The Erasmus Mundus FOOD4S Scholarship Program is a two year master degree in Sustainable Food Systems, Engineering, Technology and Business. It is a joint program by four top universities in Europe. The program teaches students how to make food systems more safe, healthy and sustainable. It helps students understand how food is produced, stored and managed in a modern world.
Students study in Belgium, Portugal, Germany and Ireland. They learn food science, food safety, technology, business and sustainability. The program is fully funded by the European Union under Erasmus Mundus. Also See: TPTI Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2026 – Joint Master Program.
Key Details About Erasmus Mundus FOOD4S Scholarship
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | FOOD4S Erasmus Mundus Master of Science in Sustainable Food Systems |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Type | Joint Master Degree |
| Funded By | Erasmus Mundus European Union |
| Start Date | September 2026 |
| Application Opens | November 2025 |
| Deadline | March 2026 |
| Scholarship | Fully Funded |
Host Universities
- KU Leuven (Belgium)
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa (Portugal)
- Anhalt University (Germany)
- University College Dublin (Ireland)
What Students Learn
The FOOD4S program follows the 4S model which means:
- Science – Learn food science and engineering basics
- Sustainability – Understand how to make food production better for the environment
- Safety – Study how to keep food safe and high in quality
- Simulation – Use computer tools to solve problems in food science
This model helps students understand every step of modern food systems.
Why Choose the FOOD4S Program
- Study in four different countries and learn about many cultures.
- Get knowledge in both food science and business.
- Use advanced labs and technology in real projects.
- Work with research and food companies during your studies.
- Receive a joint degree from four top universities.
- Almost all graduates find jobs or PhD positions after finishing.
Study Path and Mobility
Students in FOOD4S study at different universities in each stage. Here is how the journey goes:
- Stage 1: KU Leuven Belgium
You study core subjects like food science, food safety, process design and computational technology. - Stage 2: Universidade Católica Portuguesa Portugal and Anhalt University Germany
You learn about environmental sustainability, business & economics and advanced production systems. - Stage 3: University College Dublin Ireland
You take advanced classes in risk assessment, data analysis, waste to energy and food processing innovation. - Stage 4: Any Partner University
You complete your final MSc thesis or take an optional professional competence module during summer.
This international path helps students get practical experience and build strong global connections.
Admission Requirements
To apply you must:
- Have a Bachelor degree in food science, engineering, life sciences or related subjects.
- Be fluent in English.
- Have good grades and motivation to work in the food and sustainability field.
- Submit all required documents before the deadline.
Documents Required
- CV or Resume
- Academic transcripts
- Bachelor degree certificate or proof of graduation
- Passport copy
- English test proof such as IELTS or TOEFL
- Motivation letter
Scholarship Benefits
The Erasmus Mundus scholarship pays for:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly stipend for living costs
- Travel and visa expenses
- Health insurance
You do not have to pay anything once selected.
Application Tips
- Apply early to avoid website issues near the deadline
- Write a clear motivation letter and explain why food systems matter to you
- Mention any projects or work related to food or sustainability
- Show that you can study in four countries
- Choose referees who know your academic work well
How to Apply?
- Visit the official KU Leuven application page
- Choose the program European Master in Sustainable Food Systems Engineering Technology and Business
- Fill the online form carefully
- Upload all your documents in PDF
- Submit before March 2026
Tip: Apply before 1 March if you also want to be considered for a scholarship.
Career Opportunities
After graduation students can work in:
- Food industries and production companies
- Research and development centers
- Environmental and safety departments
- International food organizations
- PhD or higher research programs in Europe
Most graduates get jobs within six months after finishing the program.