Erasmus+ Scholarship: How to Apply, Eligibility & Tips 2026
$10,000
Award
24 months
Duration
January
Deadline
Competitive
Competition
The Erasmus+ Scholarship is a $10,000 award Masters/Exchange/Research scholarship for international students. Erasmus+ is the EU's programme to support education, training, youth and sport in Europe and beyond. Deadline is typically January each year, with competitive competition. This complete guide covers eligibility, application steps, benefits, and expert tips to maximize your chances.
Before investing time in your application, confirm you meet all requirements:
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---------|-------------|
| Study level | Masters, Exchange, Research |
| Nationality | Open to all nationalities |
| Language | Language of study (IELTS 6+ minimum) |
| Academic record | Minimum Good academic record |
| Work experience | Not required |
| Deadline month | January each year |
Application Steps
Apply through your home institution's Erasmus office
Or apply directly for Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters program
Submit academic transcripts, motivation letter, language certificate
Competition Level
This scholarship is Competitive. Typical acceptance rates vary from 1-15%. A strong application requires:
The Erasmus+ Scholarship is a $10,000 scholarship covering: Monthly contribution EUR 1,000-3,000 depending on destination, Travel allowance, Insurance support, Tuition fees waived at host institution.
Who is eligible for the Erasmus+ Scholarship?
The Erasmus+ Scholarship is open to students of all nationalities. Study level: Masters, Exchange, Research.
What is the deadline for the Erasmus+ Scholarship?
The Erasmus+ Scholarship application deadline is typically in January each year. Check the official website at https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu for exact dates as deadlines can shift year to year.
Is work experience required for the Erasmus+ Scholarship?
No, the Erasmus+ Scholarship does not require work experience. It is open to recent graduates and students without professional experience.
What GPA is needed for the Erasmus+ Scholarship?
The minimum academic requirement for the Erasmus+ Scholarship is: Good academic record. Given the competitive nature of this scholarship, successful applicants typically have significantly higher academic records than the minimum.
What language score is required for the Erasmus+ Scholarship?
The Erasmus+ Scholarship requires an IELTS score of 6 or equivalent. TOEFL may also be accepted. Check specific language requirements on the official website.
How competitive is the Erasmus+ Scholarship?
The Erasmus+ Scholarship is competitive. Acceptance rates can be as low as 1-5%. A strong application requires excellent academics, compelling personal statements, strong references, and clear career goals aligned with the scholarship's values.
How do I apply for the Erasmus+ Scholarship?
Application steps: 1. Apply through your home institution's Erasmus office. 2. Or apply directly for Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters program. 3. Submit academic transcripts, motivation letter, language certificate. Visit https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu for the official application portal.
Which countries can I study in with the Erasmus+ Scholarship?
The Erasmus+ Scholarship supports study in: uk, germany, france, netherlands, spain, italy, sweden, norway, ireland, finland, denmark, austria, belgium, portugal. Some scholarships are tied to specific universities within these countries.
Is the Erasmus+ Scholarship renewable?
Scholarship renewability depends on the specific award. Most scholarship programs require recipients to maintain minimum academic performance to continue receiving funding. Some scholarships are awarded once; others are renewed annually for the full duration of study.
Can I apply for the Erasmus+ Scholarship if I already started my program?
Most competitive scholarships require you to apply before starting your program. A few allow applications within the first year. Check the specific eligibility conditions for the Erasmus+ Scholarship on the official website.
Is the Erasmus+ Scholarship available for all study levels?
The Erasmus+ Scholarship is available for: Masters, Exchange, Research. Applications at other levels are not eligible.
What type of scholarship is the Erasmus+ Scholarship?
The Erasmus+ Scholarship is a scholarship from an international organization, typically with a focus on development, research, or global cooperation.
Do I need a letter of acceptance before applying for the Erasmus+ Scholarship?
Requirements vary. Some scholarships (like Chevening) require you to apply simultaneously with university applications. Others require a confirmed offer before applying. Some (like DAAD) may offer placement at a university as part of the scholarship process.
