Application Deadline: 31 July 2026
LOCATION: Germany
The DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme (known as Public Policy and Good Governance) supports future leaders from developing and emerging countries (see list of countries), who want to promote democracy and social justice in their home regions. The programme, funded by the Federal Foreign Office, offers the opportunity to obtain a master’s degree in fields of study that are of particular importance for social, political and economic development in the countries of origin of these young professionals.
ELIGIBILITY:
Graduates from developing and emerging countries
(bachelor or equivalent)
With a well-qualified first university degree and above-average
grades (upper third) in Social and Political Sciences, Law, Economics,
Public Policy and Administration
Willing to actively contribute to the social, political and economic
development of their home countries/regions
Who have already gained practical experience relevant for the programme (professional experience, internships, political/social
commitment), specific requirements vary depending on the master’s
courses; please see “Information about the Master’s Courses.”
All applications must be submitted in English or German.
You may apply for up to two master’s courses listed below.
Please read the DAAD selection criteria included in our checklist carefully; take care of every single point listed in the checklist.
Please complete the DAAD “Application Form” only once and indicate
your selected master’s course(s).
If you are applying for two master’s courses: Please rank the courses in
order of preference in your motivation letter, i.e., why your first choice
of master’s course is your first choice and why your second choice is your second choice. For each choice of course, please provide clear
reasons why you think it will advance you academically and professionally. You must submit the same letter of motivation to both
courses you are applying for.
Please submit the application form to the master’s course(s) of your
choice (max. two), along with the required documents (see below).
Scholarship applications must be sent directly to the master’s
courses.
BENEFIT:
The scholarship holders will receive
Scholarships (of currently € 992 per month) for master’s courses at
German higher education institutions
Health insurance cover in Germany
Fixed travel allowances (lump sums) for travel between Germany and
the respective developing and emerging countries
A study and research grant
Rent subsidies and family supplements, as applicable
A preceding German language course in Germany, lasting up to 4
months; participation is mandatory
