Latest update: The 2025-2026 academic year does not have Erasmus Mundus scholarships available. Applications are being accepted for the 2025-2027 cohort, with scholarships expected to be available again from 2026 onward.
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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The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is a prestigious, fully funded program under the Erasmus+ initiative that enables students worldwide to pursue joint master’s degrees in Europe. It promotes academic excellence, cultural exchange, and international collaboration among universities. The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree (EMJMD) is a two-year program delivered by a consortium of universities across multiple European countries, allowing students to experience diverse academic environments, gain global exposure, and enhance their career prospects.
The program is funded and managed by the European Commission, which provides financial support to selected students, covering tuition fees, travel expenses, living costs, and insurance. The European Commission also plays a key role in coordinating partnerships between universities, ensuring the scholarship maintains high academic standards and fosters international cooperation.
In 2024, 146 Indian students (75 females and 71 males) received the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship, making India one of the top recipients. Since 2004, over 2,000 Indian students have benefited from the program, with more than 6,000 Erasmus+ scholarships awarded overall.
Erasmus+ versus Erasmus Mundus: What's the difference?
Although Erasmus+ and Erasmus Mundus are both European Union (EU) initiatives supporting education and student mobility, they have distinct objectives and target groups.
Feature
Erasmus+
Erasmus Mundus
Scope
Covers education, training, youth, and sports programs
Focuses on Joint Master’s Degree Programs
Eligibility
Mostly for European students, but some non-EU opportunities exist
Open to students worldwide, including non-EU applicants
Funding
Partial funding for mobility programs (varies by country)
What is the Benefit of Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?
The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is a fully funded program designed to support international students throughout their master's studies. It covers a wide range of expenses to ensure that scholars can focus entirely on their education without financial stress. The key benefits include:
Full Tuition Fee Waiver – The scholarship completely covers tuition fees, including academic resources, laboratory expenses, and administrative costs at all participating universities in the program. Scholars do not need to pay any tuition fees during their studies.
Monthly Stipend for Living Expenses – Each recipient is granted a monthly allowance of €1,400 for the entire 24-month duration of their master's program. This stipend is intended to cover expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and daily necessities while studying in different European countries.
Comprehensive Health Insurance – The scholarship provides full medical insurance coverage, ensuring that students have access to healthcare services throughout their study period, including medical consultations, hospitalization, and emergency treatments.
Travel and Installation Support – Scholars receive financial assistance for travel expenses, including flights to and from their host institutions and relocation costs. Additionally, an installation allowance is provided to help students settle in their new environment when they first arrive in Europe.
What is the Eligibility Criteria for Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?
The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship has specific eligibility criteria, including academic qualifications, language proficiency, and other requirements. Below is a detailed breakdown of what applicants need to meet:
Academic Qualifications
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification recognized by national legislation.
Those with a European-equivalent master’s degree may have a lower chance of selection.
Some programs require specific academic backgrounds, such as engineering, applied physics, or telecommunications.
Nationality and Residency Requirements
The scholarship is open to students worldwide, with very few nationality restrictions.
Applicants who have previously received an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s (EMJM) scholarship or a PhD-level Erasmus+ grant are not eligible.
Students who have received an Erasmus+ mobility grant for bachelor’s or master’s studies can still apply.
A self-declaration of residence may be required to verify eligibility.
English Language Proficiency
Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests such as:
What is the Selection Criteria of Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?
The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship selection process is managed by the University of Gothenburg's admission services, with final decisions made by the Joint Admission Committee of the Erasmus Mundus Human Rights Policy and Practice (EMHRPP) program. The selection is based on pre-determined evaluation criteria, ensuring transparency and fairness in the ranking process.
Selection Process Breakdown
The ranking system is divided into three main categories, with a total possible score of 100 points:
1. Academic Competence (40-50 points)
Candidates must hold a first degree equivalent to 180 ECTS credits from an internationally recognized institution.
Academic performance is assessed based on transcripts, coursework, and overall GPA.
English proficiency is considered as part of academic competence. Applicants must provide valid test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent) to meet the program's language requirements.
2. Motivation Letter (20-30 points)
The motivation letter plays a crucial role in demonstrating the applicant’s interest, career aspirations, and fit for the program.
A well-structured, compelling narrative that aligns with the objectives of the Erasmus Mundus program can significantly impact the final score.
The selection committee evaluates clarity of purpose, coherence, and long-term vision presented in the letter.
