The DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Masters Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance Program offers promising graduates from developing countries an opportunity to pursue a Master’s degree in disciplines crucial for the socio-economic development of their home countries. This scholarship facilitates their studies at German institutions of higher education, enabling them to contribute significantly to the progress of their nations upon completion of their studies.
Participating Programmes in Host Institutions:
The scholarships are awarded for selected Master courses at German institutions of higher education listed below:
• . Hochschule 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
• Universität Magdeburg: Peace and Conflict Studies
• Hochschule Osnabrück: Management in Non-Profit Organisations
• Universität Passau: Development Studies
• University of Passau: Governance and Public Policy
The courses have an international orientation and are taught in German and/or English.
Number of Scholarships:
Not specified
Target group:
The scholarship scheme is open to candidates from various regions including Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, Asia and the Pacific, Western, Central, South-Eastern Europe, Eastern Europe, Central Asia & South Caucasus, and the Middle East and North Africa. A detailed list of eligible countries.
Scholarship value/inclusions:
DAAD scholarship holders under the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme are relieved from tuition fees and receive a monthly stipend of 934€. Additionally, the scholarship covers health insurance in Germany, travel allowance, study and research subsidy, and rent subsidies and/or allowances for spouses and/or children where applicable. Prior to their study programs, scholarship holders must complete a mandatory 6-month German language course.
Eligibility:
Eligibility Criteria for DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme Masters Scholarships:
The DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme Masters Scholarships are designed for graduates from developing countries, aiming to empower them to become catalysts for positive change in their home countries. To be eligible for this prestigious scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Educational Background:
- Applicants should hold a well-qualified first university degree, typically in fields such as social and political sciences, law, economics, public policy, and administration.
- Commitment to Development:
- Candidates must demonstrate a strong willingness to actively contribute to the social, political, and economic development of their home countries or regions. They should have a clear vision of how they intend to utilize their education to drive positive change.
- Relevant Practical Experience:
- Applicants should have already acquired practical experience relevant to the chosen program, such as professional experience, internships, or involvement in political or social initiatives. This experience will enhance their ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.
- Language Skills:
- Proficiency in the language of instruction is essential for successful completion of the program. The specific language requirements and the necessary language certificates vary depending on the respective Master’s course. Applicants must ensure they meet the language proficiency requirements specified by the host institution.
- Program-Specific Selection Criteria:
- Each Master’s course has its own selection criteria, which may include academic degree, grades, language skills, work experience, and other relevant qualifications. Applicants must fulfill these criteria in addition to the DAAD’s selection requirements.
Overall, successful applicants will not only possess academic excellence but also demonstrate a commitment to making meaningful contributions to their communities and societies. They should be driven by a passion for positive change and equipped with the necessary skills and experiences to tackle complex socio-economic challenges in their home countries.
It is crucial for prospective applicants to carefully review the eligibility criteria and ensure they meet all requirements before submitting their applications for the DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme Masters Scholarships.
Application instructions:
Applicants must submit their applications for selected master’s courses and the DAAD scholarship directly to the respective universities, not to DAAD. They must specify their application for the DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme (Master’s scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance). The application period at all eight universities is from 1 June to 31 July 2024. Detailed information and the application form are available on the official website.
It is important to read the 2025 Announcement and visit the official website (found below) to access the application form and for detailed information on how to apply for this scholarship.
Official Scholarship Website