Eramsus Mundus TROPIMUNDO Scholarship 2026–2027 (Fully Funded)

The TROPIMUNDO Erasmus Mundus Joint Master is one of the most prestigious programs in the world for students passionate about tropical biodiversity, conservation biology, ecosystem management, and tropical field research. Funded by the European Commission and co-financed by VLIR-UOS, the program offers a unique international study experience across Europe, Africa, Asia, South America, and the Pacific.

This world-class Master’s degree combines advanced theoretical learning, hands-on tropical fieldwork, and independent research - making it ideal for students who want to build careers in conservation science, environmental research, climate studies, tropical ecology, ecosystem governance, and sustainability.

Participating Universities (Europe + Tropics)

European Institutions

• Université Libre de Bruxelles (Belgium) – Coordinating University
• Vrije Universiteit Brussel (Belgium)
• Sorbonne Université (France)
• Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle (France)
• Università degli Studi di Firenze (Italy)
• Tropical Partner Universities
• University of Guyane (French Guiana)
• Universidad de Antioquia (Colombia)
• Université Cheikh Anta Diop (Senegal)
• Université de Dschang (Cameroon)
• Technical University of Mombasa (Kenya)
• Université de La Réunion (Reunion Island)
• University of Ruhuna (Sri Lanka)
• Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (Malaysia)
• University of the Philippines Diliman (Philippines)
• Université de la Nouvelle-Calédonie (New Caledonia)

Program Benefits (For Scholarship & Self-Funded Students)

Erasmus Mundus & VLIR-UOS Scholarships (if granted):

• Full tuition fee coverage
• Monthly living allowance
• Travel allowance
• Insurance coverage
• Support for visa & mobility arrangements

(Note: Erasmus Mundus scholarships for 2026–27 are pending EC approval, but VLIR-UOS scholarships are confirmed.)

General Benefits for All Students

• Unique intercontinental mobility (Europe + Tropics)
• One full semester of tropical fieldwork
• Access to world-leading biodiversity research facilities
• A highly flexible specialization pathway
• Joint degree from top European universities
• Opportunities for internships, field expeditions & thesis research

The program offers:

• Master’s Degree (Joint MSc) in Tropical Biodiversity and Ecosystems

Graduates receive a Joint Master Degree awarded by the European universities they attend, plus a Europass Certificate signed by all participating institutions.

Students may focus on:

1. Tropical Rainforest & Woodland Ecosystems
2. Coral Reefs, Mangroves & Seagrass Systems
3. Evolution of Tropical Flora & Fauna
4. Biodiversity Informatics (GIS, genetic data, biogeography)
5. Conservation & Restoration Ecology
6. Sustainable Resource Management & Governance
7. Tropical Ethnobotany & Indigenous Knowledge
8. Climate Change Impact on Tropical Ecosystems
9. Biodiversity Databases & Herbarium Collection Management

Open to applicants of all nationalities.

To apply, you must have:

A Bachelor's degree

• A Bachelor of Science in:

1. Biology
2. Environmental Science
3. Natural Sciences
4. Ecology
5. Biodiversity

or an equivalent field (minimum 180 ECTS)

English Proficiency

• You must provide proof of English proficiency.
• Depending on your trajectory, French or Spanish may also be required.

Strong Academic Record

• Selection is based on:

1. Academic excellence
2. Motivation
3. Relevance of previous coursework
4. Research interest in tropical biodiversity

Additional Requirements

• A complete online application
• Reference letters
• Motivation letter
• Possible interview (if requested)

Application Deadlines (2026–2027 Intake)

First Call (Scholarship + Self-Funded Applications)

• Opens: 1 September 2025
• Submit button enabled: 1 October 2025
• Deadline: 30 November 2025 (23:59:59 CET)
• Evaluated as a batch after deadline
• Referees deadline: 3 December 2025

This call is mandatory for scholarship seekers.

Second Call (Only If Places Remain – Self-Funded Only)

• Opens: January 2026
• Deadline for all applicants (if open): 20 June 2026
• Referees must complete forms by 23 June 2026

After this, call may remain open only for EU residents with EU Bachelor degrees, until places fill.

How to Apply

• Create an account on the TROPIMUNDO AIM online application module.
• Fill out the application form carefully.
• Upload all documents:

1. Passport
2. Bachelor’s degree + transcripts
3. English test score
4. Motivation letter
5. CV
6. Choice of mobility trajectory

• Submit the form before deadline.
• The system sends automated requests to referees.
• Wait for email notification of results from TROPIMUNDO / VLIR-UOS / EACEA.

Tuition Fees

• €9,000 per year – Students from non-EU / Third Countries
• €4,500 per year – Students from EU / Programme Countries
• Self-funded students get a €500 refund for each €4,500 paid.