Introduction
Are you ready to shape the future of technology? Artificial Intelligence is no longer just a buzzword; it is the driving force behind the next industrial revolution. If you are looking to gain a world-class education in AI while experiencing life across multiple European cultures, the Erasmus Mundus joint Master in Artificial Intelligence (EMAI) is your gateway.
Coordinated by Pompeu Fabra University (UPF) in Barcelona, this prestigious two-year program offers a comprehensive blend of theory and practice, funded by the European Union. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to secure your spot, and potentially a full scholarship.
What is the EMAI Program?
The EMAI is a 120 ECTS Joint Master’s degree that brings together four leading European research universities. It provides foundational knowledge in key AI areas followed by specialized training in advanced technical applications.
The Consortium Universities:
- 🇪🇸 Pompeu Fabra University (UPF), Barcelona, Spain (Coordinator)
- 🇮🇹 Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
- 🇳🇱 Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- 🇸🇮 University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
Specialization Tracks: Depending on your path, you can specialize in cutting-edge fields such as:
- Intelligent Decision Making (Spain)
- Robotics (Italy)
- Cyber Security (The Netherlands)
- Data Science (Slovenia)
Why Apply? The Benefits
- Fully Funded Scholarships: Top-ranked applicants can receive the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship (EMS), which covers full tuition fees, health insurance, travel costs, and a monthly living allowance.
- International Mobility: Study in at least two different European countries, gaining a truly global perspective.
- Top-Tier Education: Learn from world-renowned experts and gain access to a network of 12+ industrial partners and research centers (including the UCL Centre for Artificial Intelligence).
- Degree: Receive a joint master’s degree recognized globally.
Eligibility Criteria
Admission to the EMAI program is highly competitive. To be eligible, you must meet the following academic requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree (180 ECTS): You must hold a first-cycle degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related field.
- Specific Coursework: Your transcript must show the following minimum credits:
- Mathematics (12 ECTS): Calculus, Linear Algebra, Probability & Statistics, etc.
- Programming (12 ECTS): Algorithms, Data Structures, Programming Paradigms.
- Computer Science (12 ECTS): Computer Networks, Software Engineering, Theory of Computation, etc.
- English Proficiency:
- TOEFL iBT: Score ≥ 90 (MyBest Scores and Home Edition not accepted).
- IELTS Academic: Score ≥ 6.5 overall (with no subscore below 6.5).
- Cambridge: C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency (Score ≥ 176).
- Exemptions apply for nationals/graduates from English-speaking countries like the UK, USA, Australia, etc.
How to Apply: The Checklist
Prepare these documents carefully. The selection committee looks for academic excellence and strong motivation.
- Valid Passport/ID
- University Diploma (or a statement of expected graduation if you are in your final year).
- Official Transcript of Records (Must include CGPA).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Strictly maximum 2 pages (English).
- Motivation Letter: 600–800 words explaining why you are a perfect fit.
- Introductory Video: A 1-minute video (hosted on YouTube/Vimeo/Drive) where you introduce yourself and your background.
- Recommendation Letters:
- Two letters (preferably academic) if applying for the scholarship.
- One letter if applying as a self-funded student.
- English Language Certificate (must be valid at the time of application).
⚠️ Pro Tip: Respect the limits! Applications with CVs longer than 2 pages or videos longer than 1 minute are often automatically rejected.
Key Deadlines for 2026 Entry
Mark your calendars! The application deadlines are strictly enforced.
- Scholarship Applicants (EMS):
- Opens: November 15, 2025
- Closes: December 20, 2025 (23:59 CET)
- Fee Waiver Applicants: December 21, 2025 – March 18, 2026
- Self-Funded (Non-EU): March 19, 2026 – June 5, 2026
- Self-Funded (EU): June 6, 2026 – July 6, 2026
Selection Procedure
The selection process is rigorous and includes:
- Administrative Check: Ensuring all documents are valid.
- Ranking: Based on academic excellence, the reputation of your previous university, and your motivation.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a 30-40 minute online interview.
Ready to Apply?
Don’t miss this opportunity to advance your career in Artificial Intelligence.