Erasmus Mundus MESPOM Scholarship 2026-2028 – Apply Now!
Are you passionate about solving the world’s most pressing environmental challenges? The Erasmus Mundus MESPOM Scholarship for 2026-2028 offers an extraordinary opportunity to pursue a fully funded master’s degree across four leading European universities. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about applying for this prestigious scholarship program.
Quick Overview: Erasmus Mundus MESPOM Scholarship at a Glance
| Program Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree in Environmental Sciences, Policy and Management (MESPOM) |
| Duration | 24 months (2 years) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree (120 ECTS credits) |
| Language | English |
| Funding | Fully Funded by European Commission |
| Host Countries | Austria, Greece, Sweden, UK |
| Participating Universities | Central European University (Austria), University of the Aegean (Greece), Lund University (Sweden), University of Manchester (UK) |
| Application Deadlines | January 7, 2026 (EMJM Scholarship applicants) April 15, 2026 (Self-financing, non-EU/EEA) July 15, 2026 (Self-financing, EU/EEA) |
| Program Coordinator Email | [email protected] |
What is the Erasmus Mundus MESPOM Scholarship?
The Erasmus Mundus MESPOM Scholarship is a premier international master’s program that has been preparing environmental leaders since 2005. Supported by the European Union’s Erasmus+ program, MESPOM (Master’s in Environmental Sciences, Policy and Management) offers a unique multi-disciplinary curriculum that combines environmental science, management, and policy with practical skills and international experience.
Over 579 students from more than 70 countries across five continents have graduated from this program, and alumni now work in governments, the United Nations, academia, industry, and non-profit sectors worldwide.
Why Choose the Erasmus Mundus MESPOM Scholarship?
1. Fully Funded Education
The scholarship covers:
- Full tuition fees for the entire 2-year program
- Travel costs between all partner universities
- Visa and installation costs
- Monthly subsistence allowance for living expenses (accommodation, food, etc.)
2. Multi-University Experience
Study at four prestigious European institutions and gain diverse academic perspectives:
- Vienna (Austria) – Policy and sustainability foundations at Central European University
- Lesvos, Greece – Environmental science and ecosystem management at University of the Aegean
- Lund (Sweden) OR Manchester (UK) – Specialization in industrial environmental economics or pollution control
- Any consortium partner – Master’s thesis research
3. Practical Learning
- Summer internship with Associated Partners or international organizations
- Research opportunities aligned with cutting-edge environmental topics
- Professional networking with global environmental leaders
4. Career-Ready Skills
Graduate with expertise in:
- Climate change and sustainable energy
- Urban sustainability
- Biodiversity and conservation
- Sustainable production and consumption
- Environmental security and justice
Program Structure: Your 24-Month Journey
Year 1
Fall and Winter Terms (Semester 1 & 2)
- Location: Central European University, Vienna, Austria
- Focus: Foundation courses in environmental sustainability challenges, graduate-level electives, and cross-cutting competencies
Spring Term (Semester 3)
- Location: University of the Aegean, Lesvos, Greece
- Focus: Applied environmental science, land and water management, ecosystem management, and sustainable tourism
Summer
- Supervised internship with MESPOM Associated Partners, NGOs, government agencies, or private sector organizations
Year 2
Fall Term (Semester 3)
Choose one specialization track:
- Environment, Industry, and Products
- Location: Lund University, Sweden
- Focus: Industrial environmental economics
- Environment and Pollution Control
- Location: University of Manchester, UK
- Focus: Environmental science and pollution management
Winter/Spring Term (Semester 4)
- Master’s Thesis at any consortium partner university
- Research on topics such as sustainable energy, climate change, urban sustainability, biodiversity, or environmental justice
Scholarship Benefits: Full Financial Coverage
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJM) Scholarship Includes:
- Tuition Coverage: €0 program fees for scholarship recipients
- Travel Allowance: International and intra-European travel costs covered
- Visa Support: All visa-related expenses included
- Installation Cost: One-time settlement allowance
- Monthly Stipend: Living allowance throughout the 24-month program
Self-Financing Option (Without Scholarship):
- EU/EEA residents: €8,000 per year
- Non-EU/EEA international students: €18,000 per year
Note: Students choosing the Manchester track should budget approximately €2,500 additional for UK visa and health insurance (as UK is no longer part of EU mobility arrangements).
