Are you a student from a developing country who dreams of studying in Europe? Would you like to get a fully-funded Master’s degree in Germany and later return to your country to help build a better society?

Then the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2026 is for you!

This scholarship gives bright and hardworking students from developing and emerging countries a chance to study in Germany, gain leadership skills, and go back home to make real change in government, public service, and society.

📝 What is the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship?

The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship is a fully-funded scholarship program offered by the German Government. It helps students from poor or developing countries to study Master’s degree programs in Germany. These Master’s programs are about topics like:

• Public Policy

• Good Governance

• Law

• Economics

• Political Science

• Administration

The goal of the scholarship is to train young people who can become leaders and help solve problems in their countries—such as poverty, bad leadership, and social injustice.

This program is managed by DAAD, which is Germany’s national organization for international academic exchange. It is funded by the German Federal Foreign Office.

📍 Summary of the Scholarship

Here’s a quick look at the main details of the scholarship:

🎓 What Does the Scholarship Cover?

The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship is fully funded, which means you don’t have to pay anything! The scholarship covers:

1. Monthly Stipend
   You get €992 every month to cover your daily expenses like food, transport, and basic needs.

2. Health Insurance
   You will get free health insurance during your stay in Germany, so if you get sick or need a doctor, you’re covered.

3. Travel Allowance
   DAAD will pay for your flight to Germany and also your flight back home after your studies.

4. Study and Research Grant
   You’ll get money to buy books, study tools, and do your research work.

5. Rent and Family Support
   If you are married or have children, the scholarship can help you with housing and family needs.

6. German Language Course
   Before your studies begin, you’ll attend a 6-month German language course in Germany. This is compulsory for everyone.

✅ Note: If you’re studying the “Social Protection” master’s course, you’ll receive a lower stipend (€500/month) in the 4th semester, which is done online from your home country.

🧑‍🎓 Who Can Apply? (Eligibility)

This scholarship is meant for students from developing and emerging countries who:

• Have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

• Finished their previous studies with very good grades (top 1/3 of their class)

• Studied subjects like:

  • Social Sciences

  • Political Science

  • Law

  • Public Administration

  • Economics

• Want to help develop their country

• Have done some community service, volunteering, or internships

• Have work experience in related fields

So, if you want to become a leader in your country and help make it better, this scholarship is perfect for you.

📂 Required Documents

To apply, you need to prepare the following documents carefully:

1. ✅ Checklist and List of Criteria

   • Tick off the official checklist.

   • Sign it by hand (no scanned signatures!).

2. ✅ DAAD Application Form

   • Fill out the “Application for a research/study scholarship” form.

   • Make sure it is typed or clearly written.

3. ✅ Letter of Motivation

   • Write a single motivation letter even if you are applying for two master’s programs.

   • Explain your academic and career goals, and why this scholarship is important to you.

4. ✅ Curriculum Vitae (CV)

   • Use the Europass format.

   • Make sure it includes all your education and work experience without gaps.

5. ✅ University Certificates

   • Attach copies of your degree certificates.

   • Translate to English or German if they’re in another language.

6. ✅ Transcripts of Records

   • Show all your academic results.

   • Include an explanation of the grading system.

7. ✅ Proof of Work/Internship or Volunteering

   • Provide letters or certificates showing your work experience or community service.

   • These should be signed (original or digital signature) and stamped.

8. ✅ Proof of English Language Skills

   • Examples: IELTS, TOEFL, or university certificate of English proficiency.

9. ✅ Reference Letter

   • A recent letter from a professor, employer, or mentor who knows your academic or professional work.

🧭 Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship

Follow these simple steps to apply for the scholarship:

Step 1: Choose Up to Two Master’s Courses

• Visit the official DAAD website (link below).

• Select one or two eligible master’s programs that interest you.

Step 2: Read the DAAD Checklist

• Carefully read the checklist and instructions.

• Tick the checklist and sign it with your hand.

Step 3: Fill the Application Form

• Download and complete the DAAD application form.

• Make sure all your information is correct and typed neatly.

Step 4: Write Your Motivation Letter

• Write one motivation letter for both master’s programs.

• In the letter, explain:

  • Why you chose these courses

  • Your goals for the future

  • Why you want to be part of the Helmut Schmidt Programme

Step 5: Prepare All Required Documents

• Gather your CV, transcripts, certificates, reference letter, proof of English, and proof of experience.

• Make sure documents are translated if not in English or German.

Step 6: Submit to the Universities

• Send your full application directly to the universities offering the master’s courses.

• Each university will have its own email or online portal for submissions.

🚨 Important: Do not send your application to DAAD directly. It goes to the university offering the course.

📅 Deadline to Apply

The last day to apply for the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2026 is:

🕓 July 31, 2025

Late applications will not be accepted, so try to apply as early as possible!

🌍 Final Thoughts – Why You Should Apply

The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship is more than just free education—it is a life-changing opportunity.

You will:

✅ Study in one of the best countries in the world
✅ Learn from top professors and mentors
✅ Gain global leadership skills
✅ Meet students from around the world
✅ Return home to help your country grow

If you want to build a better future for yourself and your country, this is your chance.

🔗 Apply Now

To begin your application, APPLY HERE

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