DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Scholarship 2027: Public Policy and Good Governance

The DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Programme, also known as the Master’s Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance (PPGG), supports future leaders from developing and emerging countries who want to study selected master’s programmes in Germany.

Who the Scholarship Is For

The programme is intended for graduates who want to contribute to the social, political and economic development of their home countries or regions. It is most relevant for applicants with academic and practical interest in public policy, governance, law, economics, administration, social sciences or related fields.

Eligibility Requirements

• A first university degree, usually a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
• Strong academic performance, generally in the upper range of the applicant’s cohort.
• Relevant practical experience such as professional work, internships, political engagement or social commitment.
• A clear motivation to contribute to development and good governance after graduation.
• Eligibility under DAAD’s list of developing and emerging countries.

Scholarship Benefits

• Monthly scholarship payment, currently listed as €992 per month.
• Health insurance coverage in Germany.
• Appropriate travel allowance.
• Study and research grant.
• Rent subsidies and family supplements where applicable.
• A mandatory German language course in Germany lasting up to six months before the master’s programme.

Application Deadline

The application deadline for the 2027 intake is July 31, 2026. Applicants should confirm course-specific instructions and required documents through the official DAAD announcement before submitting.

Application Documents

• Completed DAAD application form.
• Motivation letter explaining academic, professional and personal reasons for applying.
• Curriculum vitae.
• Academic certificates and transcripts.
• Language certificate where required.
• Relevant recommendation letters.
• Programme-specific documents requested by the selected university or course.

Official Links

• DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Programme scholarship database page
• DAAD current announcement
• DAAD application checklist

Nigerian applicants should prepare early, especially if their preferred master’s course requires extra documents, certified copies or language evidence. Check each selected university’s instructions before submitting the DAAD application.