The Erasmus Mundus REPLAY Scholarship 2026 is a prestigious, fully funded master’s program offered across leading European universities, focusing on innovative game design. With an application deadline of January 9, 2026, this scholarship covers tuition, monthly living expenses, travel, and more for international students eager to advance their careers in game development across Portugal, Belgium, and Finland.
Basic Information and Application Deadline
The scholarship runs from 2026 to 2028 and is designed for master’s level study. Applications open October 15, 2025, closing January 9, 2026. It is open to students of all nationalities who hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science, game design, arts, or related fields, alongside demonstrated academic excellence and English proficiency.
- Award country: Portugal, Belgium, Finland
University/Institution Details
Students will study at three renowned institutions: Lusófona University in Lisbon, Portugal; LUCA School of Arts in Genk, Belgium; and Aalto University in Helsinki, Finland. These universities deliver a multi-cultural European educational experience in game design, interactive storytelling, user experience, and game development, allowing students to learn across three countries during four semesters.
Study Areas
The program focuses on:
- Game Design
- Game Development
- Interactive Storytelling
- User Experience Design
Students gain hands-on expertise to create socially meaningful and innovative game experiences spanning art and technology domains.
Erasmus Mundus REPLAY Scholarship Benefits
The REPLAY scholarship is fully funded, offering:
- Full tuition coverage at all three universities
- Monthly stipend of approximately €1,400 (~USD 1,470) for up to 24 months
- Travel costs between host countries covered
- Installation and relocation allowances
- Health insurance and accident coverage as per Erasmus+ program requirements
- Administrative and organizational support during the program
Students are fully supported financially to focus on their studies without monetary concerns.
Benefits Not Included
The scholarship does not cover:
- Personal costs such as study books, stationery, or photocopies
- Accommodation costs (though living stipend supports it)
- Visa application fees and passports
- Travel expenses unrelated to program mobility
- Living expenses outside the covered monthly allowance
Students should budget for incidental expenses beyond scholarship-covered items.
Eligibility Criteria for Erasmus Mundus REPLAY Scholarship
- Open to students worldwide.
- Diploma in any field + relevant game design/production experience.
- All documents must be in English (or include certified translation).
- Demonstrate strong academic results and motivation for game design
- English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent)
- Commitment to interdisciplinary, intercultural collaboration
- Open to all nationalities
- Fulfill all consortium partner admission requirements
- Provide a portfolio or video showcasing work in game design or development.
- Visiting Scholars
- Must have strong publications or professional experience in games.
- Apply to consortium leader with CV + portfolio.
Selection Criteria
- Academic quality.
- Motivation + fit with REPLAY (letter, CV, portfolio, showreel).
- English skills (certificate + interview).
- Top candidates are invited to an online interview.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Application Form: Online only.
- ID Document: Passport or EU ID (PDF).
- Photo: Recent headshot.
- Diploma + Transcripts: BA or MA + legalisation/apostille if required.
- CV: Preferably Europass format.
- Motivation Letter: Max 3,000 characters (no spaces), include 4 points about goals.
- Post-Mortem: Max 2 projects, 2,000 characters each.
- Portfolio (PDF, given template):
- 7 pages, max 5 projects.
- Showreel (Video):
- 3 minutes max
- 30 sec self-intro
- Rest: project showcase with your role.
- English Proficiency Proof: IELTS/TOEFL/Cambridge etc., or degree fully in English.
- Residence Certificate: Official document confirming current address.
Erasmus Mundus REPLAY Scholarship Application Process
- Register and complete the online application before January 9, 2026.
- Upload all required documents in English on the application platform.
- Submit a motivation letter, CV, and portfolio showcasing relevant game design experience.
- Provide proofs of academic qualifications, language proficiency, and identification.
- Submit letters of recommendation.
- Wait for shortlist notification followed by possible interviews or further evaluation.
- If selected, proceed with enrollment formalities at the host universities.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Highlight your previous game design or development projects in your portfolio.
- Craft a clear, concise, and motivating letter demonstrating your passion and future career plans.
- Meet all document requirements thoroughly with certified translations where applicable.
- Start your application early to avoid last-minute errors.
- Seek recommendation letters from academic or professional referees familiar with your work ethic and skills.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (USD)
Students should expect to allocate around $900 to $1,050 per month for living expenses including accommodation, food, transportation, and personal costs in Lisbon, Genk, and Helsinki. The scholarship’s monthly stipend of approximately €1,400 (~$1,470) sufficiently covers these expenses.
Why Choose This Scholarship?
- Fully funded with tuition, stipend, travel, and insurance covered.
- Study in three top European countries with world-class institutions.
- Gain specialized skills in game design, development, and storytelling.
- Access to a vibrant, multicultural student community and extensive professional networks.
- Benefit from a carefully structured, interdisciplinary curriculum across multiple arts and technology disciplines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there an IELTS requirement?
A: Yes, proof of English proficiency is required, but a degree taught in English may be accepted.
Q: Can I apply if I already have a master’s degree?
A: The program targets students with a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
Q: Does the scholarship cover accommodation costs?
A: Direct accommodation fees are not covered, but the monthly stipend supports living costs.
Q: Are students allowed to work during the program?
A: Work permissions depend on the specific country’s regulations, but the stipend usually covers living costs.
Q: What happens if I am not awarded the scholarship?
A: Applicants can choose to participate as self-funded students if accepted by the universities.
Application Timeline
- Opens: 15 October 2025
- Closes: 9 January 2026
Official Link:
This Erasmus Mundus REPLAY Scholarship 2026 is an outstanding opportunity for aspiring game designers to advance their education in Europe’s leading institutions while enjoying full financial support and a rich cultural experience.
