Erasmus Mundus MESPOM Scholarship 2027: Fully Funded Master’s in Europe

Applications are now open for the Erasmus Mundus MESPOM Scholarship 2027 for students seeking to pursue a Master’s degree in environmental sciences, policy and management at several European universities.

The Master’s in Environmental Sciences, Policy and Management (MESPOM) is a two-year Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programme designed for students who are interested in addressing complex environmental and sustainability challenges.

Students study at multiple universities in Austria, Greece, Sweden and the United Kingdom. Moreover, applicants from all countries are welcome to apply.

For students seeking financial support, MESPOM offers financial aid opportunities to outstanding applicants. The deadline for candidates seeking financial aid is 7 January 2027 at 23:59 Central European Time (CET).

This guide explains the MESPOM 2027–2029 programme, eligibility requirements, academic backgrounds, English-language requirements, mobility structure, application documents, selection process, deadlines and how to apply. Pasted markdown

Erasmus Mundus MESPOM Scholarship 2027 Overview

What Is the Erasmus Mundus MESPOM Programme?

MESPOM stands for a Master’s in Environmental Sciences, Policy and Management.

Since 2005, the programme has trained students to identify, analyse and develop solutions to complex environmental sustainability challenges. In particular, MESPOM integrates environmental science with policy, management, and interdisciplinary approaches.

Four leading European universities operate the programme:

• Central European University (CEU), Austria
• University of the Aegean, Greece
• Lund University, Sweden
• University of Manchester, United Kingdom

In addition, MESPOM works with 11 associated partners across nine countries and four continents.

More than 630 students from over 70 countries joined MESPOM between 2005 and 2026. Therefore, the programme offers a highly international learning environment. Pasted markdown

Why Study Environmental Sciences, Policy and Management?

Environmental challenges rarely belong to one academic discipline.

Climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, energy transitions, sustainable production, environmental justice and natural-resource management involve science, economics, politics, law and management.

For this reason, MESPOM takes a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary approach.

Students develop the ability to combine theory with practical environmental problem-solving. Furthermore, the programme provides opportunities to develop research, communication and professional skills.

Students also interact with professionals working in business, government, academia and non-profit organisations.

MESPOM Scholarship and Financial Support

MESPOM offers different forms of financial assistance to outstanding students.

These may include Erasmus Mundus funding, living support and partial tuition-fee waivers, depending on the funding scheme for which a student is selected.

Applicants seeking financial assistance must submit their complete application by the financial-aid deadline of 7 January 2027.

Because different forms of financial assistance may have different coverage, applicants should carefully review the funding attached to their individual admission or scholarship offer. Pasted markdown

Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Funding

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master scholarships are intended to support highly ranked students who are participating in eligible joint Master’s programmes.

Under the Erasmus Mundus funding framework, scholarship support can contribute to participation costs and provide financial support for expenses associated with studying internationally.

However, MESPOM also offers other forms of financial assistance. Therefore, applicants should not assume that every form of MESPOM financial aid provides identical benefits.

The exact funding awarded to an applicant should always be confirmed in the official scholarship or admission offer.

Who Can Apply for MESPOM 2027?

MESPOM accepts applications from candidates from all countries.

Applicants must have completed a first university degree equivalent to a bachelor’s degree, which involved at least three years of full-time study at a recognised university or higher education institution.

Alternatively, students completing their first degree may apply if they can show they will obtain it before enrolling in MESPOM.

MESPOM Minimum GPA Requirement

One of the most important eligibility requirements is the academic threshold.

MESPOM requires applicants to have a minimum Bachelor’s GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.

Applicants whose GPA is below 3.5 are officially ineligible for the programme.

Importantly, MESPOM uses the relevant GPA from the applicant’s bachelor’s degree. A higher GPA obtained during a subsequent master’s degree does not replace a bachelor’s GPA that is below the programme requirement.

Applicants whose universities use another grading system must convert their results to the 4.0 scale when completing the application.

