Erasmus Mundus Scholarship: Joint Master Programs, Funding & How to Apply

The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship offers international students the opportunity to pursue a joint master’s degree through participating universities in Europe and, in some cases, other countries. These Erasmus Mundus joint master programs are designed around international mobility and collaboration between higher education institutions, allowing students to study in different academic and cultural environments as part of the same degree program. Depending on the program and scholarship conditions, Erasmus Mundus funding for international students may contribute to tuition and participation costs, travel, installation, living expenses, and other eligible costs. This guide explains how Erasmus Mundus scholarships work, who can apply, what funding may be available, and how to prepare a competitive application.

What Is the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?

The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship supports students applying to Erasmus Mundus joint master programs, which are high-level master’s programmes jointly designed and delivered by an international consortium of higher education institutions. An Erasmus Mundus Joint Master involves at least three higher education institutions from three different countries and includes integrated study periods across multiple countries. Students may study at different partner institutions as part of the same master’s programme, depending on the mobility structure of the specific course.

Scholarship vs. Self-Funded Admission

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters are highly competitive, and each programme sets its own admission and scholarship requirements. Selected students may receive an Erasmus Mundus scholarship, while programmes may also have places for students who are admitted without an Erasmus Mundus scholarship. Scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application procedures can vary by programme, so applicants should check the official website of their chosen Joint Master for current details.

How the Joint-Program Structure Works

Each Erasmus Mundus Joint Master is delivered through a consortium of participating higher education institutions. The programme follows an integrated curriculum, with study periods at different partner institutions forming part of the same master’s degree. The specific courses, mobility pathway, academic requirements, and degree arrangements depend on the individual programme.

Studying in Multiple European Countries

International mobility is a core feature of Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters. The current Erasmus+ framework requires each programme to include at least two study periods in two different countries, and these countries must be different from the student’s country of residence at enrolment. Each of the two mandatory study periods must normally correspond to at least one academic semester, or 30 ECTS credits. The exact countries and mobility route vary by programme.

Duration and Degree Structure

An Erasmus Mundus Joint Master typically lasts one to two academic years, corresponding to 60, 90, or 120 ECTS credits. Depending on the programme and its consortium arrangements, graduates receive either a joint degree, issued on behalf of two or more higher education institutions, or multiple degrees issued by participating institutions. The specific degree structure is defined by each Joint Master.

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Programs

How Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Work

Erasmus Mundus joint master programs are developed and delivered by international consortia of higher education institutions. Each programme has its own curriculum, study locations, mobility pathway, admission requirements, and administrative arrangements. While programmes follow the Erasmus Mundus framework and relevant European quality standards, their academic structure and student experience can vary significantly.

Fields of Study

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters cover a broad range of academic disciplines, with programmes available in areas such as:

• Engineering: Robotics, sustainable energy, materials science, and civil engineering.
• Computer Science: Artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, and related fields.
• Environmental Sciences: Climate change, biodiversity, environmental management, and marine sciences.
• Public Health: Global health, epidemiology, health economics, and related areas.
• Social Sciences: International relations, migration studies, public policy, and education.
• Economics: Development economics, international trade, finance, and related disciplines.
• Arts and Humanities: Cultural heritage, digital humanities, media studies, linguistics, and other fields.

The available subjects change as Erasmus Mundus programmes are selected and renewed, so applicants should use the current official catalogue to identify programmes that match their academic background and interests.

Studying at Multiple European Universities

A key feature of Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters is international mobility. Depending on the programme, students may study at different partner institutions and benefit from their academic expertise, research environments, and connections with regional industries and organisations. The exact mobility pathway is determined by each Joint Master and should be reviewed before applying.

How to Find Erasmus Mundus Programs

Applicants can use the official Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Catalogue to explore available programmes and identify options that match their academic interests and career goals. The catalogue provides information about individual programmes, while applicants should visit the official website of each Joint Master to confirm current admission requirements, application deadlines, mobility arrangements, and scholarship information before applying.

Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Eligibility

Academic Background

Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or a first higher education degree, or demonstrate an officially recognized equivalent level of learning according to the requirements of the country where the degree was awarded. Each Erasmus Mundus Joint Master may also define additional academic requirements for admission.

Bachelor’s Degree

Applicants must normally hold a completed bachelor’s degree before the master’s programme begins. Students in the final year of their bachelor’s studies may also apply, provided they can graduate before the start of the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master.

Language Requirements

Language requirements vary between Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters. Many programmes require proof of proficiency in the language of instruction, which may include an IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted qualification. Some programmes may accept alternative evidence or offer exemptions, depending on their admission rules. Applicants should check the language requirements of each programme before applying.

Program-Specific Requirements

Each Joint Master sets its own admission criteria. Depending on the field of study, requirements may include specific academic coursework, a minimum academic performance level, relevant qualifications, technical knowledge, or other prerequisites. Applicants should review the official requirements of their selected programme rather than relying on general Erasmus Mundus eligibility criteria.

Nationality and Residency Considerations

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters recruit students internationally, but eligibility for admission and scholarship opportunities can depend on the specific programme and the applicant’s nationality or country of residence. Applicants should check the current scholarship and participation conditions published by their chosen Joint Master, particularly where the programme distinguishes between different country categories.

Academic and Professional Experience

Professional experience is not a universal requirement for Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters. Some programmes may value or require relevant academic, research, or professional experience, while others accept applicants directly after completing a bachelor’s degree. The relevant admission criteria are determined by each individual programme.

Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Benefits and Funding

Erasmus Mundus scholarships provide financial support to selected students enrolled in eligible Joint Master programmes. Depending on the programme and current Erasmus+ funding rules, the scholarship can contribute to participation costs, travel, visa and installation expenses, and living costs during the study period.

What Does the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Cover?

Scholarship holders are not charged tuition fees or other mandatory participation costs by the selected Joint Master under the Erasmus+ funding rules. Programme funding also supports the institutional costs of delivering the degree, including insurance and other eligible services. Applicants should check their chosen programme’s official website for details of any costs that fall outside the covered participation costs.

Monthly Financial Support

Under the current Erasmus+ funding framework, the scholarship provides €1,400 per month toward travel, visa, installation, and subsistence costs. Depending on the duration of the selected Joint Master, scholarship support may be available for up to 24 months.

Travel, Visa, and Installation Costs

Moving between countries is an important part of many Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters. The scholarship contributes to eligible travel, visa, and installation expenses associated with international mobility. The exact arrangements can depend on the programme and the applicable Erasmus+ funding conditions.

Insurance Coverage

Insurance is included within the funding framework for Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters. Programme funding covers insurance for enrolled students as part of the costs associated with delivering the degree. The exact scope and terms of coverage should be confirmed through the selected Joint Master’s official information.

Additional Support for Individual Needs

Students with disabilities or other individual needs may be eligible for additional financial support. Depending on the circumstances, this can help cover eligible costs such as specialised equipment, personal assistance, adapted study arrangements, or additional travel and transportation expenses. The availability and amount of this support are determined according to Erasmus+ funding rules and programme arrangements.

Applying for Erasmus Mundus Scholarships

Step-by-Step Application Guide

1. Find a Suitable Joint Master: Use the official Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Catalogue to explore programmes that match your academic background, interests, and career goals.
2. Check the Programme Requirements: Visit the official website of each selected Joint Master to review its academic prerequisites, language requirements, required documents, scholarship eligibility, and application deadline.
3. Prepare Your Documents: Gather the documents required by the programme, which may include academic transcripts, degree certificates, letters of recommendation, proof of language proficiency, an academic CV, and a tailored motivation letter.
4. Submit the Application: Complete the application through the platform specified by the Joint Master before its stated deadline. Application procedures and submission systems can vary between programmes.
5. Admission and Scholarship Selection: Applications are assessed according to the programme’s published admission and scholarship criteria. Academic background, motivation, relevant experience, and overall programme fit may be considered, depending on the Joint Master’s selection process.
6. Receive the Decision: Successful applicants receive information about their admission status and, where applicable, Erasmus Mundus scholarship selection. The programme will provide further instructions regarding enrolment, mobility arrangements, and the next steps.

Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Application Requirements

The documents required for an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master application vary by programme. Applicants should always check the official application guidelines of their selected Joint Master before preparing and submitting their documents.

Academic Transcripts and Degree Certificate

Applicants are generally required to provide academic transcripts and proof of their completed degree or current academic status. If documents are issued in a language that is not accepted by the programme, certified translations may also be required. The programme’s application guidelines should be followed for specific document and translation requirements.

CV

An academic or professional CV may be required to present the applicant’s educational background, research experience, publications, professional experience, projects, and other relevant achievements. The preferred CV format and length may vary between programmes.

Motivation Letter

A motivation letter is commonly used to explain why the applicant is interested in the specific Joint Master, how their academic or professional background relates to the programme, and how the degree fits their future academic or career goals. Applicants should tailor the letter to the selected programme rather than relying on a generic statement.

Recommendation Letters

Some Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters require letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees. The number, type, and submission method can vary by programme, so applicants should follow the specific instructions provided by their chosen Joint Master.

Proof of Language Proficiency

Depending on the programme, applicants may need to provide evidence of proficiency in the language or languages of instruction. Accepted evidence may include IELTS, TOEFL, another recognised language qualification, or alternative proof specified by the programme. Minimum scores and exemption policies vary.

Other Program-Specific Documents

Additional documents may be required depending on the academic field and programme structure. These can include a portfolio, research proposal, writing sample, passport or identity document, proof of residence, or other supporting materials. Applicants should use the programme’s official application checklist to confirm which documents are required.

How to Write a Strong Erasmus Mundus Application

Research the Joint Master Carefully

Before applying, study the specific structure of the Joint Master you are interested in. Review its curriculum, study locations, mobility pathway, specialisations, and participating universities. Referring to relevant modules or academic opportunities can help demonstrate that your application is genuinely tailored to the programme.

Explain Your Academic Motivation

Explain how your previous academic background has prepared you for the master’s programme and identify the subjects, research areas, or academic questions you want to explore further. Focus on specific interests rather than broad statements about wanting to study in Europe.

Show Program Fit

Explain why the structure and academic focus of this particular Joint Master match your interests and goals. You can discuss specific courses, research opportunities, mobility arrangements, or the expertise of participating institutions that are relevant to your plans.

Connect Your Background to Your Goals

Build a clear connection between your previous education, research or professional experience, the proposed master’s studies, and your longer-term academic or career objectives. The goal is to show a coherent progression rather than simply listing achievements.

Explain Your International and Multidisciplinary Interests

If relevant to your background, discuss experiences that demonstrate your ability to work across academic disciplines or in international and multicultural environments. This could include international study, collaborative projects, language skills, research involving multiple disciplines, or other relevant experiences.

Avoid Generic Motivation Letters

Avoid submitting the same motivation letter to multiple programmes with only minor changes. A strong application should address the specific Joint Master, its academic structure, and your reasons for applying. Use concrete examples from your own background and explain how they relate to the programme you have selected.

Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Selection Process

The selection process for an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master varies by programme, as each consortium defines its own admission and scholarship selection criteria. However, applicants can generally expect several stages of review.

Application Screening

The programme team first checks whether applications have been submitted correctly and include the documents required by the Joint Master. Applications must also meet the programme’s stated deadline and submission requirements.

Eligibility Assessment

Eligible applications are reviewed against the formal admission criteria of the programme. This may include the applicant’s previous degree, academic background, language proficiency, and any programme-specific prerequisites.

Academic Evaluation

The academic background of eligible applicants may be assessed using transcripts, degree qualifications, relevant coursework, research experience, professional experience, or other criteria specified by the Joint Master.

Motivation and Application Assessment

Depending on the programme, the selection process may consider the motivation letter, recommendation letters, CV, and other application materials. Evaluators assess how well the applicant’s background, interests, and goals align with the Joint Master’s academic profile and selection criteria.

