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Volunteer with EMA
EMA is a purely volunteer based Association, and relies on its volunteers to keep the Association’s functions, growth and work. Hundreds of volunteers spread across the world support and run EMA with activities ranging from communications, community projects, professional development activities, promotion of Erasmus Mundus programs and overall, leading the organisation and steering it forward. EMA represents an excellent space for experiencing truly international and mobile volunteering. Find our current openings below.
Since its foundation, EMA members have initiated or taken part in over 200 fairs, information seminars, and promotional activities worldwide. Our global and very diverse community is our main strength, whereas we utilise the wide range of knowledge that our members contribute to the organisation to follow our mission.
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EMA Volunteer vs Member: what's the difference?
Generally any Erasmus Mundus Joint Programme student or alumni can become an EMA member (for detailed information check our Membership page). EMA volunteers are selected EMA members who are taking on active positions in the Association. Not all members are volunteers. EMA offers its volunteers a safe space to grow, personally and professionally. The environment is very supportive and allows individuals to set their own goals to grow and contribute to the Association at the same time.
What do we expect from
you as an EMA volunteer?
As an EMA Volunteer, you will be requested to spend the agreed upon time (as defined in your Volunteering Agreement) on tasks related to EMA. We rely on your proactivity and team-work skills to make best use of your time and allow for maximum contributions to the Association.
The most common work tasks involve: doing home-office activities (on your computer, wherever you prefer); participating in online meetings with EMA teammates from all over the world; and organizing or participating in EMA face-to-face events. Most of all, we expect you to be committed to contributing to the growth of the EMA community in quality and size.
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How and where can I apply?
You can become an active EMA volunteer in any role opened and published here.
Whatever the position, your average dedication to the role will be defined during the application and onboarding process. All EMA's volunteers have Volunteering Agreements (VAs), which describe the volunteering relationship and can last three to 24 months, depending on the position.
Please read EMA’s Statutes and Internal Regulations to ensure you understand your rights and full scope of responsibilities.
All positions are volunteer-based.
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What does EMJMD stand for?EMJMD refers to “Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree”, which is the official title of joint Master level study programmes carried out by consortia of European universities and supported by the European Commission. Up until 2013 Erasmus Mundus Joint Doctoral Degree fellowships were awarded to students to pursue their PhD studies as part of joint study and research programmes carried out by consortia of European universities. For simplicity on this website, we use EMJMD, and implicitly also refer to students and alumni from the no-longer funded Erasmus Mundus Joint Doctorate program. Have a look at the Erasmus Mundus page for more details.
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Applying for EMJMDsAre you interested in studying in Europe? Do you want to apply for the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship? Read our information for prospective students here!
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Can I take my spouse with me during the mobility?Yes, you can.
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When does the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree application start?Most consortia require applications to be submitted between October and January, for courses starting the following academic year. Students and potential scholars/guest lecturers should contact directly the relevant consortium for more information on courses and application procedures. Please notice that when you apply, some data is shared with the Agency and treated according to the following privacy statement. Fore more information, please follow this link.
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Why are there annual changes to the listed scholarships?EMJMD Programmes are supported by the European Union as part of the ERASMUS+ Programme. Consortia of universities can apply and the European Commission decides on which programmes will be funded. The funding applies for a certain period. As the funding (and probably with the funding the EMJMD Programmes) expires and new programmes are selected, the list of available scholarships changes from year to year. You can find the list of current scholarships here.
