How to Get Erasmus Mundus Scholarship for Tourism & Hospitality Studies
Are you dreaming of studying tourism and hospitality management across Europe without paying a single euro in tuition? Imagine spending two years exploring multiple countries, learning from world-class professors, and building a global network—all while receiving a monthly stipend that covers your living expenses. This isn’t a fantasy. It’s the reality for hundreds of students who successfully secure the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship for Tourism and Hospitality every year. Whether you’re passionate about sustainable tourism, luxury wine tourism, or cultural heritage management, there’s a fully funded European master’s program waiting for someone like you.
The challenge? Most applicants don’t know which programs exist, what makes a winning application, or how to stand out from thousands of competitors worldwide. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Erasmus Mundus tourism programs in 2026, from specific scholarship details to insider tips that successful scholars wish they knew before applying.
What is the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master (EMJM) in Tourism?
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJMD) isn’t just another scholarship program. It’s the European Union’s flagship initiative designed to foster excellence in higher education through international cooperation. When it comes to tourism and hospitality, these programs offer something truly unique: the opportunity to study at multiple prestigious European universities while earning a joint or multiple degrees recognized across the continent and beyond.
Unlike traditional master’s programs where you stay in one location, Erasmus Mundus tourism programs require you to move between countries every semester. This isn’t just about changing scenery—it’s about experiencing different educational systems, teaching methodologies, and tourism ecosystems firsthand. You’ll study destination management in Denmark, analyze sustainable tourism in Slovenia, and explore hospitality innovation in Spain, all within the same two-year program.
Why Tourism Professionals Choose Erasmus Mundus
The tourism industry is inherently global and multicultural. Employers in international hotel chains, destination management organizations, and tourism boards value professionals who understand different markets and can adapt to diverse work environments. An Erasmus Mundus degree proves you’ve already successfully navigated multiple countries, languages, and professional cultures—exactly what the industry demands.
Top 3 Erasmus Mundus Programs for Tourism Professionals
Not all Erasmus Mundus tourism programs are created equal. Each has its own specialization, partner universities, and career outcomes. Let’s explore the three main programs that tourism and hospitality professionals should consider for 2026.
1. EMTM (European Master in Tourism Management)
Program Overview
Partner Universities: University of Southern Denmark (Denmark), University of Ljubljana (Slovenia), and University of Girona (Spain)
Specialization Focus: The EMTM program is the gold standard for students interested in sustainable tourism and strategic destination management. This program stands out because it combines rigorous academic theory with practical industry projects. You’ll work directly with European tourism boards and destination management organizations on real challenges they’re facing.
Career Outcomes: Graduates typically secure positions as Destination Managers, Tourism Development Consultants, or Sustainability Coordinators at organizations like the World Tourism Organization, European Travel Commission, or national tourism boards. The program’s emphasis on sustainability makes it particularly relevant as the industry shifts toward responsible tourism practices.
Best For: Professionals aiming for leadership roles in destination management, those passionate about solving over-tourism challenges, and students interested in the intersection of tourism and environmental sustainability.
2. WINTOUR (Innovation in Wine Tourism)
Program Overview
Partner Universities: University of Girona (Spain), Université de Toulouse (France), and University of Porto (Portugal)
Specialization Focus: This is the only Erasmus Mundus program that combines oenology, hospitality management, and tourism innovation. WINTOUR isn’t just about wine appreciation—it’s about understanding the business model of wine regions, creating immersive tourism experiences, and marketing luxury food and beverage destinations.
Career Outcomes: Alumni work in luxury hotel chains managing wine programs, develop wine tourism routes for regional governments, or establish their own wine tourism businesses. The program is particularly valuable for those interested in agritourism, culinary tourism, and luxury hospitality sectors.
Best For: Hospitality professionals in the luxury sector, individuals passionate about culinary and wine culture, and entrepreneurs looking to establish wine tourism ventures in emerging markets.
