The Helmut-Schmidt-Programme Scholarship is a fully funded master’s scholarship in Germany. It supports students from developing countries who want to study subjects related to public policy, governance, and social development. The program is funded by DAAD and the German government. It aims to educate future leaders who will return to their home countries and help improve society, government systems, and economic development. The scholarship covers tuition and gives monthly financial support. Students also receive a German language course before starting their studies. This program is highly competitive and selects students with strong academic results, leadership skills, and social engagement.
Scholarship Details – Helmut-Schmidt-Programme
- Host Country: Germany
- Host University: Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg
- Scholarship Name: Helmut-Schmidt-Programme (DAAD)
- Study Level: Master’s Degree
- Gender: Male & Female
- English Language Certificate: Required (C1 level)
- Application Deadline: 15 July 2026
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Study Levels Covered in Helmut-Schmidt-Programme
- Master’s Degree – 2 Years
- German Language Course – 4 Months
Fields Included in Helmut-Schmidt-Programme
Bachelor Level
- Not available
Master Level
- Peace and Conflict Studies
- Public Policy
- Governance
- Development Studies
- Political Science
- Economics
- Law
- Public Administration
PhD Level
- Not available
Benefits of Helmut-Schmidt-Programme
- Monthly stipend (about 992 Euro)
- Health insurance
- Travel allowance
- Study and research support
- 4-month German language course
- Possible rent support
- Possible family allowance
Not Included in Helmut-Schmidt-Programme
- Bachelor studies
- PhD studies
- Pre-screening support
- Personal consultancy
- Extra private expenses
Who Can Apply for Helmut-Schmidt-Programme
- Citizens of developing countries
- Students living in eligible countries
- Graduates with Bachelor degree (180 ECTS)
- Strong academic record (good GPA)
- English level C1
- At least 3 months international experience
- Social or political engagement
Who Cannot Apply
- Students already in Germany for over 15 months
- Applicants without C1 English
- Applicants without social science background
- Incomplete applications
- Low academic results
Required Documents for Helmut-Schmidt-Programme
- DAAD application form (signed)
- Motivation letter (signed)
- CV (Europass format)
- Passport copy
- Degree certificates
- Academic transcripts
- English certificate (C1)
- Recommendation letter
- Proof of work experience (if any)
- Proof of social engagement
- Proof of international experience
Living Costs in Germany (Estimated)
| Item | Monthly Cost (Euro) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 300 – 500 € |
| Food | 200 – 300 € |
| Transport | 50 – 100 € |
| Health Insurance | Covered by scholarship |
| Personal Expenses | 100 – 200 € |
| Total Estimate | 700 – 1,000 € |
How to Apply for the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme
- Read all instructions carefully on the university and DAAD website.
- Prepare all required documents.
- Combine all documents into one single PDF file.
- Send the PDF by email to: pacsapplicationdaad@ovgu.de
- Wait for selection results (October–December 2026).
- If selected, upload documents again to DAAD portal.
- Submit certified copies after final approval.
Apply Email: pacsapplicationdaad@ovgu.de
For more information, visit the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme scholarship official website
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