Are you a graduate from a developing or emerging country aspiring to study in Germany? The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship Programme 2025–26, also known as the Master’s Scholarship for Public Policy and Good Governance (PPGG), offers a fully funded opportunity to pursue a master's degree at one of Germany’s top public policy institutions.

Scholarship Overview

• Host Country: Germany

• Funded By: German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
• Programme Name: Helmut Schmidt Programme (Master’s Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance – PPGG)
• Level of Study: Master’s Degree
• Duration: 2 years
• Participating Programmes: 7 Master's programs at selected universities
• Eligible Applicants: Graduates from developing and emerging countries
• Application Period: 1 June to 31 July 2025
• Course Start: September/October 2026

Participating Universities and Study Fields

Applicants can choose up to two of the following seven specialized master’s programmes:

• Social Protection – Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University of Applied Sciences
• Development and Governance – University of Duisburg-Essen
• Public Policy – Willy Brandt School of Public Policy, University of Erfurt
• Peace and Conflict Studies – Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg
• Management in Non-Profit Organizations – Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences
• Development Studies – University of Passau
• Governance and Public Policy – University of Passau

These programs are tailored to provide academic and practical training in governance, leadership, and public administration.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Nationality: Citizens of developing or emerging countries as listed by the OECD DAC
• Education: A bachelor’s degree (usually a four-year program) in a relevant field such as political science, law, economics, public policy, social sciences, or administration
• Academic Record: Above-average academic performance (typically in the top third of the class)
• Professional Experience: Practical experience (e.g., internships, voluntary work, or employment) related to public service or social engagement is highly desirable
• Language Proficiency: Strong command of English and/or German, depending on the language of instruction of the chosen program (TOEFL/IELTS for English and TestDaF/DSH for German may be required)
• Commitment: Strong interest in contributing to the development and good governance of the applicant’s home country

Financial Benefits

This fully funded scholarship covers all essential costs, making it possible for students to focus entirely on their education and professional development. The financial benefits include:

• Monthly Stipend: €992 per month to cover living expenses
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage in Germany
• Travel Allowance: Flight expenses to and from Germany
• Study and Research Subsidies: Academic materials and research-related support
• German Language Course: Up to 6 months of intensive German language training before the start of the academic program
• Rent Subsidy and Family Support: Additional allowances for rent and dependents, if applicable
• Online Semester Stipend: For select programs, such as Social Protection, an additional €500 per month may be provided if one semester is conducted online

Required Documents

To apply, candidates must submit a comprehensive application package including:

• Completed DAAD Application Form (must be hand-signed)
• Letter of Motivation (maximum two pages, explaining interest in the programme and how it aligns with future goals)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) in the Europass format
• Academic Transcripts and Certificates (official and certified copies with translations if not in English or German)
• Proof of Relevant Work Experience or Internships (letters or certificates from employers)
• Language Proficiency Certificates (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, TestDaF, or equivalent)
• Reference Letter from a university professor or current/previous employer
• APS Certificate (required for applicants from China, Vietnam, and India)

All documents should be submitted in English or German unless specified otherwise by the chosen university.

Application Process

Follow these steps to ensure a complete and successful application:

• Select Two Master’s Programmes: Choose up to two of the eligible programmes. Rank them in your motivation letter.
• Prepare Your Documents: Collect and organize all required documents, making sure they meet the DAAD and university-specific requirements.
• Submit Application to Universities: Send your application directly to the universities offering the chosen master’s programmes. Do not apply via the DAAD portal at this stage.
• University Review and Nomination: The universities will evaluate the applications and nominate suitable candidates to the DAAD.
• DAAD Final Selection: If nominated, you’ll be invited to upload your documents to the DAAD portal. Final scholarship decisions are made by DAAD.
• Notification: Successful applicants are usually informed by December 2025 or early January 2026.

Tips for a Strong Application

• Start Early: Gathering all required documents and preparing an outstanding application takes time.

• Customize Your Motivation Letter: Highlight your career goals, relevant experience, and how your selected programs align with your vision.
• Focus on Leadership Potential: The selection committee looks for applicants with leadership qualities and a commitment to social development.
• Double-Check Documents: Ensure that translations, certifications, and formatting are done correctly.
• Follow University Guidelines: Some universities may require additional documents or have specific submission procedures. Always refer to their official instructions.

Career Prospects

Graduates of this program typically go on to impactful careers in:

• Public administration
• International organizations
• Development agencies
• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
• Think tanks and research institutions

The scholarship not only provides academic training but also builds a global network and opens doors to policy-making and leadership roles worldwide.

Official Link

To learn more and access official resources, visit the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme page.

>>>Official Application Website