3. TourDC (Tourism Development and Culture)
Program Overview
Partner Universities: University of Glasgow (UK), Institute for Tourism Studies Malta, University of Algarve (Portugal), and Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne (France)
Specialization Focus: TourDC focuses on the relationship between tourism and cultural heritage. This program is ideal for students interested in museum management, UNESCO World Heritage site management, and community-based tourism development. You’ll learn how to balance tourism development with cultural preservation and community needs.
Career Outcomes: Graduates often find positions at UNESCO, international heritage organizations, cultural tourism consultancies, or as Cultural Tourism Managers for cities and regions. The program’s strong emphasis on research prepares students for PhD programs or academic careers.
Best For: Those with backgrounds in anthropology, history, or cultural studies who want to transition into tourism; professionals working with cultural heritage sites; and individuals passionate about community-centered tourism development.
💡 Pro Tip: Choosing the Right Program
Don’t just choose based on prestige or location. Carefully review each program’s curriculum and alumni network on LinkedIn. Look at where graduates are working five years after completion. Your program choice should align with your specific career goals, whether that’s working for a major hotel chain, starting a tourism consultancy, or joining an international organization.
Scholarship Benefits: More than Just Free Tuition
When people hear “fully funded scholarship,” they often think it only covers tuition fees. The Erasmus Mundus scholarship package is significantly more comprehensive. Let’s break down exactly what you receive as a scholarship recipient.
💰 Monthly Stipend
Approximately €1,400 per month for 24 months (total: €33,600). This covers housing, food, local transportation, and even some leisure activities. In cities like Ljubljana or Porto, this amount allows for comfortable living.
🎓 Full Tuition Waiver
Zero tuition fees at all partner universities. Without the scholarship, you’d pay €9,000-€18,000 per year depending on the program. That’s up to €36,000 in savings alone.
✈️ Travel & Installation Costs
Between €3,000-€7,000 depending on your home country’s distance from Europe. This covers your flights, visa fees, and initial accommodation costs for each mobility period.
🏥 Health Insurance
Comprehensive worldwide health and travel insurance for the entire program duration. No need to worry about medical emergencies or coverage gaps when moving between countries.
Real Value Calculation
Let’s do the math. Over two years, an Erasmus Mundus scholar receives approximately:
- Monthly stipend: €33,600
- Tuition waiver: €30,000
- Travel allowances: €5,000
- Insurance value: €2,000
- Total package value: €70,600
This doesn’t even account for the invaluable networking opportunities, professional connections, and career advantages that come with the program. You’re not just saving money—you’re investing in a premium educational experience that would otherwise cost significantly more.
Eligibility Criteria: Do You Qualify?
Understanding eligibility requirements is crucial before investing time in your application. The Erasmus Mundus tourism programs have specific academic, linguistic, and nationality requirements. Here’s the detailed checklist.
Academic Background Requirements
You need a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in one of these fields:
- Tourism and Hospitality Management – The most straightforward path, as your undergraduate aligns directly with the master’s focus
- Business Administration – Especially if you’ve taken courses in marketing, operations management, or international business
- Geography and Environmental Studies – Particularly relevant for sustainable tourism and destination management tracks
- Social Sciences (Anthropology, Sociology, Cultural Studies) – Strong fit for cultural tourism and community development programs
- Economics – Valuable for understanding tourism’s economic impacts and policy implications
Your degree should reflect a minimum cumulative GPA of 70% or a B grade equivalent. Some programs calculate this using ECTS credits or specific grading systems. If your country uses a different scale, you’ll need to provide an official equivalency statement from your university.
Language Proficiency
All Erasmus Mundus tourism programs are taught in English, so you must demonstrate English proficiency through one of these tests:
- IELTS Academic: Minimum overall band score of 6.5 (no section below 6.0)
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 88 (some programs require 90+)
- Cambridge English: C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency
📝 Language Requirement Exception
If your bachelor’s degree was taught entirely in English, some programs accept a “Medium of Instruction” certificate from your university instead of IELTS/TOEFL scores. This can save you time and money, but the certificate must explicitly state that your entire undergraduate program was conducted in English. Contact each program coordinator to confirm if this option is available before assuming you’re exempt from testing.
