The EMAI Erasmus Mundus program is a prestigious two-year joint Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence, funded by the European Commission. It is coordinated by Universitat Pompeu Fabra in Barcelona and delivered in collaboration with three leading European institutions: Sapienza University of Rome, Radboud University Nijmegen, and the University of Ljubljana. The program offers a comprehensive academic journey that blends advanced AI theory with practical applications in areas such as machine learning, robotics, natural language processing, and cybersecurity.
This highly competitive program provides students with a truly international experience. Participants study at a minimum of two partner universities, gaining exposure to diverse academic environments and cultures. The program also offers generous Erasmus Mundus scholarships to top-ranked applicants, covering tuition fees, travel expenses, and providing a monthly stipend of approximately 1400 euros. Additional fee waivers are available for outstanding candidates who do not receive the full scholarship.
Project Status
- Status: Ongoing
- Start date 01-09-2022
- End date 31-10-2028
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master
- Universities Involved
- Countries Involved
The EMAI Erasmus Mundus program offers a two-year Master’s in Artificial Intelligence across four leading European universities.
| Pompeu Fabra University |
| Sapienza University of Rome |
| Radboud University |
| University of Ljubljana |
| Spain |
| Italy |
| The Netherlands |
| Slovenia |
This cross-border collaboration allows students to gain an international perspective while studying and researching in the heart of Europe’s academic and industrial hubs.
Description of the EMAI Erasmus Mundus Program
EMAI Erasmus Mundus is a two-year, 120 ECTS Master’s degree that immerses students in both theoretical and applied AI. It starts in Barcelona and then branches into specialized tracks, culminating in a thesis project during Year 2 at the partner university specializing in your chosen field.
Key Features of the EMAI Erasmus Mundus Program
- Integrated curriculum across universities
- Multinational cohort: students from around the globe
- 4 specialization tracks: Intelligent Decision Making, Robotics, Cybersecurity, Data Science
- Full Erasmus+ scholarships, with fee waivers for others
- Industry engagement via projects and internships
Mobility Tracks of the EMAI Erasmus Mundus Program
- Semester 1: Barcelona – core AI foundations
- Semester 2: One of Sapienza, Radboud, or Ljubljana
- Semester 3 & 4: Specialization and thesis at the institution aligned with your track:
- Decision Making → Barcelona
- Robotics → Rome
- Cybersecurity → Nijmegen
- Data Science → Ljubljana
Admission Requirements
To enter the EMAI Erasmus Mundus Program, you need:
- A first-cycle degree (≥180 ECTS) in ICT, Engineering, Physics, Math/Stats, or equivalent
- Minimum 12 ECTS in math, 12 ECTS in programming, and 12 ECTS in computing-related subjects
- CV, bachelor’s diploma and transcript, passport copy
- A 1-minute intro video (link, ≤30 MB)
- Motivation letter, reference letters, proof of English proficiency
How to Apply for EMAI Erasmus Mundus Program
- Applications Open: The call for applications generally opens between November and January on the official EMAI UPF website.
- Online Application: Complete the application through the Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) admission portal.
- Document Submission: Upload all required documents, including your academic transcripts, passport copy, CV, motivation letter, and a one-minute introductory video.
- Evaluation Process: Shortlisted candidates are invited for an online interview (30 to 40 minutes), followed by a final ranking.
- Await Admission Results
Tips to Win the EMAI Erasmus Mundus Program
- Show strong academic excellence and relevant technical background
- Highlight relevant projects/work experience (AI, coding, research)
- Your motivation video must be authentic, sharp, and well-produced
- Prepare thoroughly for the interview; showcase your mobility mindset
- Ensure your application is complete and submitted early
Application Timeline
- Opens: November
- Deadline: January
- Interview: March
- Enroll: Starting September following selection
Curriculum Structure of the EMAI Erasmus Mundus Program
| Year | Semester 1 (Barcelona) | Semester 2 (Partner Univ.) | Year 2 (Specialization & Thesis) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Core AI: ML, RL, NLP, symbol reasoning, math | Specialized courses at Sapienza, Radboud, or Ljubljana | Focused courses + Master’s thesis |
| 2 | N/A | N/A | Thesis in Intelligent Decision Making / Robotics / Cybersecurity / Data Science |
Coordinator Contact
- Email: admissions.emai@upf.edu or email.eu@upf.edu
- Address: Tànger building, UPF Poblenou campus, Barcelona
- Contact: (+34) 93 542 20 00
Alumni Feedback
“My primary motivation for pursuing the Erasmus Mundus Master of AI has been to combine AI with education and developmental work. Having worked as a teacher in Ghana at an NGO for a year, I saw first-hand the impact technology can have on education. This master offers great opportunities to achieve my goals, particularly through research internships with organizations like Giga/UNICEF, which aligns perfectly with my passion for making a positive impact.”
~Janne Rotter
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the EMAI Erasmus Mundus Program?
The EMAI Erasmus Mundus Program is a two-year joint Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence, offered by four top European universities under the Erasmus+ framework.
What are the benefits of the EMAI Erasmus Mundus Program?
The program offers a fully-funded scholarship, covering tuition fees, travel expenses, and a monthly stipend, along with the opportunity to study in multiple European countries.
How many universities are involved in the EMAI Erasmus Mundus Program?
Four universities participate in the EMAI Erasmus Mundus Program: Universitat Pompeu Fabra (Spain), Sapienza University of Rome (Italy), Radboud University (Netherlands), and the University of Ljubljana (Slovenia).
What documents are required for the EMAI Erasmus Mundus Program application?
Applicants must submit academic transcripts, a CV, a motivation letter, proof of English proficiency, reference letters, and a short introductory video.
Can I choose my specialization in the EMAI Erasmus Mundus Program?
Yes, students can specialize in one of four tracks in their second year: Intelligent Decision Making, Robotics, Cybersecurity, or Data Science.
