Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJM) are prestigious master’s programmes delivered by consortia of universities, usually in at least two European countries. The best-ranked applicants can receive EU-funded scholarships. This guide explains how the scholarships work, how to find programmes and how to apply.
Information checked: 24 October 2026.
Important: You do not apply to the European Union. You apply directly to each Erasmus Mundus programme, and each programme sets its own deadlines and requirements.
What Makes Erasmus Mundus Different
- You study in at least two different countries during the programme.
- You graduate with a joint or multiple degree from the universities in the consortium.
- Programmes are open to students worldwide.
- Scholarships are awarded by the programme consortium to top-ranked applicants.
What the Scholarship Typically Covers
According to the European Commission, EMJM scholarships typically cover participation costs (including tuition), travel and installation costs, and a monthly allowance for the duration of the programme. Many programmes publish the monthly allowance as €1,400 for scholarship holders. Check each programme’s website for exact amounts and conditions, as rules can vary, for example for residents of programme countries or periods spent in your country of residence.
Finding a Programme
Use the official Erasmus Mundus Catalogue published by the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). It lists active programmes by field and links to each programme’s website. When choosing:
- match your bachelor’s degree subject to the programme’s entry requirements;
- check the countries and universities involved;
- read the curriculum and career outcomes;
- note the application deadline, which often falls between October and February for programmes starting the following autumn.
Typical Application Documents
Most programmes ask for:
- bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts;
- CV (often in Europass format);
- motivation letter;
- reference letters;
- English language certificate (or other language, depending on programme);
- passport copy;
- proof of residence (to determine scholarship category).
Each programme has its own online application portal and list of requirements.
How Many Programmes Can I Apply To?
According to European Commission guidance, you can apply for a scholarship to a maximum of three different Erasmus Mundus programmes. Check the current rules on the official Erasmus+ page.
Writing a Strong Motivation Letter
- explain why this specific programme and its mobility path fit your goals;
- show you understand the curriculum and the participating universities;
- connect your academic background and experience to the programme;
- describe your career goals and how the programme helps you reach them;
- avoid generic letters; tailor each one.
Selection Process
Consortia rank applicants on academic excellence, motivation, references and relevant experience. The top-ranked applicants receive scholarships; others may be offered a place as self-funded students or placed on a reserve list.
After Selection
If you receive a scholarship:
- sign the student agreement with the consortium;
- apply for the necessary visas or residence permits for each country, with help from the consortium;
- plan your housing and travel between countries.
Costs if You Are Not Awarded a Scholarship
Self-funded students pay participation costs, which can be significant. Some programmes offer partial waivers or other scholarships. Check before accepting a self-funded place.
A Practical Preparation Timeline
Erasmus Mundus deadlines are set by each consortium, but many programmes open applications in the autumn and close scholarship rounds in the winter or early spring for courses starting the following September. Working backwards from your target deadline, a typical preparation plan looks like this:
- Ten to twelve months before the start date: browse the Erasmus Mundus Catalogue, shortlist five to eight programmes and read each programme’s eligibility rules carefully.
- Eight to ten months before: narrow your list to a maximum of three programmes, book any English or other language test you need and contact your referees.
- Six to eight months before: draft your motivation letter for each programme separately, request certified copies or translations of your transcripts and update your CV, often in the Europass format if the programme asks for it.
- Four to six months before: submit your applications well before the deadline so you have time to fix upload problems or missing documents.
- After results: if you are selected or placed on a reserve list, reply within the deadline given, then start visa, insurance and housing preparations.
How to Compare Programmes Fairly
Two programmes with similar titles can be very different. Before you commit, compare:
- Mobility path: which universities you will attend in each semester and whether you can choose the track.
- Language of instruction: most programmes teach in English, but some semesters may require another language.
- Career outcomes: look for published graduate destinations, industry partners and internship options.
- Thesis and research: check whether there is a research thesis or an industry project in the final semester.
- Self-funded fees: read the participation costs for non-scholarship students so you understand your options if you are offered a place without funding.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Sending the same motivation letter to every programme without referring to its modules, partner universities or specialisations.
- Ignoring document formatting rules, such as file size limits, certified translations or signed reference templates.
- Applying to more programmes than the rules allow, which can lead to all applications being rejected.
- Relying on third-party “scholarship agents”. Erasmus Mundus applications are submitted directly to the programme, and there is no need to pay anyone to apply.
Mobility and Insurance
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters are built around mobility. Students typically study in at least two different countries during the programme, following a path set by the consortium. This affects your planning:
- you may need more than one visa or residence permit, and the consortium usually provides guidance;
- you will move house at least once, so budget time and money for relocation;
- each university may have different academic calendars and teaching styles.
Consortia must provide health and accident insurance coverage for their students. Read the policy carefully so you know what is included.
Rules on Holding Other Scholarships
An Erasmus Mundus scholarship generally cannot be combined with another EU-funded scholarship for the same study period. Other rules may apply to grants from national governments or private sources, so check with the consortium before accepting additional funding. Being honest about other funding is important; failure to disclose it can lead to the scholarship being withdrawn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to speak several languages?
Most programmes teach in English, but some require or encourage other languages.
Can I apply in my final year of bachelor’s study?
Many programmes accept final-year students who will graduate before the programme starts. Check each programme.
Are there age limits?
Erasmus Mundus scholarships do not generally set age limits, but check programme rules.
Can I work during my studies?
Rules depend on the host country’s student permit and programme workload.
Do I need to pay an application fee?
Most programmes do not charge application fees, but some might. Check each programme.
Is the scholarship taxed?
Treatment varies; ask the consortium.
Summary and Next Step
Erasmus Mundus offers an international master’s with study in multiple countries and generous scholarships for top applicants. Use the official catalogue, check each programme’s deadline and tailor your motivation letter. For study in Germany specifically, read our DAAD scholarship guide.