The Erasmus Mundus EMAI Scholarship 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for international students globally to pursue a two-year master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence (AI) at prestigious universities across Europe. With full financial coverage, including tuition, living allowance, travel, and insurance, this scholarship aims to nurture top talents in the fast-growing AI sector.
Basic Information and Application Deadline
- Scholarship Name: Erasmus Mundus EMAI Scholarship 2026
- Program: Joint Master’s in Artificial Intelligence (EMAI)
- Duration: 2 Years (120 ECTS)
- Application Deadline: December 20, 2025 (23:59 CET)
- Scholarship Coverage: Fully Funded – tuition, monthly stipend, travel, visa, and insurance
Applications must be submitted online by the deadline to be considered for one of the 20-30 scholarships offered for the 2026-28 intake.
Universities Offering EMAI Scholarship
The EMAI program is delivered jointly by four renowned European universities known for their top-level AI research:
- Pompeu Fabra University (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
- Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
- Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
Students will study in multiple countries with mobility across these universities, gaining exposure to varied AI research environments throughout Europe.
Affiliated Universities:
- Pompeu Fabra University (UPF) in Barcelona
- Sapienza University of Rome in Rome (Italy)
- Radboud University in Nijmegen (The Netherlands)
- University of Ljubljana in Ljubljana (Slovenia)
Program Structure:
Students will have the chance to study in three different nations throughout their first year. They have the option to select the location of their Master’s thesis research during their second year.
- First Semester: Barcelona’s Pompeu Fabra University (UPF)
- Second Semester:
- Rome, Italy’s Sapienza University of Rome
- The Netherlands’ Radboud University in Nijmegen
- Slovenia’s University of Ljubljana
- You can finish your third and fourth semesters (specialization) at any of the four universities.
Study Areas Available (Program Details)
The EMAI Program covers comprehensive AI education including theory and practical applications. Key disciplines include:
- Artificial Intelligence foundations
- Computer Science and Software Engineering
- Applied Mathematics and Statistics
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Physics related to computational methodologies
- Information and Communication Technologies
Coursework requirements include at least 12 ECTS credits in Mathematics, Programming, and Computing-related subjects to ensure a strong technical foundation.
Erasmus Mundus EMAI Scholarship Benefits
This Erasmus Mundus EMAI Scholarship is fully funded and includes:
- Full tuition fee waiver for the entire 2-year program
- Monthly living stipend of approximately €1400 (~USD 1500)
- Full travel allowance for study-related trips between universities
- Visa and residence permit cost coverage
- Comprehensive health and accident insurance
- Access to cutting-edge AI labs and industry collaborations across multiple countries
- Installation allowance for settling in host countries
- Unique multi-country academic experience and networking opportunities with global AI experts.
Benefits Not Included
- Personal expenses beyond the monthly stipend
- Family or dependent allowances
- Costs related to optional courses or extracurricular activities
- Accommodation (usually students must arrange housing but can use stipend towards rent)
- Travel for non-study-related purposes
Applicants should budget personal expenses beyond the scholarship benefits.
Recognition of Prior Learning
- Previous formal/informal learning can be recognized.
- Evaluation based on certificates and portfolio.
- Decisions made first by Admissions Committee, later by partner universities.
Transfer to EMAI
- Possible if competencies/learning outcomes match.
- At least 50% of ECTS from previous programme must be recognized.
- Must meet EMAI enrolment conditions.
- Must have completed essential subjects in current programme.
Eligibility Criteria for Erasmus Mundus EMAI Scholarship
To qualify for the Erasmus Mundus EMAI Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet:
- Academic Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree (min. 180 ECTS) in ICT, engineering, physics, math, stats or equivalent.
- Others allowed if they completed required prerequisite courses (10–60 ECTS).
- Must have completed at least:
- 12 ECTS mathematics
- 12 ECTS programming
- 12 ECTS computing/engineering
- Strong academic background with relevant coursework in mathematics (calculus, linear algebra), programming, and computing
- Open to all nationalities worldwide including final year undergraduate students
- Demonstrated motivation and aptitude for AI through documents and interview
- Not currently holding an EU-funded scholarship for the same program.
- Enrollment
Takes place every September.
Students must submit required documents on time. - Appeal
Submit appeal within 7 days of decision.
Cannot add new documents.
Email: [email protected] (subject: EMAI appeal – Full Name)
Decision returned within 14 days; final.