3. Work Experience and Recommendation Letters (20-30 points)
A minimum of two years of practitioner experience (including jobs, internships, and voluntary work) is required.
Applicants must submit three recommendation letters, preferably from academic supervisors or professional employers.
The letters should emphasize the candidate’s skills, achievements, and potential for contributing to the field.
Equal Opportunity Measures
The selection committee ensures fair access by promoting the participation of students from disadvantaged groups.
Special considerations may be given to candidates from underrepresented regions or backgrounds to enhance inclusivity.
Final Selection and Notification
Candidates are ranked based on their total score (out of 100), from highest to lowest.
Admission decisions are announced between March and May, and selected students must accept the scholarship within the specified deadline.
Deadlines and Important Dates for Erasmus Mundus Scholarship
For the academic year 2025-2026, no Erasmus Mundus scholarships are available. However, funding is actively being secured for the 2026-2027 cohort (starting in September 2026), and there is optimism that Erasmus Mundus scholarships will resume.
Typical Application Timeline
While the 2026-2027 application cycle is yet to be officially announced, Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree (EMJMD) programs generally follow this timeline:
Stage
Typical Timeframe
Details
Application Opening
October – December (Year Before Intake)
Most Erasmus Mundus programs begin accepting applications in this window.
Application Deadline
January – March
Deadlines vary by program; applicants should check specific program pages.
Shortlisting & Interviews (if applicable)
March – April
Some programs conduct interviews or additional assessments.
Final Selection & Results Announcement
April – June
Selected candidates receive official notification.
Scholarship Confirmation & Formalities
July – August
Accepted students finalize documentation and visa processes.
Program Start
September
Most Erasmus Mundus programs commence in the fall semester.
Important Notes for 2025-2026 Applicants
No scholarships will be awarded for the 2025-2026 intake—only self-funding applicants will be considered.
Students interested in the Euroculture Master Course should apply through the Euroculture Online Application Tool, as no application fee is required.
The next scholarship round is expected to open for the 2026-2027 intake, with updates to be provided once funding is confirmed.
Consortium Universities in Erasmus Mundus Programs
Erasmus Mundus programs are unique in that they are structured as joint degrees offered by a consortium of universities across different countries. This structure allows students to experience diverse academic environments, benefit from the expertise of multiple institutions, and gain an internationally recognized degree. Understanding how these consortiums work is essential for prospective applicants, as it affects their study locations, curriculum, and networking opportunities.
What Is a Consortium in Erasmus Mundus?
A consortium in the Erasmus Mundus framework refers to a partnership of multiple higher education institutions that collaboratively design and deliver a specific Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree (EMJMD) program. These universities, often spread across different countries, contribute to curriculum development, academic supervision, and student mobility.
Key aspects of an Erasmus Mundus consortium include:
Multi-Institutional Collaboration: Students enroll in one program but study at two or more universities, each offering specialized courses.
Degree Issuance: Depending on the program, graduates may receive a joint degree (issued by all consortium universities), a double degree (two separate degrees from two institutions), or a multiple degree (individual diplomas from each participating university).
Standardized Curriculum: The consortium ensures consistency in academic quality and learning outcomes while offering regional academic strengths.
List of Consortium in Erasmus Mundus Scholarship
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMDs) are prestigious programs offered by consortia of universities across various countries. These programs provide students with the opportunity to study in multiple institutions, gaining diverse academic and cultural experiences. Below are five notable EMJMD programs, along with their consortium universities:
Program Name
Overview
Consortium Universities
RESOUND - Joint Master of Arts in Sound Design for Media Arts
A joint master’s program focusing on sound design for media arts, integrating creative and technical skills.
Institute of Art, Design and Technology (IADT), Ireland
Universidade Lusófona (UL), Portugal
Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre (LMTA), Lithuania
EMJM Environmental Contamination and Toxicology + One Health (ECT+)
A program addressing environmental contamination, toxicology, and One Health concepts, with a strong research focus.
University of Liège (ULiège), Belgium
University of Bordeaux (UBx), France
University of Pau and Pays de l'Adour (UPPA), France
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Norway
University of Porto (UPO), Portugal
University of the Basque Country (EHU), Spain - PiE-UPV/EHU, Spain
International Master in Quaternary and Prehistory (IMQP)
Covers archaeology, prehistory, and quaternary sciences, providing a multidisciplinary approach to human evolution studies.
