Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJM) Scholarships: A Comprehensive Guide for International Students

The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJM) Scholarships are among the most prestigious and fully funded international scholarships in the world. Funded by the European Union, these scholarships support outstanding students from across the globe to pursue joint Master’s degrees delivered by multiple universities in different European countries.

Highly competitive and globally recognised, Erasmus Mundus scholarships provide not only financial support but also a unique multinational academic and cultural experience, making them a top choice for ambitious students seeking world-class postgraduate education.

This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters scholarships—eligibility, benefits, participating countries, application process, selection criteria, deadlines, and proven tips to improve your chances of success.

What Is the Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJM) Programme?

The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters programme is an EU-funded initiative that allows students to study a single Master’s degree jointly offered by a consortium of universities located in at least two different European countries.

Key characteristics of EMJM programmes include:

• A joint, double, or multiple Master’s degree

• Mandatory study mobility across different countries

• Teaching by international academic teams

• Strong links to research, industry, and professional networks

Graduates receive a degree that is highly valued worldwide and recognised across Europe and beyond.

Objectives of the Erasmus Mundus Programme

The Erasmus Mundus programme aims to:

1. Promote academic excellence in higher education

2. Enhance international cooperation between universities

3. Foster cultural exchange and global citizenship

4. Increase employability through international and interdisciplinary education

5. Strengthen Europe’s global role in education

What Are Erasmus Mundus Scholarships?

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships are fully funded scholarships awarded to top-performing students admitted to EMJM programmes.

They are designed to:

• Remove financial barriers to international education

• Attract the best global talent to Europe

• Support students throughout their entire Master’s programme

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

Erasmus Mundus scholarships are open to students worldwide, regardless of nationality.

General Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) by the time the Master’s programme begins

• Meet the academic requirements of the specific EMJM programme

• Meet English language proficiency requirements (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)

• Apply to an eligible Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programme

• Not have previously received an Erasmus Mundus scholarship for the same degree level

Nationality Categories

Applicants are typically classified into:

• EU/EEA students

• Non-EU/EEA (Partner Country) students

Both categories are eligible for scholarships, though funding quotas may vary by programme.

What Does the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Cover?

The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters scholarship is fully funded and covers almost all study-related costs.

1. Tuition Fees

• Full tuition coverage for the entire programme

• Includes registration, laboratory fees, and library access

2. Monthly Living Allowance

• Approximately €1,400 per month

• Paid for the full duration of the programme (usually 24 months)

3. Travel Allowance

• Annual travel contribution based on distance between home country and Europe

• Designed to support international mobility

4. Installation Allowance

• Additional funding for non-EU/EEA students to help with relocation costs

5. Insurance Coverage

• Comprehensive health and travel insurance for the duration of the programme

Duration of Erasmus Mundus Programmes

• Typically 1 to 2 years

• Most programmes last 24 months

• Scholarship duration matches the length of the programme

Participating Countries and Universities

Erasmus Mundus programmes involve universities across Europe, including (but not limited to):

• Germany

• France

• Spain

• Italy

• Netherlands

• Sweden

• Finland

• Belgium

• Portugal

• Austria

Many programmes also include partner universities outside Europe, offering optional or mandatory global mobility.

Fields of Study Available

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters cover a wide range of disciplines, such as:

• Engineering and Technology

• Data Science and Artificial Intelligence

• Environmental Sciences and Sustainability

• Public Health and Life Sciences

• Economics, Development, and Policy

• Education and Social Sciences

• Law, Governance, and Human Rights

• Cultural Studies and Humanities

• Climate Change and Energy

New programmes are added regularly, offering diverse academic options.

How to Apply for Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships

Step 1: Find an EMJM Programme

Applicants must apply directly to the individual Erasmus Mundus programme, not to the EU centrally.

Each programme has:

• Its own website

• Specific entry requirements

• Unique selection criteria

Step 2: Prepare Application Documents

Typical documents include:

• Academic transcripts and certificates

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Motivation letter

• Letters of recommendation

• Proof of English proficiency

• Copy of passport

Step 3: Submit Application Online

• Applications are submitted through the programme’s application portal

• One application automatically includes scholarship consideration

Step 4: Selection and Ranking

• Programmes rank candidates based on merit

• Top-ranked candidates are nominated for scholarships

Step 5: Scholarship Offer and Acceptance

• Selected candidates receive official scholarship offers

• Candidates must accept within a given timeframe

Application Deadlines

• Deadlines usually fall between December and March

• Exact dates vary by programme

• Early preparation is essential

Missing a deadline means waiting another year.

Selection Criteria

Erasmus Mundus scholarship selection is highly competitive and based on:

• Academic excellence

• Relevance of academic background

• Quality of motivation letter

• Professional or research experience (where applicable)

• Language proficiency

• Overall fit with the programme’s objectives

Financial need is not the primary criterion—merit and potential matter most.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning

1. Apply to Multiple Programmes

You may apply to up to three Erasmus Mundus programmes in the same academic year.

2. Write a Strong Motivation Letter

Your motivation letter should:

• Show clear academic and career goals

• Explain why the programme fits your background

• Highlight international mindset and adaptability

3. Highlight International Experience

Experience studying, working, or volunteering across cultures is a strong advantage.

4. Choose Referees Carefully

Academic or professional referees who know your work well are best.

5. Apply Early

Early applications allow time to correct errors or submit missing documents.

Life as an Erasmus Mundus Scholar

Erasmus Mundus scholars benefit from:

• Studying in multiple countries

• Exposure to diverse teaching styles

• A strong international alumni network

• Cultural enrichment and language learning

• Excellent career and research opportunities

Many scholars describe the experience as life-changing.

Career Prospects After Graduation

Graduates of Erasmus Mundus programmes pursue careers in:

• International organisations (UN, EU, NGOs)

• Multinational companies

• Research and academia

• Public policy and government

• Technology and innovation sectors

• Development and humanitarian work

The Erasmus Mundus brand significantly enhances employability worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Erasmus Mundus fully funded?
Yes. It covers tuition, living expenses, travel, and insurance.

Can I apply without work experience?
Yes. Many programmes accept fresh graduates.

Is there an age limit?
No. There is no age restriction.

Can I work while studying?
Yes, subject to visa regulations in host countries.

Final Thoughts

The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships represent one of the best opportunities for students seeking fully funded, high-quality, international Master’s education. With generous funding, global exposure, and academic excellence, the programme opens doors to exceptional personal, academic, and professional growth.

If you aspire to study in Europe, build a global network, and earn a prestigious international degree, Erasmus Mundus could be the perfect pathway.