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What are the differences between Erasmus+ and Erasmus Mundus?Erasmus+ is the catch-all term for all the projects of the EU to support education, training, youth and sports in Europe. Erasmus Mundus is one of such projects under Erasmus+ banner. More specifically, Erasmus Mundus Programme is the joint/multiple master's degree programme available for students and graduates - of any nationality - who meets the relevant programme’s criteria for application. In other words, an Erasmus Mundus Programme (or Masters) is an integrated study programme offered by a consortium of universities. Its completion leads to the award of a recognized joint, double or multiple degree(s). An Erasmus Mundus Programme counts with 60, 90, or 120 European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) credits at masters level, thus lasting from one to two academic years. The consortium is a group of at least three higher education institutions from three different European countries which have been selected by the European Commission (EC) - the executive body of the EU - to offer an Erasmus Mundus Programme. During an Erasmus Mundus Masters course, students study on a rotational basis at different partner universities of the consortium.
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How can I apply for an Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?(1) Visit the EMJMD Catalogue; (2) Choose up to three courses/programmes of interest; (3) Make sure you are eligible to apply by visiting the website of your preferred course or programme; (4) Read the application process carefully and submit the necessary documents. and the necessary documents to be submitted. Please be informed that each programme has its own website and application procedure. All information regarding requirements, deadlines and online applications will be provided there. Be aware, these regulations might change and you will need to check the official EU channels for the most up to date information. See our page of resources for prospective students here.
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Where can I find tips for a successful application for Erasmus Mundus?The EMA YouTube channel has several videos with tips and tricks for successful applications. Moreover, we encourage you to check and follow our other social media (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn).
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What makes me qualified to be granted a full Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?There are no separate applications for the Erasmus Mundus Scholarships. During the application period, all applications submitted are considered for Erasmus+ Scholarships. When you are accepted to your programme, you are automatically considered for a scholarship (unless you have opted out). However, scholarships are limited. The assessment on whether you will be granted an Erasmus Mundus Scholarship will be made by a committee, usually the coordinators of the consortium you are applying to. Being at the top of your class does not guarantee that you will get a Scholarship. Erasmus+/Erasmus Mundus is interested in well-rounded individuals who can contribute not only intellectually, but also in terms of experience.
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What scholarships does the EU offer?On top of national scholarship schemes, the EU offers a plethora of opportunities to study, train, gain experience, and volunteer abroad. Through the various components of the Erasmus+ Programme, the umbrella programme encompasses a range of educational programmes targeting different categories of students. Have a look at this page to find ideas on scholarships with the Erasmus+ Programme. Especially the Erasmus Mundus Programme offers full scholarships for students. For more details have a look here.
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How can I apply for other Erasmus+ Scholarships?Visit the official website of the European Commission about the Erasmus+ Programme for education. Choose the Erasmus+ opportunity you are interested in. Then, you will be prompted to the step by step process on how to apply and what scholarship opportunities are offered.
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How do I choose between the distinct programmes in Erasmus+?In choosing a programme, you must first know what your goals are, what career path you are trying to make, and what you intend to do with the knowledge that you will gain from the programme. For example, if you are solely interested in gaining practical knowledge, you may not need to pursue a full degree. Instead, you may be more interested in applying for an Erasmus+ internship programme. Have a look at all the possible options through this link! It will help you in your decision-making process.
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When is the deadline for submissions?Deadlines vary according to the individual programmes. To confirm the relevant deadlines, you should check the specific website of the programme you are interested in here.
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What is EMA?EMA is an Association for all students and alumni of Erasmus Mundus Masters and Doctoral Programmes. EMA was established in 2006 at the initiative of the Directorate General for Education and Culture of the European Commission. The Association was and still is driven by the Erasmus Mundus students from the very start, developing into a dynamic and democratic organisation. EMA Members are ambassadors of Erasmus Mundus. We offer an international, professional and personal network for Erasmus Mundus students and graduates. Our members can join our Association and become active volunteers in a number of different roles. EMA also offers a job board and a special entrepreneurship section. EMA currently counts with about 11,000 members (actual number might vary).
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What is ESAA?The Erasmus+ Student and Alumni Alliance (ESAA) is an umbrella organisation that brings together the Erasmus Mundus Students and Alumni Association (EMA), the Erasmus Student Network (ESN), garagErasmus (gE) and the OCEANS Network. Please check their official website if you want to know more about ESAA’s projects and activities.