Nationality and Residency
Erasmus Mundus divides applicants into two categories, each with different scholarship allocation quotas:
Program Countries (EU/EEA citizens): If you’re a citizen or permanent resident of an EU member state, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Turkey, you fall into this category. Typically, about 25-30% of scholarships are allocated to this group.
Partner Countries (Non-EU citizens): All other nationalities fall into this category, which receives the majority of scholarship slots (approximately 70-75%). However, competition is fierce as applicants come from all over the world.
Important note: You cannot be a citizen of any of the countries where the program’s universities are located for the duration of your studies. The program aims to promote international mobility, so if you’re already living in one of the program countries, you might have limited eligibility.
Work Experience (Not Mandatory, But Highly Advantageous)
While not officially required, having 1-2 years of relevant work experience significantly strengthens your application. This could include:
- Working in hotels, resorts, or hospitality businesses in operations, sales, or management roles
- Employment at travel agencies, tour operators, or destination marketing organizations
- Internships or volunteer work with NGOs focused on sustainable tourism or community development
- Experience in event management, especially for tourism-related conferences or festivals
The evaluation committee values practical experience because it demonstrates your genuine commitment to the tourism industry and your ability to connect academic concepts with real-world challenges. If you’re a recent graduate without formal work experience, consider internships or volunteer positions before applying.
Step-by-Step Roadmap to a Winning Application
Now that you understand the eligibility requirements, let’s walk through the application process chronologically. Start this process at least six months before the application deadline to give yourself adequate time for document preparation and revisions.
Crafting a Tourism-Centric Motivation Letter
Your motivation letter (also called Statement of Purpose) is the single most important element of your application. This is where you differentiate yourself from hundreds of other qualified applicants. The committee doesn’t want to read generic statements about loving travel or wanting to see the world.
“The hardest part wasn’t the grades; it was the Statement of Purpose. I had to rewrite it six times to make sure my passion for Sustainable Tourism matched the EMTM curriculum. Don’t just talk about your love for traveling—explain the specific problem you want to solve in the tourism industry.”
Structure your motivation letter with these key elements:
Opening Paragraph – The Hook: Start with a specific problem or observation from your experience. For example: “During my internship at a beachfront resort in Bali, I witnessed how unregulated tourism was destroying coral reefs while local communities struggled economically. This contradiction—environmental degradation alongside economic hardship—ignited my determination to pursue sustainable tourism management.”
Second Section – Your Qualifications: Connect your academic background and work experience directly to the program’s learning outcomes. Reference specific courses from the curriculum. Show that you’ve done your homework.
Third Section – Why This Specific Program: Explain why EMTM, WINTOUR, or TourDC is the perfect fit for your goals. Mention specific professors whose research aligns with your interests. Describe how studying in Denmark, Slovenia, and Spain (or whichever countries) will give you the multicultural perspective needed for your career goals.
Closing Section – Future Impact: Articulate your post-graduation plans specifically. Instead of vague statements like “I want to work in tourism,” say something like “Upon graduation, I plan to establish a consultancy advising Southeast Asian destinations on implementing sustainable tourism frameworks, drawing on best practices I’ll learn from European models.”
✍️ The “So What?” Test
After writing each paragraph, ask yourself “So what? Why does this matter?” If your statement could apply to any tourism program anywhere, it’s too generic. Every sentence should reveal something unique about you or demonstrate specific knowledge about the program you’re applying to.
Selecting the Right Referees
You’ll need two recommendation letters, and choosing the right recommenders is strategic. The best letters come from people who can speak to your specific abilities in academic or professional tourism contexts.
Ideal recommenders include:
- Professors who taught you tourism, hospitality, or business courses and can comment on your analytical abilities and academic potential
- Direct supervisors from tourism-related internships or jobs who can describe your practical skills and work ethic
- Research advisors if you’ve completed a thesis or research project related to tourism studies
Avoid asking family friends, politicians, or high-profile individuals who don’t know your work well. A lukewarm letter from a famous person is far less valuable than an enthusiastic, detailed letter from someone who has directly worked with you.
