Imagine a chance to study for free in Europe in a cutting-edge Master’s program on recycling and sustainable materials. The Erasmus Mundus AMIR Scholarship (Advanced Materials for Innovative Recycling) joint Master’s is a two-year MSc designed by EIT Raw Materials and the University of Bordeaux. It brings together six top European universities to train experts in raw material recycling. For the 2026–2028 intake, this opportunity includes substantial financial aid through EU grants. The program guides you through chemistry, materials science and entrepreneurship in Europe, making students “raw materials innovators of the future”.
The AMIR program holds the prestigious Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree label (since 2021) and continues its high standards for 2026–28, although full EMJM scholarships are not offered in this cycle. Instead, AMIR now provides EIT RawMaterials partial scholarships (grants) and tuition waivers to support students. With courses spanning France, Germany, Belgium, Hungary, Spain and Portugal, it’s a global, student-focused experience. Read on to learn how you can apply, what funding is available, and tips to stand out.
Overview of the AMIR Erasmus Mundus Program
The Erasmus Mundus AMIR joint Master’s (Advanced Materials for Innovative Recycling) is a 2-year Master of Science degree coordinated by Université de Bordeaux (France). The program is co-funded by EIT RawMaterials and has held the Erasmus Mundus label since 2021, reflecting its academic excellence. Students earn double degrees – a nationally accredited diploma from each of two partner universities – and gain hands-on training in sustainable materials recycling.
Courses cover the full raw-materials value chain (chemistry, materials science, lifecycle analysis) and emphasize innovation, leadership and entrepreneurship. AMIR partners with six leading European universities: Université de Bordeaux (France, coordinator), TU Darmstadt (Germany), Université de Liège (Belgium), University of Miskolc (Hungary), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (Spain) and NOVA University Lisbon (Portugal). (These institutions alternate first and second year studies, allowing you to live and study in multiple countries.) The consortium blends academic research and industry links to equip graduates for careers in recycling technology and innovation.
Eligibility Criteria
- Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 years/180 ECTS) in Engineering or Environmental Science (with strong chemistry background), or in Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Materials Science or related fields.
- Excellent academic record, strong motivation for recycling and sustainability, and fluency in English (proof of proficiency is usually required).
- International applicants from any country are welcome, provided they meet degree requirements.
- Relevant coursework or research in materials and any experience in innovation or entrepreneurship are a plus.
- (Note: A short online quiz on general science is part of selection. Candidates should be well-prepared in core subjects.)
Coverage / Benefits
- EIT Label Grant: A €15,000 scholarship (total, disbursed in Semesters 2–3, Jan–Dec 2026) is awarded to each EIT-partial scholar. This amount covers living and travel costs related to the program (as stated on the AMIR site).
- Tuition Fees: Grant recipients still pay reduced fees: €2,500 per year (EU/Associated) or €4,500 per year (non-EU). These are lower than typical European Master’s fees. Self-funded students do not pay any tuition fees (they are fully waived for 2026–28).
- Financial Support: In addition to the grant, students can use travel reimbursements and living stipends offered by the universities and EIT. (The program’s previous Erasmus Mundus scholarships included €1,400/month + insurance, though this exact offer is not available for 2026–28.)
- Double Degree: Graduates receive accredited Master’s degrees from two partner universities, enhancing their employability in Europe and worldwide.
- Network & Training: Scholars join the EIT RawMaterials community (industry projects, summer schools) and receive career guidance in the sustainable materials sector.
Host Countries & University Profiles
Students in AMIR spend time at top universities in six European countries. The consortium is led by Université de Bordeaux (France), where first-year courses cover raw-material value chains, general chemistry and sustainability (aligned with EIT innovation goals). The campus in Bordeaux offers modern labs and a lively student life in southwestern France.
Other year-two partner countries provide specialized expertise: TU Darmstadt (Germany) is known for advanced materials engineering, UPM Madrid (Spain) for process engineering, Université de Liège (Belgium) for mineral recycling, University of Miskolc (Hungary) for raw materials and chemistry, and NOVA Lisbon (Portugal) for innovation and entrepreneurship. Each location combines research facilities and cultural experiences. In practice, students might spend Year 1 in Bordeaux, Lisbon or Miskolc, and Year 2 in Madrid, Darmstadt or Liège (or vice versa), earning two degrees and networking across the EU.
