Unlock Your Future: DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2025-26 (Fully Funded)
Pursue a Master’s degree in Germany with the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship, a flagship program funded by the German government to empower future leaders from developing countries. This prestigious opportunity supports studies in social sciences, governance, and public policy at top German universities – no tuition fees, no language barriers (English-taught programs available), and comprehensive financial coverage.
Details:
| Funded by: | Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development |
| Degree level: | Masters Degree |
| Scholarship coverage: | Fully Funded |
| Eligible nationality: | All Nationalities |
| Award country: | Germany |
| Last Date: | 31 July 2025 |
Why This Scholarship?
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Fully Funded: Covers all expenses for your Master’s journey.
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Global Network: Join a cohort of change-makers from 100+ developing nations.
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Career Impact: Graduate with skills to drive policy reform in your home country.
Financial Benefits
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€934 monthly stipend for living costs
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Full health insurance in Germany
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Round-trip airfare from home country
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Research grant + rent subsidy
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Free 6-month German course (mandatory, even for English-track students)
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Extra support for spouses/children
Programs & Universities
Apply to 2 programs max from these English/German options:
| University | Program | Language | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Universität Passau | Development Studies | English | 4 semesters |
| Universität Potsdam | Master of Public Management (MPM) | English | 2 semesters |
| Willy Brandt School (Erfurt) | Master of Public Policy (MPP) | English | 4 semesters |
| Universität Duisburg-Essen | Development and Governance | English | 2 semesters |
| Full list: DAAD Program Portal |
Eligibility
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Hold a Bachelor’s degree (obtained within last 6 years) in:
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Social Sciences
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Political Science
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Law
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Economics
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Public Administration
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Be a citizen of a developing country
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No prior German scholarship at same academic level
Required Documents
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DAAD application form (hand-signed)
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Motivation letter (1-2 pages, explaining both program choices)
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CV with academic/professional experience + social engagement
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Degree certificates + transcripts (translated if needed)
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Language certificates (English/German)
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One recommendation letter (professor/employer on letterhead)
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Proof of work experience (if applicable)
Key Dates
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📅 Application deadline: July 31, 2025
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🎓 Program start: September/October 2025
How to Apply
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Select programs: Choose up to 2 courses from the list.
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Prepare documents: Complete the DAAD form + motivation letter addressing both choices.
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Submit directly: Send your application only to your chosen universities (not to DAAD).
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Await results: Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed.
⚠️ Critical: Your motivation letter must justify your 1st and 2nd program priorities.
Why Germany?
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🏛️ World-class education: Study at universities driving global policy innovation.
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🌍 Cultural immersion: Experience Europe while building a professional network.
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🔑 Career gateway: German degree = global recognition.
Shape policies, transform societies – your leadership journey begins in Germany. 🇩🇪✨
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