Check out the application procedure, application materials and benefits of the Mundus MAPP scholarship programme for 2026.
Are you an aspiring policy analyst, a future diplomat, or a change-maker with a passion for global governance? The Erasmus Mundus Masters Program in Public Policy (Mundus MAPP) is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity designed for you.
With applications for the 2026-2028 cohort now open, this is your chance to gain an unparalleled education across Europe’s top universities and launch a career that tackles some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
What is Mundus MAPP?
Mundus MAPP is a two-year, joint international master’s programme funded by the European Union’s Erasmus+ action. It’s not just a master’s degree; it’s an immersive, cross-cultural experience.
The program is a collaborative effort between four leading European institutions, and it’s meticulously designed to provide you with the conceptual knowledge and practical skills needed to navigate a complex global landscape.
By studying at multiple universities, you’ll gain diverse perspectives on public policy, from European governance to development economics. This unique mobility structure is a cornerstone of the programme, fostering a deep understanding of transnational policy-making from multiple angles.
The Consortium: A Network of Academic Excellence
The program is a joint venture between four esteemed universities, each offering a distinct specialization. Your mobility track will determine which two of these institutions you’ll study at:
- Central European University (CEU PU) in Vienna, Austria
- The International Institute of Social Studies (ISS) of Erasmus University Rotterdam in The Hague, Netherlands
- Institut Barcelona d’Estudis Internacionals (IBEI) in Barcelona, Spain
- The University of York in York, UK
This consortium provides a rich and varied academic environment. The first year is spent at either CEU or ISS, followed by a second year at IBEI or the University of York, depending on your chosen specialization track.
The Four Specialization Tracks
Mundus MAPP offers four distinct mobility tracks, allowing you to tailor your studies to your specific career aspirations. When you apply, you must choose one of the following specializations:
- CEU PU – IBEI Track: Global Public Policy. This track focuses on the international and global policy process, with an emphasis on the design and operation of international organizations and global policy regimes.
- CEU PU – University of York Track: European Public Policy. This specialization delves into policy analysis and problem-solving within the European Union and its member states, making it ideal for those interested in European governance.
- ISS – IBEI Track: Political Economy and Development. This path deepens your knowledge of political economy and development, preparing you to critically analyze global issues.
- ISS – University of York Track: Governance and Development. This track is for students who want to specialize in public policy within the context of developing countries, focusing on topics like state capacity and public sector reform.
Each track includes core courses in research methods, policy analysis, and economics, ensuring a strong foundation, while the second-year courses are more specialised.
The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship: Unlocking Your Future
A major draw of the Mundus MAPP program is the highly competitive, fully-funded Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJM) Scholarship. This scholarship is a game-changer, covering everything you need to study and live comfortably in Europe.
What the scholarship includes:
- Full tuition fees
- A monthly living stipend of €1,400 for the entire 24-month duration, totaling up to €33,600.
- A contribution towards travel, visa, and installation costs.
- Full health and accident insurance coverage.
The selection process is based on merit, emphasizing your academic excellence, motivation, and professional experience. Successful applicants are typically the best-ranked students worldwide.
Application Requirements and Key Deadlines for 2026
Applying to Mundus MAPP is a centralized process managed by Central European University (CEU). You cannot apply directly to the other partner universities. The application period for the 2026-2028 cohort is now officially open, with key deadlines to keep in mind:
- Application Platform: The online platform is open from mid-October to January of the following year.
- Scholarship Deadline: The deadline to apply for the EMJM scholarship is typically in December.
- Self-Funded Deadlines: Later deadlines are available for applicants who do not require a scholarship, usually in April for non-EU/EEA applicants and July for EU/EEA applicants.
To apply, you’ll need to prepare a comprehensive application package. This is a highly competitive process, so make sure all your documents are in order.
Required Documents:
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent (at least 180 ECTS credits).
- Official academic transcripts and degree certificates.
- Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS).
- A compelling statement of purpose or motivation letter.
- An up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Two letters of recommendation.
- A copy of your passport or national ID.
The joint admission committee evaluates applications based on a scoring system, with academic excellence, motivation, and professional experience all carrying significant weight.
A Global Career Awaits
Graduates of Mundus MAPP are highly sought after by a wide range of organisations. The programme’s blend of academic rigor and practical experience—including internships and policy labs—prepares you for leadership roles in various sectors.
Potential career paths for Mundus MAPP alumni include:
- International organizations (e.g., the UN, EU, World Bank, OECD)
- Government ministries and public agencies
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- Policy think tanks and research institutes
- Further academic studies at the PhD level
With its unique curriculum, international mobility, and generous scholarships, the Mundus MAPP program is more than just a master’s degree—it’s a transformative journey that equips you to make a tangible difference on the global stage. If you’re ready to take on the world’s most complex challenges, this programme is your perfect starting point.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information publicly available as of late 2025 and projections for the 2026 academic year. Specific deadlines and programme details should always be verified on the official Mundus MAPP and consortium university websites.
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