Applications for the 2027–2029 Erasmus Mundus Master’s Scholarship Program in Public Policy (Mundus MAPP) are expected to open on September 1, 2026, offering international students an opportunity to study public policy across leading European universities with the possibility of receiving up to €33,600 in Erasmus Mundus funding plus a full tuition-fee waiver.
The Erasmus Mundus Master’s Program in Public Policy (Mundus MAPP) is a two-year, full-time international master’s programme designed for students who want to build careers in government, international organisations, development, public administration, research, civil society, academia and policy-related private-sector roles.
For the 2027–2029 intake, the programme will be delivered through a consortium involving Central European University Private University (CEU PU), Erasmus University Rotterdam’s International Institute of Social Studies (ISS), the Institut Barcelona d’Estudis Internacionals (IBEI), and the University of York.
The programme offers four mobility pathways, allowing students to specialise in areas including Global Public Policy, European Public Policy, Political Economy and Development, and Governance and Development.
One of the biggest attractions is the Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJM) Scholarship, which provides €1,400 per month for up to 24 months, giving a maximum scholarship value of €33,600, together with a full tuition-fee waiver for scholarship recipients
Important update: The programme’s official admissions calendar confirms that the 2027–2029 application cycle is expected to open on September 1, 2026. Applicants seeking financial aid must submit their application by December 1, 2026, at 23:59 CET.
Erasmus Mundus Public Policy Scholarship 2027: Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | Erasmus Mundus Master’s Program in Public Policy (Mundus MAPP) |
| Degree | Master of Arts in Public Policy |
| Study level | Master’s |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Intake | 2027–2029 |
| Application opening | Expected September 1, 2026 |
| Scholarship | Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship |
| Scholarship value | €1,400 per month |
| Maximum value | €33,600 over 24 months |
| Tuition | Full tuition-fee waiver for EMJM scholarship recipients |
| Study mode | Full-time, in-person |
| Eligible applicants | EU and non-EU/international applicants |
| Financial-aid deadline | December 1, 2026, 23:59 CET |
| Non-EU/EEA self-funded deadline | April 15, 2027 |
| EU/EEA self-funded deadline | July 1, 2027 |
| Programme consortium | CEU PU, ISS, IBEI and University of York |
| English | Programme is taught in English |
| Scholarship application | No separate scholarship application |
| Official programme | Mundus MAPP |
What Is the Erasmus Mundus Master’s Program in Public Policy?
The Mundus MAPP is a joint international master’s programme supported through the European Union’s Erasmus+ framework.
Rather than completing an entire master’s degree at one university, students move between partner institutions according to their selected mobility track.
This gives participants exposure to different academic environments and policy perspectives across Europe.
The programme is particularly suited to applicants interested in understanding how governments and institutions design, implement and evaluate public policies.
The programme’s stated areas of professional relevance include:
- Government;
- Public administration;
- International organisations;
- International development;
- Civil society;
- Non-governmental organisations;
- Think tanks;
- Research;
- Academia;
- Policy-oriented private-sector organisations.
What Degree Will Students Receive?
Successful students receive a Master of Arts in Public Policy.
The degree is jointly awarded by the two consortium institutions attended during the programme.
Students also receive a diploma supplement documenting their studies.
The qualification has recognition arrangements across the relevant European jurisdictions associated with the consortium, while students on CEU tracks have additional degree recognition arrangements through CEU’s programme.
This joint-degree structure is one of the features that distinguishes Mundus MAPP from a conventional single-university master’s programme.
How Much Is the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Worth?
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship provides:
€1,400 per month
for up to:
24 months
This gives a maximum scholarship value of:
€33,600
The monthly contribution is intended to assist scholarship recipients with costs associated with participating in the programme, including living, travel, visa, installation and other related expenses.
However, students should not interpret the €33,600 figure as a lump-sum payment deposited into their account at once.
The scholarship is structured as a monthly contribution over the eligible period.
Does the Scholarship Cover Tuition?
Yes, for Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship recipients.
The EMJM scholarship includes a full tuition-fee waiver.
This is separate from the monthly financial contribution.
