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The Erasmus Mundus MARIHE Master Scholarship for 2026–2028 is now open for applications. This fully funded program offers international students a chance to study in Europe and Asia. It focuses on higher education research, policy, and innovation. The scholarship supports students who want to understand how universities grow, change, and improve across different countries.
This program is funded by the European Union under the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master scheme. It provides strong financial support, global exposure, and academic depth. Students receive a monthly stipend, full tuition coverage, and funding for travel and living costs. Graduates leave with strong leadership skills and global experience in higher education systems.
What Is the Erasmus Mundus MARIHE Program?
MARIHE stands for Master in Research and Innovation in Higher Education. It is a two-year joint master’s program designed for students from all academic backgrounds. The program blends theory, policy, and real-world practice. It helps students understand how higher education systems work across countries.
The program is taught by a group of partner universities from Europe and Asia. Students move between countries during the degree. This mobility is a key part of the learning experience. It allows students to compare education systems directly instead of learning only from books.
Why MARIHE Is a Unique Master’s Program
MARIHE focuses on higher education as a field of study. Many students study inside universities but never study how universities work. This program fills that gap. It trains students to work in policy roles, management positions, and research roles linked to education systems.
The program also values practical experience. Students complete internships and research projects. These activities help them apply theory to real problems. This mix of study and practice prepares graduates for leadership roles in education institutions.
Fully Funded Scholarship Benefits Explained
The Erasmus Mundus MARIHE Scholarship is fully funded. This means selected students do not worry about tuition or living costs. Each student receives 1,400 Euros per month for 24 months. This amount supports daily expenses during the program.
The scholarship also covers travel costs between countries. Visa fees and installation costs are included. Participation fees are fully waived. This includes tuition fees, enrollment fees, and examination fees. Students can focus on learning without financial stress.
Monthly Stipend and Financial Support
The monthly stipend of 1,400 Euros is paid for two full years. It helps cover rent, food, transport, and daily needs. The amount is fixed and provided regardless of study location.
Travel costs are paid separately. This includes flights between partner countries. Students also receive support for visa applications and relocation expenses. This makes the program accessible to students from low-income backgrounds.
Host Countries and Study Locations
The MARIHE program takes place across several countries. Students study in both Europe and Asia during the degree. This global structure builds strong cross-cultural understanding.
Host countries include Finland, Austria, Germany, Hungary, Portugal, China, and India. Each country offers a different education system and policy environment. Students gain direct exposure to these differences through coursework and campus life.
Partner Universities in the MARIHE Consortium
The program is offered by a group of well-known universities. These institutions work together to deliver a joint degree.
Partner universities include Danube University Krems in Austria, Tampere University in Finland, Beijing Normal University in China, Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology in India, University of Applied Sciences Osnabrück in Germany, Eötvös Loránd University in Hungary, and University of Aveiro in Portugal.
Each university contributes expertise in education research, policy, or innovation.
Program Structure and Study Pathway
The MARIHE program lasts 24 months. It is divided into four semesters. Each semester has a clear purpose and focus.
During the first two semesters, all students study in Europe. Core courses are taught in Finland and Austria. These semesters focus on foundations of higher education, policy analysis, and research methods.
Specialization Tracks in the Third Semester
In the third semester, students choose a specialization track. Options are offered in both Europe and Asia. European tracks are available in Austria, Finland, Germany, Hungary, and Portugal. Asian tracks are available in China and India.
Each track focuses on a specific area of higher education. Topics include leadership, governance, innovation, and policy reform. Students select tracks based on their career goals and academic interests.
Internship and Master’s Thesis in the Final Semester
The fourth semester focuses on professional development and research. Students complete a supervised internship in a relevant organization. This may include universities, policy bodies, or education agencies.
At the same time, students write a research-based master’s thesis. The thesis addresses a real issue in higher education. This final semester helps students connect theory with practice and research.
Global Exposure and Language Skills
The MARIHE program offers strong international exposure. Students live and study in multiple countries. They work with peers from different cultural backgrounds.
This experience improves communication and teamwork skills. Students also gain basic language skills from host countries. These skills support future careers in international education roles.
Career Outcomes After Graduation
Graduates of the MARIHE program work in many fields. Common roles include education policy analyst, university administrator, research officer, and project coordinator. Some graduates continue to doctoral studies.
The program builds skills in leadership, analysis, and cross-cultural work. These skills are valued by universities, governments, and global education organizations.
Who Can Apply for the Scholarship?
The scholarship is open to students from all countries. Applicants must hold at least a bachelor’s degree. The degree can be from any academic field.
Applicants must show strong interest in higher education research and management. Motivation and career goals are important. The program looks for students who want to improve education systems.
Eligibility Rules You Must Know
Applicants who already received an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master scholarship cannot apply again. This rule applies across all EMJM programs.
Students must complete study periods in at least two different countries. This is a core requirement of the program. Applicants must also meet English language requirements for academic study.
English Language Requirements
Applicants must show proof of English proficiency. Accepted tests include IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and Cambridge certificates.
Minimum scores vary by test. Students should check official program guidelines before applying. Strong English skills are important for coursework and research writing.
How to Apply for the MARIHE Scholarship
The application process is online. Applicants must complete several steps carefully. Accuracy and honesty are essential.
Applicants begin by filling out the application form. They provide personal details and academic history. They must select the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship option during application.
Completing the Application Form
Applicants answer admission questions in the form. These questions assess motivation and academic background. Applicants must read the Declaration of Honor carefully.
After filling the form, applicants print it. They sign and date it by hand. The signed form is scanned and uploaded as a PDF.
Online Registration and Submission
Applicants must register online using their email address. They verify their account through an email link. After verification, they complete the full online application.
Applicants enter personal data, contact details, and education history. They select preferred specialization tracks. All required documents are uploaded before final submission.
Required Documents Checklist
Applicants must prepare several documents. These documents support academic and personal qualifications.
Documents include a completed application form, passport copy, CV, motivation letter, degree certificates, transcripts, English test results, two recommendation letters, and an essay.
Each document must meet format rules. Incomplete applications are not accepted.
Writing a Strong Motivation Letter
The motivation letter is a key part of the application. It explains why the applicant wants to join the program. It should link past studies with future goals.
Applicants should write clearly and honestly. They should explain interest in higher education systems. Personal goals should align with the program’s focus.
Importance of Recommendation Letters
Two recommendation letters are required. These letters should come from academic or professional referees.
Referees should know the applicant well. They should comment on academic ability, work ethic, and potential. Strong letters improve application strength.
Program Deadline and Timeline
The application deadline for the 2026–2028 intake is 23 November 2025. Late applications are not accepted.
Applicants should start early. Preparing documents and test scores takes time. Early submission reduces stress and errors.
Why This Scholarship Is Highly Competitive
The Erasmus Mundus MARIHE Scholarship is competitive. Many students apply from around the world. Selection is based on merit and motivation.
Academic records matter. Clear goals matter. Strong writing matters. Applicants must show readiness for international study and leadership roles.
Comparison With Other Fully Funded Scholarships
Unlike many scholarships, MARIHE offers mobility across continents. Students do not stay in one country. This makes the program unique.
The full funding package reduces financial barriers. Students from developing countries benefit greatly from this structure.
