Erasmus Mundus Masters Scholarship 2025: Eligibility and Application Guide

Europe is a global hub for education, with over 4,000 higher education institutions, 17.5 million students, and 1.17 million researchers. To support international mobility, the European Union established Erasmus (European Region Action Scheme for the Mobility of University Students) in 1987.

The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is a prestigious program funded by the European Commission that offers full scholarships for Master’s students. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs, making it a fully funded opportunity. The program aims to attract top students from developing countries to Europe, promoting academic excellence and cultural exchange.

Over 6,000 scholarships have been awarded to Indian students alone, making it a highly competitive opportunity. While the Erasmus Mundus scholarship is not available for the 2025-2026 academic year, efforts are underway to secure funding for the 2026-2027 intake, with expectations that it will resume.

This blog provides a complete guide to the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship, covering its benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, selection criteria, funding details, and tips for success. If you aspire to study in Europe, this scholarship could be your gateway to a world-class education.

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Explore Other Scholarships for Studying in Europe.

What is the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?

The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's (EMJM) Scholarship is a fully funded EU program that lets international students pursue a master’s degree across two or more European countries. Each course is run by a consortium of at least 3 universities, and students often graduate with a joint or multiple degree.

As of 2024, there are over 160+ Erasmus Mundus master's programs listed in the official catalogue. These cover diverse fields like AI, civil engineering, public policy, and marine biology.

Here are the key features of the scholarship: 

• 100% tuition fee coverage, ranging from €9,000 to €18,000/year (INR 8,10,000 to INR 16,20,000).
• A monthly stipend of €1,400 (INR 1,26,000) for up to 24 months.
• A travel and installation grant of up to €7,000 (INR 6,30,000) depending on the student’s location.
• Health insurance is included for the full duration.

Did you know?

In the 2024 intake, over 3,000 students worldwide received this scholarship, based on data from the official Erasmus+ website.

Who can apply for Erasmus Mundus and what are the eligibility rules?

The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree (EMJMD) program has clear eligibility rules based on your nationality, academic background, and the course you choose. These rules vary slightly by country and program.

Here are the key eligibility rules you need to know:

• You must hold a bachelor’s degree or be in your final year of undergraduate studies.
• Your degree must match the academic field of the master’s program you're applying to.
• You should have a strong academic record, usually with a minimum GPA or class rank as per program standards.
• You need to submit a valid English proficiency score if your degree wasn’t in English.
• There is no upper age limit, but you must meet all academic and visa requirements.
• Some programs may require you to have studied in at least two different countries during the course.
• Your country of residence and nationality may affect your eligibility for the scholarship portion of the program.

Can Indian students apply for Erasmus Mundus master's programs?

Yes, Indian students are fully eligible to apply for Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degrees. They are one of the largest applicant groups every year, and many Indian degrees are accepted by the programs.

Here are the eligibility rules specifically for Indian students:

• Indian students must hold a recognized bachelor’s degree from a UGC-approved university.
• Four-year undergraduate degrees (like BTech, BPharma) are directly accepted by most programs.
• Three-year degrees (like BA, BSc, BCom) are also accepted by many courses, but it depends on the program.
• Candidates must provide English test scores such as IELTS (6.5+), TOEFL (minimum 90), or equivalent.
• Students can apply in the final year of their bachelor's program if they expect to graduate before the course begins.
• There is no age restriction, but students must meet all admission and visa conditions.
• Most programs do not require prior European education or international travel experience.

Do I need prior international experience to apply for Erasmus Mundus master's programs?

You don’t need any international experience to apply for an Erasmus Mundus master's program. It’s fine if you’ve studied only in your home country. What matters is your academic background, your goals, and how well you explain your interest in the program.

Things like internships, volunteer work, or projects done within your country can still make your application stronger. Many students without any global exposure, even from small towns, have been selected. The selection panel looks at your overall potential, not just where you’ve studied or traveled.

How does the Erasmus Mundus application process work?

Applying for the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s program involves several key steps. 

First, you need to pick the programs you want from the official Erasmus Mundus catalogue. Each program has its application portal and forms. You fill out these forms carefully and upload required documents like transcripts, CV, motivation letter, and language test scores. 

After submitting your application, universities review your profile and shortlist candidates. If shortlisted, you might get invited for an interview or additional tests. 

