Are you dreaming of studying in Europe?
The Arqus Scholarship might be the opportunity you’ve been looking for. But before you start your application, it’s important to know: Who is eligible for the Arqus Scholarship?
In this guide, we’ll break it all down in simple terms, so you can understand if you qualify, how it works, and what steps to take next.
Also read on What is the DAAD Scholarship in Nigeria? A Complete Guide for 2025
What is the Arqus Scholarship?
The Arqus European University Alliance is a network of nine European universities that work together to promote international learning, inclusion, and academic cooperation. These universities include:
- University of Granada (Spain)
- University of Graz (Austria)
- University of Leipzig (Germany)
- University of Lyon (France)
- University of Padua (Italy)
- University of Bergen (Norway)
- Vilnius University (Lithuania)
- University of Minho (Portugal)
- University of Wrocław (Poland)
The Arqus Scholarship supports students, researchers, and staff who want to participate in short-term mobilities (like exchange programs, internships, research visits, etc.) within the Arqus network.
Who Can Apply? General Eligibility Criteria
Let’s start with the basics. To be eligible for the Arqus Scholarship, you must:
Be a student, staff, or researcher
You should be enrolled or working at one of the Arqus partner universities listed above.
- Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD students
- Academic and administrative staff
- Researchers and early-career postdocs
Be planning a short-term mobility
This means you’re going to study, research, teach, train, or collaborate at another Arqus university, usually for 5 days to 3 months.
Arqus Scholarship Eligibility for Students
If you’re a student, here’s what you need to qualify:
1. Be enrolled at an Arqus university
You must be a current full-time student in a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral program.
2. Plan to go to another Arqus university
Your exchange, study visit, or research must happen at a different university in the Arqus network—not your own.
3. Be in good academic standing
Most programs require you to have a minimum GPA or grade average, showing you are a serious and capable student.
4. Show financial need (in some cases)
Some Arqus scholarships give priority to students from disadvantaged backgrounds, including:
- Students with low-income status
- Students with disabilities
- First-generation university students
- Students with refugee status
Note: This doesn’t mean you have to be poor to apply, but having a background with financial or social challenges may boost your chances.
Arqus Scholarship Eligibility for Staff & Researchers
Are you part of the teaching or admin staff at an Arqus university? You can also apply for a mobility grant if:
- You plan to teach, train, or collaborate at another Arqus institution
- Your visit will improve international cooperation, research, or educational quality
Researchers (especially PhD students and postdocs) can apply if:
- Your research visit or collaboration is approved by both institutions
- Your project aligns with Arqus strategic themes (e.g., sustainability, inclusion, innovation)
When Can You Apply?
Application deadlines vary based on your home university and the type of mobility. However, there are two main calls per year:
- Spring Call: For mobility in the summer or fall
- Autumn Call: For mobility in the winter or spring
Check with your university’s international office for exact deadlines and application instructions.
What Documents Are Usually Required?
To apply, you’ll likely need:
- A motivation letter
- A CV or academic resume
- Proof of enrollment or employment
- A learning agreement (for students) or work plan (for staff)
- Recommendation letter (optional but helpful)
- Budget plan (showing estimated travel/living costs)
Note: Some universities may ask for additional documents, especially if you’re requesting funding for special needs.
What Does the Arqus Scholarship Cover?
The scholarship is meant to reduce financial barriers to mobility. It typically covers:
- Travel costs (flights, trains, etc.)
- Accommodation and living costs
- Special support for people with disabilities or special needs
The exact amount of funding depends on your destination and the length of stay, but it is generally between €500 and €1,500.
Extra Points That Boost Eligibility
To stand out as an applicant, you might get priority if:
- You’ve never participated in international mobility before
- You come from an underrepresented background
- Your mobility aligns with Arqus themes: sustainability, digital innovation, multilingualism, inclusion, etc.
- You plan to share your experience afterward (e.g., blog post, video testimonial)
Who Is NOT Eligible?
Let’s make things clearer by showing who cannot apply:
- Students not enrolled in any Arqus university
- Staff or researchers not affiliated with any Arqus partner
- Students planning mobility outside the Arqus network
- Applications for long-term study programs (like a full Master’s abroad)
- People who have already received Arqus funding in the same cycle
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Visit your university’s Arqus or International Office website
- Find the specific call and eligibility rules
- Choose a host university and activity
- Make sure your proposed activity fits the Arqus goals
- Contact the international office
- They can support your application and check your documents
- Submit your application online or via email
- Double-check deadlines and required forms
- Wait for the selection results
- You’ll be notified if selected and receive a grant agreement
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Arqus Scholarship the same as Erasmus+?
No. While both support mobility in Europe, Arqus is a separate alliance with its own funding, priorities, and application system.
Do I need to speak another language?
It depends. Some programs are in English, while others require basic knowledge of the local language. Multilingualism is encouraged but not mandatory.
Can I apply more than once?
Yes, but not within the same funding cycle. You can apply again in a different semester or academic year.
Is this open to Nigerian or African students?
Only if you’re already enrolled at one of the Arqus partner universities in Europe. If you’re in Nigeria or Africa and not part of an Arqus institution, you’re not currently eligible.