Università di Ferrara, Italy
Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle, France
Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Spain
Instituto Politecnico de Tomar, Portugal
University of the Philippines Diliman, Philippines
Europubhealth+ │ European Master in Public Health (EPH Plus)
A leading program in public health, focusing on health policy, epidemiology, and global health strategies.
University College Dublin, Ireland
EHESP School of Public Health, France
University of Granada (EASP), Spain
University of Liège, Belgium
Maastricht University, Netherlands
Jagiellonian University Medical College of Krakow, Poland
University of Sheffield, UK
University of Bordeaux, France
European Master in Linguistic Data Science (EMLDS)
A specialized program in computational linguistics and data-driven language technologies.
National University of Ireland Galway, Ireland
Universidad de Zaragoza, Spain
Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Italy
Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Portugal
Note: These are just a few of the many Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's Degree programs available. Each program has its own consortium of universities and specializations. For a complete list and detailed information, visit the official Erasmus Mundus website.
How Consortium Universities Influence Your Erasmus MundusScholarship Experience
Study Locations and Mobility Pathways
Erasmus Mundus programs require students to study in at least two different countries during their course.
Each consortium pre-determines a mobility track, outlining where students will study each semester.
Some programs allow students to choose their university track, while others assign universities based on specialization areas.
Diversity in Academic and Cultural Exposure
Students gain international perspectives by experiencing different teaching styles, research methodologies, and academic environments.
Exposure to multiple cultures, languages, and professional networks enhances employability and personal development.
Specializations and Research Opportunities
Each university in the consortium brings its academic strengths, meaning students can choose institutions based on their research interests.
Some universities may have partnerships with industry leaders, research labs, or NGOs, providing internship and thesis opportunities.
Administrative and Degree Recognition Differences
The degree type (joint, double, or multiple) depends on the policies of the consortium universities.
Admission procedures, grading systems, and graduation formalities may differ slightly between universities.
Applying for the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship involves multiple steps, including choosing the right program, preparing documents, and submitting an application before the deadline. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help applicants navigate the process.
Step 1: Research and Choose the Right Erasmus Mundus Program
Visit the Erasmus Mundus Catalogue on the official European Commission website to explore available programs.
Identify eligible master’s programs that align with your academic background and career goals.
Note that candidates can apply to up to three different Erasmus Mundus programs in a single application cycle.
Step 2: Check Eligibility and Admission Requirements
Review the specific eligibility criteria for each chosen program.
Ensure you meet the academic qualifications, language proficiency, and residency requirements.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following:
Certified copies of academic transcripts and degrees (bachelor’s or equivalent).
Statement of Purpose (SOP) outlining academic and career goals.
Curriculum Vitae (CV) in Europass format.
English language proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE).
Three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
Copy of passport or national ID.
Proof of residence (self-declaration or official document).
Additional documents like internship/work experience certificates, research publications, or awards (if applicable).
What is the Age Limit for Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?
One of the most common questions among applicants is whether there is an age limit for the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship. Fortunately, there is no specific age restriction for applying to this prestigious scholarship. However, there are certain age-related considerations that applicants should be aware of.
1. No Upper Age Limit
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s (EMJM) program does not impose an age limit, meaning applicants of all ages can apply.
Candidates with varied academic and professional backgrounds are welcome, as long as they meet the eligibility criteria set by their chosen master’s program.
2. Work Experience Considerations
While many programs do not require work experience, some specialized Erasmus Mundus courses prefer applicants with at least two years of professional experience in a relevant field.
Applicants who have been working for several years may have an advantage if their professional background aligns with the course objectives.
3. Age and Competitiveness
Since Erasmus Mundus scholarships are highly competitive, younger applicants who have recently completed their bachelor’s degree may have an edge in terms of academic continuity.
Older candidates can strengthen their application by showcasing valuable work experience, research projects, and relevant skills.
4. Reapplying at Different Stages
Since there is no age restriction, candidates who were not selected in a previous cycle can reapply in later years.
Professionals looking to upskill or change careers can also apply, as long as they meet the academic and language requirements.
How do I Write a CV for Erasmus Mundus Scholarship
A well-structured CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a crucial part of the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship application, as it highlights your academic achievements, work experience, skills, and extracurricular activities. A strong CV should be concise, well-organized, and tailored to the Erasmus Mundus program you are applying for.