Therefore, a successful EMJM scholarship recipient potentially receives:
- Full tuition-fee waiver;
- €1,400 monthly scholarship contribution;
- Up to €33,600 over 24 months.
Is There Another Scholarship Besides the Erasmus Mundus Award?
Yes.
Mundus MAPP also offers institutional scholarships.
The programme provides:
One institutional scholarship per study track.
Because there are four mobility tracks, institutional scholarships are associated with the programme’s four pathways.
The institutional scholarship provides a:
50% tuition-fee waiver
at both the first- and second-year institutions.
However, there is an important difference:
Institutional Scholarship
- 50% tuition-fee waiver;
- No monthly stipend.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship
- Full tuition-fee waiver;
- €1,400 monthly contribution;
- Up to €33,600 over 24 months.
Applicants should therefore not describe every Mundus MAPP scholarship as “fully funded.” The EMJM scholarship is the award that combines the full tuition waiver with the €1,400 monthly financial contribution.
Who Can Apply for the Erasmus Mundus Public Policy Programme?
Mundus MAPP is open to applicants from inside and outside the European Union.
This means applicants from countries across:
- Africa;
- Asia;
- Europe;
- North America;
- South America;
- The Caribbean;
- The Middle East;
- Oceania;
can apply if they satisfy the programme’s academic, language and other admission requirements.
The programme specifically states that the EMJM scholarship is available to outstanding applicants from both within and outside the EU.
For African students, including applicants from Nigeria and other countries, this makes Mundus MAPP a potentially significant European postgraduate funding opportunity.
Academic Requirements
Applicants need a qualifying undergraduate degree.
The programme’s published information indicates a requirement for a minimum three-year bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
The programme also lists a minimum academic performance equivalent to approximately 3.17/4.0 GPA, although applicants should use the programme’s own equivalency guidance rather than simply converting their national grades themselves.
A background in the social sciences or a related discipline can be particularly relevant because of the programme’s focus on policy, governance, political economy and development.
However, prospective applicants should assess their individual academic background against the official admission requirements before applying.
Is a Degree in Political Science Required?
Not necessarily.
The programme is interdisciplinary.
Applicants with relevant academic backgrounds can potentially come from areas such as:
- Political science;
- Economics;
- International relations;
- Public administration;
- Development studies;
- Sociology;
- Law;
- Social sciences;
- Related fields.
The important consideration is whether the applicant’s previous academic training demonstrates sufficient preparation for advanced public-policy study.
Applicants from other disciplines with relevant professional, academic or policy experience should carefully review the programme’s detailed admission requirements.
Is Work Experience Required?
No mandatory work-experience requirement is highlighted in the programme information.
However, relevant professional experience can strengthen an application, particularly when an applicant has worked in areas connected to:
- Government;
- Public administration;
- NGOs;
- Development;
- Research;
- International organisations;
- Policy analysis;
- Community development;
- Advocacy;
- Public-sector reform.
Applicants should not assume that having work experience guarantees admission or scholarship selection.
Four Mobility Tracks Are Available
One of the defining features of Mundus MAPP is the choice of mobility pathway.
Applicants can select only one of the available tracks.
The four pathways are:
1. CEU PU – IBEI Track
Specialisation: Global Public Policy
This pathway is suitable for applicants interested in international policy challenges and global governance.
2. CEU PU – York Track
Specialisation: European Public Policy
This pathway focuses on European public-policy issues and institutions.
3. ISS – IBEI Track
Specialisation: Political Economy and Development
This option is particularly relevant to applicants interested in the relationship between politics, economics and development.
4. ISS – York Track
Specialisation: Governance and Development
This pathway focuses on governance and development challenges.
Can Applicants Apply to More Than One Track?
No.
Applicants may apply to only one mobility track.
This means candidates should carefully consider their academic interests, career objectives and preferred specialisation before submitting the application.
This is an important point for applicants who might otherwise assume they can submit separate applications to multiple tracks to improve their chances.
Which Universities Are Part of Mundus MAPP?
