Applications for the Erasmus Mundus MER2030 Scholarship 2026 are now available. The Erasmus MER2030 is a 2 year joint masters program for students who want to become experts in marine environmental science and ocean sustainability. You learn how to study ocean ecosystems, monitor pollution, predict changes and protect marine life using advanced observation, lab analysis and modeling. The program mixes biology, chemistry, geology, and data science with real fieldwork and research to train future ocean scientists. You study in Spain, United Kingdom, France, Belgium and Portugal at five top universities. The Erasmus Mundus MER2030 program starts in September 2026 and offers full scholarships to the best students from any country. You may also like Erasmus Mundus MUrCS15 Scholarship 2026.
Details About the Erasmus Mundus MER2030 Scholarship
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | MER2030 – Marine Environment |
| Duration | 2 years full-time (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint master’s degree |
| Host Countries | Spain, United Kingdom, France, Belgium, Portugal |
| Funded By | Erasmus+ Programme – European Union |
| Total Scholarships | Around 15 to 20 full scholarships each year |
| Monthly Money | €1,400 for 24 months |
| Start Date | September 2026 |
| Application Opens | January 2026 |
| Scholarship Deadline | March 2026 |
| Self-funded Deadline | Later (check website) |
| Contact | mer@merconsortium.eu |
Host Universities
- University of Bordeaux (France) – strong in ocean observation and marine chemistry with Bordeaux’s Atlantic research excellence
- University of Southampton (United Kingdom) – expert in marine physics and deep-sea systems with world-class UK oceanographic facilities
- University of the Basque Country (Spain) – leader in coastal and Basque marine studies with strong Spanish fieldwork focus
- University of Liège (Belgium) – focus on marine ecology and modeling with Belgian multidisciplinary approach
- University of the Azores (Portugal) – specialization in island and open-ocean marine science with Azorean volcanic ecosystem expertise
What Students Learn from Erasmus MER2030
- Fundamentals of ocean science and how marine systems work.
- Clean ocean strategies to reduce pollution and plastic waste.
- Healthy and resilient ocean ecosystems and biodiversity protection.
- Predictable and safe ocean through modeling and forecasting.
- Sustainably harvested ocean resources and fisheries management.
- Advanced observation techniques like remote sensing and buoys.
- Data processing and modeling for marine environmental analysis.
- Research skills for thesis work on real ocean problems.
Also See: Erasmus Mundus PANGEA Scholarship 2026 | Palaeontology, Geoheritage, and Applications
Why Choose the MER2030 Program
- Strong focus on marine environment and UN Decade of Ocean Science.
- Study in five diverse European countries with real ocean access.
- Full scholarship covers tuition, living, and travel costs.
- Hands-on fieldwork and lab work in coastal and open ocean.
- Small international class for personal mentoring and collaboration.
- Joint degree valued by oceanographic labs and research.
- Preparation for urgent challenges like ocean pollution and climate.
- Strong network with global marine science institutions.
Study Path and Mobility
- Semester 1 – One partner university Foundational ocean science and observation courses.
- Semester 2 – Second partner university Advanced marine chemistry, ecology, and modeling.
- Semester 3 – Third partner university Specialization in clean, healthy, predictable, or harvested ocean.
- Semester 4 – Any partner or associated institution Master’s thesis (30 ECTS) with independent research.
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor degree in biosciences, chemical sciences, geosciences, physical sciences, or engineering.
- Strong academic record.
- English proficiency – IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 90.
- Motivation for marine environmental research.
Documents Required
- CV
- Bachelor diploma and transcripts
- Motivation letter
- Two recommendation letters
- Passport copy
- English test result
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
Also See: Erasmus Mundus IMQP Scholarship 2026 | Master in Quaternary and Prehistory
Application Tips
- Write motivation showing passion for ocean science and sustainability
- Highlight any marine, biology, or environmental experience
- Get strong letters from science teachers
- Be clear on why you want international ocean research
- Show interest in fieldwork and modeling
How to Apply for Erasmus Mundus MER2030 Scholarship
- Go to official Erasmus Mundus MER2030 Scholarship and Click Apply.
- Fill online form.
- Upload all documents.
- Submit by February 2026 for scholarship.
- Results in spring 2026.
Career Opportunities
- Marine environmental researcher
- Oceanographic lab specialist
- Work in marine research institutes
- Policy advisor for ocean protection
- Consultant in sustainable fisheries
- NGO expert on marine pollution
- PhD in ocean sciences
FAQs
Q1. What is MER2030?
A. Master program on marine environment in five countries.
Q2. Who can apply?
A. Biosciences, geosciences, engineering students with good English.
Q3. Do I get research experience?
A. Yes – 30 ECTS thesis in semester 4.