The final selection is made by the consortium of universities offering the program.

Keep track of deadlines and follow all instructions carefully to avoid mistakes. 

Applications are typically submitted online through each program’s portal.

When do Erasmus Mundus applications usually open and close?

Most Erasmus Mundus programs open their applications between October and December each year for the next academic cycle. The main deadline is in January or February.

Some programs offer a reserve round for late applications, which can be in March or April. However, applying in the main round is best to secure your spot and scholarship.

Note: For Indian students, it’s ideal to start preparing by August-September so you can gather documents and meet the early deadlines without rushing.

Can I apply to multiple Erasmus Mundus programs at once?

Yes, you can apply to up to three Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programs in one admission cycle.

When choosing programs, pick courses that fit your academic background and career goals. Avoid applying to too many very different fields, as this can weaken your application focus.

Make sure you carefully review eligibility and deadlines for each program to manage your applications smoothly.

What documents are required for an Erasmus Mundus application?

To apply for Erasmus Mundus, you need to submit several important documents that prove your education, language skills, and identity. Below is a table showing the main documents you’ll need:

Document	Description
Bachelor’s Degree Certificate	Original and English versions; if not issued yet, a letter from your university confirming graduation date
Academic Transcripts	Full record of courses and grades in the original language and English, with the grading scale explained
Motivation Letter	Explains why you want to join; keep it clear and under 1000 words
Letters of Recommendation (2)	From teachers or employers; on official letterhead, signed, max 2 pages each; referees upload online
English Language Proof	IELTS (6.5), TOEFL iBT (75), Cambridge B2 First, or an official university letter if studied in English
Passport-Sized Photo	Recent passport-type photo
Copy of Passport	A clear copy of the photo page showing personal details and validity
Work Experience Proof	Certificates or letters from employers for relevant jobs or internships
Other Supporting Documents	Optional extra certificates or achievements

Note: Clear, official, and complete documents improve your chances of a smooth application process.

Is IELTS or TOEFL compulsory for Erasmus Mundus?

Most programs ask for proof of English skills with one of these tests:

• IELTS (6.5)
• TOEFL iBT (75)
• Cambridge B2 First

If you studied in English before, you can send a letter from your school instead of test scores. If you are from countries like the US, UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand, you usually don’t have to send English test scores. Always check the program’s rules.

What should I write in my Statement of Purpose (SOP)?

Your SOP should explain why you want to join the Erasmus Mundus program and how it fits your career plans. Talk about your studies, why you want to study in Europe, and what you want to do after.

Don’t just repeat your CV or grades. Be honest and tell your story. Keep it clear and short (under 1000 words)

Avoid writing too much, being unclear, or not sharing your real goals. A good SOP helps you stand out.

What are the funding and benefits of the Erasmus Mundus scholarship?

The Erasmus Mundus scholarship helps students study a two-year master’s course in Europe without worrying about money. It pays for your tuition, travel, visa, health insurance, and even daily living costs.

The exact amount you get depends on where you're from and which course you choose. But overall, the scholarship is full and very generous.

How much monthly allowance do Erasmus students get?

Erasmus students get money every month to cover rent, food, transport, and other daily needs. This money is given for up to 24 months.

Erasmus students receive a monthly allowance of €1,00 (INR 90,000) to help cover rent, food, travel, and other basic needs. This money is deposited directly into your bank account and continues during internships too, as long as you're not doing them in your home country. 

However, if you're studying in your own country during the program, you won’t receive this monthly stipend.

Does the scholarship cover airfare and visa costs?

Yes, the scholarship also covers your travel and visa costs. You get this money when you move to Europe and again when you move between universities.

Here's what’s included:

• Travel allowance: €2,000 to €3,000 (INR 1.8–2.7 lakhs), depending on how far you live from Europe
• One-time setup amount: Around €1,000 (INR 90,000) to help you settle in
• Visa fees and full health insurance: Fully covered
• Tuition fees: Fully paid (up to €18,000 or INR 16.2 lakhs)

What are the top courses offered under Erasmus Mundus?

Erasmus Mundus offers 100+ funded master’s programs across STEM, business, humanities, and arts. Most programs run for 2 years and are jointly delivered by 2–3 universities in different European countries. 

