Introduction
We are living in the age of data, but data alone is useless without the intelligent systems to process it. If you want to master the intersection of Data Science and Software Engineering while living in two different European countries, the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Engineering of Data-intensive Intelligent Software Systems (EDISS) is the perfect program for you.
Fully funded by the European Union, this prestigious two-year Master’s degree is designed to create the next generation of software engineers and data scientists. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to apply for the upcoming intake.
What is the EDISS Program?
EDISS is a 120 ECTS joint master’s program that bridges the gap between data science and software engineering. It focuses on collecting data, data-driven decision making, and building robust software architectures for intelligent systems.
The Consortium Universities: The program is a collaboration between four leading European universities:
- 🇫🇮 Åbo Akademi University (AAU), Finland (Coordinator)
- 🇪🇸 University of the Balearic Islands (UIB), Spain
- 🇮🇹 University of L’Aquila (UAQ), Italy
- 🇸🇪 Mälardalen University (MDU), Sweden
Program Structure & Specializations
Your two-year journey is split into two phases:
- Year 1 (Foundations): All students start at Åbo Akademi University in Finland. You will gain core skills in data engineering, machine learning, and software architecture.
- Winter School: Each year, you will attend a one-week intensive winter school to network and learn the latest industry trends.
- Year 2 (Specialization): For your second year, you will move to one of the partner universities to specialize in a specific track:
- Industrial Machine Learning – Software Engineering (at Mälardalen University, Sweden)
- Computer Vision and Intelligent Systems (at University of the Balearic Islands, Spain)
- Model Driven Machine Learning – Software Engineering (at University of L’Aquila, Italy)
Why Apply? Fully Funded Scholarship Benefits
EDISS offers the prestigious Erasmus Mundus Joint Master (EMJM) Scholarship, which is one of the most generous in the world. If selected, you receive:
- 100% Tuition Fee Waiver: You pay €0 for the entire program (saving €9,000/year).
- Monthly Living Allowance: €1,400 per month for 24 months (Total: €33,600).
- Health Insurance: Full coverage for the duration of your studies.
Note: There are also partial scholarships (EDISS Scholarship) available which offer a fee waiver and a smaller monthly stipend (€800/month in Year 1, €310/month in Year 2).
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the program and scholarship, you must meet the following requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree (180 ECTS): You must hold a degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a closely related equivalent subject.
- English Proficiency: You must demonstrate strong English skills with one of the following tests:
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 93.
- IELTS Academic: Minimum overall score of 6.5 (with no individual section below 6.0).
- Exemptions apply for applicants who have completed a degree in English in specific countries (UK, USA, Canada, Australia, NZ, EU/EEA).
How to Apply: The Checklist
Prepare these documents carefully to ensure your application is successful:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Must use the EDISS CV template (downloadable from their website).
- Motivation Video: A short video (2 minutes ± 30 seconds) introducing yourself and explaining why you are a perfect fit.
- Degree Certificate & Transcripts: Official copies and English translations.
- Two Recommendation Letters: From academic referees (professors).
- Proof of English Proficiency: (IELTS/TOEFL).
- Passport Copy.
⚠️ Pro Tip: The motivation video is a unique requirement for EDISS. Make sure good lighting and clear audio are used to make a professional impression!
Key Deadlines for 2026 Intake
- Scholarship Applicants (EMJM & EDISS): November 3, 2025 – January 8, 2026
- Tuition Fee Waiver Only: February 25 – March 11, 2026
- Self-Funded Students: April 13 – April 20, 2026
Important: If you want the full scholarship, you must apply during the first round ending in January.
Ready to Apply?
Don’t miss this opportunity to advance your career in Data and Software Engineering.