The Erasmus Mundus NOHA Scholarship 2026 is a prestigious, fully-funded scholarship program offered by the European Union for international students seeking to pursue a master’s degree in International Humanitarian Action. The scholarship is part of the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree (EMJMD) program, which promotes academic excellence and fosters mobility among European and partner countries. This blog provides a detailed overview of the scholarship, including application deadlines, university details, study areas, benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and tips for success.
Basic Information and Application Deadline
The Erasmus Mundus NOHA Scholarship for the 2026–2028 cohort opens for applications on October 1, 2025, with the scholarship application deadline set for December 15, 2025. Self-funded applicants have until April 1, 2026, to apply if they do not seek the scholarship. Successful candidates will be notified by July 2026. All applications must be submitted online through the official NOHA Application Portal.
- Duration: 2 years (4 semesters, 120 ECTS)
- Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree
- Focus: International Humanitarian Action
- Language: English (main), with options in French (Aix-Marseille) and Spanish (Deusto)
- Mobility: Study at 2+ universities in different countries (one must be in the EU or an associated country)
University/Institution Details
The NOHA consortium comprises multiple European universities, including prestigious institutions across France, Malta, the Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Ireland, Poland, and Sweden. The program features mobility where students attend different partner universities during their course, gaining valuable multicultural and academic exposure.
Programme Structure
- Intensive Program (Intro)
- 1st Semester – Foundation Period
- 2nd Semester – Specialization Period
- 3rd Semester – Contextualization Period
- 4th Semester – Research / Master’s Thesis
Study Areas and Program Names
The scholarship supports students undertaking a master’s degree in International Humanitarian Action, offered through the NOHA+ Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree Programme. This interdisciplinary program integrates theoretical, analytical, and practical knowledge in humanitarian action, preparing students for careers in governmental, inter-governmental, and non-governmental humanitarian organizations.
Learning Competencies
1. Vision (Global Understanding)
- Critical analysis of conflicts and disasters.
- Ability to research and innovate in humanitarian response.
2. Strategic Management
- Managing complex humanitarian operations and organizations.
- Ensuring accountability, coordination, and leadership.
3. Personal Integrity
- Applying humanitarian values and ethics.
- Decision-making under pressure and coping with crises.
- Sensitivity to culture, gender, and diversity.
Erasmus Mundus NOHA Scholarship Benefits
The Erasmus Mundus NOHA Scholarship offers comprehensive financial coverage, including:
- Full coverage of tuition fees and administrative costs for the 24-month program.
- A monthly living stipend of €1,400 to cover living expenses.
- Travel expenses reimbursement for mobility periods between partner countries.
- Installation allowance to assist with initial relocation costs.
- Health insurance coverage throughout the study period.
- Visa Allowance
Benefits Not Included
Candidates should note that the scholarship does not cover accommodation costs, visa fees outside travel reimbursement, or costs related to family dependents. Additional personal expenses or other non-listed costs are the responsibility of the student.
Eligibility Criteria for Erasmus Mundus NOHA Scholarship
Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Applicants with a Bachelor’s degree (180 ECTS) in a relevant field (e.g., social sciences, law, medicine, management, etc.).
- Must meet English language requirements:
- IELTS: 6.5 (no band <6.0)
- TOEFL iBT: 93 (writing ≥24, others ≥20)
- Spanish (B2) or French (C1) required if studying at Deusto or Aix-Marseille.
- Selection based on academic merit, experience, motivation, language skills, and diversity balance.
- Fulfill the compulsory physical mobility requirement by studying in at least two different countries during the program, with one of them being an EU member state or associated country, excluding the country of residence.
- Complete all application requirements before December 15, 2025.
Required Documents for Application
Applicants must prepare and upload the following documents in PDF or JPG format (max 2MB each):
- Completed online application form.
- Copy of a valid passport (biographical page).
- Degree certificates and academic transcripts.
- Curriculum Vitae in Europass format.
- Proof of language proficiency (English, French, or Spanish certificates).
- Two reference letters ideally on official letterhead including referee contact information.
- Motivation statement outlining reasons for applying (up to 3000 characters).
- Abstract summarizing personal and academic background (max 500 characters).
- Proof of residence.
Erasmus Mundus NOHA Scholarship Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Review the program details and eligibility criteria on the official NOHA website.
- Register and apply through the joint NOHA online portal.
- Complete the online application form thoroughly.
- Upload all required documentation in the specified formats.
- Submit the application before the 15 December 2025 deadline for scholarship consideration.
- Track application status through the portal.
- If selected, follow instructions for enrollment and mobility arrangements.
- In case of rejection, candidates may appeal to the Joint Admissions Board within seven days.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start your application early to avoid last-minute issues.
- Ensure all documents are clear, complete, and professionally presented.
- Follow language requirements carefully and provide valid certificates.
- Write a compelling motivation letter emphasizing your humanitarian experience and commitment.
- Obtain strong reference letters from academic or professional contacts.
- Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and commitment to international humanitarian efforts.
- Prepare for potential interviews if required.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (Approximate in USD)
The €1,400 monthly scholarship stipend translates roughly to $1,460 USD (depending on currency fluctuations), which should cover typical living expenses including accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses in European cities where the program operates.
Why Choose This Scholarship? Five Reasons
- Fully Funded: Covers tuition, travel, living expenses, and insurance, minimizing financial burdens.
- International Mobility: Study in multiple prestigious European universities, gaining diverse cultural and academic experiences.
- Career Focused: Prepares students for impactful roles in international humanitarian organizations with practical and theoretical training.
- Global Network: Opportunity to connect with like-minded peers, experts, and alumni worldwide.
- High Academic Standards: Access to world-class faculty and interdisciplinary course content tailored for humanitarian action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who can apply for the NOHA Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?
A: International students with a bachelor’s degree in relevant fields who meet language proficiency and mobility requirements can apply.
Q: Is work experience necessary?
A: No mandatory work experience is required, though humanitarian-related professional or volunteer experience enhances eligibility.
Q: Can I apply without English proficiency certificates?
A: Native English speakers or those who completed their bachelor’s in English may be exempt, but others must submit proof.
Q: What if I do not get the scholarship?
A: You may apply as a self-funded student until April 1, 2026.
Q: Are there any age limits?
A: No specific age limit is set, but applicants must meet academic and mobility requirements.
Official Link:
In conclusion, the Erasmus Mundus NOHA Scholarship 2026 offers an extraordinary opportunity for students worldwide passionate about humanitarian action to receive world-class education in Europe fully funded by the EU. Interested candidates should carefully prepare their applications and submit them before the December 15, 2025 deadline to realize their academic and career ambitions.
For detailed application instructions and updates, visit the official NOHA website and apply through the NOHA portal.
