Applications for the Erasmus Mundus EMAI Scholarship 2026 are now available. The Erasmus Mundus EMAI is a two-year joint master’s program for students who want to become experts in artificial intelligence and its real-world applications. You learn advanced machine learning, reinforcement learning, natural language processing, robotics, cybersecurity and data science while solving complex problems across industries. The program mixes strong theory, practical projects and international research to train future AI leaders. You study in Spain (year 1) and one of three specialization countries in year 2 at four top universities. The Erasmus Mundus EMAI program starts in September 2026 and offers full scholarships to the best students from any country. Also see the Erasmus Mundus CyberMACS Scholarship 2026.
Details About the Erasmus Mundus EMAI Scholarship
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | EMAI – Artificial Intelligence |
| Duration | 2 years full-time (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint master’s degree |
| Host Countries | Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Slovenia |
| Funded By | Erasmus+ Programme – European Union |
| Total Scholarships | Around 15–20 full scholarships each year |
| Monthly Money | €1,400 for 24 months |
| Start Date | September 2026 |
| Application Opens | November 2025 |
| Scholarship Deadline | January 2026 |
| Contact | admissions.emai@upf.edu |
Host Universities
- Pompeu Fabra University (Spain) – year 1 for all + Intelligent Decision Making specialization, strong in machine learning, reasoning, and Barcelona’s AI research hub
- Sapienza University of Rome (Italy) – Robotics specialization, expert in robot perception and Italian robotics excellence
- Radboud University Nijmegen (Netherlands) – Cybersecurity specialization, leader in AI security and Dutch cognitive computing
- University of Ljubljana (Slovenia) – Data Science specialization, focus on big data and Slovenian computational intelligence
What Students Learn from Erasmus EMAI
- Machine learning and deep learning algorithms.
- Reinforcement learning for decision-making systems.
- Natural language processing and language models.
- Robotics perception, planning, and control.
- Cybersecurity in AI systems and threat mitigation.
- Data science and big data analytics for real problems.
- Symbolic reasoning and hybrid AI approaches.
- Ethical AI, societal impact, and responsible innovation.
Why Choose the EMAI Program
- Strong focus on cutting-edge AI with four specialization tracks.
- Study in Spain (year 1) + one of three European countries in year 2.
- Full scholarship covers tuition, living, and travel costs.
- Hands-on projects and research in top AI labs.
- Small international class for personal mentoring and collaboration.
- Joint degree valued by tech companies, research, and startups.
- Preparation for AI careers in industry, academia, or policy.
- Strong network with European universities and industry partners.
Study Path and Mobility
- Semester 1 & 2 (Year 1) – Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain Core AI foundations: ML, RL, NLP, symbolic reasoning, math.
- Semester 3 & 4 (Year 2) – Choose specialization track • Intelligent Decision Making → Pompeu Fabra University (Spain) • Robotics → Sapienza University of Rome (Italy) • Cybersecurity → Radboud University Nijmegen (Netherlands) • Data Science → University of Ljubljana (Slovenia).
- Final part – Chosen university Master’s thesis with focused research.
Also see: Erasmus Mundus DREAM Scholarship 2026
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor degree (≥180 ECTS) in ICT, Engineering, Physics, Math/Stats, or equivalent
- Minimum 12 ECTS in math + 12 ECTS in programming + 12 ECTS in computing subjects
- Strong academic record
- English proficiency – IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 90
Documents Required
- Bachelor diploma and transcripts
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Two recommendation letters
- English test result
- Passport copy
- 1-minute introductory video
Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition fee paid
- €1,400 every month for 24 months = €33,600 total
- Travel money €2,000–€3,000 per year
- Health insurance
- Installation allowance €1,000
Application Tips
- Write motivation showing passion for AI and chosen specialization
- Highlight any AI, programming, or math projects/experience
- Get strong letters from teachers
- Prepare a clear, authentic 1-minute video
- Show interest in international mobility and research
How to Apply for Erasmus Mundus EMAI Scholarship
- Go to official Erasmus Mundus EMAI Scholarship website and click apply.
- Fill online form via UPF portal.
- Upload all documents including video.
- Submit by January 2026 for scholarship.
- Interview in March if shortlisted.
- Results in spring 2026.
Career Opportunities
- Machine learning engineer in tech companies
- Robotics specialist in automation
- Cybersecurity AI researcher
- Data scientist in AI-driven industries
- Work in research labs or startups
- Consultant for ethical AI deployment
- PhD in artificial intelligence
FAQs
Q1. What is EMAI?
A. Master program on artificial intelligence in Spain and one of Italy, Netherlands, or Slovenia.
Q2. Who can apply for EMAI?
A. ICT, engineering, math students with good English.
Q3. Do I choose a specialization?
A. Yes – Intelligent Decision Making, Robotics, Cybersecurity, or Data Science in year 2.
Q4. How many scholarships for EMAI Program?
A. Around 15–20 full ones.