Netherlands Erasmus Mundus GLOBED 2026 – Fully Funded Joint Master’s in Global Development & Education, Travel Costs Included, Deadline Jan 2026

Introduction

If you’re from Africa or Asia and seeking a master’s programme that offers both global credentials and deep engagement with development issues — imagine a two-year degree delivered across multiple European universities, fully funded (or nearly so), inclusive of travel support, and designed for international students who want to make an impact. That’s essentially what the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s (EMJM) programme called GLOBED (Education Policies for Global Development) offers.

In this article, we’ll walk you through:

What GLOBED is and what “fully funded” really means
Why this opportunity is especially relevant for students in Africa & Asia
A clear step-by-step application guide (from zero to submission)
A comparison of key benefits and costs
Realistic expectations, insights and mistakes to avoid
A simple structure for your Statement of Purpose (SoP)
Frequently asked questions
And finally, a strong call-to-action so you can be ready for the January 2026 deadline.

Let’s begin by exploring the programme itself and why it might be “the one” for you.

What’s the Programme?

The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s (EMJM) initiative by the European Union supports high-quality international master’s programmes that are jointly delivered by at least three higher education institutions in different countries.

GLOBED (Education Policies for Global Development) is one such EMJM programme. Key features:

A two-year (24-month) master’s degree in Global Development & Education, with mobility across partner universities in Europe.
Fully funded scholarships for selected students covering tuition/participation costs and a generous monthly allowance. According to the programme site: “All scholarship holders, regardless of their residence or nationality, will receive **€1,400 per month along the two-years programme.”
It includes travel cost support (since the EMJM scheme covers “participation costs and contribute to travel” for scholarship awardees).
Deadline for applications for the 2026/27 cohort is January 2026 (check actual call) — making now the time to get prepared. The application timeline (via sample announcement) shows “Stage 1 open from 29 September 2025 to 5 January 2026” for the programme edition.

So if you are motivated, globally minded, and want to engage with education and development from an international lens, GLOBED could be a perfect fit.

Why It Matters for Africa & Asia

For students from Africa and Asia, here are some of the key reasons GLOBED is relevant:

Fully funded support removes barriers: Many students struggle with tuition, living costs, travel. With the EMJM scholarship (for GLOBED) you get monthly allowance, tuition/participation covered, travel aid.
International mobility + network: You’ll study in multiple countries (giving exposure to global education systems) and join an international cohort of peers from around the world.
Development-focused content: The programme is explicitly about education, global development, policy and leadership — issues very relevant to many African and Asian contexts.
Prestige & future opportunities: An Erasmus Mundus degree boosts your résumé, opens doors for PhD or high impact careers in both your home country and globally.
Deadline urgency: With the Jan 2026 deadline, you have time to prepare carefully — but you must act early to gather documents, motivators, and research.

That said, let’s move into what exactly is covered and how to prepare.

What Does “Fully Funded” Cover?

While the exact benefits may vary slightly per cohort, for the GLOBED programme you can expect the following:

Component	What is covered	What you should check
Tuition/Participation Costs	The scholarship covers “participation fees” (tuition and registration) for scholarship holders.	Confirm the exact participation fee waiver for your nationality (scholarship vs self-funded).
Monthly Living Allowance	All scholarship holders receive €1,400/month for the full 24-months.	Make sure you understand whether this is tax-free or not in your host countries.
Travel Costs / Contribution	The EMJM rule says scholarships “cover your participation costs and contribute to travel”.	Find out how much travel contribution is offered (full airfare or flat rate).
Insurance / Installation Support	Some programmes include health/accident insurance and sometimes installation costs.	Check whether you need to budget for local insurance or initial housing costs.
Mobility across countries	GLOBED is multi-country, which means you’ll study at different partner institutions (important experience).	Confirm the mobility schedule and how many semesters in each country.

In summary: This is a high-value scholarship. Your job is to verify details for your edition and prepare accordingly.

Comparison: GLOBED vs Other Scholarships

To frame your thinking, here’s a comparison of GLOBED with typical international scholarship expectations:

Feature	GLOBED (EMJM)	Typical International Scholarship (for Africa/Asia)
Monthly allowance	€1,400/month for 24 months	Often lower (e.g., €800–€1,000 or US$ equivalent)
Tuition/fees covered	Yes (for scholarship holders)	Sometimes partial funding or student pays small fees
Travel cost support	Included as “contribute to travel” under EMJM.	Many scholarships omit travel or offer minimal reimbursement
Multi-country mobility	Yes, programme spans multiple European institutions	Often single university in one country
Eligibility for global applicants	Open to “students from all over the world” under EMJM.	Some are region-specific or exclude partner countries outside region
Application timeline	Oct–Jan typical for EMJM programmes	Varies widely and sometimes shorter notice
Cost to applicant	Minimal (no tuition, stipend provided)	Sometimes applicant must micromanage fees or living cost

By this comparison, GLOBED stands out as a very competitive option for learners in Africa & Asia who meet the eligibility and who are ready to travel and adapt to European multi-country experience.

