Erasmus Mundus MAPP Scholarship 2026: Fully Funded Masters in Public Policy in Europe

Are you dreaming of pursuing a fully funded Masters degree in Public Policy across some of Europe’s most prestigious universities? The Erasmus Mundus MAPP Scholarship offers international students an exceptional opportunity to study at four top European institutions while receiving generous financial support. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Erasmus Mundus MAPP Scholarship 2026, including eligibility criteria, benefits, required documents, and how to apply.

About the Erasmus Mundus MAPP Scholarship

The Erasmus Mundus Masters in Public Policy (Mundus MAPP) is an internationally recognized joint degree program that stands as a European leader in Policy Studies. Funded by the European Union through the Erasmus+ program, this prestigious scholarship offers outstanding students from around the world the chance to pursue a fully funded Masters degree across four renowned European universities.

The program is delivered by a consortium of four exceptional institutions: Central European University (CEU) in Vienna, Austria; Institut Barcelona d’Estudis Internacionals (IBEI) in Spain; International Institute of Social Studies (ISS) of Erasmus University Rotterdam in the Netherlands; and the University of York in the United Kingdom.

What makes the Erasmus Mundus MAPP Scholarship particularly notable is its interdisciplinary curriculum, flexible study tracks, and the opportunity to experience academic life in multiple European countries. Since its establishment in 2007, the program has welcomed over 408 students from 80 countries across five continents. Remarkably, 94% of graduates secure employment within six months of completing the program.

The program was selected as one of five “success stories” by the European Commission in 2020 and received accreditation under the European Approach for Quality Assurance of Joint Degree Programs in 2022.

Erasmus Mundus MAPP Scholarship 2026 Summary

Benefits of the Erasmus Mundus MAPP Scholarship

The Erasmus Mundus MAPP Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support that removes the burden of funding your education abroad. Here is what scholarship recipients receive:

Full Tuition Fee Waiver: The entire tuition cost of EUR 26,000 (EUR 13,000 per academic year) is covered for the duration of the two-year program. Scholarship holders do not pay any tuition fees.

Monthly Stipend: Recipients receive EUR 1,400 per month for 24 months, totaling EUR 33,600. This contribution assists students in covering travel expenses, visa fees, installation costs, and living expenses throughout the program.

Health Insurance Coverage: The Mundus MAPP Consortium provides health insurance for all enrolled students in accordance with EACEA minimum requirements. Coverage extends for the full duration of studies, plus two weeks before arrival and two months after completion.

Disability Support: Additional financial support is available for students with special needs, with the amount depending on the level of support required.

Joint Degree from Multiple Universities: Graduates receive a prestigious joint Masters degree accredited in Austria, the Netherlands, Spain, and the UK. Students on CEU tracks also receive US accreditation.

Practice Components: The program includes internships at top international organizations, government agencies, and global NGOs, along with a field study visit and policy labs for 100% of students.

Important Note: The scholarship does not cover certain expenses that students must pay themselves, including the Study Visit (EUR 600-1000), Winter School (EUR 600-1000), and travel and visa costs between home countries and consortium countries.

Eligibility Criteria for the Erasmus Mundus MAPP Scholarship

To be considered for the Erasmus Mundus MAPP Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Academic Qualifications:

Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree comprising at least three years of study from a recognized university or institute of higher education. Applicants should have achieved at least a 2:1 (Upper Second Class) or equivalent grade. For those holding a Master’s degree in addition to their Bachelor’s, the same minimum grade requirement applies.

For IBEI tracks specifically (CEU-IBEI and ISS-IBEI), Spanish Ministry of Education regulations require that the undergraduate degree must grant access to master’s level studies in the country where it was issued.

English Language Proficiency:

All applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following tests taken within the specified timeframe:

• TOEFL iBT: 95 or above (within 2 years)
• IELTS Academic: 7.0 or above (within 2 years)
• Cambridge C2 Proficiency: C2 or above (within 5 years)
• Cambridge C1 Advanced: C1 or above (within 5 years)
• Pearson PTE Academic: 76 or above (within 2 years)
• Duolingo English Test: 130 or above (within 2 years)

English Proficiency Waivers:

Applicants from certain English-speaking countries do not require a language certificate if they received their degree in English. These countries include Australia, Botswana, Canada, Ghana, Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, New Zealand, Nigeria, South Africa, Uganda, UK, USA, and several others.

Citizens of other countries may request a waiver if they completed a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree taught exclusively in English in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, USA, EU countries, UK, or Switzerland, provided they submit supporting documentation.

Additional Considerations:

Work experience is not mandatory but candidates with relevant professional experience in public policy or related fields receive preference during selection. Applicants must demonstrate high motivation and interest in European and international public policy through their statement of purpose.

Previous Erasmus Mundus scholarship holders are not eligible to apply for another EMJM scholarship.

Required Documents for the Erasmus Mundus MAPP Application

Preparing a complete application package is essential for scholarship consideration. Here are all the documents you need to submit:

Mandatory Documents:

• Completed online application form (through CEU portal)
• Scanned copy of Bachelor’s degree diploma or degree certificate (official English translation)
• Official transcript of Bachelor’s degree records (official English translation)
• Curriculum vitae or resume (including publications if applicable)
• Statement of Purpose (maximum 500 words)
• English language proficiency test scores
• Copy of valid passport or national ID

Recommendation Letters:

Two official recommendation letters are required, preferably with at least one from an academic referee. Referees receive email invitations to upload their letters directly through the online system after you submit your application. Letters must be submitted within 7 days of application submission. Note that references sent via email, fax, or postal mail are not accepted.

