DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme (Master's Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance)

German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Graduates from developing countries (list in the call) whose latest degree was earned in the last six years, who are admitted or applying to one of eight listed master's programmes in public policy and governance. Both recent graduates and professionals can apply. Not for people who have lived in Germany for more than 15 months. Selection looks at degree results, social or political engagement and motivation.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

A DAAD scholarship for master's programmes in public policy, governance and development at German universities such as Erfurt (Willy Brandt School), Passau, Potsdam and Magdeburg. Apply to a maximum of two programmes.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Graduates from developing countries (list in the call) whose latest degree was earned in the last six years, who are admitted or applying to one of eight listed master's programmes in public policy and governance. Both recent graduates and professionals can apply. Not for people who have lived in Germany for more than 15 months. Selection looks at degree results, social or political engagement and motivation.
2. Note the deadline. Jun – Aug (annual, for the following year's intake - the exact dates are published on the DAAD website each year; check before you plan) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. DAAD application form, CV, motivation letter, degree certificate, work-experience proof, references.
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

DAAD selection after university pre-selection

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

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Tips from our advisors

1. Read the eligibility line by line before you write anything. Most rejections are eligibility mismatches, not weak essays.
2. Show a clear link between your past studies, this programme and your career goal. Committees look for a story, not a list.
3. Spend most of your time on the criteria with the highest weight in the selection breakdown above.
4. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
5. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
6. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline. Portals slow down on the last day.

Quick answers

Who can apply for DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme (Master's Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance)?

Graduates from developing countries (list in the call) whose latest degree was earned in the last six years, who are admitted or applying to one of eight listed master's programmes in public policy and governance. Both recent graduates and professionals can apply. Not for people who have lived in Germany for more than 15 months. Selection looks at degree results, social or political engagement and motivation.

What does DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme (Master's Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance) cover?

Monthly scholarship of EUR 850, health insurance contribution, travel allowance, study and research subsidy, rent subsidy where applicable, tuition exemption and a six-month German language course

When is the deadline for DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme (Master's Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance)?

Jun – Aug (annual, for the following year's intake - the exact dates are published on the DAAD website each year; check before you plan) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme (Master's Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance)?

Host countries: Germany.

What documents do I need for DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme (Master's Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance)?

DAAD application form, CV, motivation letter, degree certificate, work-experience proof, references.

How are applicants selected for DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme (Master's Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance)?

DAAD selection after university pre-selection

How much work is the DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme (Master's Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance) application?

High: DAAD application + course admission