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Who are the heads of EMA?The Governing Bodies of EMA are the General Assembly and the Management Board. The Management Board is composed of the President, Vice-President, and the Directors of the Working Units, the Administrative Units and the Support Units, as selected by the Selection Committee in accordance with the Internal Regulations.
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What does PR, CR and PL stand for?"PRs, CRs and PLs are part of EMA’s four pillars. EMA’s Programme Representatives are referred to as PRs, CRs are EMA’s Country representatives and EMA PLs are Project Leaders. Have a look at the EMA PR, CR and PL pages to learn more.
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Who is eligible for EMA's membership?EMA distinguishes three types of members: Ordinary Members; Affiliate Members and Honorary Members. Ordinary Member of EMA: A student or an alumnus of an Erasmus Mundus Joint Programme can apply to EMA along with sufficient proof of their candidature, in the manner as described in EMA’s Internal Regulations. Affiliate Member: A student or an alumnus of a Masters or PhD programme who was beneficiary of mobility to one of the European Universities as part of Erasmus+ 2020 Key Action 1, Bullet 1 or any of the predecessor actions, can apply to EMA along with sufficient proof of their candidature, in the manner as described in EMA’s Internal Regulations. Honorary Member: Can be any natural or legal person, nominated by the Management Board by way of a two-third majority vote and accepted by the General Assembly who have made a significant contribution to the success, reputation, and pursuit of objectives of EMA and the Research Community.
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How can I become an EMA member?Sign up through EMA’s community portal. In case your membership is not directly recognised please use the available link to “become a member”. Further instructions will be sent to you and we will be in touch with any additional information that might be needed.
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Do I have to pay to become an EMA member?No, you do not have to pay to become an EMA member as of now.
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Why should I become a member? What are the benefits?EMA offers an international professional and personal network for Erasmus Mundus students and graduates. EMA members are ambassadors of the Erasmus Mundus Association. We share the idea of international education and spread the message around the world. Since its foundation, EMA members have initiated or taken part in over 150 education fairs, information seminars and promotional activities worldwide. EMA serves as a channel of communication for students, alumni, universities and the European Commission.
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Does EMA sponsor a participation in conferences for its members?Unfortunately, EMA is unable to sponsor conference attendance at this point.
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Does EMA support projects for its members? If yes, how do I submit a funding proposal for a project?"While EMA is not a funding provider for projects itself, the Erasmus+ Student and Alumni Alliance (ESAA) has an Open Call for Projects programme that EMA members can propose to, apply to and take part in.
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Does EMA have any local activities in my city, country or region?"A number of activities are happening on an ongoing basis and we use our social media channels (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram) and the EMA website to inform you about these.
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How to volunteer and participate in EMA’s work?There are plenty of possibilities for EMA members, as well as non-members, to become volunteers within EMA. Have a look at EMA’s volunteering page - see available positions and apply.
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Does EMA have any paid job positions?No. And we do not foresee to have paid positions in the near future, either. Everyone volunteering within EMA (from Programme Representatives all the way to the President) works on an unpaid volunteer basis.
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I have never been an Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters or PhD student, can I still volunteer at EMA?"Yes, but Erasmus Mundus students and alumni have priority in our recruitment process. Furthermore, we ask you to take into consideration that our Association was created by and for Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters and Doctorates students and alumni. Therefore, as per the Statutes and Internal Regulations of EMA, only “EMA members” can hold certain positions at EMA. Please see the category of 'EMA Membership Questions' for more information about the types of memberships. Having said that, EMA naturally needs talented volunteers and, if an open volunteering position is important to our work, we will accept candidates regardless of whether or not they were an Erasmus Mundus student before (i.e. people who never had any involvement with the Erasmus Mundus Programme, including Erasmus Mundus "Action 2" students/alumni - who are in fact eligible as “EMA Affiliate Members”). Some examples of areas where we still lack more volunteers are: a) IT (i.e. web design, graphic design, etc), b) Legal affairs (i.e. people with experience in European Union or Belgian law), c) Human Resources (i.e. documentation and emitting volunteering agreements and certificates).