Therefore, candidates should confirm that they meet this requirement before investing significant time in preparing an application. Pasted markdown

Eligible Academic Backgrounds

MESPOM primarily targets applicants with academic backgrounds related to environmental studies.

However, eligibility is considerably broader than environmental science alone.

Relevant backgrounds may include:

• Environmental Science
• Environmental Studies
• Environmental Management
• Environmental Policy
• Sustainability
• Agricultural Sciences
• Natural Sciences
• Engineering
• Economics
• Social Sciences
• Legal Studies
• Administrative Studies
• Management
• Other related disciplines

Candidates whose first degree is not directly environmental may still be considered.

Nevertheless, such applicants should demonstrate a clear commitment to environmental challenges. This commitment may come from professional employment, volunteering, internships, research, training or other relevant activities. Pasted markdown

Can Agriculture Graduates Apply?

Yes.

The official eligibility requirements specifically identify agricultural studies among the backgrounds that may be considered.

Therefore, graduates of agriculture, agricultural science and related disciplines can be suitable candidates, particularly where their academic or professional interests connect with sustainability and environmental challenges.

If your interests are more specifically connected with plant science, crop protection, horticulture or sustainable cropping systems, you should also explore the Erasmus Mundus PlantHealth Scholarship 2027.

Can Engineering Graduates Apply?

Yes.

Engineering graduates are also among the groups that MESPOM may consider.

However, applicants should clearly explain how their engineering background connects with environmental sustainability and why MESPOM fits their future academic or professional goals.

Can Economics and Social Science Graduates Apply?

Yes.

Applicants from economics and social sciences can also be considered.

Again, demonstrating genuine engagement with environmental issues becomes particularly important where the previous degree was not primarily environmental.

For example, relevant interests could involve environmental economics, climate policy, sustainable development, energy policy, environmental governance or resource management.

Applicants whose interests extend to global markets, development, international business, economic change and globalisation may also consider the GLOCAL Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2027.

Can Law Graduates Apply?

Yes.

The official requirements also identify legal and administrative studies as potentially eligible academic backgrounds.

Consequently, applicants interested in environmental law, environmental governance, climate policy, sustainability regulation or related areas may find MESPOM particularly relevant.

Law, political science, international relations and related social science graduates may also explore the Erasmus Mundus ILSPSD Scholarship 2027, which focuses on international law, security, peace and sustainable development.

Can Final-Year Bachelor’s Students Apply?

Yes.

Applicants who have not yet formally received their bachelor’s degree can apply, provided they can demonstrate that they will complete the required first degree before enrolling in MESPOM.

However, admitted students must later provide the required final academic documentation.

For the 2027 intake, official academic documents required for enrolment must be provided according to CEU’s enrolment procedures, with the programme currently indicating 31 July 2027 as the latest date for the relevant documents.

MESPOM English Language Requirements

MESPOM is taught entirely in English. Therefore, applicants must demonstrate sufficient English-language proficiency.

Several recognised tests are accepted.

However, applicants considering the University of Manchester mobility track must pay particular attention to additional requirements.

For Manchester, the TOEFL iBT generally requires an overall score of 90, with no sub-test below 20, while the IELTS Academic requires an overall score of 6.5, with no component below 6.0.

Likewise, Manchester has additional restrictions concerning some tests and test formats.

For example, the Duolingo English Test is not suitable for satisfying the Manchester requirement when students proceed to the UK.

Therefore, applicants interested in the Manchester track should verify Manchester’s requirements before choosing an English test. Pasted markdown

Can You Apply Without IELTS?

Potentially, yes.

MESPOM does not make IELTS the only method of proving English proficiency.

Applicants whose first language is English will normally be exempt when applying to CEU. Moreover, candidates who completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree taught exclusively in English may request an exemption.

However, the exemption is not automatic.

Applicants must include a written exemption request in their application, and the MESPOM admissions committee decides whether to approve it.

Furthermore, an exemption accepted for initial MESPOM admission may not necessarily satisfy the University of Manchester’s later requirements.

Therefore, it would be misleading to describe MESPOM simply as a “No IELTS Required” scholarship.