Eligibility Requirements for Erasmus Mundus MESPOM Scholarship
Academic Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent, 180 ECTS credits) in:
- Environmental sciences, policy, or management
- Natural or social sciences
- Engineering
- Economics or general management
- Minimum GPA: 3.5 or above (on a 4.0 scale) or equivalent excellent academic standing
- Candidates with other degrees may qualify if they demonstrate strong commitment to environmental issues through professional or voluntary work
English Language Proficiency
Applicants must demonstrate excellent command of English through:
- Previous academic training in English, OR
- Recognized English language test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent)
Additional Criteria
- Clear understanding of global environmental challenges
- Strong motivation to contribute to environmental sustainability
- Relevant professional or volunteer experience (advantageous)
Open to All Nationalities
The Erasmus Mundus MESPOM Scholarship welcomes applications from students worldwide, regardless of nationality.
Required Documents for Application
To complete your Erasmus Mundus MESPOM Scholarship application, prepare the following:
- Academic Transcripts
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
- English translations if originals are in another language
- Bachelor’s Degree Certificate
- Official degree certificate or diploma
- Diploma Supplement (if available)
- Proof of English Proficiency
- TOEFL, IELTS, or other accepted English language test scores
- OR evidence of previous studies conducted in English
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
- Comprehensive academic and professional history
- Relevant environmental experience, volunteering, or research
- Statement of Purpose
- Explain your motivation for applying to MESPOM
- Discuss your career goals and how MESPOM aligns with them
- If applying to both tracks (Lund AND Manchester), clearly state your preferred option
- Letters of Recommendation
- Typically 2-3 strong academic or professional references
- Should attest to your intellectual merit and potential
- Academic Writing Sample (if required)
- Proof of Residency (for selected applicants)
- Standard Test Scores (if applicable)
How to Apply for the Erasmus Mundus MESPOM Scholarship
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Review Eligibility
Carefully read the MESPOM eligibility requirements and ensure you meet all criteria.
Step 2: Prepare Documents
Gather all required documents listed above. Ensure English translations are certified where necessary.
Step 3: Access the Application Portal
- Visit the Central European University (CEU) Online Application System
- CEU manages the application process on behalf of the entire MESPOM Consortium
- Create an account and start your application
Step 4: Complete the Online Form
- Fill in all required personal, academic, and motivational information
- Important: If applying to both mobility tracks (Lund AND Manchester), clearly indicate your preferred option in your statement of purpose
Step 5: Upload Documents
- Submit all required documents through the online portal
- Ensure files are in accepted formats (PDF recommended)
Step 6: Pay Application Fee (If Applicable)
- MESPOM applicants do NOT pay the CEU application fee unless also applying to other CEU programs
- This is a key benefit of the MESPOM application
Step 7: Submit Before Deadline
- Double-check all information and documents
- Submit your complete application well before the deadline
- Late or incomplete applications will not be considered
Step 8: Track Your Application
- Use the CEU Applicant Portal to monitor your application status
- Check your email regularly for any communication from the admissions team
Application Deadlines for 2026-2028 Intake
Mark these critical dates in your calendar:
| Applicant Category | Deadline | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Applicants | January 7, 2026 | For all students applying for EMJM funding (fully funded scholarship). Application must be complete with all documents and test scores. |
| Self-Financing (Non-EU/EEA, requiring visa) | April 15, 2026 | For students outside EU/EEA who will self-finance and need study visa to Austria |
| Self-Financing (EU/EEA citizens) | July 15, 2026 | For EU/EEA citizens or permanent residents who will self-finance their studies |
All deadlines are at 23:59 Central European Time (CET)
Admissions Timeline
- February 2026: Formal review results available
- April 2026: Final admission decisions published
- Fall 2026: Program begins at CEU Vienna
Visa and Residency Information
For Non-EU/EEA Students
- Austria: Apply for a 2-year residence permit that provides mobility throughout the EU
- Greece & Sweden: Covered by Austrian residence permit
- UK (Manchester track): Separate UK visa required (additional cost ~€2,500 including health insurance)
For EU/EEA Students
- Free movement within Austria, Greece, and Sweden
- UK visa required if choosing Manchester specialization
The MESPOM Consortium and CEU provide extensive support with visa procedures. Selected applicants receive a Confirmation of Acceptance letter to facilitate visa applications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I apply to both Lund and Manchester specialization tracks?
