DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme — Master's in Public Policy and Good Governance
by German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
Stipend
992 EUR/month
Duration
24 months (2 years)
Level
Master
Deadline
Typically July–August for October start the following year. Check DAAD portal for exact deadline.
Overview
The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme offers fully funded Master's scholarships in Public Policy and Good Governance for future leaders from developing and emerging countries. Named after the former German Chancellor, it targets professionals committed to improving governance in their home countries.
Provider
German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
Type
government Scholarship
Who Can Apply
Developing and emerging countries (including India)
Degree Levels
Master
Benefits & Financial Support
Funding Amount
992 EUR/month + tuition + insurance + travel
About
The Helmut Schmidt Programme funds Master's studies in Public Policy and Good Governance at selected German universities. It targets future leaders who plan to drive positive change in their home countries and return to contribute to governance and public administration.
Benefits
- Monthly stipend of 992 EUR
- Tuition fees covered at participating universities
- Health, accident, and personal liability insurance
- Travel allowance
- Study and research allowance
- German language course (if applicable)
Eligibility
- From a developing country (India is eligible)
- Bachelor's degree with above-average results
- Minimum 2 years of professional experience in a relevant field
- Demonstrated leadership potential and commitment to public service
Eligibility Requirements
- Bachelor's degree with above-average results
- 2+ years professional experience
- leadership potential
- commitment to return to home country.
What This Scholarship Covers
Tuition Fees
Full or partial tuition waiver at German universities
Living Allowance
Monthly stipend for rent, food, and daily expenses
Health Insurance
Mandatory health, accident, and liability insurance
Travel Allowance
Contribution toward flights to and from Germany
How to Apply
Check Eligibility
Verify you meet the nationality, degree level, academic, and language requirements listed above.
Prepare Documents
Gather your academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, letters of recommendation, language certificates, and motivation letter.
Find a Programme
Identify the German university and programme you want to study. Some scholarships require university admission before applying.
Submit Application
Apply through the official application portal before the deadline. Upload all required documents as PDFs.
Interview & Selection
If shortlisted, attend an interview (may be online). Selection committees assess academic merit, motivation, and fit.
Receive Decision
Scholarship decisions typically arrive 3–6 months after the deadline. If awarded, complete visa and enrolment procedures.
Application Document Checklist
- Completed application form
- Curriculum vitae (CV / resume)
- Motivation letter / statement of purpose
- Bachelor's or Master's degree certificate
- Academic transcripts with grades
- Language proficiency certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, TestDaF, or DSH)
- Letter(s) of recommendation from university professors
- Valid passport copy
- Passport-sized photograph
- University admission letter (if already accepted)
Note: Exact document requirements vary. Always check the official scholarship page for the definitive list.
Need Help With Your Application?
Scholarship applications are competitive — a strong profile evaluation, polished SOP, and the right university selection make the difference. GradGermany's experts can help at every step.
Quick Facts
- Amount
- 992 EUR/month + tuition + insurance + travel
- Duration
- 24 months (2 years)
- Degree Levels
- Master
- Deadline
- Typically July–August for October start the following year. Check DAAD portal for exact deadline.
- Who Can Apply
- Developing and emerging countries (including India)
Frequently Asked Questions About the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme — Master's in Public Policy and Good Governance
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