Germany has invited Kenyans to apply for fully funded master’s scholarships under the Helmut-Schmidt Programme for Public Policy and Good Governance 2027, which offers a monthly allowance of about Ksh 149,520.
The programme funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), targets graduates from developing and emerging countries and aims to train future leaders in governance, public policy, and development-related fields.
DAAD said the initiative seeks to prepare graduates for responsible leadership roles in their home countries while contributing to democratic governance and efforts to reduce social inequalities.
Germany Opens DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Scholarships for 2027
The scholarship is open to graduates from developing and emerging countries with a first university degree (bachelor’s or equivalent) and above-average academic performance, preferably in the top third of their class.
Interested applicants must hold degrees in Social and Political Sciences, Law, Economics, Public Policy, or Public Administration.
They should demonstrate strong motivation to contribute to development in their home countries.
Practical experience is also required, including internships, professional work, political involvement, or community service.
Candidates who already hold a master’s degree may apply but must justify why a second postgraduate qualification is necessary.
The most recent degree must not be more than 6 years old at the time of application (as of January 1, 2020).
What the Scholarship Covers
Successful applicants will receive a monthly stipend of €992, health insurance in Germany, travel allowances, research and study grants, rent subsidies, and possible family allowances.
Scholars will also undergo a mandatory German-language course lasting up to four months in Germany before beginning their studies.
For the “Social Protection” programme, DAAD noted a special blended learning arrangement, with a €500 monthly stipend in the fourth semester, which is completed online in the student’s home or another developing country.
Master’s Courses Offered
The following master’s courses are part of the Helmut-Schmidt Programme (Master’s Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance):
- Social Protection – University of Applied Sciences Bonn-Rhein-Sieg (English, 4 semesters)
Blended learning structure:Email: [email protected] - Development and Governance – University of Duisburg-Essen (English, 2 semesters)
Email: [email protected] - Public Policy – Willy Brandt School of Public Policy, University of Erfurt (English, 4 semesters)
Apply online
Email: [email protected] - Peace and Conflict Studies – University of Magdeburg (English, 4 semesters)
Email: [email protected] - Management in Nonprofit Organizations – University of Applied Sciences Osnabrück (English, 4 semesters)
Email: [email protected] - Development Studies – University of Passau (English, 4 semesters)
Email: [email protected] - Governance and Public Policy – University of Passau (English, 4 semesters)
Email: [email protected]
All programmes include interdisciplinary training, international networking opportunities, and close academic supervision from participating universities.
Also Read: KMTC Announces Fully Paid Scholarships For Students; How to Apply
Documents Required During Application
Applicants are required to submit a set of documents when applying for the Helmut-Schmidt Programme scholarship.
These include a completed checklist and list of criteria, duly signed by hand after printing, which must indicate the place and date of issue before being scanned and uploaded.
Candidates must also fill in the official DAAD application form and attach a single motivation letter, even when applying for two master’s programmes.
The motivation letter, which must not exceed two pages, should clearly outline the applicant’s academic, professional, and personal reasons for applying, as well as explain the choice and ranking of the selected courses.
A curriculum vitae in reverse chronological order is also required, preferably in Europass format, with the date of issue included.
Applicants are expected to provide detailed information on their academic background and professional experience, with explanations for any gaps of three months or more.
In addition, candidates must submit certified copies of their higher education degree certificates and transcripts of records, including an explanation of the grading system.
If the original documents are not in English or German, certified translations must be provided.
Applicants are also required to present proof of relevant professional experience, internships, or engagement in political or community activities such as volunteering or NGO work.
These documents must be issued on official letterhead, include a date, stamp, and an original or digitally certified signature.
Proof of English language proficiency is mandatory.
A recent reference letter from either an employer or a university lecturer (for current students only) must also be included, provided on official letterhead with a stamp, date, and signature.
The requirements for language skills and the required language certificates vary depending on the respective master’s course.
Also Read: Universities Fund Opens Scholarship Window for Continuing Students
Application Process
Applicants are required to submit their applications in either English or German and may apply for a maximum of two master’s programmes under the Helmut-Schmidt Scholarship scheme.
Applicants must complete the DAAD application form only once and clearly indicate the selected master’s course(s).
Those applying for two programmes are required to rank their choices in order of preference within the motivation letter, clearly explaining why the first choice is preferred over the second and how each programme will contribute to their academic and professional development.
The same motivation letter must be submitted for both selected courses.
All completed application forms must be submitted directly to the respective master’s programmes of choice, together with all required supporting documents.
The application window runs from June 1 to July 31, 2026. All applications must be submitted directly to the selected universities.
Selection Process
The selection will take place in October and November 2026 by a committee of professors from participating universities and DAAD representatives.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to upload the full set of documents to the DAAD portal. Final results are expected between December 2026 and January 2027.
DAAD warned that incomplete applications, missing documents, or failure to prioritize courses clearly will lead to disqualification. Applications sent directly to DAAD will not be considered.
