Applications are now open for the German Academic Exchange Service> Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2027, offering international students the opportunity to pursue a fully funded master’s degree in Germany.

Funded by the German Federal Foreign Office, the prestigious scholarship supports future leaders committed to public policy, democratic governance and sustainable development. The programme will commence in September 2027, with all eligible master’s courses taught in English.

The scholarship is widely recognised as one of DAAD’s flagship programmes for students seeking careers in governance, public administration and development.

Scholarship Overview

What Does the Scholarship Cover?

Selected scholars will receive comprehensive financial support, including:

• Full tuition fees

• Monthly living stipend

• Round-trip airfare and travel allowance

• Health insurance

• Study and research allowance

• Monthly accommodation support

• Allowances for spouses and children (where applicable)

• Six-month German language course before the master’s programme

The scholarship aims to remove financial barriers and enable students to focus on academic and professional development.

Purpose of the Programme

The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme seeks to prepare future policymakers and public sector professionals capable of strengthening democratic institutions and promoting sustainable development in their home countries.

The programme places particular emphasis on leadership, governance and evidence-based policymaking.

Fields of Study

Eligible master’s programmes focus on areas such as:

• Public Policy

• Good Governance

• Public Administration

• Public Management

• International Relations

• Civil Society

• Social Protection

• Development Studies

• Peace and Conflict Studies

• Socioeconomic Policy

Programme durations range from one to two years, depending on the university.

Participating Universities and Master’s Programmes

Applicants may apply for up to two eligible master’s programmes offered by the following institutions:

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Belong to one of the countries eligible under the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme.

• Hold a 16-year bachelor’s degree or equivalent.

• Have an academic background in subjects such as:

• Social Sciences

• Political Science

• Law

• Economics

• Public Policy

• Public Administration

• Related disciplines

• Apply to one or two eligible master’s programmes.

• Submit all application documents in English or German.

Notably, there is no upper age limit for applicants.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare:

• DAAD application form

• Motivation letter

• Europass CV

• Degree certificates

• Academic transcripts

• Academic reference letter

• English language proficiency certificate

• Evidence of relevant professional experience, internships or social and political engagement

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

• Academic excellence

• Motivation for joining the programme

• Relevant work or internship experience

• Commitment to public service and good governance

• Alignment with the objectives of the Helmut Schmidt Programme

Preference is generally given to candidates whose bachelor’s performance falls within the upper third of their graduating class.

How to Apply

Candidates must submit their applications directly to the participating universities offering the eligible master’s programmes.

Applicants can apply for a maximum of two programmes and must:

1. Complete the DAAD application form.

2. Prepare a single motivation letter indicating the order of programme preference.

3. Submit all required documents to each selected university before the deadline.

The scholarship application is processed through the respective master’s programme rather than directly through DAAD.

With full financial support, internationally recognised universities and a strong focus on public leadership, the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2027 offers an exceptional opportunity for aspiring policymakers, administrators and development professionals seeking to pursue postgraduate studies in Germany while preparing for impactful careers in public service.