German DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded: (Deadline 31 July,2025)

German DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2026 opportunities are now open for international students seeking to pursue a Master’s degree in Germany. This prestigious, fully funded program—backed by the German Federal Foreign Office—covers all major expenses including tuition, travel, monthly stipend, and more. As one of the most competitive scholarships in Europe, it mirrors the excellence of the DAAD EPOS Scholarship and is designed for future leaders committed to social responsibility and public service.

The academic session for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2026 will commence in September, and all courses are taught in English at selected German universities. Applicants can choose from a list of eligible master’s programs curated specifically for this scholarship. With no application fee required, this is a valuable chance to gain a world-class education in Germany. Find more details below about eligibility criteria, financial support, and how to apply through Scholarship Union.

Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: Germany
• Scholarship Name: Helmut Schmidt Program
• Degree Level: Master’s Degree
• Financial Benefits: Fully Funded
• Deadline: 31 July 2025

Financial Benefits of German DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship

The Scholarship Covers

• Tuition Fee Covered
• Round Airfare Tickets Travel Allowance
• Monthly Stipend
• Health Insurance
• Study and Research Subsidy
• Monthly Rent
• Allowances for Spouses and/or Children, where applicable
• 6-month German language course.

Course Duration of German DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship

• One-Year Master
• Two-Year Master

Focus Area of German DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship

Public policy, Good Governance, International Relations, Public Management, Public Administration, Civil Society, Social Protection, Peace and Conflict Studies, Development and Socioeconomic Policies.

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

Eligibility Criteria for German DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship

• Applicants from developing and emerging countries can apply. C
• Check the List of Eligible Countries for the Helmut Schmidt Scholarship.
• Applicants who hold a bachelor’s degree in Social and Political Sciences, Law, Economics, Public Policy, and Administration, or from a relevant field.
• Applicants must have completed a 16-year bachelor’s degree program from a University.
• Applicant must apply for the indicated Master’s degree program.
• You can apply for up to two Master’s degree programs.
• All applications must be submitted in English or German.
• There is no age limit.

Documents Checklist

• DAAD Application Form
• Letter of Motivation
• CV
• 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 for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2026?

To successfully apply for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Program 2026, follow the official application guidelines provided by DAAD. This scholarship allows you to apply for up to two selected Master’s programs in Germany. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Application Steps:

Submit Your Application: Send the completed DAAD application form and all required documents directly to the universities offering the Master’s courses of your choice (maximum two programs). Note that scholarship applications must be submitted directly to the respective Master’s programs, not to DAAD.

Review the DAAD Checklist: Start by carefully reading the DAAD selection criteria and eligibility checklist to ensure you meet all requirements.

Fill Out the DAAD Application Form: Complete the DAAD application form once, clearly indicating your preferred Master’s course(s).

Write a Unified Motivation Letter: If applying to two programs, use a single motivation letter. In the letter, rank your chosen courses, explain your preferences, and describe how each program aligns with your academic goals and career ambitions.