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What is the process of selecting new EMA Volunteers?EMA Volunteers are onboarded all year round. At times we receive a larger number of applications and might require additional time to answer, please bear with us, or reach out directly to the Unit you applied for.
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How can I invite others to volunteer at EMA, too?"We are thankful to all of those helping us promote this volunteering recruitment among Erasmus Mundus students and alumni. Please invite other EM students/alumni to apply to volunteer at EMA. They can simply fill in this same application form here.
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What is the criteria used to select new EMA Volunteers?Many elements are taken into consideration, such as: a) the match between a candidate's interests/expertise and the specific volunteer position available; b) the level of motivation and time availability; c) previous engagement with the EMA community and with the Erasmus Mundus Programme; d) if the candidate is an EMA member and of what kind, i.e., Ordinary or Affiliate Member (please see EMA Member definitions); and so on.
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What should I do if I haven't received my Erasmus Mundus diploma from my university after the conclusion of my studies?First of all, contact your EMJMD coordinator, she/he should be able to help you with this course related question. If you are not successful, we can try to help, but are afraid that we do not have any executive power to help you. If you would like to raise your concerns to with an EMA representative please get in touch at: [email protected].
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Are there any scholarship opportunities for PhD studies?EU Scholarships for PhD studies are available under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme. The number of applicants accepted per PhD Programme and programme deadline depend on the field of study, usually called a "project." More information about the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme and other European PhD Scholarships and fellowships can be found on the Euraxess website.
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How can I provide feedback about an Erasmus Mundus programme?The ideal way to give feedback about a specific Erasmus Mundus programme is via official program channels, which vary depending on your course. If you would like to speak to an EMA representative regarding any questions that might come up, please reach out at: [email protected]. We can then support and advise you to choose the adequate feedback channel and e.g. forward feedback to the European Commission.
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I have an issue with my Erasmus Mundus Programme. Who should I contact?Have a look at the above question. EMA can help connect you with the EACEA. EMA can also help if you have a concern and/or questions related to quality assurance in your Erasmus Mundus Programme, higher education excellence, higher education surveys, survey results, historical data analysis, proposals for collaboration on higher education projects or tenders. Get in touch at: [email protected].
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Can Erasmus Mundus graduates receive visa extensions for their job searches in EU countries?The European Commission does not interfere with national visa regulations of European Union member states. Once a student decides in which country he or she wishes to work, it is up to the student to contact the concerned authorities to get the latest information on visa regulations for that particular country. As a general information, some EU member states offer visas to graduates of universities within their country and in some particular cases, also from other countries.
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I have a question about a specific Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Programme. Whom should I contact?Every Erasmus Mundus Programme has a designated coordinator and secretariat. Should you have any specific questions or clarifications not answered in the FAQs, on the EACEA website or on the EMA website, you should contact the coordinator or secretariat of that programme. Official answers regarding your Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Programme should always be communicated by the programme itself.
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How can I propose a partnership with EMA?If you would like to partner with EMA, please send your proposal to [email protected].
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How can I join a collaboration on EU projects?If you are an EMA Member and would like to contribute to the writing of EU projects, please contact [email protected]. If you represent an organisation that would like to partner with EMA for developing a project, please also contact [email protected].
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Does EMA have a mentoring programme?Yes, EMA does have a mentoring programme that runs at various points throughout the year. Please refer to our projects page for more details.
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Does EMA help members to find jobs or PhD positions or provide any job search facilities?EMA does not have a curated internal job-database, nevertheless every now and then EMA Members are sharing job and/or PhD opportunities on our social media which can be a great source for other EMA students and alumni.
