Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2025–2026: A Complete Guide for International Students
What is the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s (EMJM) Scholarship is a fully funded program funded by the European Union. It allows students from all over the world to study in two or more European countries during a single master’s degree.
This program focuses on academic excellence and cultural exchange. Selected students move between partner universities, gaining different academic and cultural experiences in each country.
Key Benefits
If you win this scholarship, here’s what you get:
Full tuition fee coverage
Monthly living allowance (usually €1,000–€1,200)
Travel and visa costs covered
Health insurance
Chance to study in multiple countries within the same program
Who Can Apply?
The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is open to students from any country.
You must:
Have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent
Meet the academic requirements of the chosen program
Show English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) unless exempt
Meet any specific criteria set by the program
How the Program Works
Each Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s program is offered by a consortium of universities.
For example, one program might be taught in:
First semester: France
Second semester: Spain
Third semester: Germany
Final semester: Internship or thesis in another partner country
This gives you a multi-country study experience that’s rare in other scholarships.
Application Process
The process is competitive but straightforward.
1. Find the Right Program
Visit the Erasmus Mundus Catalogue on the European Commission’s website. Search by subject area and see which universities are involved.
2. Check the Requirements
Each program has its own eligibility rules, deadlines, and required documents.
3. Prepare Your Documents
Commonly required:
Academic transcripts
Bachelor’s degree certificate
English test score (IELTS, TOEFL, or proof of previous studies in English)
Two or three reference letters
Passport copy
4. Submit Online
Applications are submitted directly on the program’s official website, not a central portal.
5. Wait for Results
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews.
Deadlines
Most Erasmus Mundus programs open in October–November and close between December and January for the next academic year.
Some may accept later applications for self-funded students, but scholarships are only for those applying by the main deadline.
Tips to Increase Your Chances
Apply to more than one program: You can apply to up to three different EMJM programs in one year.
Write a strong motivation letter: Explain why you want that specific program and how it fits your career goals.
Show international readiness: They look for students open to cultural diversity.
Get strong references: Ask professors or employers who know you well academically.
Erasmus Mundus vs. Other Scholarships
Unlike single-country scholarships, Erasmus Mundus gives you a multi-location academic journey. This means:
More networking opportunities
Broader cultural exposure
A degree recognized across partner universities
The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is one of the most generous and unique programs for master’s students. It’s competitive, but the rewards go beyond funding it’s an opportunity to live, study, and grow in different parts of Europe.
If you start preparing early, choose the right program, and present a clear and motivated application, your chances of joining this network of global graduates will be much higher.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)– Erasmus Mundus Scholarship
1. Can I apply for more than one Erasmus Mundus program?
Yes. You can apply for up to three different Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programs in the same academic year.
2. Do I need IELTS for Erasmus Mundus?
Most programs require proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL. However, some accept a certificate from your university confirming that your previous degree was taught in English.
3. Is Erasmus Mundus fully funded?
Yes. It covers tuition fees, living allowance, travel costs, and health insurance.
4. How competitive is the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?
It’s very competitive, with acceptance rates often below 10–15%. A strong motivation letter and academic record are essential.
5. Can I apply without work experience?
Yes. Most programs do not require work experience, but having relevant experience can strengthen your application.
6. What is the duration of Erasmus Mundus programs?
Typically 1–2 years, depending on the program.
7. Do I have to study in more than one country?
Yes. The Erasmus Mundus program requires students to study in at least two different countries within the consortium.
8. When should I start preparing my application?
Ideally, 3–6 months before the deadline to allow time for collecting documents, writing your motivation letter, and preparing references.