The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme, also known as the Public Policy and Good Governance Scholarship, is a prestigious initiative funded by the German Federal Foreign Office. It aims to support future leaders from developing countries who are committed to promoting democracy, social justice, and good governance in their home nations. Through this scholarship, talented individuals are provided with the opportunity to pursue a Master’s degree in fields that are particularly relevant to the social, political, and economic development of their countries of origin.
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The programme focuses on equipping highly qualified graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to take on leadership roles in politics, law, economics, and administration. By fostering these competencies, the scholarship contributes to building democratic institutions and reducing social inequalities in the beneficiaries’ home countries.
The Helmut Schmidt Programme is designed to offer advanced academic training in master’s courses that address the key challenges of good governance and sustainable development. It prepares students for responsible positions in their home regions by providing:
Interdisciplinary Education: Covering disciplines such as political science, law, economics, public policy, and administration.
Practical Orientation: Emphasizing real-world applications through a practice-oriented curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical insights.
Specialized Knowledge: Enabling students to tackle complex social and political issues and contribute to strengthening democratic and economic institutions in their countries.
Scholarship Benefits
The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme offers a comprehensive package of financial and academic support to its recipients, ensuring that scholars can focus on their studies and professional development. Key benefits include:
Monthly Stipend:
Scholarship recipients receive a monthly stipend of €934 to cover living expenses during their studies in Germany.
Health Insurance:
Full health insurance coverage is provided throughout the scholarship period.
Travel Allowance:
The scholarship includes allowances for travel between Germany and the respective developing or emerging countries.
Study and Research Grant:
Financial support for research activities, academic resources, and study-related expenses.
Rent Subsidy and Family Allowance (if applicable):
Additional financial support is available for students with families or special circumstances.
German Language Course:
A mandatory 4-month German language course is provided prior to the start of the master’s program to ensure that scholarship holders are well-prepared for their studies.
Blended Learning Support (for “Social Protection” Course):
Due to its blended learning structure, the “Social Protection” master’s course includes a sur place rate of €500 per month during the 4th semester, which takes place in the scholar’s home country or another developing/emerging country.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme, candidates must meet the following criteria:
Educational Background:
Applicants must have completed their first university degree in fields such as:
Social Sciences
Political Science
Law
Economics
Public Policy and Administration
Candidates must demonstrate above-average academic performance (typically in the top third of their class).
Professional Experience:
Applicants should have relevant professional experience, such as work in governmental, non-governmental, or community organizations, internships, or volunteering in areas related to their field of study.
Motivation and Social Engagement:
Candidates must show a strong commitment to contributing to the social, political, and economic development of their home countries.
Timeframe of Previous Education:
The last university degree should have been obtained no earlier than January 1, 2018.
Geographical Restrictions:
Candidates must not have resided in a country not listed on the DAC List for more than 15 months before applying.
Additional Considerations:
Candidates who already hold a Master’s degree must provide a strong justification for pursuing another postgraduate program.
Master’s Courses Offered Under the Programme
The Helmut Schmidt Programme includes several master’s courses with a focus on public policy, good governance, and sustainable development. Courses are typically offered in English and are hosted by various prestigious German universities. The courses start in September/October 2025 and have an international focus to prepare scholars for global careers.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents for a complete application:
Completed DAAD Application Form:
Use the “Application for a Research/Study Scholarship” form available on the DAAD portal.
Letter of Motivation:
A single letter (max. 2 pages) explaining the academic, professional, and personal reasons for applying. The letter should highlight why the chosen master’s courses are the best fit for the applicant’s goals.
Curriculum Vitae (CV):
A CV in reverse chronological order (use the Europass template). The CV must include the date of issue and provide detailed information on the applicant’s academic background and professional experience.
Copies of Degree Certificates:
Certified copies of higher education degrees, translated into German or English if the originals are in another language.
Full Transcript of Records:
A complete transcript of records, including the grading system, translated into German or English if necessary.
Proof of Relevant Professional Experience:
Confirmations of work experience or internships related to the field of study. The document must be on official letterhead, include the date of issue, a stamp, and an original or code-certified digital signature.
Proof of Language Proficiency:
Certificates demonstrating proficiency in the language of instruction (German or English).
Reference Letter:
A recent letter from the current employer or a university lecturer if the applicant is a current student. The reference must be on official letterhead and include a signature, date of issue, and stamp.
Ticked Off Checklist and Signed List of Criteria:
The checklist and list of criteria must be printed, signed by hand, and scanned as part of the application.
Application Process
The application process is conducted online via the DAAD portal. Follow these steps to apply:
Register on the DAAD Portal:
Create an account on the DAAD portal and complete the application form.
Prepare the Required Documents:
Gather and scan all necessary documents in PDF format.
Submit the Application:
Upload all documents to the portal and submit the application by the deadline.
Selection Process
The selection process is conducted by a committee of professors and DAAD representatives in October/November 2024. The process includes a review of the academic qualifications, professional experience, and motivation of the candidates. All applicants will be notified of the outcome in December 2024 or January 2025.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the 2025 DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme is:
January 30, 2025.
Final Thoughts
The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme is an outstanding opportunity for individuals committed to making a positive impact in their communities through leadership roles in public policy and good governance. With a focus on building democratic institutions and promoting social justice, this scholarship equips future leaders with the tools to drive meaningful change. For more information and to begin your application, visit the Official DAAD Website.
