Pakistani Student Wins Erasmus Mundus Scholarship to Study Economics Across Europe

My name is Hareem Fatima, and I’m from Pakistan. I am currently pursuing the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree in Economics of Globalization and European Integration (EGEI). Over the past two years, I’ve had the opportunity to live and study in France, Belgium, Estonia, and Spain, thanks to the program’s multi-country structure. I've studied at the University of Lille in France, the University of Ghent in Belgium, and the University of Tartu in Estonia, and then interned at the United Nations as part of my degree.

Educational Background

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Economics with a minor in Statistics from Lahore, Pakistan. Before joining the Erasmus Mundus program, I worked at the Centre for Economic Research in Pakistan (CERP), an economic think tank, where I was involved in a multi-site randomized control trial (RCT) focused on women and labor economics. Both my academic background and research experience were highly relevant to the EGEI program and helped me stand out during the interview stage. The interview panel showed particular interest in the policy implications of my work.

How Did you Prepare to Apply for the Scholarship?

I applied for both the Chevening Scholarship and the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship — and was fortunate to be awarded both. I ultimately chose Erasmus Mundus for two main reasons:

1. I wanted a research-focused Master’s to strengthen my profile for a future PhD.
2. I wanted to step outside of my comfort zone and experience life in different countries.

Both scholarships are highly competitive, with thousands of applicants from around the world. In my cohort, for example, over 1,000 candidates applied. I believe what made my application stand out were my essays. I followed the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method, clearly articulated my motivations, and made sure I had a strong understanding of the program and why I was applying for it.

Could you briefly discuss the Erasmus Mundus program you pursued and the specific field of study it focused on?

I am pursuing the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s in the Economics of Globalization and European Integration (EGEI). The program focuses on international economics, particularly trade — how it has shaped the European Union, and the broader importance of trade liberalization in the modern global economy. In today’s increasingly volatile economic environment, this degree is more relevant than ever.

How did the cost of living vary across the countries you studied in? Which country was the most affordable or expensive, and how did you manage financially?

With Erasmus Mundus, your stipend is fixed — depending on your program, it’s either €1,000 or €1,400 per month. Managing your finances wisely is essential if you want to make the most of your time in Europe.

In terms of rent, Belgium was the most expensive, followed by France and then Estonia. However, groceries were most expensive in Estonia. My advice is to track your expenses, create a budget, and shop smart. Each country has different affordable grocery chains — don’t hesitate to ask locals or your university’s international office for tips.

Some universities also offer great initiatives — for example, Ghent University in Belgium had a swap shop where outgoing students left behind household items for incoming students. Thanks to such initiatives, I never had to spend money on kitchen essentials.

Did you face any language barriers, and if so, how did you overcome them? Did the language of instruction change from one country to another?

As non-Europeans, we often think of Europe as a single entity, but each country has its own distinct culture and language. Language barriers can definitely be a challenge — especially in countries like France, where not knowing French can make everyday tasks more difficult.

That said, Google Translate was a lifesaver! I recommend learning a few basic phrases in each local language to make your life easier and show respect for the culture. Also, keep in mind that language skills can impact your job prospects — many employers prefer or require local language proficiency.

Would you recommend the Erasmus Mundus program to others? What advice would you give to someone considering this scholarship?

I would absolutely recommend the Erasmus Mundus program — but only if you’re genuinely interested in international economics, especially trade, and are willing to adapt to a new culture every six months.

My biggest piece of advice is to invest time and effort in your application essays. Write, edit, rewrite, and get feedback. Good writing takes time — be patient with yourself and focus on making your story compelling and authentic.

Looking back, would you have done anything differently during your time in the program?

If I could do one thing differently, I would have networked more, gone out with friends more often, and allowed myself to relax a bit. The program is intense, and while academics are important, so are the memories and relationships you build along the way.