At Kawe È Africa, our goal is to connect driven students with life-changing academic opportunities, and the DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme is undoubtedly one of the best. If you are passionate about social, political, and economic development, this fully-funded Master’s scholarship in Germany is an incredible chance to acquire the skills needed to make a tangible impact in your home country.
Here is everything you need to know about applying for the DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Masters Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance for the 2026/2027 application cycle.
What is the DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Programme?
The DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme provides outstanding graduates from developing countries the opportunity to obtain a Master’s degree in disciplines relevant to the development of their home regions. The courses boast an international orientation and are taught in either English, German, or a combination of both.
- Study Location: Participating Universities in Germany
- Course Start Date: September/October 2027
- Application Period: June 1, 2026 – July 31, 2026
Participating German Universities and Courses
Scholarships are awarded for specific Master’s programs at the following German institutions:
- Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg: Social Protection
- University of Duisburg-Essen: Development and Governance
- Willy Brandt School of Public Policy (University of Erfurt): Public Policy
- Universität Magdeburg: Peace and Conflict Studies
- Hochschule Osnabrück: Management in Non-Profit Organisations
- Universität Passau: Development Studies
- University of Passau: Governance and Public Policy
Scholarship Value and Benefits
This is a comprehensive, fully-funded scholarship designed to support you throughout your studies. The DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Scholarship covers:
- Full Tuition Exemption: No tuition fees for the duration of the program.
- Monthly Stipend: A living allowance currently set at €992 per month.
- Health Insurance: Contributions toward health insurance in Germany.
- Travel Allowance: Appropriate coverage for your travel expenses to and from Germany.
- Additional Subsidies: A study and research subsidy, plus potential rent subsidies and/or allowances for spouses and children (where applicable).
- Language Training: A mandatory, fully covered 4-month German language course prior to the start of your study program.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
The scholarship is highly competitive and targets future leaders. To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: Be a citizen of an eligible developing country across Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, Asia and the Pacific, Western/Central/South-Eastern Europe, Eastern Europe, Central Asia & South Caucasus, or the Middle East and North Africa.
- Academic Background: Hold a well-qualified first university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent), generally in social and political sciences, law, economics, public policy, or administration.
- Experience: Possess relevant practical experience, such as professional work, internships, or strong political/social commitment.
- Commitment: Demonstrate a clear willingness to actively contribute to the social, political, and economic development of your home region upon graduation.
- Note: Each master’s course has its own specific selection criteria (such as language skills, minimum grades, and required work experience) that must be met in addition to DAAD’s general criteria.
Follow Us on Social Media
- WhatsApp Channel
- WhatsApp Group 1
- WhatsApp Group 2
- WhatsApp Group 3
- Facebook Page
- X(twitter)
How to Apply
It is crucial to follow the application instructions carefully. Do not apply directly to DAAD.
- Select your preferred Master’s course from the participating list above.
- Prepare your application documents according to the specific requirements of that university.
- Submit your application directly to the respective university between June 1 and July 31, 2026.
- Ensure you explicitly indicate in your application that you are applying for the DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme.
For full application forms and the official 2027 announcement, be sure to visit the Official DAAD Scholarship Database.
