DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme 2027 in Germany | Fully Funded

The Helmut Schmidt Programme 2027 is a fully funded scholarship by DAAD for students from developing and emerging countries. This master’s scholarship in public policy and good governance equips future leaders to promote democracy and social justice in their home countries.

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) funds this program, which is hosted by selected German universities including the University of Duisburg-Essen, University of Passau, and others. It offers master’s degrees in fields like public policy, development studies, and peace and conflict studies.

Helmut Schmidt Programme Benefits

• Exemption from tuition fees.
• Monthly stipend of €992.
• Health insurance coverage.
• Travel allowances.
• Study and research grant.
• Rent subsidy (if applicable).
• Family allowance (if applicable).
• German language course in Germany before the start of studies.
• Participation in networking events, seminars, and workshops.
• Academic support and mentoring throughout the program.

Helmut Schmidt Programme Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants from developing and emerging countries can apply.
• Eligible countries are listed in the official program guidelines.
• Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with above-average academic performance.
• Graduates in Social and Political Sciences, Law, Economics, Public Policy, Public Administration, or related fields are encouraged to apply.
• Applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to contributing to the social, political, and economic development of their home countries.
• Relevant professional experience, internships, volunteering, community service, or political/social engagement is required.
• Applicants must meet the admission requirements of their chosen master’s program.

Required Documents

• DAAD Scholarship Applicaiton Form (completed and signed)
• Letter of Motivation (max. 2 pages, same letter if applying for two courses)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) in reverse chronological order
• University Degree Certificates (with certified translations if not in English or German)
• Transcripts of Records (with certified translations and grading system explanation)
• Proof of Practical Experience (on official letterhead, signed, dated, and stamped)
• Current Written Reference (from employer or university lecturer)
• Proof of English Language Skills (valid certificate)
• Completed and Signed DAAD Checklist Form

Selection Criteria of the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme

• Academic record.
• Quality of motivation letter.
• Alignment of the motivational letter with program goals.
• Practical related experience.
• The decision of the selection committee of the master’s course as well as of DAAD.
• Selected candidates will be contacted by the DAAD and then they will have to upload documents on the DAAD portal.

Courses Offered

• Social Protection
• Development and Governance
• Public Policy
• Peace and Conflict Studies
• Management in Nonprofit Organisations
• Development Studies
• Governance and Public Policy

Host Universities

• Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University of Applied Sciences
• University of Duisburg-Essen
• University of Erfurt
• Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg
• Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences
• University of Passau

How to Apply for Helmut Schmidt Programme

• Read the official scholarship guidelines and DAAD FAQs carefully before applying.
• The applicants have to apply online through the official website in English or German.
• Choose up to two eligible master’s courses offered under the Helmut-Schmidt Programme.
• Indicate the opted courses by prioritizing the options (you can apply for a maximum of two courses).
• Complete the DAAD application form carefully.
• Prepare all required application documents, including the motivation letter, Europass CV, degree certificates, transcripts, proof of work experience, reference letter, and English language certificate.
• A single application for two courses will be considered enough.
• If applying for two courses, submit the same motivation letter to both programs and clearly explain the ranking of your first and second choice.
• Submit the application form along with the required documents to the master’s course university, not to the DAAD.
• Ensure that all documents are complete and submitted before the application deadline.
• Shortlisted candidates will later be contacted by DAAD and invited to upload their documents to the DAAD portal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Helmut Schmidt Programme. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.