The Erasmus Mundus ISLANDS Scholarship 2026 is a two-year joint master’s program for students who want to solve sustainability problems on islands, from climate change to tourism and biodiversity loss. You learn how islands face unique challenges and how to create resilient futures with environmental, social, and economic balance. The program mixes geography, policy, and practical fieldwork in real island settings. You study at universities in the Netherlands, Greece, Spain, and Iceland with hands-on projects. The Erasmus Mundus ISLANDS program starts in September 2026 and has applications open now for self-funded places (no full EMJMD scholarships this year). You may also like Erasmus Mundus TNGS Scholarship 2026.
Details About the Erasmus Mundus ISLANDS Scholarship
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | ISLANDS – Islands and Sustainability |
| Duration | 2 years full-time (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Double master’s degree (Groningen + island university) |
| Host Countries | Netherlands, Greece, Spain, Iceland |
| Funded By | Erasmus+ Programme – European Union |
| Total Scholarships | No full EMJMD scholarships for 2026/27 academic year |
| Monthly Money | None for full scholarship this year |
| Start Date | September 2026 |
| Contact | info@islandsmaster.eu |
| Official Website | https://islandsmaster.eu |
Host Universities
- University of Groningen (Netherlands) – coordinator, strong in spatial sciences and sustainability with modern facilities and international campus
- University of the Aegean (Greece) – expert in island studies and Mediterranean challenges with beautiful Aegean locations
- University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (Spain) – leader in Canary Islands research and tourism sustainability with subtropical environment
- University of Iceland (Iceland) – top in Arctic and volcanic island contexts with unique natural labs
What Students Learn
- How islands are vulnerable to climate change and sea level rise.
- Sustainable tourism management to protect local communities and nature.
- Biodiversity conservation in isolated island ecosystems.
- Resource management for water, energy, and food on small territories.
- Policy and governance for island regions in EU and global contexts.
- Field methods and data analysis for real island projects.
- Socio-economic development without harming culture or environment.
- Comparative studies between different island types like Mediterranean and Arctic.
See Also: Erasmus Mundus EMMIR Scholarship 2026
Why Choose the ISLANDS Program
- Unique focus on islands as special cases for sustainable development.
- Mobility in four island-rich countries for direct experience.
- Hands-on fieldwork and projects in real communities.
- Small international class for close collaboration and support.
- Double degree valued by environmental organizations.
- Preparation for urgent global issues like climate adaptation.
- Network with geoparks and NGOs on islands.
- Growing demand for island sustainability experts.
Study Path and Mobility
- Semester 1 – University of Groningen, Netherlands Introduction to island studies and sustainability concepts.
- Semester 2 – Choose University of the Aegean (Greece) or University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (Spain) Regional specialization and fieldwork.
- Semester 3 – University of Iceland, Iceland Arctic perspectives and advanced research.
- Semester 4 – One of the partner universities Master’s thesis on chosen island topic.
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor degree in environmental studies, geography, social sciences, sustainability, or related.
- Strong academic record.
- Must have English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 90).
- Motivation for island sustainability.
Also See: Erasmus Mundus GLODEP Scholarship 2026
Documents Required
- Bachelor diploma and transcripts
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Two recommendation letters
- Passport copy
- English test result
Scholarship Benefits
- No full Erasmus Mundus scholarships for 2026/27
- Self-funded option available
- Possible other grants or waivers
Application Tips
- Write motivation showing passion for islands and sustainability.
- Highlight any project on environment or remote areas.
- Get strong letters from teachers.
- Apply when portal opens 15 November 2025.
- Show readiness for fieldwork.
How to Apply For Erasmus Mundus ISLANDS Scholarship
- Go to erasmus ISLANDS site from the below link and Click Apply from 15 November 2025.
- Fill online form.
- Upload documents.
- Submit by deadline.
- Wait for selection.
Career Opportunities
- Island sustainability consultant
- Climate adaptation specialist
- Work in geoparks or NGOs
- Tourism policy advisor
- Researcher in island studies
- PhD in sustainability
- Environmental officer for islands
FAQs
Q1. What is ISLANDS?
A. Master program on sustainability for islands in four countries.
Q2. Who can apply?
A. Environmental, geography, social sciences students with good English.
Q3. Are scholarships available?
A. No full EMJMD for 2026/27.
Q4. Where do I choose semester 2?
A. Yes – Greece or Spain.
Q5. Is fieldwork included?
A. Yes, in various semesters.