1. Structure and Format of a Strong Erasmus Mundus CV
To ensure clarity and professionalism, follow these formatting tips: ✔ Use the Europass CV format (preferred by many Erasmus Mundus programs). ✔ Keep it concise – Ideally one to two pages. ✔ Use clear headings and bullet points for easy readability. ✔ Maintain a professional layout with a standard font (e.g., Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri).
2. Key Sections to Include in Your CV
1. Personal Information
Full Name
Contact Information (Email & Phone Number)
LinkedIn Profile (if available)
Nationality
2. Academic Background
List degrees in reverse chronological order (latest first).
Include:
Degree Title & Major
University Name
Year of Graduation
Key Courses or Specialization
3. Work Experience (if applicable)
Relevant professional experience, internships, or volunteer work.
Mention:
Organization Name
Job Title
Duration (Month/Year – Month/Year)
Key Responsibilities & Achievements
4. Research Projects & Publications (if any)
Highlight any research papers, projects, or publications relevant to your field.
Provide a brief description of the project and your contribution.
5. Skills & Certifications
Technical & Soft Skills (Programming, Data Analysis, Languages, Leadership, etc.)
Certifications in foreign languages, coding, research methodologies, or relevant tools.
6. Extracurricular Activities & Volunteering
Mention clubs, organizations, community service, student leadership roles, or competitions.
Erasmus values cultural exchange and leadership, so highlight activities that showcase these traits.
7. Languages
English proficiency (mention your TOEFL/IELTS/PTE score if applicable).
Any additional foreign languages (specify proficiency level).
3. Tips for Making Your CV Stand Out
✔ Tailor your CV to match the Erasmus Mundus program you are applying for. ✔ Use action verbs (e.g., “Led a research project on...,” “Developed a model for...”). ✔ Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., “Completed an internship where I analyzed 500+ datasets”). ✔ Highlight international experience or collaborations, as Erasmus Mundus values global exposure. ✔ Proofread carefully to avoid grammar or spelling mistakes.
How Competitive is Erasmus Mundus Scholarship
The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is highly competitive, attracting thousands of applicants worldwide each year. The acceptance rate varies across different Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJMD) programs, depending on factors such as program popularity, applicant pool size, and available funding.
Acceptance Rate and Number of Scholarships Awarded
The overall acceptance rate is estimated to be between 10-15%, though some highly sought-after programs (such as those in social sciences, business, and technology) may have acceptance rates as low as 5%.
Programs with smaller applicant pools or niche specializations may have slightly higher acceptance rates, sometimes reaching 15-20%.
On average, an EMJMD program may receive 1,000+ applications but award only 30-50 scholarships per intake.
Scholarship Allocation
75% of Erasmus Mundus scholarships are awarded to students from Partner Countries (non-EU/non-EEA), making the competition particularly intense for these applicants.
25% of scholarships are reserved for Programme Country students (EU/EEA), who generally face lower competition.
Common Challenges Applicants Face
High Competition: Due to the limited number of scholarships, even highly qualified candidates may not be selected.
Stringent Selection Criteria: Academic excellence, work experience, language proficiency, and strong motivation letters are crucial for success.
Diverse Applicant Pool: Applicants come from various academic and professional backgrounds, making it difficult to stand out.
Complex Application Process: Gathering documents such as certified transcripts, recommendation letters, and English test scores can be time-consuming.
How to Strengthen Your Application
To improve the chances of selection, applicants should focus on the following key areas:
Academic Excellence: Maintain a strong GPA and highlight relevant coursework.
Relevant Experience: Showcase internships, research projects, or professional experience related to the chosen program.
Compelling Motivation Letter: Clearly articulate career goals, alignment with the program, and unique strengths.
Strong Recommendation Letters: Choose referees who can highlight both academic and professional competencies.
Early Preparation: Research the program well in advance and ensure all required documents meet the eligibility criteria.
How to Win the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship
Winning the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship requires a strong application strategy. With high competition, standing out means highlighting your academic excellence, professional experience, and motivation effectively.
1. Craft a Compelling Application
Start early and tailor your application to each program.
Apply to multiple programs (you can apply to three per cycle).
Ensure eligibility (academic qualifications, work experience, and language requirements).
2. Write a Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Clearly outline your career goals and how the program fits into them.
Showcase relevant academic and professional experience.
Make it personalized and specific—avoid generic statements.
3. Secure Strong Recommendation Letters
Choose professors or employers who can vouch for your skills.
Ask them to highlight specific achievements and qualities.