MESPOM Partner Universities

This mobility structure allows students to experience different academic systems and environmental perspectives.

MESPOM Programme Structure

The MESPOM programme comprises 120 ECTS credits, which students complete over 24 months.

Rather than studying at one institution for the entire degree, students move through several consortium universities.

First Year: Central European University, Austria

Students begin at Central European University in Vienna.

The fall and winter terms include an introductory module followed by advanced elective courses covering contemporary environmental sustainability challenges and cross-cutting professional competencies.

Spring Term: University of the Aegean, Greece

Students subsequently move to the University of the Aegean in Lesvos, Greece.

Here, the programme focuses on environmental science topics, including:

• Land management
• Water management
• Ecosystem management
• Sustainable tourism

Therefore, students combine policy and management perspectives with environmental science.

Summer Internship

After the first-year academic components, students undertake an internship.

Internships are supervised by MESPOM faculty and may be hosted by associated partners or other organisations.

This component provides practical exposure and allows students to apply their academic knowledge in professional environments.

Second Year: Lund or Manchester

During the fall term of the second year, students follow one of two principal mobility tracks.

At Lund University in Sweden, students study at the International Institute for Industrial Environmental Economics and focus on environment, industry and products.

Alternatively, students can study at the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom, focusing on environment and pollution control.

Applicants can apply for either track or both.

When applying for both, candidates should clearly indicate their preferred track in their statement of purpose.

Final Thesis Semester

During the fourth and final term, students complete their thesis.

The thesis can be undertaken at a consortium partner according to the student’s academic interests and professional objectives.

Topics Covered by MESPOM

Throughout the programme, students can engage with contemporary environmental issues, including:

• Sustainable energy
• Climate change
• Biodiversity
• Conservation
• Urban sustainability
• Sustainable consumption
• Sustainable production
• Environmental security
• Environmental justice
• Ecosystem management
• Pollution control
• Environmental policy and management

As a result, the programme appeals to applicants interested in both scientific and policy-orientated approaches to sustainability.

Required Documents for MESPOM 2027

Applicants should prepare their documents carefully before submitting the online application.

Important application materials include:

• Completed online application form
• Bachelor’s degree transcript
• Bachelor’s diploma or appropriate current academic documentation
• Curriculum vitae or résumé
• Statement of purpose/career goals essay
• Two recommendation letters
• Proof of English-language proficiency or appropriate exemption request
• Other information required through the CEU application system

Selected candidates will later be asked to provide proof of residency. Pasted markdown

MESPOM Statement of Purpose

The MESPOM statement is particularly important because admission is based not only on academic performance but also on motivation and previous experience.

Applicants must submit a statement or career goals essay of no more than 350 words.

The statement should address:

• The origin of the applicant’s interest in environmental issues
• How the applicant expects to benefit from MESPOM
• The applicant’s future career plans
• Relevant special interests

With only 350 words available, applicants should avoid generic statements.

Instead, every paragraph should help demonstrate the connection between previous experience, environmental interests, MESPOM and future career objectives.

MESPOM Recommendation Letters

Applicants need two recommendation letters.

Referees should be people familiar with the applicant’s academic or professional capabilities and character. Therefore, suitable referees may include university lecturers, professors, research supervisors or professional supervisors.

Normally, applicants enter their referees’ contact details into the online application system. The system then contacts the referees directly.

Importantly, referees receive seven days after the applicant submits the application to submit their recommendation letters.

This period can extend beyond the January 7 deadline when the candidate submits on the final application day.

Nevertheless, applicants should contact referees well in advance.

Is There an Application Fee?

Applicants applying only to MESPOM do not need to pay the CEU application fee.

However, this exemption applies only if the applicant is not also applying to other CEU programmes.

MESPOM Selection Criteria

Admission to MESPOM is highly competitive.

The official call states that selection will take into account:

• Academic and intellectual excellence
• Motivation
• Previous experience
• Fulfilment of eligibility requirements
• Relevance of the applicant’s academic and professional background

Additionally, MESPOM seeks diversity in both geographical and disciplinary backgrounds.

