Daad Helmut Schmidt Programme For Public Policy And Good Governance 2027 in Germany | Fully Funded — German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
Germany’s Helmut Schmidt Programme was built for people who already see themselves shaping policy back home, not just studying it. It funds a full Master of Public Policy degree, named after the former German chancellor, at a small group of leading policy schools.
About the Fellowship
The programme places scholars at institutions such as the Hertie School in Berlin and the Willy Brandt School of Public Policy in Erfurt, both known for training public sector leaders. The two-year Master of Public Policy curriculum mixes economics, political analysis, and management training with practical policy labs, giving graduates tools they can apply directly in government, international organizations, or civil society work.
DAAD funds the programme as part of its public policy portfolio, aiming specifically at applicants from developing and transition countries who are expected to return home and take on leadership roles.
Fellowship Benefits
- A monthly stipend covering living costs for the full two years
- Full tuition fees at the host policy school
- Health, accident, and liability insurance
- Travel allowance for the journey to and from Germany
- Access to policy labs, study trips, and professional networking events built into the curriculum
- A German language course before the degree begins, for those who need it
Eligibility Criteria
- Citizenship of a developing or transition country on DAAD’s eligibility list, not Germany
- A bachelor’s degree with above-average results, ideally completed within the last six years
- At least two years of relevant professional experience in public administration, policy, NGOs, or a related field
- A demonstrated interest in public policy leadership, shown through work history or civic involvement
- English language proficiency, since the Master of Public Policy is taught in English
Fields of Study Covered
The programme centers on public policy, public administration, governance, and international affairs, with specializations available in areas such as economic policy, security, migration, and development.
Required Documents
- Completed application form for both the university and the DAAD scholarship
- Letter of motivation connecting your background to public policy leadership goals
- Detailed curriculum vitae
- Two academic or professional recommendation letters
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts
- English language test results such as TOEFL or IELTS
- Proof of relevant work experience
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Review admission requirements for the Master of Public Policy at the Hertie School or Willy Brandt School
- Prepare a motivation letter that ties your professional background to concrete policy goals
- Submit the university application along with transcripts, CV, and test scores before the published deadline
- Apply for the Helmut Schmidt Programme scholarship through the designated DAAD channel, following the school’s specific instructions
- Attend an interview if shortlisted, usually held online for applicants outside Germany
- Confirm your place once both admission and funding decisions are finalized
Selection Process
Selection runs in two stages. The university first assesses academic readiness and fit for the Master of Public Policy curriculum. DAAD and the school then jointly review shortlisted candidates for the scholarship itself, weighing leadership potential, work experience, and the clarity of each applicant’s policy goals. An interview is standard for finalists.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Show, with specific examples, how your past work connects to policy decisions, not just general interest in government
- Keep your motivation letter focused on two or three concrete goals rather than a long list of ambitions
- Practice articulating your career plan clearly before any interview stage, since interviewers probe for genuine direction
- Compare this track against a broader option like the DAAD EPOS Scholarship for Public Policy and Good Governance if your background fits more than one DAAD-funded path
- Reach out to programme alumni where possible, since many are active on professional networks and can describe what actually got them admitted
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Helmut Schmidt Programme only for diplomats or government staff?
No. Applicants come from NGOs, research institutes, journalism, and the private sector as well as government, as long as their work connects to policy.
How selective is this scholarship?
It is highly competitive, with a limited number of places each year across both partner schools combined.
Can I choose which policy school I attend?
You apply to a specific school, either the Hertie School or the Willy Brandt School, and the scholarship funding follows that admission.
Do I need to speak German to apply?
No. The Master of Public Policy is taught in English, though learning German helps with daily life in Berlin or Erfurt.
Is work experience really required?
Yes, most successful applicants have at least two years of relevant experience, since the programme targets people already working toward policy careers.
What happens after graduation?
Many graduates return to policy roles in their home countries, while others move into international organizations or continued doctoral study.
Can I apply if I already have a master’s degree?
Applicants with a different master’s degree can still apply if the Master of Public Policy clearly adds a new, relevant skill set to their career plan.
Is funding available for a second year if my plans change?
Funding is tied to the standard programme length, so any extension or change in enrollment needs to be discussed directly with DAAD and the host school.