4. Highlight Your Achievements Effectively
Emphasize academic excellence, research, internships, and leadership roles.
Use quantifiable results to add impact (e.g., "Led a project that increased efficiency by 30%").
5. Leverage Networking & Guidance
Connect with alumni and program coordinators for insights.
Attend webinars and info sessions to better understand program expectations.
The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is a prestigious opportunity for students worldwide, offering financial support, global exposure, and top-tier education. Throughout this guide, we covered eligibility criteria, application process, selection factors, and strategies to improve your chances.
If you're considering applying, start early, research programs thoroughly, and prepare a strong, well-documented application. Focus on crafting a compelling SOP, securing strong recommendations, and showcasing your academic and professional achievements effectively.
Remember, competition is tough, but with the right approach, you can maximize your chances. Don’t hesitate to reach out to program coordinators, alumni, or official Erasmus+ resources for further guidance. Take the leap and apply—this scholarship can open doors to a transformative academic and professional journey!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree (EMJMD) Scholarship is open to students worldwide, regardless of nationality. Eligibility criteria generally include:
A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field.
Meeting the academic and language requirements of the specific program.
A strong academic record, research experience, and extracurricular involvement.
Not having received an Erasmus Mundus scholarship previously for the same master’s program.
Is the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship easy to get?
No, the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is highly competitive due to its generous funding and global recognition. Thousands of students apply each year, but only a limited number of scholarships are awarded. The selection is based on:
Academic excellence (CGPA, research, and projects).
Statement of purpose (SOP) and letters of recommendation.
Relevant work experience and extracurricular activities.
Language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).
Are Indians eligible for Erasmus Mundus?
Yes, Indian students are eligible for the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship and have been among the top recipients. Over 6,000 Indian students have received Erasmus Mundus scholarships so far. Indian students must meet the academic and language requirements of the specific master's program they are applying to.
What is the CGPA requirement for Erasmus Mundus?
To be eligible for the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship, applicants must hold a first degree equivalent to 180 credits or 180 ECTS from an internationally recognized university or college While there is no fixed CGPA requirement, most programs prefer candidates with a strong academic background, typically with a minimum CGPA of 2.5–3.0 on a 4.0 scale or 60–75% in percentage grading systems. However, due to high competition, a CGPA of 3.5 or above is often recommended for better chances of selection.
Is IELTS necessary for Erasmus Mundus?
Yes, most Erasmus Mundus programs require proof of English proficiency through standardized tests such as:
IELTS (Minimum band score: 6.5–7.0, depending on the program).
TOEFL iBT (Minimum score: 90–100).
PTE Academic (Accepted by some programs).
However, if you have completed your previous degree in English, some programs may waive the requirement. Always check the specific requirements of the program.
How many Erasmus Mundus scholarships are awarded each year?
The number of Erasmus Mundus scholarships varies each year depending on available funding and participating programs. On average:
Around 2,500–3,000 scholarships are awarded annually.
Each Erasmus Mundus master's program typically awards 15-25 fully funded scholarships per year.
The competition is intense, with acceptance rates as low as 2-5% for some programs.
What is the acceptance rate for Erasmus Mundus?
The acceptance rate for the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is highly competitive, generally around 2-5% depending on the program. Some programs receive thousands of applications but only award scholarships to 20-30 students per intake. However, self-funded admission (without a scholarship) has a higher acceptance rate.
Does Erasmus pay students?
Yes, the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship provides full financial support, covering:
Tuition fees (fully covered).
Monthly stipend (€1,000 per month).
Travel and visa costs (up to €3,000 per year).
Health insurance for the duration of the program.
Students receive funding for two years (120 ECTS credits) under the scholarship.
Can I apply for multiple Erasmus Mundus programs?
Yes, students can apply for up to three different Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's Degree programs per year. However, they can receive a scholarship for only one program. Applying to multiple programs increases the chances of selection.
What documents are required for the Erasmus Mundus application?
Typical documents required include:
Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
CV/Resume (following Europass format, if required).
Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Motivation Letter.
Letters of Recommendation (2-3).
English language test scores (IELTS/TOEFL).
Passport copy.
Research proposal (if applicable).
Each program may have additional requirements, so applicants must check the program’s official website.
When does the Erasmus Mundus application process start?
The application window for most programs follows this timeline:
Opens: October - December (previous year).
Closes: January - March (program-specific deadlines).
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