The curriculum is multidisciplinary and globally aligned with industry and research needs, giving graduates a strong edge in the job market.

Here are some of the most sought-after Erasmus Mundus programs for Indian students:

Course Name	Focus Areas
MSc in Data Science (BDMA)	Data management, analytics, cloud computing, big data systems
MSc in Renewable Energy in Marine Environment (REM)	Ocean energy, marine engineering, and environmental impact assessment
MSc in Artificial Intelligence (MAIA)	AI systems, machine learning, intelligent robotics, and ethics of AI
MSc in Smart Cities and Communities (SMACCs)	Urban planning, smart tech, energy efficiency, city innovation
MSc in Embedded Computing Systems (EMECS)	Embedded systems, IoT, electronics, chip design
MSc in Photonics (EuroPhotonics)	Laser tech, optical engineering, imaging systems
MSc in Astrophysics and Space Science (SPACE-MASTER)	Astrophysics, satellite systems, space instrumentation
MSc in Global Studies: A European Perspective	Global politics, international relations, area studies
MSc in Public Health in Disasters (EMJMDPHID)	Disaster medicine, humanitarian health, emergency response
MSc in Media Arts and Cultures (MACH)	Visual culture, media theory, digital arts
MSc in Law, Data, and Artificial Intelligence	Tech law, data governance, AI regulation
MSc in International Human Rights Policy and Practice	Human rights law, policy advocacy, and social justice
MSc in Sustainable Business and Innovation	Circular economy, sustainable supply chains, entrepreneurship
MSc in Global Markets, Local Creativities (GLOCAL)	Economic history, global trade, entrepreneurship, and local innovation
MSc in Journalism, Media and Globalisation (EMJ)	Cross-border journalism, media ethics, global communication

Many Erasmus Mundus programs offer double or joint degrees from two or more European universities, enhancing international recognition.

How competitive is Erasmus Mundus and what are the selection criteria?

Erasmus Mundus programs are tough to get into. Most courses accept only 1 out of every 10 to 15 applicants. Popular ones like Data Science, AI, or Environmental Engineering sometimes get over 2,000 applications for just 20 to 25 seats.

There’s no fixed score cutoff, but you need strong academics, a well-written statement of purpose (SOP), and relevant experience. Country quotas apply too. Usually, 75% of scholarships go to non-EU students, but no more than 3 students from the same country can be selected for one program in a year.

What makes your profile stronger?

• GPA of 8.0/10 or higher (for Indian students)
• IELTS score of 6.5+ or TOEFL 90+
• Degree in a related field
• SOP that clearly shows your goals and program fit
• Projects, internships, or work experience
• Strong recommendation letters from professors or employers
• Activities outside of class, like volunteering or leadership roles

What is the acceptance rate for Erasmus Mundus programs?

Erasmus Mundus programs are highly competitive. The overall acceptance rate is usually between 7% and 12%. For popular courses like Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, or Environmental Engineering, the rate can drop to as low as 3% to 6%. On the other hand, some interdisciplinary or newer programs may have slightly better chances, that is, around 10% to 15% in some cases.

According to the reviews of the Indian students, the SOP and project work matter. Many shared that even with a GPA of 7.5 or so, they got selected because they had good internships, relevant work experience, or strong research papers. The competition is high for Indian applicants, so having a balanced profile makes a big difference.

What is the structure of Erasmus Mundus master’s programs?

Erasmus Mundus master’s programs are designed as joint degrees, offered by a group of universities across Europe (and sometimes beyond). Every student studies in at least two different countries. Most programs span 2 years and involve multiple universities.

This is the usual way the structure works: 

• Semester 1: Foundation courses at one European university
• Semester 2: Specialised modules at a second partner university
• Semester 3: Advanced training or internship at a third location (sometimes non-EU)
• Semester 4: Final thesis or research, hosted by any of the partner universities or an associated company/research lab

Do students study in more than one country?

Yes. Studying in two or more countries is a core requirement. All Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's programs are structured to move you between countries. Usually, you’ll change countries each semester or every academic year.

The full list of countries involved depends on the specific program, but most cover major European countries like:

• France
• Germany
• Spain
• Italy
• Sweden
• Netherlands
• Portugal
• Belgium
• Finland

Some even include non-European partners like Japan, India, the US, Brazil, or South Korea for thesis placements.