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What are the career prospects for an Erasmus Mundus graduate?Erasmus Mundus gives you the opportunity to be in a multicultural, interdisciplinary and insightful academic environment. Nonetheless, at the end of the day, it is up to you to decide on the direction of your career. Erasmus Mundus alumni have the opportunity to leverage their degrees into their desired career field through their work and commitment. Having completed a prestigious Erasmus Mundus Master will definitely put you in a good place to access the job market (world wide).
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I am an Erasmus Mundus student or alumni. How can I write a good CV?There is no right or wrong way to write a CV. Your CV will depend on your field, the country you are applying for positions in, and the job you are looking for. For example, in the UK, job applicants are not expected to mention their gender or add a personal photo to their CV. In some European countries, such as Spain, you are most welcome to do so. In other countries, like India, you are even expected to add your age to your CV. Academic CVs are generally longer and more detailed, whilst an undergraduate CV will be shorter. CVs can generally be organised either in a timeline or skills-based format. It is up to you to decide on the format. Tips: Just as you should write a new cover letter for each job you apply for, you should also adapt your CV for each job application and highlight skills specified in the requirements. Make sure your CV does not contain any grammatical errors. You could use an online grammar and spell check software. But beware: these online services may not identify all misspelled words. There are several free CV screening facilities online. Be proactive to get the best CV for your dream job. There are also free CV templates available online (such as Europass) which you can use as the basis for your CV. There are also paid services you can use to help craft your CV.
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I am an Erasmus Mundus student or alumni. How do I improve my career prospects?Network! You can network both within and outside of academia during your Erasmus Mundus Programme. Research companies and NGOs you are interested in, and reach out to them on LinkedIn or through email. Research whether your Erasmus Mundus universities host networking conferences or job fairs. Be proactive and go for it. Be willing to take calculated risks. Start from the beginning to learn the tricks of the trade and to develop your expertise. Work on your (professional) online presence, e.g. through the use of Linkedin. Play fair at work with colleagues and your superiors. Cultivate values including integrity, passion, excellence, and support for both your peers and higher management. Enrol in free MOOCs and develop new skills to differentiate yourself.
EMA's Volunteering Culture
Take ownership
Know how you personally contribute to our goals & missions. Own your role & be proactive. If it needs doing, DO IT!
Be passionate
Love what you do and show it. Take pride in what you do. Be positive and driven to learn continuously.
Stronger together
Approach problems with a ‘we over me’ mentality. Be supportive and have each other’s back. We are a team!
Have fun
Enjoy the journey. If you don’t enjoy it, change it. Celebrate our success TOGETHER.
What are the benefits of volunteering with EMA?
Get work experience at an international organisation officially supported by the European Commission and aligned with both the European Union values, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Learn new things
Volunteering with EMA offers an opportunity to learn some great transversal, professional skills to also use e.g. at a future workplace. These are, but not limited to, coordinating with a remote team using innovative IT technologies, resolving complex challenges by deploying creativity and at the same time providing great services to other fellow EMA members.
Meet interesting people
EMA is full of great minds like you! Our team members are based all around the globe which is a challenge, but also an overwhelming experience to meet like-minded people from every corner of our planet and work together on great projects. You will get to interact and network with an array of individuals involved with the Erasmus Mundus Programme, including EMA Members, Programme coordinators, European Commission staff, and so on.
Give back
We have all been part of the great Erasmus Mundus journey and many of us want to give back after such a life changing experience. Volunteering with EMA means that you are contributing with your professional skills to develop our Association and your network.
Get recognised
Members who join EMA as a volunteer receive an official Certificate of Recognition and/or a Recommendation Letter (if requested) based on successful completion of your engagement and achievements related to your roles. EMA has great leaders who mentor our volunteers to help them grow in their potential and skills. For those highly contributing volunteers there is an opportunity to get participate in strategic events and projects.