An Erasmus Mundus Joint Master is a joint master’s programme run by several universities in different countries, and it can come with scholarships for particularly qualified students. For international applicants it is one of the best-known ways to complete a master’s degree in Europe. This guide explains how to find a programme, when applications are usual, and what is documented about scholarships. Where the source is silent, this guide says so rather than filling the gap.
Short answer: Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters are master’s programmes run jointly by several universities. Most accept applications between October and January for the following academic year. Scholarships are not available for every programme, and the amount is stated on the programme pages. The official catalogue lists 218 projects according to the page. Last updated: November 2026.
Key points at a glance
- An Erasmus Mundus Joint Master is offered jointly by several universities from different countries.
- Most programmes accept applications between October and January for courses starting in the following academic year.
- The official catalogue can be filtered by country, duration, university, field of study and selection year.
- According to the EACEA, master students from around the world can apply, and outstanding students can receive scholarships.
- Not every programme offers scholarships. The amount, what it covers and the deadlines are stated on the page of the individual programme.
What is an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master?
A joint master is offered by a consortium of several universities. The EACEA page names academic excellence and strong integration between the participating universities as its basis. The European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA) publishes a catalogue in which the programmes are listed.
For you, this means that you usually apply to the programme itself, not to a single university. The selection procedure, the admission requirements and the language requirements follow the consortium, so each programme page is worth reading closely.
How do you find a suitable programme?
The EACEA catalogue is the starting point. It shows the programmes and can be filtered by country, duration, university, field of study and selection year. Each entry links to the website of the programme, and the Erasmus+ project database is reachable through the project overview.
| Catalogue filter | What you find with it | Status according to source |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Programmes with locations in a given country | Catalogue not dated |
| Duration | Programmes by length of the master | Catalogue not dated |
| Field of study | Programmes by subject area | Catalogue not dated |
| Selection year | Programmes by year of selection, shown from 2018 to 2025 | Filter as shown on the page |
The page does not give a figure for open places. When the page was accessed, it displayed 218 projects in the catalogue. That number is a snapshot and can change, so check the catalogue again before you decide.
When do you have to apply?
The EACEA page states as the rule that most master programmes accept applications between October and January, for courses starting in the following academic year. It does not name a specific year, so check the deadline of each programme, because they differ.
- Pick two or three programmes in the catalogue that match your subject.
- Check the deadline, the admission requirements and the language requirements on each programme page.
- Contact the consortium if you have questions about courses, procedures or scholarships.
- Submit your application on time and allow time for documents such as certificates and translations.
Which scholarships exist and what is documented?
The EACEA page describes scholarships for outstanding students without stating an amount. It refers for details to the programme pages and to the Erasmus+ page on scholarships for joint masters. A statement on tuition, travel costs or living expenses cannot therefore be made here.
It is also important that not every programme awards scholarships. The page notes that some programmes have reached the end of their funding and that others may use the Erasmus Mundus name only temporarily. Check whether a programme currently offers scholarships before you build your financing on it.
Which documents should you prepare?
Each programme sets its own documents. Typical items include certificates from your previous studies, a motivation letter, evidence of language skills and, often, letters of recommendation. Plan time for certified translations and documents, because the procedures can differ depending on your country of origin.
Keep the confirmations from the consortium, for example of receipt and completeness of your application. They help if the selection raises questions.
How do you deal with a rejection?
A rejection for a joint master is not unusual, because many programmes award a limited number of places. Apply to two or three programmes at the same time and keep a backup plan, such as a regular master’s programme at a German university.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply if I am not a citizen of an EU country?
According to the EACEA page, master students from around the world can apply. The programme sets the specific conditions, so check the information on the consortium site.
How high is the scholarship?
The EACEA page does not state the amount. It appears on the programme pages or in the calls for Erasmus+ funding. If you cannot find it, ask the consortium directly.
Is Erasmus Mundus the same as Erasmus+ for exchange semesters?
No. Erasmus+ covers many forms of mobility and is aimed at students who spend part of their studies abroad. The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master is a separate master’s programme with its own selection. Funding for exchange semesters is explained in the guide on Erasmus+ funding.
Do I need to speak German?
That depends on the programme. The language of instruction and the language requirements are set by each programme and stated on its page. Check the proofs the consortium requires before you apply.
Can I apply to several joint masters at once?
Whether you can apply in parallel is decided by the application rules of each programme. Check the pages for rules on multiple applications and overlapping deadlines. A table with all deadlines and documents helps you keep track.
What if I do not have my bachelor degree yet?
Many master programmes require a completed first degree. Whether an application is possible with a degree still in progress is stated in the admission requirements. Ask the consortium early, before you spend time on documents.
What to do now
- Open the EACEA catalogue and select two or three programmes.
- Note the deadline, the scholarship situation and the language requirements for each programme.
- Assemble your application documents in good time and apply before the deadline.
Related guides
- Studying in Germany as an international student: the overview
- Erasmus+ funding: rates and deadlines by target group (in German)
- Erasmus Funding Rates 2026/27: Deadlines Explained
- Master’s Degree Abroad: Countries, Applications and Costs
- Scholarships for international students in Germany: an overview (in German)
Sources: EACEA: Erasmus Mundus Catalogue (page without date, catalogue shows 218 projects)
Last updated: November 2026. This guide is general information, not individual advice.
