The DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Scholarship is open to applicants who are interested in promoting democracy and social justice in their home regions. Funded by the German Federal Foreign Office, applicants stand a chance to obtain a master’s degree in fields of study that are of particular importance to the social, political, and economic development of their countries.

Each selected applicant will receive a scholarship for a master’s course at a German higher education institution, a monthly stipend of €992, health insurance coverage in Germany, as well as fixed travel allowances for travel between Germany and their respective developing or emerging countries. If necessary, applicants will also receive study and research grants to further their research. Those with families or rental expenses are eligible for additional subsidies.

Applications for this scholarship are currently open and will close on July 31, 2026. Late applications will not be accepted, and deadlines may not be extended.

Applicants should note the following before applying. Kindly note that applications are accepted only from applicants from developing and emerging countries.

• A well-qualified first university degree with above-average grades (upper third) in Social and Political Sciences, Law, Economics, Public Policy, or Public Administration. The degree must not be more than six years old at the time of application. Degrees obtained before 2020 are not eligible.

• A willingness to actively contribute to the social, political, and economic development of their home countries or regions.

• Candidates who have spent more than the past 15 months in a country not listed on the DAC list are not eligible. Click on the link at the end of this post to view the list of eligible countries.

• Candidates who already hold a master’s degree must make a well-argued case explaining why they should be funded for another postgraduate degree.

Click on the link below for more information:

https://daad.de/go/en/stipa500

Find more opportunities here.