Dreaming of studying in Europe but worried about the costs? The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree (EMJMD) could be your gateway to an unparalleled academic adventure. This prestigious EU-funded program allows students to earn a joint degree from leading universities across Europe and, in some cases, universities outside Europe, while immersing themselves in diverse cultures, languages, and landscapes.
Since its inception in 2004, nearly 50,000 students have participated in Erasmus Mundus. In 2024 alone, 146 Indian students (75 females and 71 males) were awarded this esteemed scholarship for a two-year master’s program. Globally, 2,603 students from 137 countries were selected for this scholarship from thousands of applicants.
Erasmus Mundus scholarship: A bird’s eye view
The Erasmus Mundus scholarship is a prestigious program that stands out for its unique features, making it highly attractive to international students. One of its defining characteristics is mobility, allowing recipients to study in at least two different European countries during their master’s program. This experience not only enriches their education but also fosters cultural exchange. Students can earn either a joint degree—a single certificate issued by multiple institutions—or multiple degrees from different universities, enhancing their academic credentials.
The scholarship covers all tuition fees, travel costs, living expenses, and health insurance, making it financially accessible for students from diverse backgrounds. With its emphasis on collaboration among top universities and the opportunity to gain a global perspective, the Erasmus Mundus scholarship is a gateway for aspiring scholars to broaden their horizons and prepare for successful international careers.
Erasmus Mundus: The scholarship that turned Daksh and Rebecca’s dream of cross–border studies into reality
We spoke to two inspiring scholarship recipients—Daksh from India and Rebecca from Italy—who shared their journeys of discovering the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree and the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship. Both chose to pursue a master’s in Global Studies, a program that enabled them to study at two or more universities during their course.
For the Global Studies program, students are required to select at least two out of six participating universities based on their academic interests. Daksh spent his first year (Semesters 1 and 2) at the University of Vienna in Austria and his second year (Semesters 3 and 4) at Leipzig University in Germany. Rebecca, on the other hand, chose the University of Vienna in Austria for her first year, Jawaharlal Nehru University in India for Semester 3, and Roskilde University in Denmark for Semester 4.
For Rebecca, her journey began unexpectedly in Prague during an Erasmus+ semester. “It was my roommate,” she recalls, her face lighting up. “Her passion sparked my interest in cross-border studies.” Inspired by these conversations, Rebecca discovered the Erasmus Mundus Masters in Global Studies. “I was captivated by its global outlook and the chance to break away from the conventional Western European perspective. It felt like a dream come true.”
For Daksh, the appeal lay in the program’s mobility. “The idea of studying in multiple countries as part of one cohesive program seemed almost too good to be true,” he explained. This opportunity, more than just academic, was a ticket to explore diverse challenges and perspectives.
Daksh envisioned vibrant classrooms fostering innovation and collaboration, while Rebecca sought to challenge her perspectives through cultural immersion.
Erasmus Mundus: Eligibility and application process
Rebecca recalls her application as a “rollercoaster of emotions,” nearly missing the deadline due to a delayed recommendation letter. “The moment I hit ‘send’ was a rush of relief,” she shared. On the other hand, Daksh faced challenges with the residence permit process but noted, “Each form completed was a step closer to a new life,” reflecting his perseverance.
The admission process of the Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Degree program is managed by The European Commission’s Directorate-General for Education, Youth, Sport and Culture. In most of the cases, students need to submit their application between October and January for courses starting the following academic year. But, before students submit their application, they must know are they even eligible? The following is the eligibility criteria for the Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Degree program:
To be eligible for the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship, applicants must:
- Hold a Bachelor’s Degree: Candidates must have completed their undergraduate studies or be in the final year of their degree. The specific academic requirements may vary depending on the program.
- Language Proficiency: Since courses are often taught in English, applicants are typically required to provide proof of proficiency in English (e.g., TOEFL or
IELTS scores). Some programs may require proficiency in other languages depending on the course structure. - Relevant Academic Background: The applicant’s previous academic field should be relevant to the master’s program they are applying to.
- Work Experience: While not always mandatory, some programs prefer candidates with relevant work or research experience.
- Official transcripts
- Motivation letter (using the provided form)
- CV
- Two recommendation letters
How to Apply:
The application process for the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship involves several steps and can be complex. Generally, these are the steps involved in applying for the scholarship:
- Choose a Program: Start by exploring the Erasmus Mundus Catalogue to find a master’s program that aligns with your academic background and career goals.
- Check Eligibility: Review the specific eligibility criteria for the program(s) you are interested in.