When requesting recommendations, provide your referees with your CV, motivation letter draft, and specific details about why you’re interested in the program. The more context you give them, the more tailored and compelling their letters will be.
Navigating the Europass CV Format
Most Erasmus Mundus programs require or recommend using the Europass CV format. This standardized European curriculum vitae format helps evaluation committees quickly assess your qualifications using a consistent structure.
Key sections to emphasize in your Europass CV:
- Work Experience: List roles in reverse chronological order. For each position, include specific achievements related to tourism or hospitality. Use quantifiable metrics where possible (e.g., “Increased hotel booking conversion rate by 23% through improved customer service protocols”).
- Education: Include your GPA or percentage score, any academic honors, and relevant coursework that aligns with the master’s program.
- Language Skills: Use the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) levels (A1-C2) to indicate your proficiency in languages beyond English. Tourism is a multilingual industry, and demonstrating language diversity strengthens your profile.
- Additional Skills: Include technical skills relevant to tourism (e.g., booking systems like Amadeus or Sabre, data analysis tools, social media marketing platforms).
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Every application cycle, talented candidates get rejected not because they lack qualifications, but because they make avoidable mistakes. Learn from these common errors.
❌ Mistake #1: Generic Applications
Submitting the same motivation letter to all three programs (EMTM, WINTOUR, TourDC) signals that you haven’t done your research. Each program has distinct specializations. Your application should demonstrate specific knowledge about that program’s unique approach and how it aligns with your particular career goals.
Solution: Tailor each application completely. Research the partner universities, read recent publications by faculty members, and reference specific courses or research centers in your motivation letter.
❌ Mistake #2: Focusing Only on Travel Enthusiasm
Saying you love traveling and want to explore Europe doesn’t differentiate you. Every applicant loves travel—that’s why they’re applying to tourism programs.
Solution: Shift from personal enjoyment of travel to professional problem-solving. Discuss specific tourism challenges you want to address: overtourism, climate change impacts on destinations, digital transformation in hospitality, cultural preservation versus commercialization, or inclusive tourism for people with disabilities.
❌ Mistake #3: Last-Minute Applications
Technical issues happen. Portal glitches, payment problems, referee letters arriving late—these aren’t excuses the committee accepts. Applications submitted minutes before deadlines risk disqualification if any issue occurs.
Solution: Create a timeline working backward from the deadline. Request recommendation letters at least six weeks in advance. Complete your application at least 48 hours before the deadline to buffer for unexpected problems.
❌ Mistake #4: Underestimating the “3-Country Challenge”
The committee needs confidence that you can handle moving to a new country every 6-8 months. If you’ve never lived abroad or traveled independently, this raises concerns about your adaptability.
Solution: In your motivation letter, explicitly address your mobility readiness. Highlight any experiences demonstrating adaptability: studying abroad, living in different regions of your country, relocating for work, or managing multicultural teams. Show you understand the challenges and have strategies to handle them.
Real Student Testimonials: Life Across 3 Countries
Theory is one thing, but hearing from students who’ve actually lived the Erasmus Mundus experience provides invaluable perspective. Here’s what alumni want you to know before you apply.
“Living in three different countries in two years sounds like a dream, but you need to be organized. The scholarship money is great, but the networking with European tourism boards is the real prize. I secured my job as a Destination Manager in Malta through connections I made during a class project in Ljubljana. It’s not just about coursework—it’s about being proactive in building relationships at every location.”
“The cultural adjustment was harder than I expected, especially the first mobility. Moving from Spain to France in my second semester felt like starting over—new housing, new social circle, different academic expectations. But this challenge is exactly what makes Erasmus Mundus graduates so employable. By the end of the program, I could adapt to any work environment.”