Consequently, simply meeting the minimum GPA does not guarantee admission or financial support.

A competitive applicant should demonstrate a convincing relationship between previous education, environmental engagement, the MESPOM curriculum and future objectives.

Does MESPOM Conduct Interviews?

Not necessarily.

Interviews are not an obligatory part of the MESPOM admission process.

Reviewers may request an interview when they need to clarify or supplement information contained in an application.

Therefore, whether or not you receive an interview invitation should not be interpreted as an indication of the final admission decision.

What Is the MESPOM Acceptance Rate?

The official 2027–2029 call does not provide a current acceptance rate.

What the programme states is that admission is highly competitive.

Moreover, MESPOM reports that it admitted more than 630 students from over 70 countries between 2005 and 2026.

However, without the total number of applications received during those years, it would be inaccurate to calculate an acceptance rate based on that figure.

Applicants should therefore focus on building a strong application rather than relying on unofficial acceptance-rate estimates.

Is There an Age Limit for MESPOM?

The official eligibility information for the 2027–2029 call does not state a general age limit.

Instead, selection focuses primarily on academic qualifications, English proficiency, motivation, relevant experience and overall suitability for the programme.

How to Apply for the Erasmus Mundus MESPOM Scholarship 2027

Central European University manages applications on behalf of the MESPOM Consortium.

First, applicants should confirm that they satisfy the minimum academic and English-language requirements.

Next, you should prepare your academic documents, CV, statement of purpose, and any other required materials.

Applicants should then identify two suitable referees and provide their details in the application system.

Afterwards, complete the CEU online application and indicate your preferred mobility track.

Candidates can apply for the Lund track, Manchester track or both. Those selecting both should explain their preference in their statement of purpose.

Finally, ensure that the complete application is submitted before the deadline corresponding to your funding and immigration circumstances.

MESPOM 2027 Application Deadlines

MESPOM has different deadlines depending on whether an applicant requires financial assistance or intends to self-finance.

Applicants seeking a scholarship or other financial assistance should therefore treat 7 January 2027 as the key deadline. Pasted markdown

MESPOM 2027 Admission Timeline

Applicants should monitor their online Applicant Portal throughout the selection period.

What Happens After Admission?

Successful students must complete the required acceptance procedures.

This includes returning the signed Acceptance Form, fulfilling any applicable deposit requirements and providing official academic records before enrolment.

For accepted students, the programme requires them to submit the necessary official academic documents by 31 July 2027 at the latest.

Career Opportunities After MESPOM

MESPOM graduates have pursued careers across multiple sectors.

Alumni work in:

• Governments
• United Nations organisations
• Environmental organisations
• Non-governmental organisations
• Universities and research institutions
• Private companies
• Sustainability and environmental consulting
• Environmental policy
• Industry
• International organisations

Some graduates also pursue PhD programmes.

Therefore, MESPOM can be relevant both to applicants seeking professional environmental careers and those interested in research.

Why MESPOM Is Worth Considering

MESPOM offers more than a conventional master’s degree at a single university.

Students experience several European academic environments, complete professional training and combine environmental science with policy and management.

Furthermore, the programme’s interdisciplinary structure makes it accessible to applicants from a range of academic backgrounds.

The combination of CEU, the University of the Aegean, Lund University and the University of Manchester also exposes students to Austrian, Mediterranean, Scandinavian and British approaches to environmental sustainability.

Tips for a Competitive MESPOM Application

Meeting the 3.5 GPA requirement is only the starting point.

Applicants should demonstrate a clear history of interest in environmental challenges. This evidence can come from academic research, employment, internships, volunteering, community projects or relevant training.

In addition, the 350-word statement should explain why MESPOM specifically fits the applicant’s goals. Avoid writing a generic environmental scholarship essay that could be submitted to any university.

Applicants from Economics, Law, Engineering, Social Sciences, Agriculture or Management should make the connection between their previous discipline and environmental sustainability particularly clear.

