This is a fully funded scholarship for international students who want to pursue a master’s degree in Germany. It’s one of the most well-known scholarships, similar to the DAAD EPOS program. No application fee is needed. The scholarship covers all your costs (tuition, living expenses, travel, etc.), and it’s paid for by the German government. Classes will start in September 2026, and they’ll be taught in English. You can only apply for specific master’s programs at certain German universities chosen by DAAD. Keep reading for more information about the requirements, benefits, and how to apply.
Details About the German DAAD Scholarship
- Host Country: Germany
- Scholarship Name: Helmut Schmidt Program
- Degree Level: Master’s Degree
- Financial Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 31st July 2025
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Financial Benefits
The Scholarship Covers:
- Monthly Stipend
- Tuition Fee Covered
- 6-month German language course.
- Study and Research Subsidy
- Monthly Rent
- Round Airfare Tickets Travel Allowance
- Health Insurance
- Allowances for Spouses and/or Children, where applicable
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Course Duration
- One-Year Master
- Two-Year Master
Focus Area
Public Policy, Good Governance, International Relations, Public Management, Public Administration, Civil Society, Social Protection, Peace and Conflict Studies, Development, and Socio-Economic Development.
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Eligible Universities and Master’s Programs
Applicants can apply for up to two of the Master’s courses listed below. Scholarships are available for seven Master’s programs at the following universities:
- University of Applied Sciences Bonn-Rhein-Sieg: Social Protection
- University of Duisburg-Essen: Development and Governance
- Willy Brandt School of Public Policy at the University of Erfurt: Public Policy
- University of Magdeburg: Peace and Conflict Studies
- University of Applied Sciences Osnabrück: Management in Nonprofit Organisations
- University of Passau: Development Studies
- University of Passau: Governance and Public Policy
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Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants from developing and emerging countries are eligible to apply. C
See the list of countries eligible for the Helmut Schmidt Scholarship.
Applicants who have an undergraduate degree in social and political sciences, law, economics, public policy and administration, or a related field. - There is no age limit.
- Applicants must apply for the indicated master’s degree program.
Applicants must have completed a 16-year bachelor’s degree program from a university.
You can apply for up to two master’s degree programs.
All applications must be submitted in English or German.
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Documents Checklist
- DAAD Application Form
- Letter of Motivation
- CV (format: Europass)
- University Certificates
- Transcript
- Currently written reference
- Proof of English language skills
- Practical experience relevant to the Helmut-Schmidt Programme (gained through professional experience, internships, political/social commitment).
Selection Criteria
- Motivation (academic, professional, personal, relating to the program’s goals)
- Relevant practical experience
- Above-average first-degree grades (upper third)
Timeline
- October/November 2025: Selection by the committee.
- Selection process: December 2025/January 2026.
- Scholarship Begins: Sept/Oct 2026
How to Apply?
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First, carefully read the DAAD checklist to understand what they’re looking for.
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Then, fill out the DAAD application form once. On the form, write which Master’s course(s) you want to apply for.
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If you’re applying for two different courses, explain in your motivation letter which one you prefer and why. Also, describe how each course will help you in your studies and future career.
(Tip: Use the same motivation letter for both courses.) -
Send your application form and all required documents directly to the Master’s course(s) you’re applying for — you can apply to up to two programs.
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Do not send the application to DAAD directly — the Master’s programs will handle the scholarship applications.
