You have probably heard about Erasmus. Maybe a friend went on exchange and came back with incredible stories. Maybe you saw photos of students studying in Paris, interning in Berlin, or exploring Prague. And you thought to yourself: that sounds amazing, but I am not from Europe. I probably cannot apply.
Here is the truth: many non-EU students can apply — depending on their university, programme, and eligibility.
The Erasmus+ programme is not limited to EU citizens. In 2026, thousands of non-EU students are studying across Europe with Erasmus funding. The European Commission officially confirms that individuals from non-EU countries can participate through opportunities like Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees or the international dimension of student exchange. The opportunities are real, the funding can be substantial, and the process is more straightforward than many assume.
This guide explains how it works, what kind of support is available, and how to apply.
What Exactly Is Erasmus+?
Erasmus+ is the European Union’s flagship programme for education, training, youth, and sport. It has been funding study visits and internships across Europe for over 35 years. The programme supports students to complete a period of study or training in another country.
For non-EU students, there are two main pathways:
- Erasmus+ KA131 – enables students to study in EU member states and associated countries like Iceland, Liechtenstein, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, and Turkey.
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees – specifically designed for international students from all over the world.
The programme has a significant budget. The Erasmus+ 2026 Programme Guide, published on 12 November 2025, outlines the funding available. A portion of this goes directly to student grants.
Can Non-EU Students Actually Get Erasmus Funding?
Yes. Students who are citizens of non-EU countries can receive an Erasmus place with funding, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
According to the official EU website, individuals from non-EU countries can participate through opportunities like Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees or through international exchange agreements if their home university takes part.
Key distinction:
- Students from associated non-EU countries (Iceland, Liechtenstein, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, Türkiye) can access most Erasmus+ opportunities.
- Students from other non-EU countries typically apply via Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees or through specific bilateral university agreements.
Some universities also have direct partnerships. For instance, the University of Bonn cooperates with non-European partner universities through the Erasmus+ worldwide scheme. If your home university has a similar agreement, you may be eligible.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
The funding is designed to cover a significant portion of your costs, though exact amounts depend on the programme, host country, and year.
For non-EU students, the Erasmus+ grant generally includes:
- A contribution for living costs
- A contribution for travel expenses
Living Costs
According to Erasmus+ scholarship guidelines for 2026/2027, the monthly living allowance for students from third countries not associated with the Programme is typically €700 per month. This amount may vary depending on the host country.
For students from Switzerland or the United Kingdom, the amount is usually €674 per month.
Travel Expenses
Students also receive a contribution for travel, calculated based on the distance between the home institution and the host university. Distance is measured “as the crow flies” using the European Commission’s distance calculator.
The travel allowance ranges based on distance:
| Distance | Standard Travel |
| 10–99 km | €28 |
| 100–499 km | €211 |
| 500–1999 km | €309 |
| 2000–2999 km | €395 |
| 3000–3999 km | €580 |
| 4000–7999 km | €1,188 |
| 8000+ km | €1,735 |
Extra Support for Students with Fewer Opportunities
Erasmus+ provides additional support to disadvantaged groups. You may be eligible for a monthly top-up if you belong to certain categories, such as:
- First-time university graduates
- Students with chronic illnesses
- Students with a disability
- Students with children
- Working students with limited income
How Much Can You Get in Total?
Total funding depends on the duration of your stay and your travel distance. Here is a realistic estimate:
- One semester (5 months):
- Living allowance: 5 × €700 = €3,500
- Travel (e.g., India to Europe ~6,000–7,000 km): approx. €1,188
- Total: ~€4,688
Full academic year (10 months):
- Full academic year (10 months):
- Living allowance: 10 × €700 = €7,000 + travel
- Total: ~€8,188+
For Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees, the scholarship is more generous — up to €1,400 per month for up to 24 months, covering tuition, living costs, and travel.
Note: These figures are indicative. Actual amounts may vary by programme, host country, and year.
How to Apply – Step by Step
The process varies slightly depending on the type of Erasmus programme. Below is a general outline based on university guidelines.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
- You must be a degree-seeking student at your home university.
- The exchange must be approved as part of your degree.
- You must have completed at least the first year of your bachelor’s degree.
- Minimum stay: 2 months | Maximum: 12 months per study level.
Step 2: Find an Erasmus Agreement
Your home university must have an Erasmus+ agreement with a European university in your subject area. Contact your International Office or Erasmus coordinator to find partner universities.
Step 3: Apply Through Your University
Most applications are submitted online via your home university. Deadlines vary by university. For example, University of Bonn deadlines are:
- May 31 – for the winter semester
- November 30 – for the summer semester
Step 4: Submit Required Documents
You will generally need:
- Academic transcripts
- Motivation letter
- Language proficiency certificates
- Learning agreement (signed by home and host universities)
Step 5: Receive Your Grant
If selected, you will receive a scholarship certificate. Typically, 70% is paid on departure and the rest on return.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees
This is the most prestigious and well-funded pathway for non-EU students. These are high-level integrated master’s programmes offered by international consortia of European universities.
The Erasmus Mundus Catalogue for 2026 has been released, featuring programmes in Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Renewable Energy, Neuroscience, and more.
Eligibility:
- You must hold a bachelor’s degree or be in your final year.
- You cannot have received a previous Erasmus Mundus scholarship.
- Open to students from all countries, including Pakistan, India, and other developing nations.
Scholarship Benefits:
- 100% tuition fee waiver
- Monthly stipend: approximately €1,400
- Travel and installation allowance
- Health insurance
- Study in 2–4 European countries
A full catalogue is available through the EACEA website.
Important Things to Know Before You Apply
Scholarships Are Not Guaranteed
Funding is competitive and limited. The scholarship is meant to cover additional costs related to the exchange — not all expenses. You may need to self-finance part of your stay.
You Cannot Combine EU Scholarships
During your Erasmus+ period, you cannot receive other EU-funded scholarships.
Maximum Duration Per Study Level
You can receive Erasmus+ grants for up to 12 months maximum per cycle (bachelor, master, doctoral).
You Can Go Without a Scholarship
Even without funding, you may still participate as an Erasmus+ student, with full status and privileges.
Visa Requirements
Students without EU citizenship should note that a visa may be required. Apply early.
Scholarship Amounts Vary by Destination
For exchange studies in different European countries, the monthly scholarship amount varies. For example, for spring 2026, students in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, and other Group 1 countries receive approximately €580 per month, while students in Croatia, Czech Republic, Greece, and other Group 2 countries receive approximately €530 per month.
Practical Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early – many deadlines fall between October and February.
- Check with your university first – your International Office is your best guide.
- Apply to multiple programmes – Erasmus+ is competitive.
- Prepare documents in advance – transcripts, language proof, and motivation letters.
- Check the Erasmus Mundus Catalogue – explore all available programmes for 2026.
- Consider green travel – sustainable travel (bus, train) may qualify for a higher travel allowance.
Erasmus+ is one of the most accessible and generous scholarship programmes available to international students. It is not limited to EU citizens — many non-EU students participate every year.
However, exact eligibility, funding amounts, and application procedures vary by country, university, and programme. Applicants are strongly advised to consult:
- The official Erasmus+ website (erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu)
- Their home university’s International Office
- The Erasmus Mundus Catalogue for joint master’s programmes
Careful preparation and early action can significantly improve your chances.