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
- Check eligibility: Review the requirements above and gather documents (BSc transcripts, diploma, CV, motivation letter, language certificates, references).
- Create an account: Go to the official AMIR application portal (Université de Bordeaux site). Register and start your application for the 2026–28 cohort.
- Complete the form: Fill in personal information, academic history and the specialization track (indicate you’re applying for an EIT scholarship slot or self-funded admission).
- Upload documents: Attach all required files – academic transcripts, degree certificate, CV, a letter of motivation (explaining your interest in advanced materials recycling), proof of English proficiency, and reference letters.
- Submit by deadline: Finalize and submit your application by Jan 23, 2026 (11:59 CET). No application fee is charged.
- Selection quiz: After submission, prepare for a time-limited online quiz on general science (used by the program to assess baseline knowledge). Strong performance (and your overall profile) will determine if you receive the scholarship grant or admission.
- Wait for results: Shortlisted candidates will be notified in early 2026. Successful applicants will receive an email with scholarship or acceptance details.
Important Deadlines
- Application opens: Oct 19, 2025.
- Deadline to apply: Jan 23, 2026 (at 11:59 CET). (Late or incomplete applications cannot be considered.)
- Admission results: Estimated Spring 2026 (contact AMIR office for timeline).
- Program start: September 2026 (2-year curriculum, ending 2028).
(Note: Exact dates will be confirmed on the AMIR website; keep track of the official portal for any updates.)
Tips for Applicants
- Show your passion: Emphasize any projects, internships or coursework in recycling, materials or sustainability. Explain why sustainable materials and innovation excite you.
- Tailor your motivation letter: Clearly connect your goals to AMIR’s themes (chemistry, recycling, entrepreneurship). Show you understand what the program offers.
- Highlight strengths: If you have lab experience, publications, or entrepreneurial ideas, mention them. Competitive applicants often have strong academic records and extracurricular achievements.
- Prepare documents carefully: Collect outstanding recommendations and ensure your English test scores (e.g. IELTS/TOEFL) meet requirements.
- Practice the quiz topics: Review general chemistry, physics and materials science for the online MCQ test. Stay calm and focused – it’s part of the standard selection.
- Apply early: Give yourself time to polish your application, double-check all uploads, and request references well before the deadline.
Apply now for the Erasmus Mundus AMIR Scholarship 2026-2028 and take a big step towards a career in sustainable materials!
Conclusion
The Erasmus Mundus AMIR Scholarship 2026-2028 offer an incredible path to study cutting-edge recycling technology in Europe. This two-year Master’s program – spanning France, Germany, Belgium, Hungary, Spain and Portugal – prepares you to become a leader in sustainable materials. Act on this opportunity by applying through the official portal and sharing the news with peers. A world of innovation and international experience awaits: don’t miss your chance to contribute to a greener future.
Your journey to innovation begins now – apply for AMIR and spread the word!
FAQ
Q: What is the Erasmus Mundus AMIR scholarship?
A: AMIR is a 2-year Erasmus Mundus Master’s in Advanced Materials for Innovative Recycling, run by six European universities, granting double diplomas.
Q: Who is eligible to apply?
A: Applicants need a 3-year (180 ECTS) bachelor’s in engineering/environmental science (with chemistry) or in chemistry/materials science, plus a strong academic record.
Q: Which countries host AMIR universities?
A: The AMIR program spans universities in France, Germany, Belgium, Hungary, Spain and Portugal, where students spend each study year.
Q: What does the scholarship cover?
A: The scholarship includes a €15,000 grant covering living/travel costs during Semesters 2–3 (Jan–Dec 2026). Annual tuition fees (€2,500–4,500) must still be paid by students.
Q: How do I apply?
A: Submit an online application on the official AMIR portal between Oct 19, 2025 and Jan 23, 2026. Include your CV, academic transcripts, and a strong motivation letter.
Q: When is the application deadline?
A: The application window is Oct 19, 2025 – Jan 23, 2026, with the final deadline on Jan 23, 2026 at 11:59 CET.
