for accommodation in Germany.
• Family allowance if you bring a partner or children.
• Two-month German language course before the programme starts.

Eligibility

• Citizen of a country on the DAAD developing-country list (most African countries qualify).
• Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, political science, law, economics, administration, or a related field, completed within the last six years.
• At least two years of professional or political-engagement experience.
• Demonstrated leadership in civil society, government, or politics.
• Strong English (TOEFL 80+ or IELTS 6.0+; native speakers exempt).
• Clear intent to return to your home country and contribute to public-policy reform after the programme.

How to apply

1. Open the DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Programme page at the source link for the current call.
2. Choose your preferred partner university from the published list (Erfurt, Hertie School, Hamburg, Duisburg-Essen, Bonn, Osnabrück, Münster, Magdeburg, or Willy Brandt School Erfurt).
3. Apply through DAAD’s online portal: application form, CV, motivation letter, scholarly essay, references, and certified academic transcripts.
4. Submit before 31 July 2026, 24:00 CEST.
5. Shortlisted candidates are interviewed in autumn 2026. Recipients are notified by January 2027 for the September 2027 intake.