Universities involved fully accept and support this mobility format. They help with visa applications, temporary housing, and adjusting to new systems or cultures at each location.

Can I choose which university to spend more time in?

In most Erasmus Mundus programs, your mobility path is set when you’re admitted. Each program has fixed university combinations, and students follow the track assigned to them.

However, some programs offer optional tracks or specialisations from the second or third semester. In those cases, you may be able to rank your preferences. Final allocation depends on seat availability, your grades, and overall program structure.

But regardless of preference, you must follow the multi-country model. All participating universities require mobility between at least two partner countries. You cannot complete the program by staying in just one university or one country.

What Happens After completing Erasmus Mundus?

After finishing an Erasmus Mundus degree, students often move into good jobs, higher studies, or long-term work in Europe. The program gives you strong career support, a global degree, and a strong network that helps even after graduation.

Here is what happens after the completion: 

• Recognized Degree
  You get a joint degree from top European universities, which helps you apply for jobs across the world.
• Strong Alumni Network
  You can join alumni groups that share job leads, give career help, and connect you with professionals in many fields.
• PhD and Research
  Many students continue with a PhD in Europe or other countries, especially if they did research during their master's.
• Jobs in Global Organizations
  Some alumni work in international groups like the UN, EU, or world NGOs after graduation.
• Work in Europe
  The degree is valued in Europe, and graduates often get roles in fields like tech, education, or climate work.
• Apply for EU Work Permits
  With the degree and connections from the program, it becomes easier to apply for post-study work visas or Blue Cards in Europe.
• NGO and Startups
  Some students join social impact groups, NGOs, or new companies in Europe or Asia.
• Better Jobs in India
  If you return to India, you may get senior roles in MNCs, colleges, or research, thanks to your degree and global experience.

Can I stay in Europe after Erasmus ends?

Yes, you can. Most European countries give international students extra time to stay after graduation, which is usually 12 to 24 months. This is called a stay-back period. During this time, you can search for jobs or apply for a work permit.

For instance, 

• Germany offers 18 months of stay-back time.
• France gives you a 1-year extension (called APS).
• The Netherlands and Sweden also offer post-study work visas.

Note: Make sure to apply for the extension before your student visa expires.

Do Erasmus graduates get good job offers?

Yes, many Erasmus grads land solid jobs, especially in fields like data science, AI, public health, energy, and environment. Employers like that Erasmus students have global exposure, teamwork skills, and flexibility.

But jobs aren’t automatic. Your results depend on what you did during the course. If you had a good thesis, internship, or worked with a professor or company, you're more likely to get a job after graduation.

How can I improve my chances of getting selected for the Erasmus Mundus?

Many Erasmus scholars say your application needs more than just good grades. A clear profile, strong motivation, and some smart planning can make a big difference. 

Here’s what helps:

Tips from past Erasmus scholars

• Pick courses that match your academic background and goals
• Write a strong, personal Statement of Purpose with real examples
• Get recommendation letters from people who know your work well
• Don’t wait till the deadline and try to apply early!
• Show past projects, internships, or any research work

Avoiding common application mistakes

• Don’t send the same SOP to every program
• Proofread everything: There should be no grammatical mistakes
• Read the course eligibility rules carefully
• Don’t miss deadlines for language tests or documents
• Don’t write a vague SOP with no clear reason for choosing the program

Does work experience boost your Erasmus application?

Yes, it can. Internships or full-time jobs that help show that you’ve applied your skills in real situations. It also shows maturity and direction.

Here are some profile-building ideas for freshers

• Join college research or publish papers if you can
• Volunteer in roles linked to your course or interests
• Do online courses or certifications related to your program?
• Learn basic French, German, or Spanish

Conclusion

Erasmus Mundus gives you a rare chance to earn a joint degree from top universities across Europe. It’s a great option for students who want global exposure, academic depth, and financial support all in one.

The selection process may seem tough, but many students get through each year by applying early, meeting the eligibility requirements, and writing a solid SOP. If you stay focused and follow each step carefully, you can make it too.

If you're not sure where to begin, upGrad Study Abroad can guide you. Their experts help with program selection, application support, document review, and everything else you need to apply stress-free.
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