The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2025-2026, also known as the Public Policy and Good Governance (PPGG) Programme, is now open for international applicants from developing countries. Funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and administered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), this prestigious program offers fully funded master’s scholarships in Germany at top public universities.
This scholarship is specifically designed for talented students in the fields of social sciences, political science, law, economics, and public administration who aspire to become future leaders in their home countries. The program includes a mandatory 6-month German language course, followed by a 1- to 2-year master’s degree program taught in English or German, depending on the university.
Quick Summary
- Host Country: Germany
- Scholarship Name: DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme (PPGG)
- Degree Level: Master’s Degree
- Eligible Applicants: Students from developing countries
- Coverage: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 31 July 2025
- Study Fields: Public Policy, Governance, Development Studies, Social Protection, Peace & Conflict, and more
- Language of Instruction: English / German
- Start Date: September/October 2025
Scholarship Benefits
The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme provides a comprehensive financial package that covers:
- Monthly stipend of €934
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Health insurance contributions
- Travel allowance (round trip)
- Study and research subsidies
- Rent subsidies (if applicable)
- Family allowances for accompanying spouses or children
- 6-month intensive German language course (compulsory, even for English-taught programs)
Duration of the Program
The master’s programs under the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship last between 12 to 24 months, depending on the selected course and institution.
Participating Universities and Programs
Applicants can choose up to two courses from the following participating German universities:
- Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg – Analysis and Design of Social Protection Systems (English, 4 semesters)
- Universität Duisburg-Essen – Development and Governance (English, 2 semesters)
- Willy Brandt School of Public Policy, University of Erfurt – Master of Public Policy (MPP) (English, 4 semesters)
- Universität Magdeburg – Peace and Conflict Studies (English, 4 semesters)
- Hochschule Osnabrück – Management in Non-Profit Organisations (German, 4 semesters)
- Universität Passau – Development Studies (English, 4 semesters)
- Universität Passau – Governance and Public Policy (English/German, 4 semesters)
- Universität Potsdam – Master of Public Management (MPM) (English, 2 semesters)
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Helmut Schmidt DAAD Scholarship 2025, applicants must:
- Hold a first academic degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) in relevant disciplines
- Have completed their most recent degree within the last six years
- Be a citizen of a developing or newly industrialized country
- Demonstrate a strong interest in public policy and good governance
- Meet the language requirements for the respective programs (English or German proficiency)
- Submit a single application for two preferred programs (maximum)
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:
- Completed DAAD application form (electronically filled, then signed)
- Single motivation letter addressing both selected master’s programs
- Signed and dated CV (curriculum vitae) with academic, social, and work details
- Copies of academic degrees and transcripts with certified translations (if necessary)
- Language certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or TestDaF for English/German)
- Letter of recommendation from a university professor or employer
- Employment certificates (if applicable) confirming relevant work experience
Eligible Countries
The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship is open to graduates from developing countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe. You can verify if your country is eligible by visiting the official DAAD website.
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply:
- Select up to two master’s programs from the eligible list.
- Complete the DAAD Application Form for Study Scholarships (Annex 2).
- Write one motivation letter for both selected programs, clearly stating your first and second priority.
- Submit your complete application (DAAD form, motivation letter, CV, transcripts, language certificate, recommendation letter) directly to the two chosen universities — not to DAAD.
- Ensure that the universities receive your documents before the deadline on 31 July 2025.
Official Link & More Info
Visit the official DAAD scholarship page for full details and downloadable application forms:
Official DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme Page
This scholarship is one of the best opportunities for international students to study in Germany for free, gain global leadership skills, and build careers in public service or development sectors. Don’t miss this fully funded German government scholarship in 2025!
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