The Helmut-Schmidt-Programme 2026 (DAAD Public Policy and Good Governance Scholarship) at the University of Passau supports highly qualified international students who want to pursue a Master’s degree in Development Studies or Governance and Public Policy in Germany. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) funds this scholarship to prepare future leaders in public policy, governance, and social development.
About the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme
The DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme supports future leaders from developing and emerging countries who want to contribute to democratic governance, social justice, and sustainable development in their home countries.
The programme funds selected Master’s degrees at top German universities, including the University of Passau, where students study Development Studies or Governance and Public Policy.
DAAD selects candidates based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and motivation to work in public policy-related fields. The programme integrates academic study with practical training, networking events, and leadership development activities.
The University of Passau delivers English-taught or bilingual Master’s programmes for scholarship holders and provides academic and extracurricular support throughout the degree.
Why Choose The Helmut-Schmidt-Programme?
This scholarship allows you to study in Germany without financial burden while preparing for leadership roles in government, international organizations, and policy institutions.
You gain access to high-level academic training in public policy, governance, international relations, and development studies.
You also benefit from structured mentoring, international networking events, German language training, and exposure to real policy challenges that prepare you for careers in global governance and development sectors.
Helmut-Schmidt-Programme Summary
- Host Country: Germany
- Host University: University of Passau (and other partner universities)
- Scholarship Name: Helmut-Schmidt-Programme (DAAD PPGG)
- Study Level: Master’s Degree
- Eligible Fields: Public Policy, Governance, Development Studies, Public Administration, Peace & Conflict Studies
- Funding Authority: German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
- Scholarship Type: Fully funded
- Coverage: Tuition, monthly stipend, travel allowance, insurance, German language course
- Duration: 2 years (Master’s programme)
- Eligible Applicants: Students from developing and emerging countries
- Selection Basis: Academic merit, leadership potential, and motivation
- Application Requirement: Apply via the DAAD portal and select universities
- Application Deadline: July 31, 2026
Scholarship Benefits
The Helmut-Schmidt-Programme provides full financial and academic support, including:
- Full monthly stipend for living expenses
- Full coverage of tuition fees (if applicable)
- Health insurance coverage
- Travel allowance to and from Germany
- Up to a 6-month German language course before studies
- Free access to academic and leadership training programmes
- Participation in networking events and policy workshops
- Academic and professional mentoring throughout the programme
Eligibility Criteria
You qualify for the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme if you:
- Hold a first university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent)
- Come from a developing or emerging country (the eligible list applies)
- Demonstrate strong academic performance
- Show leadership potential and commitment to public service
- Apply for an eligible Master’s programme at participating universities
- Have a strong interest in public policy, governance, or development studies
- Meet programme-specific university admission requirements
Required Documents
You must prepare and submit:
- Completed the DAAD application form
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter explaining career goals
- Two recommendation letters
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL where required)
- Passport copy
- Research proposal or study plan (if required by programme)
- University-specific application documents
Application Process & Timeline
You follow these steps to apply:
- You select eligible Master’s programmes under the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme.
- You complete the DAAD online application form.
- You apply to participating universities, such as the University of Passau.
- You submit all required documents before the deadline.
- DAAD and universities review applications jointly.
- Shortlisted candidates receive interview invitations.
- Selected candidates attend interviews or assessments.
- DAAD announces final scholarship results.