A: Yes! The application system allows you to apply for both tracks. However, you must clearly indicate your preferred option in your statement of purpose.
Q: Is IELTS mandatory for the Erasmus Mundus MESPOM Scholarship?
A: No. While IELTS is accepted, any recognized English proficiency test (TOEFL, Cambridge, etc.) or evidence of previous English-medium education is sufficient.
Q: Can I apply if my degree is not in environmental science?
A: Yes! Candidates from diverse backgrounds (engineering, social sciences, economics, management) are encouraged to apply if they can demonstrate commitment to environmental issues through work experience or volunteering.
Q: Do I need to apply separately to each university?
A: No. All applications are submitted through the CEU online system, which processes applications on behalf of the entire consortium.
Q: Is there an application fee?
A: MESPOM applicants are exempt from the CEU application fee unless they also apply to other CEU programs.
Q: How competitive is the scholarship?
A: The Erasmus Mundus MESPOM Scholarship is highly competitive. Strong academic performance (GPA 3.5+), clear motivation, and relevant experience significantly strengthen your application.
Q: What is the selection process?
A: Selection is based on:
- Academic and intellectual excellence
- Clarity of motivation and career goals
- Relevant prior experience (academic, professional, or voluntary)
- English proficiency
- Geographic and disciplinary diversity (to create a balanced cohort)
Tips for a Strong Application
- Start Early: Begin preparing documents months before the deadline
- Tailor Your Statement: Clearly articulate why MESPOM specifically aligns with your goals
- Strong References: Choose recommenders who know your academic capabilities well
- Highlight Relevance: Connect your background to environmental sustainability challenges
- Proofread Everything: Ensure all documents are error-free and professionally presented
- Show Commitment: Demonstrate your dedication to environmental issues through concrete examples
- Research the Program: Familiarize yourself with faculty, research areas, and course offerings
- Join the Community: Connect with current students and alumni through the Study at MESPOM Facebook group
Career Prospects After MESPOM
MESPOM graduates pursue diverse and impactful careers:
- International Organizations: UN agencies, World Bank, European Commission
- Government: Environmental ministries, policy-making bodies
- NGOs: Environmental advocacy, conservation organizations
- Private Sector: Sustainability consulting, corporate environmental management
- Academia: PhD programs, research institutions
- Industry: Environmental compliance, green technology companies
Many graduates return to their home countries to lead environmental initiatives, while others remain in Europe or pursue doctoral studies.
Contact Information and Resources
Official Contacts
- MESPOM Website: www.mespom.eu
- Program Coordinator: [email protected]
- CEU Admissions Office: [email protected]
- Application Portal: CEU Online Application
Additional Resources
- MESPOM Call for Applications: Official Announcement
- How to Apply Guide: Application Instructions
- Program FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
- Facebook Community: Study at MESPOM group
- Erasmus Mundus Official Site: Erasmus+ Joint Masters
Partner University Websites
- Central European University – MESPOM
- Lund University – IIIEE
- University of Manchester – School of Earth and Environmental Sciences
- University of the Aegean – Department of Environment
Conclusion: Take the First Step Toward Environmental Leadership
The Erasmus Mundus MESPOM Scholarship 2026-2028 represents more than just a master’s degree—it’s a transformative journey across Europe that will equip you with the knowledge, skills, and network to tackle the world’s most pressing environmental challenges.
With full funding, world-class education across four universities, practical internship experience, and access to a global network of environmental professionals, MESPOM offers an unparalleled opportunity for ambitious students committed to sustainability.
Don’t miss the January 7, 2026 deadline for scholarship applications!
Start your application today through the CEU Online Application Portal and join the next generation of environmental leaders shaping a sustainable future.