Step-by-Step Guide for Your Application (Newcomer Friendly)

Here’s a practical roadmap to apply for GLOBED for the 2026 intake. Follow each step carefully.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility & Programme Fit

Visit the official GLOBED programme page and confirm eligibility criteria: bachelor’s degree required, minimum grade/GPA, language proficiency, etc. (Example page: show admission profile)
Ensure your field of study (education, global development, policy, etc.) fits the programme aim of “Global Development & Education”.
Check nationality eligibility – EMJM programmes tend to accept students from all over the world, so you from Africa or Asia are eligible.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Prepare the following (well ahead of deadline):

Bachelor’s degree certificate + transcripts (and possibly any master’s if relevant)
CV/resumé (highlight academic achievements, projects, leadership, relevant experience)
Motivation letter / personal statement (we’ll cover structure later)
Two referees (academic and/or professional) – get their commitment early
Proof of language proficiency (or evidence you studied in English) – check B2 or equivalent requirement. If you studied in English at your university, gather a Medium of Instruction letter.
Passport / ID scan
Any additional documents required by GLOBED (video introduction, etc., as seen in application details)

Step 3: Choose Mobility Preferences & Understand Travel/Costation

Review which partner universities the GLOBED consortium includes (for example Spain, UK, Germany, Cyprus in past edition)
Think about your preference order (which country you’d like to spend first, second)
Understand how travel costs will be managed and whether you must fund local expenses temporarily.
Make sure you’re ready to relocate and adapt to multi-country mobility (important for Africa/Asia candidates).

Step 4: Apply Online – Stage 1

The application platform opens (for example Stage 1 might run from 29 September 2025 to 5 January 2026 for GLOBED).
Fill the online form with personal, academic, mobility preference, English proficiency details. At this stage you may not need full supporting docs.
Upload the required initial documents (as instructed) by the first deadline.
Double-check you tick “scholarship candidate” (not self-funded) if you intend to apply for scholarship.
Submit early rather than at last minute — technical issues, time zones, and document translation cause problems.

Step 5: Stage 2 – Submit Full Documents & Wait Selection

If shortlisted, you’ll be asked to upload full supporting documents (official transcripts, degree certificates, references, language proof, motivation video maybe).
Selection criteria will include: academic excellence (e.g., bachelor’s grade), fit with the programme, English proficiency, motivation and leadership potential.
You may be ranked, and then offers made to scholarship holders (some may be self-funded or partial funding).

Step 6: Receive Offer, Accept & Prepare for Study

If you get a scholarship offer: accept it by the deadline, sign any agreements.
Arrange your visa / residence permit for first country of study.
Book flights (check if travel cost is covered in full or partially).
Prepare accommodation, insurance, health cover etc.
Engage with orientation from the programme and start logistical arrangements.

Step 7: Study, Mobility & Graduate

Attend all mobility legs (switching between partner institutions) as required.
Maintain good academic performance to keep scholarship support.
Complete thesis or project in final semester, often with partner or associated institution. GLOBED guidelines show mobility details in manuals.
Graduate, and leverage your international network for career or further studies.

Step 8: Post-Study Reflection & Use Your Network

Use the Erasmus alumni network, connect with peers from Africa/Asia who attended similar programmes.
Use your qualification to contribute back to your home country (education, development, policy) — your story becomes a bridge between continents.
Consider PhD, professional career, or roles in global development organisations.

Key Insights & Real-World Tips

Start early: For Jan 2026 deadline you should begin preparation at least 6-9 months ahead: document translation, English proof, CV, referees.
Focus on “global development + education” narrative: Since GLOBED is about education policy and development, frame your motivation around how your background (Africa/Asia context) connects to this theme.
Show mobility readiness: Multi-country study means adaptability, cross-cultural readiness, resilience. Use examples (internship abroad, exchange, volunteering) to show this.
Highlight leadership & impact: Even at master’s level, showing you’ve taken initiative (student club, community project, teaching, policy work) strengthens your application.
Check cost details carefully: Although the monthly allowance is generous (€1,400/month), cost of living in some cities may be high; plan for budget accordingly.
Translation & document authenticity matter: Many applicants get rejected due to missing or non-translated certificates, especially from non-EU/Asia/Africa contexts.
Language readiness: If you studied in English, secure a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter so you may avoid extra tests. If not, prepare for IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent.
Budget for local expenses/travel gaps: Even with travel support, there may be local transport, housing deposit, visa fees which you must plan for.
Network with past alumni: Before applying, try contacting past GLOBED / Erasmus Mundus students from Africa/Asia to learn their experience, expectations, and tips.