English Test Requirements
- TOEFL iBT: ≥90, subscores ≥22
- IELTS Academic: ≥6.5 overall & subscores ≥6.5
- Cambridge C1/C2 with required scores
- Certificates must be valid (≤2 years).
- No exemptions except specified countries.
Selection Procedure
- Pre-screening – administrative check
- Pre-selection – minimum requirements
- Ranking criteria:
- Academic excellence
- Practical/professional experience
- Inclusiveness & added value
- Interview: 30–40 min online
- Final selection based on ranking + diversity factors
- Waiting list created
Required Documents for Application
Prepare these documents for your online application submission:
- Passport/ID
- Bachelor’s/Master’s degree (or completion statement)
- Academic transcript
- CV (max 2 pages)
- Motivation letter (600–800 words)
- 1-minute introduction video (not for self-funded)
- 2 recommendation letters (1 for self-funded)
- EMAI Student Supplement Questionnaire
- English proficiency certificate (TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge)
Erasmus Mundus EMAI Scholarship Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- Research the Program: Visit the official EMAI Erasmus Mundus website and read eligibility, program structure, and scholarship benefits.
- Gather Documents: Collect academic transcripts, ID proofs, language certificates, motivational letters, recommendation letters.
- Register Online: Create an account on the EMAI official application portal.
- Complete Application: Fill in your educational background, personal details, and upload all required documents.
- Submit Before Deadline: Ensure submission before 20th December 2025, 23:59 CET.
- Initial Screening: Applications are reviewed for eligibility and completeness.
- Interview (if shortlisted): Some candidates may need to participate in a motivation and academic knowledge interview.
- Selection Notification: Selected candidates will receive an official offer and scholarship confirmation.
- Enrollment and Mobility: Prepare for multi-country studies with the support of the host universities.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Demonstrate genuine passion for Artificial Intelligence and future career goals related to AI.
- Highlight relevant academic achievements and coursework in AI, programming, and mathematics.
- Prepare a clear, concise, and compelling motivation letter tailored to EMAI program specifics.
- Ensure letters of recommendation are detailed and submitted on time by referees.
- Submit a polished CV emphasizing research or projects related to AI if any.
- Practice for the possible interview by reviewing core AI concepts and your motivations.
- Check for completeness and correctness before submitting the application.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (USD)
Living costs vary by country and city but typically range from:
| Country | Average Monthly Expenses (USD) |
|---|---|
| Spain (Barcelona) | $900 – $1,200 |
| Italy (Rome) | $1,000 – $1,300 |
| Netherlands (Nijmegen) | $1,200 – $1,500 |
| Slovenia (Ljubljana) | $800 – $1,100 |
The Erasmus monthly stipend (~$1500) generally covers rent, food, transportation, and basic expenses comfortably in these cities.
Why Choose This Scholarship? Top 5 Reasons
- Fully Funded Excellence: Covers tuition, living costs, travel, and insurance – no financial burden.
- Multi-Country Experience: Study in 3-4 top research universities across Europe enhancing global and cultural exposure.
- Career Opportunities: Connect with leading AI labs and European industry partners for internships and jobs.
- World-Class AI Education: Curriculum designed by experts and taught by renowned professors in AI.
- Inclusive & Competitive: Open to all nationalities with a merit-based selection focusing on motivation and aptitude.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who can apply for the EMAI Scholarship?
A: International students worldwide with a Bachelor’s in CS, Engineering, Mathematics, or related fields.
Q: What is the application deadline?
A: December 20, 2025.
Q: What documents are required?
A: Academic transcripts, motivation letter, CV, recommendation letters, ID proof, English proficiency certificate.
Q: Is living cost covered?
A: Yes, a monthly stipend of ~€1400 covers living expenses.
Q: Can final year students apply?
A: Yes, students in their final year can apply conditionally.
Q: Are there any tuition fees?
A: No, full tuition is waived for scholarship holders.
Q: How many universities will I study at?
A: Typically 3-4 universities in different European countries.
Application Periods
- 15 Nov–20 Dec 2025: Erasmus Mundus Scholarship applicants
- 21 Dec 2025–18 Mar 2026: Tuition fee waiver applicants
- 19 Mar–5 Jun 2026: Worldwide self-funded applicants
- 6 Jun–6 Jul 2026: EU self-funded applicants
Official Link:
This Erasmus Mundus EMAI Scholarship 2026 is a superb chance to study Artificial Intelligence at top European universities with full financial support. Start preparing your application before the deadline on December 20, 2025, to launch an international career in AI with strong academic and industry links in Europe.
