The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme (also known as the Master’s Scholarships in Public Policy and Good Governance) is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity offered by the German Federal Foreign Office to support future leaders from developing and emerging countries.
This program is designed to equip graduates with academic expertise and practical tools in the fields of political science, law, economics, and public administration, preparing them for impactful roles in government, civil society, and international organizations.
🏆 Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
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💶 €11,904 annually (approx. €992/month)
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🏥 Full health insurance coverage in Germany
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✈️ Travel allowance between home country and Germany
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📚 Study and research grant
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🏠 Rent subsidies and family supplements (if applicable)
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🗣️ 6-month German language course (mandatory prior to degree)
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💻 For the “Social Protection” course: €500/month for the final (online) semester
🎯 Eligibility Criteria
To apply, you must:
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Be a citizen of a developing or emerging country
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Hold a strong undergraduate degree in:
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Social and Political Sciences
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Law
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Economics
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Public Policy or Administration
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Have above-average academic results (upper third)
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Demonstrate relevant professional or volunteer experience
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Be motivated to contribute to the social, political, and economic development of your country
📄 Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
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✅ Signed Checklist and List of Criteria (with handwritten signature)
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✅ Completed DAAD Application Form
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✅ Single Motivation Letter (for up to two chosen programs)
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✅ Curriculum Vitae (Europass format, reverse chronological)
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✅ Copies of degree certificates and transcripts
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✅ Proof of relevant work experience, internships, or volunteer activities
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✅ Proof of English proficiency (or German if applicable)
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✅ One academic reference (signed and dated on official letterhead)
📝 All documents must be submitted in English or German. Certified translations are required if originally in another language.
🛠️ How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
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Visit the official DAAD scholarship page
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Choose up to two eligible Master’s programs
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Fill out the DAAD scholarship application form once
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Submit your complete application package directly to the universities offering your selected Master’s courses
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Clearly indicate you are applying for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme
⚠️ Use the same motivation letter for both courses (if applicable), and rank them in order of preference.
📅 Application Deadline: July 31, 2025
💡 Early submission is strongly encouraged to avoid last-minute issues.