For Applicants with a Master’s Degree:

If you have completed or are currently enrolled in a Master’s program, you must also submit the relevant transcript and diploma for that degree. Priority for scholarships is given to students who have not yet had the opportunity to study at the postgraduate level.

Post-Admission Requirements:

Admitted students must submit official hard copies of their documents, including notarized copies of diplomas and transcripts in the original language with the ink stamp and signature of a notary public or authorized university official.

Application Timeline for the Erasmus Mundus MAPP Scholarship

The Erasmus Mundus MAPP program operates with multiple deadlines to accommodate different applicant categories:

December 10, 2025: This is the critical deadline for all applicants who wish to be considered for the EMJM scholarship or Institutional Scholarship. It also serves as the early deadline for self-funded applications.

April 15, 2026: Deadline for non-EU/EEA residents who do not wish to apply for financial aid and are self-funding their studies.

July 1, 2026: Final deadline for EU/EEA residents who do not wish to apply for financial aid.

Important Notes on Timeline:

Applications are centrally administered by Central European University Private University. Qualitative assessment is performed jointly by all four consortium universities. Results are typically announced several weeks after each deadline. The program begins in September 2026 for the 2026-2028 cohort.

How to Apply for the Erasmus Mundus MAPP Scholarship

Follow these steps to submit a successful application for the Erasmus Mundus MAPP Scholarship:

Step 1: Choose Your Study Track

Select one of the four mobility tracks based on your academic interests and career goals. You may only apply to one track:

• CEU-IBEI Track: Global Public Policy specialization
• CEU-York Track: European Public Policy specialization
• ISS-IBEI Track: Political Economy and Development specialization
• ISS-York Track: Governance and Development specialization

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Gather all required documents well in advance. Ensure your transcripts and diplomas have official English translations. Prepare a compelling Statement of Purpose (maximum 500 words) highlighting your reasons for applying, research interests, relevant experience, and future career plans. Include your preferred track selection in your statement.

Step 3: Contact Your Referees

Reach out to your referees early and provide them with information about the program and deadline. Remember that they will receive an automated email after you submit your application and must upload their letters within 7 days.

Step 4: Submit Your Online Application

Access the application portal through the official Mundus MAPP website. Complete all sections of the online form carefully. Upload all required documents in the specified formats.

Step 5: Indicate Scholarship Interest

If you wish to be considered for the EMJM scholarship, make sure to indicate this in the application form. There is no separate scholarship application form.

Tips for a Successful Application:

Submit your application well before the December 10 deadline to avoid technical issues. Double-check that all documents are properly uploaded and readable. Follow up with your referees to ensure they submit their letters on time. Track the submission status of recommendation letters through the application portal.

For queries regarding the application, contact the admissions team through the contact information provided on the program website.

FAQs About the Erasmus Mundus MAPP Scholarship

Who is eligible for the Erasmus Mundus MAPP Scholarship?

The scholarship is open to outstanding applicants from all countries, both within and outside the European Union. Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree with at least a 2:1 classification (or equivalent) and demonstrate English proficiency. The scholarship is awarded based on academic merit to the highest-ranked applicants.

Is IELTS mandatory for the Erasmus Mundus MAPP?

IELTS is not strictly mandatory if you meet the waiver criteria. Citizens of certain English-speaking countries or those who completed degrees taught in English at recognized institutions may request a waiver. All other applicants must submit IELTS (minimum 7.0), TOEFL iBT (minimum 95), or other accepted English test scores.

Can I apply for multiple Erasmus Mundus scholarships simultaneously?

Yes, you can apply to multiple Erasmus Mundus programs. However, if awarded the EMJM scholarship for Mundus MAPP, you cannot benefit from another EU-funded scholarship for the same or another EMJM course during your enrollment period.

What is the monthly stipend amount for scholarship holders?

EMJM scholarship recipients receive EUR 1,400 per month for the full 24-month program duration, totaling EUR 33,600. This amount helps cover travel, visa, installation, and living costs. Additionally, scholarship holders receive a complete tuition fee waiver.

When will the scholarship results be announced?

Results are typically announced several weeks after the December 10 application deadline. Applicants receive notification via email about their admission and scholarship status.

Final Thoughts on the Erasmus Mundus MAPP Scholarship

The Erasmus Mundus MAPP Scholarship represents one of the most prestigious opportunities for students passionate about public policy, governance, and international development. With a generous monthly stipend of EUR 1,400 for 24 months, full tuition coverage, and the chance to study at four leading European universities across different countries, this scholarship provides an unparalleled academic experience.

The program’s impressive track record speaks for itself: 94% employment rate within six months of graduation, students from 80 countries, and recognition as an EU success story. Whether you are interested in global public policy, European governance, political economy, or development studies, the four specialized tracks offer flexibility to tailor your learning to your career aspirations.

Do not let this opportunity pass you by. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are committed to making a difference in the world of public policy, gather your documents and apply before the December 10, 2025 deadline to be considered for full scholarship funding.

Apply Now for the Erasmus Mundus MAPP Scholarship

Submit your application now before the deadline closes. Do not miss this opportunity to pursue a fully funded Masters in Public Policy across Europe’s top universities.

Official Application Link: https://www.mundusmapp.org/how-to-apply/

Need Help With Your Application?

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