Apply for Erasmus+ Grant 2026/2027. Get full funding to study in Europe. Covers tuition, €1400 monthly stipend, travel & visa. Eligibility, deadlines, and official application links for African students.
If you’ve ever dreamed of studying in Europe without paying huge tuition fees, then the Erasmus+ Grant 2026 is the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
In addition to covering tuition, Erasmus+ also provides monthly stipends, travel support, and health insurance. As a result, thousands of students from Africa, Asia, and around the world use this program every year to study, train, and gain international experience.
Furthermore, Erasmus+ is not just for Europeans anymore. Since 2014, the program has opened up to partner countries — including Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, and many others.
Therefore, in this guide, we will break down everything you need to know about the Erasmus+ Grant 2026/2027: what it is, who can apply, types of grants, benefits, eligibility, required documents, application process, deadlines, and official links.
Let’s dive in.
What is the Erasmus+ Grant 2026?
The Erasmus+ Programme is the European Union’s flagship funding program for education, training, youth, and sport.
Moreover, “Erasmus+” combines the old Erasmus student exchange program with other EU programs. Consequently, it now supports student mobility, staff exchanges, internships, and joint master degrees.
However, the most popular part of Erasmus+ for international students is the Erasmus+ Grant for Mobility and Joint Master Degrees.
Specifically, the grant helps cover:
1. Tuition fees for study periods abroad
2. Monthly living allowance of €800 – €1200
3. Travel support of €275 – €1500 depending on distance
4. Visa and insurance support
According to the official EU website, over 10 million people have benefited from Erasmus since 1987. https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/
Types of Erasmus+ Grants Available in 2026/2027
There are 3 main ways to benefit from an Erasmus+ Grant as a non-EU student.
1. Erasmus+ Student Mobility: ICM – International Credit Mobility
This is the most common route for African students.
Under ICM, you can spend 3 to 12 months studying at a European university as part of your degree back home.
In addition, you must apply through your home university. Your university must already have an Erasmus+ agreement with a European university.
Key benefits:
– Grant covers tuition waiver at host university
– Monthly stipend: €850/month for living costs
– Travel grant: €275 to €1500 one-time payment
– No tuition fees at the European university
2. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters – EMJM
This is a fully funded Masters degree program.
With EMJM, you study in at least 2 different European countries and graduate with a joint or double degree.
Moreover, this is the most competitive and fully funded Erasmus+ grant. It covers 2 years of Masters study.
Key benefits:
– Full tuition fees
– Monthly stipend: €1400/month for 24 months
– Travel and installation costs
– Insurance
You can browse all EMJM courses here: https://www.eacea.ec.europa.eu/scholarships/erasmus-mundus-catalogue_en
3. Erasmus+ Traineeship and Staff Mobility
Besides students, staff and graduates can also apply.
For example, recent graduates can do a 2-12 month internship in a European company. Staff can also teach or train in Europe for 5 days to 2 months.
Who Can Apply for Erasmus+ Grant 2026/2027?
The good news is that Erasmus+ is open to both EU and Partner Country students. Nigeria and most African countries are Partner Countries.
To be eligible, you must meet the following:
General Eligibility Criteria:
1. Nationality: Be a citizen of an eligible country. All African countries are eligible.
2. Academic Level: Be enrolled in Bachelor, Master, or PhD at a recognized institution.
3. Academic Merit: Have good grades. Minimum 2:1 or 3.0/4.0 GPA for most programs.
4. Language: Prove English proficiency. IELTS 6.0, TOEFL 80, or Duolingo accepted by most universities.
5. Selection: Be selected by your home university for ICM. Or apply directly to an EMJM program.
However, each university and program sets its own specific requirements. Therefore, always check the official call.
Erasmus+ Grant 2026 Benefits
Many people ask: How much money does Erasmus+ give?
The answer depends on the country and program. Nevertheless, here is the 2026 breakdown based on EU guidelines:
Benefit
ICM Student – Mobility
Erasmus Mundus – Joint Master
Monthly Stipend
ICM – €850/month
Erasmus Mundus – €1400/month
Travel Grant
ICM – €275 – €1500
Erasmus Mundus – €700 – €3000
Tuition Fees
ICM – Waived at host university Erasmus Mundus – Fully covered
Insurance
ICM – Covered
Erasmus Mundus – Covered
Visa Support
ICM – Yes
Erasmus Mundus – Yes
In addition to money, you also get:
– International academic experience
– Cultural exposure
– Strong CV boost for jobs
– Access to Erasmus Alumni network: https://erasmus-networks.ec.europa.eu/erasmus-student-alumni/esaa
Required Documents for Erasmus+ Grant 2026 Application
To apply successfully, you need to prepare these documents early.
First, scan and keep both PDF and JPG copies.