Ranking and Scholarship Selection

After evaluating eligible applications, the consortium selects candidates for admission and, where applicable, Erasmus Mundus scholarships according to its published selection criteria. Scholarship selection may be competitive, and meeting the minimum admission requirements does not necessarily guarantee a scholarship.

Reserve Lists

Some Joint Masters may maintain reserve lists for qualified applicants who are not initially selected for admission or a scholarship. Whether a reserve list is used and how it operates depends on the individual programme.

Final Notification

Applicants are informed of the outcome according to the programme’s own admissions and scholarship timetable. Notification dates vary between Joint Masters, so applicants should refer to the official programme website and application information for the expected decision period.

Erasmus Mundus Scholarship for International Students

European Scholarships for Postgraduate Studies

The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is one of the European funding opportunities available to international students pursuing postgraduate education. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters recruit students internationally, and applicants generally apply directly to the Joint Master programme rather than through a general central scholarship application. Admission and scholarship requirements, however, are determined by each individual programme.

International Mobility and Visa Considerations

International mobility is a central part of Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters, with students completing required study periods in different countries as part of their programme. Depending on the mobility pathway, students may need to obtain visas or residence permits for one or more study destinations. Applicants should check the visa requirements of the relevant countries and follow the guidance provided by their Joint Master and host institutions.

Language and Cultural Adaptation

The language of instruction depends on the individual Joint Master, although many programmes are delivered in English. Studying across different countries can expose students to diverse academic and cultural environments and may also provide opportunities to develop additional language skills. Applicants should review the programme’s language requirements and expected study locations before applying.

Erasmus Mundus vs. Other European Scholarships

Erasmus Mundus is different from many other European scholarship opportunities because the funding is connected to specific international Joint Master programmes. However, the structure, funding, and application process of other scholarships can vary considerably by university, country, or funding provider.

Scholarship Type	Main Feature	Degree Structure	Mobility Requirement	Typical Application Route
Erasmus Mundus	Scholarship funding linked to selected international Joint Master programmes	Joint degree or multiple degrees, depending on the programme	Includes required study periods in different countries	Apply directly to the selected Joint Master
University Scholarships	Funding offered by individual universities, which may include tuition support or living-cost assistance	Usually a degree offered by the awarding university	Usually follows the university’s standard study structure	University or scholarship portal
National Scholarships	Funding provided through government or national scholarship schemes	Varies by programme and host institution	Depends on the specific scholarship and study arrangement	Government, national agency, or designated institution
Research Grants	Funding focused on research activities or specific academic projects	Often linked to research degrees or projects	Usually determined by the research institution or project	Research group, university, or funding organisation

The exact eligibility requirements, funding level, study structure, and application process should always be checked with the relevant scholarship provider or programme.

How to Choose the Right Erasmus Mundus Program

Choosing an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master involves more than comparing programme titles. Applicants should consider the academic structure, mobility requirements, participating institutions, and how the programme fits their longer-term goals.

Academic Field and Curriculum

Review the curriculum, specialisations, modules, and learning outcomes of each programme. Look for courses and academic areas that are relevant to your previous background and the skills or knowledge you want to develop during your master’s studies.

Partner Universities and Countries

Consider the participating universities, study locations, and mobility pathway. Applicants may also want to research the academic strengths of the partner institutions and practical factors such as living costs, climate, transportation, language, and visa requirements in the countries where they will study.

Research and Career Outcomes

Review the programme’s available information about research opportunities, internships, industry partnerships, alumni outcomes, or progression to further study. If employment or PhD progression is an important goal, look for specific evidence from the programme or its participating universities rather than relying only on general claims.

Scholarship and Admission Conditions

Compare the programme’s admission criteria, scholarship availability, required documents, application deadline, and degree structure. A programme may be academically relevant but still have requirements that do not match your background or circumstances.

Mobility Requirements

Check where students are expected to study during each stage of the programme and whether the mobility pathway fits your academic and practical circumstances. Understanding the required study locations before applying can help you avoid choosing a programme based only on its title or subject area.