- Prepare Application Materials: Gather the necessary documents, including a completed application form, academic transcripts, proof of language proficiency, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a CV.
- Submit the Application: Applications are submitted online through the specific program’s application portal. Be sure to adhere to deadlines, as they can vary between programs.
- Interviews: Some programs may require an interview as part of the selection process.
Erasmus Mundus: Funding the dream
The EMGS Consortium charges €2000 per year as participation costs, covering all courses within the EMGS program, along with administrative and organizational support. However, students are responsible for their travel expenses to winter and summer schools. The Erasmus Mundus Programme offers about 15 EU-funded scholarships annually for third-country and EU/EEA students accepted into the Human Rights Policy and Practice master’s course. These scholarships alleviate financial burdens for many, though the journey often requires additional financial planning.
For Rebecca, funding was a blend of challenges and opportunities. While the program didn’t cover all her expenses, she secured tuition fee waivers and Erasmus+ grants that turned her aspirations into reality. “Without that support, studying across borders would have remained a pipe dream,” she shared, her gratitude evident. This financial assistance not only eased her burden but inspired her to make the most of every opportunity. In contrast, Daksh was fortunate to receive a comprehensive scholarship package, including fee waivers and a monthly stipend. “It was a tremendous relief, allowing me to focus on my studies and fully embrace the experience,” he said, his smile reflecting the freedom this support provided. With financial worries set aside, Daksh fully immersed himself in the diverse cultural experiences around him, enriching his transformative academic journey.
The journey of Daksh and Rebecca
The Erasmus Mundus experience is as much about the destinations as it is about the education. For Rebecca and Daksh, their study locations were thoughtfully chosen to align with their academic pursuits and personal aspirations. Rebecca’s journey began in Vienna, where history and innovation converge. “Vienna merges old-world allure with progressive thinking,” she shared, describing how the city’s rich heritage and dynamic culture complemented her studies.
Next, she ventured to Roskilde, Denmark, renowned for its student-centered educational approach, which deeply resonated with her values. But it was her semester in New Delhi that stood out most vividly. “Studying Global Studies in India brought theories to life in ways I couldn’t have imagined,” she said, her enthusiasm evident as she reflected on the vibrant political activism and culture that shaped her experience.
Similarly, Daksh’s academic journey was equally deliberate, focusing on rigor and cultural immersion. He chose Austria and Germany, countries renowned for their academic excellence and shared linguistic traditions. “Both countries provide a solid foundation for my ambitions,” he explained, highlighting how their structured programs enriched his learning. Together, their choices underline the transformative power of the Erasmus Mundus program, where every destination adds depth to the journey, making education a truly global endeavor.
How Erasmus Mundus shapes students into global citizens
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Programme is more than academic learning; it’s a transformative journey fostering global citizenship. By studying across multiple countries, students like Rebecca and Daksh gain cultural exposure, critical thinking skills, and adaptability—qualities essential for thriving in a globalized world.
For Rebecca, the experience was a journey of personal growth. Initially captivated by Northern Europe’s efficiency, she found her time in India profoundly moving. “The kindness in India is extraordinary,” she shared, extending her stay to immerse herself further in its vibrant traditions. The journey also fostered independence and broadened her perspective. “Seeing the world through others’ eyes has been humbling,” she said, reflecting on the transformation.
Daksh’s time in Austria and Germany expanded his understanding of global issues, from social equality to environmental responsibility. “My experiences have been eye-opening,” he noted, appreciating the meaningful conversations and Europe’s balanced approach to work and leisure. “I learned to embrace it,” he added, growing into a socially conscious global citizen.
Through the Erasmus network, both found lifelong mentors and friends. “We’ve shared so much—academic challenges, cultural discoveries, and milestones,” Rebecca reflected. Inspired by their experiences, Rebecca plans to advocate for human rights, while Daksh aspires to shape future generations through education.
How to enhance your chance of grabbing the Erasmus Mundus scholarship
The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is highly competitive due to several factors. It attracts a large number of applicants from around the world, but only a limited number of scholarships are available each year. The scholarship is especially appealing because it offers comprehensive benefits, including coverage of tuition fees, travel, and living expenses. Additionally, the programs are often in collaboration with top-ranking universities, making the competition even fiercer.
To increase your chances of winning, customize your application materials to reflect your genuine interest in the program, emphasizing how your academic background and goals align with it. Secure strong letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can speak about your abilities, and highlight your academic, extracurricular, and professional achievements. Gaining relevant work or research experience before applying can strengthen your profile. Lastly, submit your application well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.