1. Academic Transcript: From your current university
2. Degree Certificate: If applying for Masters
3. CV: Europass format is preferred. Create it here: https://europass.europa.eu/en/create-europass-cv
4. Motivation Letter: 500-800 words explaining why you deserve the grant
5. Proof of English: IELTS, TOEFL, or Medium of Instruction letter
6. Passport Copy: Valid for at least 18 months
7. Recommendation Letters: 2 academic references
8. Research Proposal: Only for PhD applicants
Tip: Use active voice in your motivation letter. Instead of “I was interested”, write “I am passionate about”.
How to Apply for Erasmus+ Grant 2026/2027 Step by Step Guide
The application process depends on which type you choose. Use the following steps:
1: Choose Your Erasmus+ Grant 2026 Path
Decide if you want ICM Mobility or Erasmus Mundus Joint Master.
If you want ICM, contact your university’s International Office. Ask if they have Erasmus+ agreements.
For EMJM, go directly to the catalogue and pick 3 programs.
2: Check Erasmus + Grant 2026 Deadlines
Most Erasmus+ calls open between October and January for the next academic year.
However, EMJM programs each have different deadlines, mostly between October and February for the next academic year.
Check deadlines here: https://www.eacea.ec.europa.eu/scholarships/erasmus-mundus-catalogue_en
3: Prepare Your Erasmus + Grant 2026 Application
Gather all documents listed above. Tailor your motivation letter to each program.
Furthermore, get your referees to write strong letters 1 month before the deadline.
4: Submit Your Erasmus + Grant 2026 Application
For EMJM: Apply directly on the program’s website. Each program has its own portal.
ICM: Apply through your home university portal.
Official application portal for all EU programs: https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/resources-and-tools/how-to-apply?pk_source=website&pk_medium=link&pk_campaign=hp&pk_content=hp-cta-apply
5: Interview and Selection
If shortlisted, you may be invited for an online interview in March-April.
After that, successful candidates are announced by May-June.
Erasmus+ Grant 2026 Deadlines
Although deadlines vary, here are the key dates to note:
– Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters: Usually around October – February yearly.
– ICM Mobility through Universities: November – March the following year.
– Traineeships: Rolling, but apply 6 months before the start date.
Important: Late applications are not accepted. Therefore, start 8 months early.
Top Tips to Win an Erasmus+ Grant 2026
Competition is high, especially for Africans. However, you can stand out by doing this:
1. Start Early: Begin preparing in June-July.
2. Strong Motivation Letter: Connect your studies to development in Africa if applying from Africa focusing on your home country. Do the same if you are applying from other continents.
3. Choose Relevant Programs: Pick courses that align with your background.
4. Good Academics: Aim for First Class or 2:1 minimum.
5. Volunteer Experience: Erasmus loves applicants with community impact.
6. Apply to 3+ Programs: Don’t put all eggs in one basket.
Additionally, join Erasmus Facebook groups to connect with past scholars.
Frequently Asked Questions And Answers About Erasmus+ Grant 2026
Is Erasmus+ Grant 2026 fully funded?
Yes. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters is fully funded. ICM covers tuition, stipend, and travel.
Can Nigerians apply for Erasmus+ Grant 2026?
Yes. Nigeria is an eligible Partner Country. Many Nigerians have won the grant.
Do I need IELTS for Erasmus+ Grant 2026?
Most universities require it. However, some accept a Medium of Instruction letter.
Can I work while on Erasmus+ Grant 2026?
Yes. You can work part-time up to 20 hours per week in most EU countries.
What is the age limit for Me Erasmus + Grant 2026?
There is no official age limit. However, most scholars are 20-35 years old.
Official Links You Need for Erasmus+ Grant 2026/2027
Here are the only official websites you should use:
1. Main Erasmus+ EU Website: https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/
2. Erasmus Mundus Catalogue: https://www.eacea.ec.europa.eu/scholarships/erasmus-mundus-catalogue_en
3. EU application Portal: https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/resources-and-tools/how-to-apply?pk_source=website&pk_medium=link&pk_campaign=hp&pk_content=hp-cta-apply
4. Erasmus+ Alumni Network: https://erasmus-networks.ec.europa.eu/erasmus-student-alumni/esaa
Beware of fake agents or websites asking you for application fees. The application is always free.
Final Thoughts on Erasmus + Grant 2026/2027
In conclusion, the Erasmus+ Grant 2026/2027 is one of the best ways for African students to study in Europe for free.
Because it covers tuition, living costs, and travel, it removes the biggest barrier to international education.
Moreover, with proper preparation and early application, you can increase your chances of success.
Start today. Research programs, contact your international office, and draft your motivation letter.
Your European education experience should start with this application.
Good luck with your application.
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