How do I write a scholarship essay for the Erasmus+ Scholarship?
An effective scholarship essay for the Erasmus+ Scholarship should: 1. Align with the scholarship's specific values and mission, 2. Use specific examples from your experience, 3. Clearly articulate your career goals and how this scholarship helps achieve them, 4. Show leadership and community contribution, 5. Explain your research or study plan with specificity.
What reference letters are needed for the Erasmus+ Scholarship?
Most competitive scholarships like the Erasmus+ Scholarship require 2-3 strong reference letters from people who know your academic work and professional capabilities well. Academic referees (professors who supervised your work) and professional supervisors are most appropriate.
Does the Erasmus+ Scholarship include airfare and travel expenses?
The Erasmus+ Scholarship benefits include: Monthly contribution EUR 1,000-3,000 depending on destination, Travel allowance, Insurance support, Tuition fees waived at host institution. Airfare/travel is included as part of the scholarship package.
Can I defer the Erasmus+ Scholarship if I need more time?
Most scholarship programs do not allow deferrals. If you receive the Erasmus+ Scholarship and cannot take it up in the year offered, you will typically need to reapply in a future year. Always verify the current deferral policy directly with the scholarship body.
Is the Erasmus+ Scholarship open to mature/older students?
Most government and international scholarships have no upper age limit for Masters/Exchange/Research applicants. Some have age restrictions (e.g., Rhodes Scholarship: 18-24). Check the specific eligibility on the Erasmus+ Scholarship official page.
Are family members covered under the Erasmus+ Scholarship?
Some larger scholarships include a family allowance for married scholars with dependents. Standard scholarships typically cover only the scholarship recipient. Check the Erasmus+ Scholarship benefits list and official terms.
What happens if I fail to maintain grades during the Erasmus+ Scholarship?
Most scholarships require minimum academic performance (e.g., passing all courses, maintaining certain GPA). Failing to meet this standard can result in scholarship suspension or cancellation. Contact your scholarship manager immediately if you face academic difficulties.
Is there a bond or return obligation with the Erasmus+ Scholarship?
The Erasmus+ Scholarship may not have a formal return obligation but may expect scholars to contribute to their communities. Check the official terms.
What is the Erasmus+ Scholarship interview process like?
Shortlisted candidates for the Erasmus+ Scholarship are typically interviewed by a selection committee. The interview assesses your academic goals, leadership experience, communication skills, and fit with the scholarship's values. Prepare by reviewing your application and practicing articulate, specific answers.
Can I apply for the Erasmus+ Scholarship multiple times if rejected?
Yes, you can usually reapply for the Erasmus+ Scholarship in subsequent years after rejection. Use the waiting period to strengthen your application - gain more experience, improve your academic record, and refine your application materials.
Does the Erasmus+ Scholarship cover fieldwork or research travel?
Some scholarships include research or study travel grants. Check the specific Erasmus+ Scholarship benefit details on the official website at https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu.
What subjects are eligible for the Erasmus+ Scholarship?
Eligible subjects for the Erasmus+ Scholarship include: All subjects. Some scholarships have priority subject areas - check if your field is a stated priority.
How long does the Erasmus+ Scholarship selection process take?
Selection timelines vary. Typically after the deadline, applications are reviewed for 2-4 months, shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews, and final decisions are communicated 4-6 months after the deadline. Some scholarships have faster or slower timelines.
Can I combine the Erasmus+ Scholarship with other scholarships?
Most scholarship programs prohibit or restrict combining with other scholarship funding to prevent double-dipping. The Erasmus+ Scholarship may have specific rules about this. Some partial scholarships can be combined. Always disclose any other scholarship funding in your application.
Are there any restrictions on changing programs during the Erasmus+ Scholarship?
Scholarship holders typically need approval from the scholarship body before changing their study program or university. Changing to a different field or level of study may not be permitted and could result in scholarship withdrawal.
Where can I find official application information for the Erasmus+ Scholarship?
All official and current information about the Erasmus+ Scholarship application, eligibility, and benefits is at: https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu. Always use the official source for application information to avoid scholarship scams.