If you passionate about public policy, governance, and leadership? The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2026, also known as the Public Policy and Good Governance Scholarship (PPGG), is one of Germany’s top fully funded programs for international students.

Funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), this scholarship supports outstanding students from developing countries to pursue a Master’s degree in Germany completely free of cost.

About the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Program

The Helmut Schmidt Scholarship was created to train future leaders in politics, law, economics, and administration, preparing them to drive social and economic development in their home countries.

Scholars are hosted at some of Germany’s leading universities, where they gain advanced academic knowledge, practical skills, and international experience.

Scholarship Coverage (Fully Funded)

Selected students receive:

• Full tuition fee waiver

• Monthly stipend of €934 to cover living costs

• Travel allowance to and from Germany

•  Rent subsidies and family allowances (where applicable)

•  Funding for study and research activities

•  Full health insurance coverage in Germany

Eligible Fields of Study

The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2026 covers Master’s programs in Public Policy, Law, Economics, and Administration at selected German universities.

Some participating institutions include:

• University of Duisburg-Essen

• University of Magdeburg

• University of Applied Sciences Osnabrück

• University of Passau

• University of Potsdam

• Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, applicants must:

• Be a citizen of a developing or emerging country (list available on DAAD’s website).

• Hold a strong bachelor’s degree in social sciences, political science, law, economics, or related fields.

• Show commitment to public service, leadership, and social responsibility.

• Meet the English or German language requirements of the program.

• Apply within six years of completing their last degree.

Application Process

1. Choose two Master’s programs from the list of participating universities.

2. Prepare your documents: academic transcripts, CV, motivation letter, proof of language proficiency, and recommendation letters.

3. Apply directly to the universities with the DAAD application form (not to DAAD itself).

4. Submit applications before the official deadline.

Deadline for 2026 Intake: Expected around July 2025 (check updates on the DAAD official portal).

Why Apply?

The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship is more than financial aid it’s a chance to:

• Study in Germany’s world-class universities.

• Build a global network of policymakers and leaders.

• Contribute to good governance and development in your home country.

• Receive complete financial support with no burden of tuition or living costs.

How to Apply

For updated information and official application guidelines, visit the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship page.

Final Thoughts

The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship 2026 in Germany is a golden opportunity for young leaders who want to make a real difference in public policy and governance. With full financial coverage and access to prestigious universities, it’s one of the best scholarships available for international students.

If you meet the requirements, start preparing your documents now and apply before the deadline.