Erasmus Mundus TROPIMUNDO Master Scholarship 2026 Available

The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Tropical Biodiversity and Ecosystems (TROPIMUNDO) has officially opened its call for applications for the 2026–2027 academic year, coordinated by the Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB).

This world-class programme, funded by the European Commission and VLIR-UOS ICP-Connect, offers fully funded scholarships for EU and non-EU students passionate about exploring tropical biodiversity, ecology, and conservation science across multiple continents.

About the TROPIMUNDO Programme

TROPIMUNDO is a two-year (120 ECTS) master’s programme designed to train the next generation of environmental scientists and policymakers by exposing them to tropical ecosystems worldwide. The curriculum integrates both academic coursework and intensive field experience in biodiversity hotspots such as the Amazon rainforest, Central African forests, Madagascar, the East-African Great Lakes, the Caribbean, and Asian mangrove and coastal ecosystems.

This is the first international master’s degree of its kind that allows students to combine tropical fieldwork with academic training in leading European and partner universities located in Belgium, France, Italy, and French Guiana.

The programme aims to build scientific understanding and practical solutions to the ecological challenges threatening tropical regions, equipping graduates with the expertise needed for global environmental and sustainability roles.

Scholarship Coverage

Selected candidates under the Erasmus Mundus and VLIR-UOS Mundus tropicalis funding will enjoy one of the most comprehensive scholarship packages available in Europe.

Scholarship Benefits Include:

• Full tuition fee coverage for both years of study.
• Travel and mobility support for all fieldwork and partner university exchanges.
• Monthly subsistence allowance to cover living costs during the programme.
• Comprehensive health and travel insurance for the full study duration.

These scholarships ensure that talented students from any country can participate — there are no nationality restrictions.

Academic Path and Study Tracks

The programme is structured across four semesters:

• Semester 1: Foundational and specialized coursework in Europe (Belgium, France, or Italy).
• Semester 2: Field schools in tropical regions — students choose from tracks across Africa, Asia, the Pacific, and Latin America.
• Semester 3: Advanced specialization courses at European partner universities.
• Semester 4: Master’s thesis and research project related to tropical biodiversity, ecology, or ecosystem management.

This setup ensures not only scientific excellence but also valuable intercultural exposure and field-based learning, a hallmark of the Erasmus Mundus brand.

Who Can Apply?

The TROPIMUNDO programme is open to students from all academic and geographic backgrounds who have:

• A Bachelor’s degree (minimum 180 ECTS or equivalent) in biology, natural sciences, environmental sciences, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated academic excellence and strong motivation for interdisciplinary environmental research.
• Proficiency in English (and/or French depending on the partner institution requirements).
• Relevant academic, professional, or research experience in ecosystem studies, biodiversity, or conservation is an asset.

Selection is highly competitive and based on merit, motivation, recommendation letters, and demonstrated alignment with the programme’s goals.

Application Timeline

The last date to apply for the Erasmus Mundus TROPIMUNDO Master Programme 2026 is 30 November 2025. The VLIR-UOS Scholarship confirmations for shortlisted candidates will be announced in January 2026, while the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship confirmations will follow in July 2026. The programme officially begins in September 2026.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline to enhance their chances of being selected for the fully funded scholarships offered through both VLIR-UOS and the European Commission.

Why Choose TROPIMUNDO?

• Learn at leading European universities and field sites in the tropics.
• Gain hands-on research experience in biodiversity conservation and tropical ecology.
• Graduate with a joint master’s degree recognized across all partner institutions.
• Access a global alumni network of Erasmus Mundus scholars and sustainability professionals.
• Benefit from complete financial coverage ensuring equal opportunity for applicants from all backgrounds.

The TROPIMUNDO Master Programme 2026 offers a life-changing academic journey for students eager to study and protect the planet’s most vital ecosystems. With the support of Erasmus Mundus and VLIR-UOS scholarships, this is a rare opportunity to pursue an internationally recognized degree in tropical biodiversity and ecosystem management — entirely tuition-free.

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