“My advice? Don’t underestimate the logistics. Opening a bank account in each new country, registering with local authorities, finding accommodation—these practicalities take time. Start researching housing and administrative requirements for your next destination at least two months before each mobility. Your program coordinators help, but ultimately you’re responsible for your own logistics.”
Want More Travel Education Insights?
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- Cherry Blossom Viewing Guide for Solo Female Travelers – Cultural immersion tips that apply to any study abroad experience
Strategic 2026 Deadlines and Application Timeline
Timing is everything when applying for Erasmus Mundus scholarships. Miss the deadline by even one minute, and you’ll have to wait an entire year for the next application cycle. Here’s your month-by-month roadmap for the 2026 intake.
📅 Complete 2026 Application Timeline
October 2025 – Applications Open
Most Erasmus Mundus tourism programs open their application portals in early October. This is when you can create your account, start filling in forms, and upload documents. Don’t wait until October to begin preparing—use the months before to refine your motivation letter and gather recommendation letters.
November-December 2025 – Preparation Phase
These months are crucial for finalizing your applications. Request recommendation letters by mid-November at the latest. Take your IELTS or TOEFL if you haven’t already. Review your application multiple times for errors. Many applicants use the holiday period in December for final revisions—don’t fall behind during this time.
January 8-19, 2026 – Application Deadline Window
Different programs have slightly different deadlines within this window:
- EMTM: January 8, 2026 (23:59 CET)
- WINTOUR: January 15, 2026 (23:59 CET)
- TourDC: January 19, 2026 (23:59 GMT)
Submit at least 48 hours early. Portal traffic increases dramatically near deadlines, and technical issues can occur.
March-April 2026 – Results Released
Selected candidates receive notification typically in late March or early April. Scholarship offers usually give you 2-3 weeks to accept or decline. If you’re accepted to multiple programs, you’ll need to choose quickly.
May-August 2026 – Pre-Departure Phase
Use these months to apply for student visas, arrange accommodation in your first host country, and complete any program prerequisites. Some programs require you to complete online coursework or readings before the September start.
September 2026 – Program Start
Orientation weeks typically begin in early September. Plan to arrive at your first host university at least one week before official orientation to settle in, adjust to time zones, and handle any administrative registrations.
⏰ Time Zone Awareness
Pay close attention to the time zone specified for deadlines. EMTM uses CET (Central European Time), while TourDC uses GMT (Greenwich Mean Time). If you’re applying from Asia, North America, or other time zones, calculate the exact local deadline time and set multiple reminders on your phone. Submit early to avoid any confusion about time conversions.
Your Journey Starts Now
Securing an Erasmus Mundus scholarship for tourism and hospitality studies isn’t just about meeting eligibility criteria or submitting documents on time. It’s about demonstrating that you’re someone who will make the most of this extraordinary opportunity—someone who understands the tourism industry’s challenges, has clear professional goals, and possesses the adaptability to thrive across multiple countries and cultures.
The fully funded nature of these programs means you can focus entirely on learning, networking, and building a career foundation without the burden of student debt. You’ll graduate with a European master’s degree, an international network spanning multiple countries, and practical experience that employers around the world value highly.
Remember that behind every successful application is a candidate who took time to research programs thoroughly, craft genuine and specific motivation letters, and present themselves as future leaders in sustainable and innovative tourism development. Whether you choose EMTM’s sustainability focus, WINTOUR’s luxury niche, or TourDC’s cultural emphasis, you’re not just earning a degree—you’re positioning yourself at the forefront of an industry that desperately needs skilled professionals who think globally and act responsibly.
Start preparing your application today. Research the programs deeply. Connect with current students or alumni on LinkedIn if possible. Revise your motivation letter until every sentence reflects your genuine passion and strategic thinking. The 2026 application cycle is your opportunity to transform your tourism career from national to international, from practitioner to leader, from dreaming about sustainable tourism to actually implementing it across Europe and beyond.
The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. For you, that step is opening the application portal and committing to putting forward the absolute best version of yourself. The European tourism industry is waiting for talented professionals like you. Will you answer the call?
