HOW TO APPLY IN ERASMUS

The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is among the world’s most prestigious fully-funded graduate awards, enabling students to complete a Joint Master’s Degree across multiple European universities. It covers full tuition fees, monthly stipend, housing and travel costs, insurance, and additional financial support. Because of its global competitiveness, applying successfully requires preparation, strategic planning, and early action.
 
To help applicants navigate this process with confidence, here is a complete step-by-step guide on how to apply for the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship, from researching programs to preparing documents and submitting your application.
 

STEP 1 – Research and Select Your Erasmus Mundus Program

Before submitting anything, you must first select the program you wish to apply for. Each Erasmus Mundus Joint Master (EMJM) has its own admission criteria, deadlines, required documents, and application portal.

How to begin:

  • Visit the official Erasmus Mundus Catalogue and browse all available Master’s programs.
  • Shortlist programs that match your academic background, experience, and long-term career goals.
  • Review each program’s eligibility requirements, language criteria, scholarship availability, and partner university mobility routes.
  • You may apply to a maximum of three different Erasmus Mundus programs in the same intake year.

Tip: Create a comparison sheet listing deadlines, eligibility rules, and document needs for each program to avoid missing any details.

STEP 2 – Confirm Your Eligibility

Erasmus Mundus does not have a single universal eligibility rule. Each program defines its criteria. However, common requirements include:

Academic Requirements

  • A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (180 ECTS) in a relevant field.
  • Final-year students may apply in most cases, provided they submit proof of expected graduation.

Language Requirements

  • English-language proficiency is typically mandatory.
  • Accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo (varies by programme).
  • Minimum IELTS score commonly expected: 6.5 overall.

Additional Requirements (program-specific)

  • Relevant coursework or technical background
  • Internship or professional experience (not required by all programs)
  • Research interest aligned with program focus

STEP 3 – Prepare All Required Documents

Gather and prepare your application materials well in advance. Typical document list includes:

  • Bachelor’s certificate and officially translated transcripts
  • English-proficiency certificate (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE) – unless exempt
  • Motivation Letter / Statement of Purpose (programme-specific format)
  • Curriculum Vitae (Europass format recommended)
  • Two – Three Recommendation Letters
  • Valid passport or national ID
  • Proof of Residence (residence certificate issued within last 12 months)
  • Portfolio or Research Proposal (only required by specific programs)
  • Application fee payment receipt (if required)

Pro-Tip: Tailor each letter and CV to the specific programme. Avoid using identical documents for all applications.

STEP 4 – Submit Your Application Online

Erasmus Mundus does not have a single central application portal. Instead, each EMJM programme has its own website and form.

Application Process:

  1. Visit the official website of the program you selected.
  2. Create an account on their application system.
  3. Fill in all personal, academic, and professional details accurately.
  4. Upload documents in PDF format according to file size and naming rules.
  5. Submit the form and ensure you receive a confirmation email.

STEP 5 – Apply Before the Deadline

Deadlines vary depending on the program. Common application windows are:

  • Non-EU applicants: October – January
  • EU applicants: February – April/May

Submit early, applications submitted close to the deadline often face portal errors, late recommendation uploads, or missing documents.

STEP 6 – Prepare for the Interview (If Invited)

Some programs hold interviews before final selection.

Interview format may include:

  • Academic questions related to your background
  • Motivation for choosing the program
  • Future goals and research interests
  • Communication skills and adaptability

Recommendations:
Review your application thoroughly, be honest, and clearly explain why you chose that specific consortium.

STEP 7 – After Selection: Visa and Relocation Preparation

If selected, you will receive an official scholarship offer letter. Next steps include:

  • Accepting the offer within the given deadline
  • Applying for student visas (Schengen or national visas depending on country)
  • Preparing finances (some funds may be required initially until stipend arrives)
  • Booking travel and accommodation

Most Erasmus programs support students with pre-departure guidance, welcome sessions, and orientation assistance.

Important Tips to Increase Your Chances of Selection

  • Start at least 6–8 months before deadlines
  • Write a unique, passionate motivation letter
  • Use a clean and Europass-formatted CV
  • Tailor every application to the program’s specific curriculum and research modules
  • Contact alumni via LinkedIn for insights
  • Submit early and keep copies of every uploaded document

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I apply to multiple Erasmus Mundus Scholarships at once?

Yes. You may submit applications to up to as many programs as you want in the same academic cycle.

Do I need IELTS to apply?

Most programs require IELTS/TOEFL, unless your previous degree was completed entirely in English and accepted as proof by the program.

Is there an application fee?

Some consortiums may charge a small fee. But most are completely free.

Can final-year students apply?

Yes, final-year students can apply, provided they submit expected graduation proof.

Do I apply through an EU government portal?

No. You apply directly on each program’s website.

Final Words

Applying for the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is a competitive but rewarding journey. With careful planning, strong documents, and a strategic approach, you can maximize your chance of joining world-leading universities under a fully-funded Master’s experience.

To explore program now, visit the Erasmus Catalogue and begin your application journey today.

Check Erasmus Mundus Catalogue Here!

Find the most relevant Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Course here!