Finally, choose referees who can provide specific evidence of your academic ability, professional potential and readiness for graduate-level study.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Erasmus Mundus MESPOM Scholarship 2027 open?

Yes. The official MESPOM website states that the online application for the 2027–2029 intake has opened.

What is the MESPOM scholarship deadline for 2027?

Applicants who want to be considered for financial aid must submit their applications by 7 January 2027 at 23:59 CET.

What GPA do I need for MESPOM?

MESPOM requires a minimum Bachelor’s GPA of 3.5/4.0.

Can I apply with a GPA below 3.5?

No. The official eligibility criteria state that applicants below the 3.5 minimum GPA are not eligible.

Can final-year students apply?

Yes, provided they complete the qualifying bachelor’s degree before enrolling and later provide the required official academic documents.

Do I need IELTS?

Not necessarily. MESPOM accepts several recognised English tests. Applicants whose qualifying education was taught exclusively in English may also request an exemption. However, exemptions are discretionary, and Manchester has additional requirements.

Does MESPOM accept Duolingo?

Yes. MESPOM lists a minimum Duolingo English Test score of 125. However, Duolingo is not suitable for the Manchester track when students proceed to the UK.

How many recommendation letters are required?

Applicants must provide two recommendation letters.

How long should the MESPOM statement of purpose be?

The career-goals statement must be a maximum of 350 words.

Is there an application fee?

Applicants applying only to MESPOM do not need to pay the CEU application fee.

Can applicants from Africa apply?

Yes. MESPOM accepts applicants from all countries, as long as they meet the programme requirements.

Can economics, engineering, law or agriculture graduates apply?

Yes. These backgrounds are explicitly considered. Applicants should demonstrate how their previous education or experience connects with environmental challenges.

How many countries will I study in?

MESPOM students study at several consortium institutions. The programme begins in Austria, continues in Greece and subsequently includes study in either Sweden or the United Kingdom, with the final thesis hosted according to the programme structure and the student’s interests.

Other Erasmus Mundus Scholarships to Consider

MESPOM is only one of several Erasmus Mundus opportunities available for the 2027 intake. Depending on your academic background and career interests, you may also find other programmes that are a better fit for you.

For example, students interested in global markets, international business and economics can consider the GLOCAL Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2027. Those from Agriculture, Plant Science and related fields may explore the Erasmus Mundus PlantHealth Scholarship 2027, while applicants from Law, International Relations, Political Science and related Social Sciences can consider the Erasmus Mundus ILSPSD Scholarship 2027.

Beyond these programmes, two other opportunities worth exploring are:

Erasmus Mundus NOHA Scholarship 2027

The Erasmus Mundus NOHA Scholarship 2027 is particularly relevant to students interested in international humanitarian action, international development, conflict, migration, disaster management, public health and related fields.

The programme provides an interdisciplinary pathway for students who want to build careers in humanitarian organisations, international institutions, NGOs and related sectors.

Mundus MAPP Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2027

The Mundus MAPP Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2027 is another option for applicants interested in public policy, international development, governance, economics, political science and international affairs.

It is particularly worth considering for students whose academic and professional interests focus on analysing, designing and implementing public policy in an international environment.

Because each Erasmus Mundus programme has its own academic requirements, selection criteria, and application deadlines, applicants should carefully compare their qualifications and apply to programmes where their academic background and career goals are the best fit.

Final Thoughts

The Erasmus Mundus MESPOM 2027–2029 programme is a strong opportunity for students who want interdisciplinary training in environmental sciences, sustainability, policy and management while studying across Europe.

Its broad academic scope makes it relevant not only to environmental science graduates but also to suitable applicants from agriculture, engineering, economics, social sciences, law, management and natural sciences.

However, applicants should pay particular attention to the minimum 3.5/4.0 Bachelor’s GPA, English-language requirements and strict 350-word statement of purpose.

Most importantly, candidates seeking financial assistance should complete their applications well before 7 January 2027 at 23:59 CET.

Official Links

MESPOM Official Website:
https://mespom.eu/

MESPOM 2027–2029 Application and Admissions Information:
https://mespom.eu/admissions