Common Erasmus Mundus Application Mistakes

• Applying without carefully checking the programme’s academic and eligibility requirements.
• Choosing a Joint Master primarily because of its scholarship opportunity rather than its academic fit.
• Submitting a generic motivation letter that does not address the specific programme.
• Failing to connect previous academic or professional experience with the proposed master’s studies and future goals.
• Ignoring programme-specific document, formatting, language, or submission requirements.
• Waiting until the deadline to prepare documents or submitting an incomplete application.
• Assuming that all Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters have the same admission, scholarship, mobility, or language requirements.

Erasmus Mundus Application Timeline

There is no single application calendar for all Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters. Each consortium sets its own application deadline and selection timetable. However, applicants can generally organize their preparation around the following stages:

1. Research and Programme Selection: Explore the official Erasmus Mundus catalogue and identify Joint Masters that match your academic background and goals.
2. Requirements Review: Check the selected programme’s eligibility criteria, language requirements, scholarship conditions, required documents, and mobility structure.
3. Document Preparation: Prepare transcripts, degree documents, CV, motivation letter, recommendation letters, language certificates, and any other programme-specific materials.
4. Application Submission: Complete the application through the platform specified by the Joint Master and submit all required materials before the programme’s deadline.
5. Selection and Evaluation: The consortium reviews eligible applications according to its admission and scholarship selection criteria. Some programmes may include additional assessment stages, such as interviews.
6. Admission and Enrolment: Applicants receive their admission and scholarship decisions according to the programme’s published timetable. Selected students then complete the required enrolment, visa, accommodation, and travel arrangements.

Applicants should always use the official website of their chosen Joint Master for the exact deadline and decision timeline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?

The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is financial support provided through the Erasmus+ programme for selected students admitted to eligible Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters. Scholarship conditions and selection are determined through the individual Joint Master programmes.

What are Erasmus Mundus Joint Master programs?

They are international master’s programmes delivered by consortia of higher education institutions. Students complete integrated study periods in different countries according to the mobility structure of their selected programme.

Who can apply for Erasmus Mundus scholarships?

Applicants who hold a bachelor’s degree or an officially recognised equivalent qualification can apply, subject to the admission and scholarship requirements of the specific Joint Master. International applicants are eligible, but individual programme requirements should always be checked.

How do I apply for an Erasmus Mundus scholarship?

Applicants normally apply directly to the selected Erasmus Mundus Joint Master through the application system specified by that programme. The programme’s application instructions explain how applicants are considered for an Erasmus Mundus scholarship.

How much funding does Erasmus Mundus provide?

Under the current Erasmus+ funding framework, an Erasmus Mundus scholarship provides a monthly contribution of €1,400 for the eligible duration of the programme, up to a maximum of 24 months. The scholarship also supports participation costs and contributes to travel, visa, installation, and subsistence expenses, subject to the programme and funding conditions.

Does Erasmus Mundus cover tuition fees?

Erasmus Mundus scholarship holders are not charged tuition fees or other mandatory participation costs by the selected Joint Master under the Erasmus+ funding rules. Applicants should still review the programme’s official information for details of any costs outside the covered participation costs.

Can international students apply?

Yes. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters recruit students internationally. However, eligibility, scholarship conditions, and admission requirements can vary by programme, so applicants should check the requirements of their selected Joint Master.

Can I apply to multiple Erasmus Mundus programs?

Applicants can apply to different Joint Masters if they meet the requirements and deadlines of each programme. Each application is submitted according to the individual Joint Master’s application procedure.

Do I need work experience?

Not necessarily. Work experience is not a universal requirement for Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters. Some programmes may require or value relevant professional or research experience, while others accept applicants directly after their bachelor’s degree.

Is IELTS required?

Not for every Erasmus Mundus programme. Language requirements vary by Joint Master, and accepted evidence may include IELTS, TOEFL, another recognised qualification, or alternative proof specified by the programme.

When should I apply?

There is no single Erasmus Mundus application deadline. Each Joint Master publishes its own deadline, and scholarship applications are often submitted several months before the programme begins. Applicants should check the official website of their chosen programme for the current application cycle and deadline.