Applications for the Erasmus Mundus ACES-STAR Scholarship 2026 are now available. The Erasmus ACES-STAR is a two year joint masters program for students who want to become leaders in sustainable aquaculture and help produce healthy seafood while protecting oceans and communities. You learn fish nutrition, animal welfare, disease control, environmental impact and how aquaculture fits into society and economy. The program mixes science, policy and real industry training with hands-on work in Europe’s leading aquaculture regions. You study in the United Kingdom, Greece and France at three top institutions. The Erasmus Mundus ACES-STAR program starts in September 2026 and offers full scholarships to the best students from any country. See Also: Erasmus Mundus GLOFOR Scholarship 2026 | Master in Global Forestry.
Details About the Erasmus Mundus ACES-STAR Scholarship
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | ACES-STAR – Aquaculture, Environment, and Society |
| Duration | 2 years full-time (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint master’s degree from the consortium universities |
| Host Countries | United Kingdom, Greece, France |
| 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 | December 2025 |
| Scholarship Deadline | January 2026 |
| Self-funded Deadline | Later (check website) |
| Contact | aces@sams.ac.uk |
Host Universities
- Scottish Association for Marine Science – SAMS / University of the Highlands and Islands (United Kingdom) – first semester, strong in global aquaculture overview, environmental interactions, and Scottish marine research excellence
- University of Crete (Greece) – second semester, expert in finfish aquaculture, Mediterranean species, and practical farming systems
- University of Nantes (France) – third semester, leader in shellfish aquaculture, product safety, and French innovation in coastal resources
What Students Learn From Erasmus ACES-STAR
- Global aquaculture systems and how to produce seafood sustainably.
- Fish and shellfish biology, nutrition, and welfare standards.
- Environmental interactions and how farming affects ecosystems.
- Disease prevention and health management in aquatic animals.
- Governance, regulations, and policy for responsible aquaculture.
- Technology and innovation in modern fish farming.
- Product safety, quality, and market chains for seafood.
- Climate change adaptation and resilience in aquaculture.
See Also: Erasmus Mundus M3EP Scholarship 2026 | Master in European Environmental Economics and Policy
Why Choose the ACES-STAR Program
- Unique focus on aquaculture, environment, and society together.
- Study in three leading aquaculture countries with real-world sites.
- Full scholarship covers tuition, living, and travel costs.
- Hands-on training in farms, labs, and industry placements.
- Small international class for personal support and collaboration.
- Joint degree valued by aquaculture companies and organizations.
- Preparation for growing need in sustainable seafood production.
- Strong network with industry, NGOs, and research partners.
Study Path and Mobility
- Semester 1 – Scottish Association for Marine Science, United Kingdom Global overview of aquaculture, environment, and society.
- Semester 2 – University of Crete, Greece Finfish aquaculture, species biology, and Mediterranean systems.
- Semester 3 – University of Nantes, France Shellfish aquaculture, product safety, and advanced innovation.
- Semester 4 – Any partner university or industry Master’s dissertation/internship linked to academic or industry partner.
See Also: Erasmus Mundus EPOG Scholarship 2026 | Master in Economic Policies for Global Bifurcations
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor degree in environmental, social, biological sciences, or related.
- Strong academic record.
- English proficiency – IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
- Basic French recommended (intensive classes provided).
Documents Required
- CV
- Bachelor diploma and transcripts
- Motivation letter
- Two recommendation letters
- English test result
- Passport copy
Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition fee paid
- €1,400 every month for 24 months
- Health insurance
- Installation allowance €1,000
- Travel money €2,000 to €3,000 per year
Application Tips
- Write motivation showing passion for sustainable aquaculture.
- Highlight any marine, biology, or environmental experience.
- Get strong letters from teachers or supervisors.
- Show interest in international mobility.
- Mention basic French if you have it.
See Also: Erasmus Mundus RePIC Scholarship 2026 | Master in Reimagining Post-Industrial Cities
How to Apply For Erasmus Mundus ACES-STAR Scholarship
- Go to official Erasmus Mundus ACES-STAR Scholarship website and Click Apply.
- Fill online form.
- Upload all documents.
- Submit by January 2026 for scholarship.
- Interview in March if shortlisted.
- Results in spring 2026.
Career Opportunities
- Aquaculture health manager
- Sustainable seafood consultant
- Policy advisor in fisheries
- Researcher in marine biology
- NGO specialist for ocean health
- PhD in aquaculture studies
- Work in FAO or EU aquaculture bodies
FAQs
Q1. What is ACES-STAR?
A. Master program on aquaculture, environment, and society in three countries.
Q2. Who can apply for ACES-STAR?
A. Environmental, biological sciences students with good English.
Q3. Where do I start?
A. Everyone starts in Scotland.
Q4. How many scholarships?
A. Around 15–20 full ones.