Fully Funded DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme 2025

The Fully Funded DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme 2025, also known as the Master’s Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance (PPGG), offers fully funded opportunities for future leaders from developing countries to pursue Master’s degrees in Germany. Funded by the German Federal Foreign Office, the program aims to equip students with the skills needed to contribute to the development of their home countries.

Overview of Fully Funded DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme 2025

• Host Country: Germany

• Scholarship Provider: German Academic Exchange Service

• Degree Level: Master’s

• Fields of Study: Public Policy, Law, Economics, Governance, Political Science, Administration

• Application Deadline: 1 June – July 31, 2025

• Duration: 12 to 24 months, depending on the chosen program.

Participating Institutions and Fields of Study

The Helmut-Schmidt-Programme partners with several German universities offering English-taught Master’s programs:

1. University of Applied Sciences Osnabrück

   • Master of Management in Non-Profit Organizations

2. University of Duisburg-Essen

   • Master of Development and Governance

3. Willy Brandt School of Public Policy at the University of Erfurt

   • Master of Public Policy (MPP)

4. Hertie School, Berlin

   • Master of Public Policy (MPP)

5. University of Magdeburg

   • Master of Peace and Conflict Studies

6. University of Passau

   • Master of Governance and Public Policy

7. University of Applied Sciences Bonn-Rhein-Sieg

   • Master of Analysis and Design of Social Protection Systems

Scholarship Coverage

• Full Tuition Fee Coverage

• Monthly Stipend of €992

• Health Insurance Coverage

• Travel Allowance (unless covered by home country or another funding source)

• Study and Research Subsidy

• Rent Subsidy and/or Allowances for Spouses and/or Children, where applicable

• German Language Course: A 6-month mandatory course before the start of the program.

• The following deviation regarding funding benefits applies for the “Social Protection” master’s course due to its blended learning concept: A sur place rate of € 500 per month is paid in the 4th semester (mandatory online semester in the student’s country of origin or another developing/emerging country).

Eligibility Criteria

• Nationals of developing and emerging countries

• Bachelor’s degree in Social and Political Sciences, Law, Economics, Public Policy, or related fields

• Strong academic record

• Relevant work experience in the public sector, NGOs, or similar fields is advantageous

• Proficiency in English; some programs may require additional language skills

Required Documents

• DAAD Application Form

• Motivation Letter (specific to each chosen Master’s program)

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) in reverse chronological order

• University Certificates and Transcripts

• Proof of English Language Proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)

• Work Experience Certificates (if applicable)

• Reference Letters (academic and/or professional)

Application Process

1. Select up to two Master’s programs from the list of participating universities.

2. Apply directly to the chosen universities, following their specific application procedures.

3. Submit the DAAD application form along with all required documents to each university.

4. Ensure applications are submitted by July 31, 2025.

5. Selection Process: Universities will shortlist candidates and forward their nominations to DAAD. Final selection will be made by a selection committee in October/November 2025.

Note: Early application is highly recommended to ensure consideration for the scholarship.