The consortium consists of four European institutions:
Central European University Private University (CEU PU)
CEU serves as the central admissions administrator for the programme.
International Institute of Social Studies (ISS), Erasmus University Rotterdam
ISS brings strong expertise in development studies and social sciences.
Institut Barcelona d’Estudis Internacionals (IBEI)
IBEI contributes expertise in international affairs, public policy and related disciplines.
University of York
The University of York provides another major European academic environment and hosts relevant tracks including European public policy and governance and development.
The four institutions jointly contribute to the programme’s international structure.
Where Will Students Study?
Students do not simply remain at one university for two years.
Their study locations depend on their selected mobility track.
This is one of the main reasons Mundus MAPP can be described as a joint international master’s programme.
The mobility structure exposes students to different European policy environments and academic perspectives.
For international students, this can provide an opportunity to experience multiple European countries during one master’s degree.
Why Public Policy Is an Important Field
Public policy affects virtually every aspect of society.
Government decisions influence:
- Education;
- Healthcare;
- Employment;
- Migration;
- Climate policy;
- Economic development;
- Social protection;
- Trade;
- Infrastructure;
- Digital transformation;
- Security;
- Public finance.
For developing countries such as Nigeria and many other African states, the ability to design evidence-based policies is particularly important.
This makes advanced public-policy training relevant to graduates who want to contribute to government, international development and institutional reform.
What Careers Can Graduates Pursue?
Mundus MAPP is designed for careers extending beyond traditional academic research.
Potential career areas include:
Government
Graduates can pursue policy and administrative positions within government agencies and ministries.
International organisations
The programme can be relevant to careers with international development organisations and multilateral institutions.
NGOs and civil society
Graduates can work on programme design, policy advocacy, development and evaluation.
Think tanks
Public-policy graduates can work as researchers, analysts and policy advisers.
Research
The programme can provide preparation for further academic research and doctoral study.
Private sector
Businesses increasingly need professionals who understand regulation, governance, public affairs and policy environments.
Why This Scholarship May Be Particularly Valuable for African Applicants
African students interested in public policy face an unusual challenge.
Many of the policies affecting African countries are influenced by:
- International development institutions;
- Regional organisations;
- Global economic institutions;
- Trade agreements;
- Climate negotiations;
- International migration policies;
- Development financing;
- Foreign investment.
Studying public policy in an international environment can expose students to comparative approaches to governance and policy development.
For a Nigerian applicant, for example, the knowledge gained can potentially be applied to issues such as:
- Education reform;
- Youth employment;
- Public finance;
- Energy policy;
- Social protection;
- Development planning;
- Digital government;
- Infrastructure policy.
Is the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Fully Funded?
The EMJM scholarship is generally described as a fully funded scholarship because it combines a full tuition-fee waiver with a substantial monthly financial contribution.
However, applicants should understand that “fully funded” does not necessarily mean that every personal expense will be covered regardless of circumstances.
The €1,400 monthly contribution is intended to support various costs associated with participation, including living, travel and other expenses.
Students should therefore prepare a realistic personal budget for costs such as:
- Accommodation;
- Food;
- Local transportation;
- Personal expenses;
- Insurance-related costs where applicable;
- Visa expenses;
- Initial settlement costs.
The actual cost of living can differ significantly between European cities.
Does the Scholarship Cover Visa Costs?
The scholarship’s monthly contribution is intended to assist with visa, travel, installation and related costs.
Applicants should nevertheless plan their finances carefully because immigration and travel expenses may occur before scholarship payments are fully available.
This is especially relevant to students travelling from Africa or Asia who may need to pay visa application and travel-related expenses before departure.
Important Warning About Visa and Deferral Issues
The Mundus MAPP Consortium has a specific policy regarding late arrival.
The programme generally does not offer deferrals simply because an applicant has visa or financial difficulties.
Exceptionally well-justified cases may be considered individually, but this is not guaranteed.
The programme specifically encourages applicants from visa-sensitive countries to apply by the earliest deadline.
For Nigerian and other international applicants, this makes early preparation particularly important.
