Last checked: 7 October 2026. Dates and rules change, so confirm on the official pages linked below.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJM) are EU-funded master’s degrees delivered by universities in at least three countries. Students from anywhere in the world can apply, and scholarships cover tuition plus a living allowance. On 16 July 2026 the European Commission announced 37 new Joint Masters opening for applications in autumn 2026, for courses starting September 2027.
Key facts
| Funding | Erasmus+ (European Union) |
|---|---|
| Level | Joint master’s, 12 to 24 months |
| Scholarship | Full tuition coverage plus a monthly allowance of €1,400 in the current model, meant to cover living, travel and settling-in costs |
| Eligibility | A bachelor’s degree, or final-year students who graduate before the programme starts |
| Application | Directly on each programme’s own website, usually free |
| Deadlines | No single date. Examples for 2027 entry include 1 December 2026, 7 January 2027 and 1 February 2027; many scholarship deadlines fall between October and January |
How to apply, step by step
- Browse the official Erasmus Mundus catalogue and shortlist three to five programmes in your field.
- Open each programme’s website and note the scholarship deadline, language rules and required documents.
- Prepare a CV, transcripts, motivation letter, references and a language certificate if requested.
- Apply on each programme’s portal and tick the scholarship option if there is one.
- Submit at least two days early. Portals often slow down on the last day.
- Wait for results, usually between February and May. Reserve lists can move later.
Rules to remember
- You cannot receive a second Erasmus Mundus scholarship if you already hold one.
- Some programmes also offer fee-waiver awards instead of full scholarships.
- Check that your chosen programme is still funded for 2027, because projects can be nearing the end of EU funding.
Tips for a strong application
- Choose programmes that match your degree and career plan.
- Tailor each letter. Read the difference between a motivation letter and an SOP.
- Show relevant projects, research or work, and explain any gap clearly.
How to shortlist programmes with four filters
- Subject fit: your bachelor’s degree must meet the programme’s entry rules.
- Mobility path: check which countries you will live in and for how long.
- Deadline: pick programmes whose scholarship round you can realistically meet.
- Language: look for English requirements and any local language expectations.
Timeline from now to submission
- October: browse the catalogue and shortlist five programmes.
- November: request transcripts, a degree certificate and references.
- Early December: finish your CV and one master motivation letter.
- Mid December: tailor the letter for each programme and proofread.
- Before each deadline: submit, then save the confirmation emails.
Structure of a motivation letter for a joint master’s
- Paragraph 1: who you are and the problem that drives you
- Paragraph 2: why this consortium and its mobility path suit your goals
- Paragraph 3: relevant experience and results
- Paragraph 4: what you will do after graduating
Not sure how it differs from an SOP? Read our motivation letter guide.
Common mistakes
- Applying to many programmes with the same unedited letter
- Missing the separate scholarship deadline
- Ignoring document formatting rules
- Not saving proof of submission
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters: frequently asked questions
Is IELTS required?
Many programmes ask for English proof, but the rules differ. See our guide to English tests and scholarships.
Can Pakistani students apply?
Yes. Erasmus Mundus is open to students of any nationality.
How many programmes can I apply to?
Rules differ by call and programme. Check the catalogue guidance before applying to several.
Official source: Erasmus+ Programme.