Statement of Purpose – Simple, Strong Structure

Here’s a template you can use to craft your letter or personal statement:

Opening Hook
- Begin with a meaningful anecdote or challenge you witnessed in your home country (Africa/Asia) regarding education, development or global change.
- Example: “Growing up in a rural community in Nigeria where access to quality education was limited… I discovered that education policies make the difference…”
Academic & Professional Background
- Summarise your bachelor’s degree: institution, field, key achievements.
- Note relevant work/internship/volunteer experience, especially those connected to education, policy, development.
- Highlight projects, publications or leadership roles if applicable.
Why GLOBED & Why This Mobility Programme
- Explain your interest in the GLOBED master’s: what you hope to gain (cross-country mobility, joint degree, specialised modules).
- Link the programme content (education policy, development studies) to your goals.
- Mention why the Netherlands (or partner countries) and the consortium’s reputation matter.
Your Future Goals & Impact Back Home
- State your short-term goal (during/after master’s) and long-term goal (4-10 years) in your home country context.
- Example: “After graduating I will return to Kenya to influence national education reforms, especially improving teacher training and digital education in rural areas.”
- Show how you’ll utilise your international network and skills.
Leadership, Diversity & Fit
- Provide examples of your leadership potential (clubs, initiatives, community work).
- Demonstrate how you’ll contribute to the multinational cohort and bring perspective from Africa/Asia.
Language & Readiness
- Include a short note: “My previous degree at [University] was delivered in English; I am fully prepared for an English-medium master’s.”
- Or if you took a test: mention your score.
Conclusion & Commitment
- Reiterate your motivation, your readiness to relocate, and your commitment to using your degree for development.
- Thank the selection committee.

Make sure your SoP is clear, concise (typical length 500-800 words), and tailored to the GLOBED theme.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Mistake	Why it hurts	How to avoid it
Waiting until the deadline is near	High risk of missing docs, weak edit or rushed submission	Start 6-9 months ahead, set milestones (CV done, referees confirmed, draft SoP ready)
Generic motivation letter (not tailored to GLOBED)	Doesn’t show your fit or awareness of the programme	Research the consortium, mention partner universities, mention mobility and development link
Inadequate English language proof	Could lead to rejection or requirement to take extra test	If you studied in English, get MOI letter; if not, book IELTS/TOEFL early
Weak referees or late letters	References may be missing or lack substance	Invite referees early, brief them about the programme, provide your CV & draft SoP
Ignoring cost of living / travel logistics	Might create stress after arrival	Budget for initial housing, visa, local transport; check travel cost support in your scholarship
Mobility readiness not addressed	Multi-country study means adaptability matters	Use examples of prior mobility, intercultural experience or adaptability
Document translation/format issues	Delays or rejections often from uncertified translations or incomplete docs	Use certified translator if needed; have transcripts in English; follow upload instructions carefully

FAQ – Concise but Useful

Q: Who can apply to GLOBED?
A: Applicants from all over the world (including Africa & Asia) are eligible under the EMJM framework.

Q: When is the deadline for the 2026/27 cohort?
A: For GLOBED the application Stage 1 opens around 29 September 2025 and closes 5 January 2026.

Q: Does the scholarship cover travel and relocation costs?
A: Yes – EMJM scholarships “contribute to travel” and the GLOBED site shows full fees and stipend covering accommodation/food, with travel cost allowance noted.

Q: Do I need IELTS?
A: Yes, most programmes require proof of English proficiency (typically B2 level) unless you’re exempt (e.g., nationality or education in English). GLOBED declares English proficiency requirement in Stage 1.

Q: Can students from non-European countries apply?
A: Yes — the EMJM programmes are specifically designed for global participation, including students from Africa and Asia.

Q: What is the monthly allowance?
A: For GLOBED scholarship holders it is €1,400/month for the full 24-month duration.

Conclusion & Call to Action

If you’re a motivated student or young professional from Africa or Asia with interest in education policy, global development and international mobility, the GLOBED Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programme is a golden opportunity to gain a world-class master’s degree, travel across European universities, build a global network and contribute to your home country’s development — all while being financially supported.

What you should do now:

Visit the official GLOBED programme website and download the official call for the 2026/27 edition.
Confirm you have the required bachelor’s degree, nominate your preferred universities in the consortium, check mobility schedule.
Start gathering documents: transcripts, CV, referees, proof of English proficiency or MOI.
Draft your motivation letter (SoP) using the structure above and tailor it to the programme’s focus.
Submit your Stage 1 application within the timeline (Sept 2025 – Jan 2026). Then prepare for Stage 2 documents.
Budget for accommodation, relocation travel (if needed beyond what scholarship covers) and plan your logistics.

“Your international journey begins when you decide to step beyond the ordinary. Let GLOBED take you there — and let your vision of global development transform into action.”

Take that first step today — start preparing, and position yourself for a chance to study across Europe with a fully funded scholarship in 2026.