Erasmus Mundus Public Policy Scholarship Deadline 2026
The most important date for applicants seeking financial aid is:
December 1, 2026 at 23:59 CET
This is the deadline for:
- Applicants seeking financial aid;
- Applicants applying early as self-funded students.
Anyone hoping to receive the Erasmus Mundus scholarship should not wait until the later 2027 self-funded deadlines.
Complete 2027–2029 Application Timeline
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| September 1, 2026 | Applications expected to open |
| December 1, 2026 – 23:59 CET | Financial-aid/EMJM scholarship deadline |
| April 14, 2027 | First-round admission and EMJM scholarship decisions |
| April 20, 2027 | Appeal deadline for first-round decisions |
| April 15, 2027 – 23:59 CET | Self-funded deadline for non-EU/EEA residents |
| June 30, 2027 | Self-funded non-EU/EEA decisions |
| July 6, 2027 | Non-EU/EEA appeal deadline |
| July 1, 2027 – 23:59 CET | Self-funded deadline for EU/EEA residents |
| July 15, 2027 | EU/EEA self-funded decisions |
| July 21, 2027 | EU/EEA appeal deadline |
| July 31, 2027 | Deadline for official academic records |
When Will Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Results Be Announced?
For the first application round, including EMJM scholarship decisions, results are scheduled to be available through the applicant portal on:
April 14, 2027
Applicants who are rejected can appeal by:
April 20, 2027
The programme states that applications are evaluated by at least two people and that rejection decisions are overturned only on procedural grounds. Simply repeating information already submitted in the application is not considered sufficient grounds for an appeal.
Later Deadlines for Self-Funded Students
Applicants who do not require financial aid have additional deadlines.
Non-EU/EEA residents
The self-funded deadline is:
April 15, 2027 at 23:59 CET
Decisions are scheduled for:
June 30, 2027
EU/EEA residents
The self-funded deadline is:
July 1, 2027 at 23:59 CET
Decisions are scheduled for:
July 15, 2027
This means the December 1 deadline should not be confused with the final application deadline for every applicant.
Do Applicants Need to Submit Official Academic Records Immediately?
Successful applicants have until: July 31, 2027 to submit official academic records according to the published admissions calendar.
Nevertheless, applicants should begin arranging transcripts and official documents early.
Some universities take weeks or months to process transcript requests, especially where documents must be sent directly or authenticated.
Is There a Separate Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Application?
No.
This is an important point.
Applicants do not need to complete a separate scholarship form after applying for Mundus MAPP.
During the main application process, candidates indicate that they wish to be considered for financial aid.
Applicants who want scholarship consideration must submit their application by the earliest deadline.
Therefore, the process is essentially:
Mundus MAPP admission application → indicate financial-aid interest → scholarship consideration
rather than:
Admission application → wait for admission → submit separate scholarship application.
How to Apply for the Erasmus Mundus Public Policy Scholarship
Admissions are centrally administered by Central European University Private University.
Applicants cannot submit separate Mundus MAPP applications directly to the other consortium universities.
The official application process requires applicants to:
- Select one mobility track.
- Complete the online application.
- Upload the required supporting documents.
- Provide evidence of English proficiency or relevant exemption documentation.
- Indicate whether they wish to be considered for financial aid.
- Submit the application before the appropriate deadline.
What Documents Should Applicants Prepare?
While the exact document checklist should be confirmed in the application portal when the 2027–2029 application opens, prospective applicants should begin preparing commonly required materials such as:
- Bachelor’s degree certificate;
- Academic transcripts;
- Curriculum vitae;
- Motivation statement;
- Proof of English proficiency where required;
- Identification/passport information;
- Recommendation/reference materials where requested;
- Other programme-specific supporting documents.
Applicants should not upload documents simply because they appeared in an older application cycle. Always check the official 2027–2029 application instructions once applications open.
English-Language Requirement
Mundus MAPP is taught in English.
Applicants may need to demonstrate English-language proficiency unless they qualify for an applicable exemption.
Because English-language requirements can vary according to an applicant’s previous education and circumstances, candidates should check the official application instructions rather than assuming that studying in an English-speaking institution automatically qualifies them for a waiver.
