Erasmus Mundus Scholar, Amber Jamal from Pakistan, Shares Her Journey of Pursuing a Master’s in Governance and Administration of Leisure and Sports (GOALS) Across Europe

I am Amber Jamal from the Northern Region of Pakistan. I was passionate about sports in my childhood. I was very curious about different games and always had a great fit in almost all sports that were famous in my high school. When I completed high school, I had to choose my track for university, and I was interested in 2 main subjects. I applied to universities in Pakistan, and I got selected for both programs( Sports and Physics) at different universities. I was very clear about my interest, so I got admission in Bachelor's of Sports Sciences and Physical Education at the University of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan. After my graduation, I got back to my region to serve my own community. I became a Senior Physical education Instaructor in one of the prestigious educational institutions of Pakistan, Aga Khan Higher Secondary School Hunza. During that journey, I applied for the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship, and I got selected for the 3rd Cohort. I am pursuing my master's in sports management.

Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Details

Erasmus Mundus Program is funded by european uninio there are more than 200 programs. My program is the GOLAS Master's.

The Governance & Administration of Leisure and Sports International Master (GOALS) is a joint Master's programme organised by five leading European universities in the field of sports management. This unique Master's programme is dedicated to meeting students' needs as future professionals in several settings within the fields of sport, management, and active leisure. Sport's growing economic, political, and social significance and internationalisation of Sports organisations create a corresponding need for professionally well-trained sports managers.

There are 5 universities in this consortium.

Participation costs

‍The participation fees for taking part in the GOALS programme amount to:
8 000€ / year for: Third countries not associated with the Programme students*
4 000€ / year for: EU Member states + Third countries associated to the Programme students**

EMJM scholarships

By applying to the GOALS Master programme, you can apply for an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master (EMJM) scholarship by mentioning your choice while filling in the application form.

The EMJM scholarship amounts to 1400€ per month, for a total duration of 18 months over 24 (until December 31, 2027, which amounts to €25,200). It includes a waiver for participation fees and covers all living costs of the students (travel, accommodation, visa, etc.).

‍Educational Background

I did my bachelor's in Sports Science and Physical Education. I was one of the best students in my batch with a CGPA of 3.89. I was always active in sports and academics as well. I was very active in different sports events in my home country.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Institutions?

There is no hustle for the application of the Erasmus Mundus program; you don't have to apply to all universities. Only have to apply for the programs once. You just need a proficiency certificate in English to apply for this program. You just have to be very dedicated and consistent. I got to know about this program from my friend, who was applying for the agriculture sector.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or the Countries' Native Languages? 

All programs are in the English language. The environment is very lively and professional.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I was very curious from the start, and I answered all the questions with my deep interest. I didn't use any AI tool to create my application. I have done all with my own knowledge. I was very consistent with my application till the end.