Erasmus Mundus MARIHE Scholarship 2026 is now open for applications from international students seeking a fully funded opportunity to advance their careers in higher education, research, and innovation. This prestigious program, funded by the European Union, covers tuition fees, accommodation, living stipends, travel, and visa expenses, making it an excellent chance for students worldwide to gain advanced expertise while experiencing Europe’s vibrant academic environment.
The MARIHE program aims to develop a professional workforce capable of strategic and responsible leadership in higher education institutions. It promotes European values such as democracy, human rights, and public accountability, while also fostering equity, diversity, and inclusivity. By supporting innovation, the green and digital transition of universities, and the cohesion of the European higher education ecosystem, MARIHE equips graduates with the skills to lead transformative initiatives in higher education globally.
Benefits
The Erasmus Mundus MARIHE Scholarship 2026 offers the following benefits;
- The scholarship will be a contribution to the costs incurred by the beneficiary students and shall cover travel, visa, installation and subsistence costs.
- The Erasmus Mundus scholarship is calculated as: EUR 1 400/month x duration of the Master programme (in months).
- The scholarship is awarded for full-time enrolment, and will cover the entire duration of the Master programme (max. 24 months).
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the MARIHE Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2026, you must:
- Hold at least a Bachelor’s degree issued by a university, quantified as three years of full-time studies corresponding to 180 ECTS.
- Show strong motivation and interest to learn and work in the field of development and management of research and innovation in higher education.
- Have sufficient knowledge of English for academic purposes.
- Work experience is not an admission requirement; however, it can be a strong advantage, especially if gained while working for higher education institutions.
Required Documents for Erasmus Mundus MARIHE Scholarship 2026
To apply, candidates must be ready to submit the following documents;
- Application Form
- Copy of passport / personal identification card
- CV
- University diplomas/degree certificates from prior university studies
- Letter of Motivation
- Transcripts of records
- Two letters of recommendation
- Proof of proficiency in English language
- Scholarship Essay/Video
Participating Universities
The consortium includes:
- Danube University Krems/Austria (coordinator),
- University of Tampere/Finland,
- Beijing Normal University/China,
- Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences/Germany,
- Eötvös Loránd University/Hungary, and
- Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology (deemed to be University)/India.
How to Apply?
- Visit the MARIHE application portal and create your account. Fill in your personal information accurately.
- Upload all required application documents and submit your application for the first step. You will receive an acknowledgement email confirming receipt.
- Your application will be checked for eligibility. You will be notified by email whether your application is eligible or rejected due to missing documents or unmet admission requirements.
- Eligible applications are reviewed by the MARIHE Consortium according to assessment criteria. Shortlisted applicants are invited to complete the second application step.
- If shortlisted, upload the additional required document for the second step. Applications not shortlisted will be rejected.
- The MARIHE Admission Board conducts a second review and selects candidates for program intake. You will be informed of your placement: scholarship main list, scholarship reserve list, self-funded main list, self-funded reserve list, or rejection.
- Successful candidates on the main list will be offered a study place and Erasmus Mundus scholarship (if applicable). You must submit any further required documents, such as legalized degree certificates, to complete the admission process. Late or incomplete submissions may result in withdrawal of the study place offer.
- Applicants have the right to file a complaint within 10 days of receiving the selection result if they believe there has been an error in applying the rules. Complaints must be typed, signed, and sent via registered mail or scanned email to [email protected], addressed to the MARIHE Secretariat at Danube University Krems, Austria.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Erasmus Mundus MARIHE Scholarship 2026 has a structured two-step application process. Applicants can apply even if their degree is pending, submit multiple applications, follow strict document guidelines, and understand exemptions, work experience, and accommodation rules.
Can I submit my final university degree diploma after the application deadline for the Erasmus Mundus MARIHE Scholarship 2026?
Yes, if you submit a “Statement on expected first university degree” by the regular deadline, you can later upload a scanned copy of your final diploma to complete your application and avoid delays while still being considered for the scholarship.
Is it possible to apply to more than one Erasmus Mundus joint programme?
Yes, applicants can apply for multiple Erasmus+ Erasmus Mundus courses. There is no official limit, allowing students to increase their chances of receiving a scholarship and finding the programme that best fits their academic and career goals.
Can I be exempted from providing an English proficiency test for the Erasmus Mundus MARIHE Scholarship 2026?
Applicants with degrees or secondary education completed in English in certain countries like the UK, US, Australia, Canada, Ireland, or New Zealand may be exempted from TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge tests if they meet the residence and study requirements.
What are the formal requirements for letters of recommendation?
Letters must be scanned copies of original typed and signed letters including the referee’s contact and signature. Digitally signed letters are accepted, but signatures as graphics are not. Submit two letters merged as one PDF through the application portal only.
Is work experience required to apply to the Erasmus Mundus MARIHE Scholarship 2026?
Work experience is not required but can strengthen your application, especially if related to higher education. Include it in your CV and submit an employer letter describing your role and responsibilities to help reviewers understand your professional background.
Do I need a first university degree in a specific subject to apply?
No, MARIHE requires at least a Bachelor’s degree from any field, equivalent to 180 ECTS. The focus is on your motivation, previous education, and potential contributions to higher education rather than the specific subject or academic discipline of your degree.
Will MARIHE Consortium provide accommodation for students?
Students are responsible for arranging accommodation. MARIHE can provide information or contacts, but participants cover all costs and sign contracts directly. During internships, host institutions may assist, but the consortium is not involved in rental agreements.
When will I receive the results of my Erasmus Mundus MARIHE Scholarship 2026 application?
After the first review, you are notified if shortlisted for a scholarship, self-funded, or rejected. The second review determines placement on main or reserve lists. Final notifications typically happen in February or March of the intake year, so monitor your email closely.
Can I submit digitally signed recommendation letters?
Yes, digitally or electronically signed letters are accepted if they include the referee’s contact details. Signatures as graphics are not allowed. Merge the two letters into a single PDF and submit through the portal while following all formal requirements to avoid rejection.
What happens if I am shortlisted for the Erasmus Mundus MARIHE Scholarship 2026?
Shortlisted applicants must submit one additional document for the second step. Successful candidates receive a study place and scholarship offer, but timely submission of required documents like legalized degrees is mandatory to secure admission and the Erasmus Mundus scholarship.
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