What Makes a Strong Mundus MAPP Application?
Meeting the minimum eligibility criteria does not necessarily mean an applicant will win the Erasmus Mundus scholarship.
The EMJM award is competitive.
A strong applicant should demonstrate:
Academic preparation
A strong record in a relevant bachelor’s programme.
Policy interest
A clear understanding of public-policy issues.
Career direction
A convincing explanation of how the degree fits into future professional goals.
International outlook
An ability to understand policy challenges beyond one country.
Evidence of impact
Experience in research, volunteering, public service, development work, leadership or related activities can strengthen an application where relevant.
Clear motivation
The motivation statement should explain why Mundus MAPP specifically fits the applicant’s goals.
What Should You Write in Your Motivation Statement?
Avoid making the statement simply:
“I want to study in Europe because Europe has good universities.”
Instead, explain:
Where you are now → What policy problem you understand → What you have done about it → What skills you need → Why Mundus MAPP → Why your chosen track → What you intend to do after graduation.
For example, an applicant interested in education policy could discuss:
- Challenges facing access to higher education;
- Their academic or professional exposure to education;
- Research or community work;
- The policy skills they currently lack;
- Why public-policy training is necessary;
- How they intend to apply the knowledge after graduation.
How Competitive Is the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?
The scholarship should be treated as highly competitive.
There is no guarantee that every eligible applicant will receive the EMJM award.
This is particularly important because the scholarship provides substantial financial support and attracts applications from international candidates.
Therefore, applicants should not wait until the final week before the deadline.
Can Someone Who Previously Received an Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Apply Again?
The programme states that applicants who have already received an Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship are not eligible to receive another EMJM scholarship.
There are also restrictions concerning simultaneous EU-funded scholarship support for Erasmus Mundus Joint Master programmes.
Applicants with previous Erasmus Mundus funding should therefore carefully check their eligibility before applying.
What Happens If a Student Cannot Travel Because of Visa Problems?
This is particularly important for applicants from countries where European visa processing can take time.
The programme generally does not guarantee deferral for applicants who cannot arrive because of:
- Visa problems;
- Financial difficulties.
Exceptional cases may be reviewed individually, but deferral is not automatic.
For this reason, applicants should begin preparing their documentation and visa plans as soon as they receive an admission offer.
What Is the Difference Between the Two Main Funding Options?
| Feature | Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship | Institutional Scholarship |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | 100% tuition waiver | 50% tuition waiver |
| Monthly stipend | €1,400/month | No |
| Maximum value | €33,600 | Depends on tuition |
| Living support | Yes, through monthly contribution | No |
| Travel/installation support | Intended to be supported through monthly contribution | No dedicated stipend |
| Application | Integrated into admission application | Considered through programme process |
| Competition | Highly competitive | Competitive |
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Is This Scholarship Suitable for Nigerian Students?
Yes, provided the applicant meets the programme’s eligibility requirements.
For Nigerian applicants, the programme may be particularly attractive because:
- Nigeria is outside the EU;
- International applicants are eligible;
- The EMJM scholarship provides substantial financial support;
- Students can study across multiple European institutions;
- Public policy is relevant to government and development careers;
- The degree can support international career pathways.
However, Nigerian applicants should pay particular attention to:
- Academic-equivalency requirements;
- English-language requirements;
- Passport validity;
- Visa planning;
- Financial planning before scholarship payments;
- The December 1, 2026 scholarship deadline.
Why Applicants Should Apply Early
There are several reasons to avoid waiting.
First, scholarship applicants must meet the December 1, 2026 deadline.
Second, applicants need time to:
- Obtain transcripts;
- Request references;
- Prepare their CV;
- Write and revise their motivation statement;
- Take an English test if required;
- Check passport validity;
- Review the chosen mobility track;
- Complete the online application.
Third, visa preparation can become time-sensitive after admission.
What This Means for Students From Africa, Asia and Other Developing Countries
The programme could be especially relevant to applicants from countries where public-policy capacity is a major development issue.
Graduates may return to work in:
- Government ministries;
- Development agencies;
- NGOs;
- Research institutions;
- International organisations;
- Universities;
- Policy think tanks;
- Public-sector consulting;
- International development projects.
The international nature of the programme can also help students understand how different countries approach similar policy problems.
Erasmus Mundus Public Policy 2027: Important Warning About “Fully Funded”
Many scholarship websites describe Erasmus Mundus scholarships as “fully funded.”
That description is broadly reasonable for the EMJM award because it includes a full tuition waiver and substantial monthly financial support.
However, applicants should avoid assuming that:
“€33,600 + full tuition = every possible expense is automatically paid separately.”
The €1,400 monthly contribution is designed to support several categories of expenses.
Therefore, students should budget carefully and understand the actual cost of living in each study location.
Official Application Portal
Mundus MAPP states that applications are centrally administered by Central European University Private University and that only applications submitted through the designated CEU process will be considered.
Official Mundus MAPP application and programme information:
Mundus MAPP Official Website
The Official 2027–2029 admissions calendar:
Mundus MAPP Admissions Calendar
Official application instructions:
Mundus MAPP How to Apply
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters 2027 Intake — Eligibility, Benefits and How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Erasmus Mundus Public Policy 2027 applications open?
The Mundus MAPP Consortium expects applications for the 2027–2029 cohort to open on September 1, 2026.
What is the scholarship deadline?
Applicants seeking financial aid must apply by December 1, 2026 at 23:59 CET.
How much is the Erasmus Mundus Public Policy scholarship?
The EMJM scholarship provides €1,400 per month for 24 months, with a maximum value of €33,600.
Does it cover tuition?
Yes. EMJM scholarship recipients receive a full tuition-fee waiver.
Is there a separate scholarship application?
No. Scholarship consideration is integrated into the main Mundus MAPP admission application.
Can non-EU students apply?
Yes. The programme is open to applicants from both EU and non-EU countries.
Can I apply to more than one mobility track?
No. Applicants may select only one of the four mobility tracks.
How long is the programme?
Mundus MAPP is a two-year, full-time, in-person master’s programme.
What degree will I receive?
Successful students receive a Master of Arts in Public Policy through the joint programme structure.
Do I need work experience?
Yes. Nigerian applicants are eligible to apply as non-EU candidates provided they satisfy the programme’s admission requirements.
Can I apply if I am from Nigeria?
Work experience is not generally presented as a mandatory requirement, although relevant experience can strengthen an application.
Is the institutional scholarship fully funded?
No. The institutional scholarship provides a 50% tuition-fee waiver and does not include the €1,400 monthly stipend.
Concluding Remarks
The Erasmus Mundus Master’s Program in Public Policy (Mundus MAPP) 2027–2029 is shaping up as a major opportunity for international students seeking advanced training in public policy, governance, development and political economy.
The programme combines a two-year international master’s degree, mobility across leading European institutions and the opportunity to receive the highly competitive Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship worth up to €33,600, alongside a full tuition-fee waiver.
For students who do not secure the EMJM scholarship, the programme also provides institutional scholarship opportunities offering a 50% tuition-fee waiver, although these awards do not provide a living stipend.
The most important date for applicants seeking funding is December 1, 2026 at 23:59 CET. The programme expects applications to open on September 1, 2026.
For prospective applicants, the best strategy is to start preparing now rather than waiting for the application portal to open. Review the four mobility tracks, identify the one that best fits your career plans, prepare your academic documents, strengthen your motivation statement and make sure you understand the financial-aid requirements.
Most importantly, applicants should use the official Mundus MAPP application process rather than third-party agents. The consortium explicitly states that admissions are centrally administered by CEU PU and that applications submitted through other consortium universities will not be considered.
Lastly, for scholarship seekers in Nigeria, Africa, Asia and other regions, this is an opportunity worth preparing for well ahead of the December deadline.
A Travel Consultant dedicated to helping students, job seekers, and professionals discover life-changing opportunities around the world. He holds a Diploma in Human Resource Management, Project Management & Ticketing, Degree in Microbiology, and Master’s in Public Health.