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What Exactly Is GLOCAL?
GLOCAL stands for Global Markets, Local Creativities. It’s an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s program run by a consortium of top universities, led by the University of Glasgow.
Over two years, you’ll study in two or more countries, moving between partner universities. Each semester, you’ll dive into how economies, cultures, and creative industries connect across borders.
This program mixes economics, history, management, and culture — giving you both academic depth and real-world perspective. By the end, you’ll hold a joint or multiple degree, depending on your chosen study track.
Who Can Apply?
The GLOCAL program welcomes students from any country and any background related to economics, business, social sciences, history, or cultural studies.
Academic Requirements
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field.
- For UK applicants, a 2:1 honours degree or equivalent.
- For others, a strong GPA that meets country standards.
- For some tracks, especially with Kyoto or Göttingen, prior coursework in economics is required.
- You must hold your degree before September 2026
Language Requirements
- If English isn’t your first language, you’ll need an accepted English test (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
Other Requirements
- You can’t have received an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s scholarship before.
- You can only apply for one GLOCAL track.
- Two references required — one academic, one professional (if possible).
- No age limit.
It’s a very inclusive program. They care more about your motivation and fit than your passport.
Scholarship Benefits
Let’s be honest — the funding is one of the biggest reasons students apply. The Erasmus Mundus scholarship takes care of nearly everything.
Here’s what you get if selected:
- Full tuition fees for all partner universities.
- Monthly stipend to cover living expenses.
- Travel and installation support.
- Health and accident insurance during your study period.
There are two payment options:
Option 1:
- €1,000 advance payments (three times: before Year 1, after Year 1, before Year 2)
- Plus €1,275 per month allowance
Option 2:
- €1,400 per month (flat rate, no advance payments)
No hidden costs. No tuition to pay. Just study, travel, and focus on your future.
Selection Process
The process is competitive, but fair. Every application is reviewed by at least two academic reviewers.
Here’s how the scoring works:
- Personal Statement: 40%
- Academic Merit: 30%
- References: 10%
- Experience and Fit: 20%
Shortlisted candidates are discussed in a consortium meeting. Final results usually come out in April. If you’re placed on the reserve list, don’t lose hope — many students still get an offer later.
Fields of Study & Study Tracks
The GLOCAL program is not one-size-fits-all. You choose a study track, and that defines your mobility path and focus.
Some examples of focus areas include:
- Globalization and Development
- International Business
- Economic History
- Cultural and Creative Industries
- Urban Studies and Innovation
Depending on your track, you might study in Glasgow, Barcelona, Uppsala, Göttingen, Rotterdam, Kyoto, or Bogotá.
Each university adds its unique strength. Glasgow offers global strategy, Barcelona focuses on business and culture, while Göttingen and Kyoto add deep economic and social perspectives.
Application Process: Step by Step
Here’s how to approach it, in order:
- Wait for application window — Opens 1 October
- Submit the application online — through the University of Glasgow’s postgraduate admissions portal (Scholarship or Self-funding form).
- Select one study track — You’ll specify this in the application, and you can’t change or apply to multiple.
- Upload required documents:
- Completed application (scholarship/self-funding form)
- Academic transcripts & degree certificates (with translations if needed)
- CV
- Personal Statement (tailored to the track)
- Two references (on institutional letterhead)
- Proof of English proficiency
- Passport ID page / photo
- Meet deadlines:
- Check deadlines here
- Track results:
- Scholarship offers: April
- Self-funded admissions: rolling basis
- If accepted:
- Accept your offer
- Prepare for visas and travel
- Receive the Confirmation of Funding letter to help with visa process
- Map out your mobility schedule across partner universities
A couple of important notes:
- If your application status is “holding for documents” by scholarship deadline, it’s disqualified for scholarship consideration.
- Since all is done online, double-check everything early — don’t wait until the last minute.
- The portal often gets heavy traffic or glitches around the deadline — start early
Visa and Mobility Tips
If you’re a non-EU student, you’ll likely need multiple visas or residence permits. The GLOCAL team helps by providing official funding letters for your applications.
Still, start visa prep early. Some embassies take months to process. Always keep digital and paper copies of all official letters, admission offers, and funding proof.
Check out: University of Exeter Excellence Scholarships – Master’s Funding for International Students in the UK
If You Don’t Win the Scholarship
Don’t give up. The program also accepts self-funded students. You can still apply by August 21.
Many students choose this route because they see the long-term value. Plus, once enrolled, you can apply for smaller grants or local support in your host universities.
Why You Should Apply
Few programs offer what GLOCAL does — real mobility, global classrooms, and a community of thinkers from everywhere.
You’ll leave with:
- A joint master’s degree respected worldwide.
- Experience living in at least two or three countries.
- A network of scholars, alumni, and professionals.
- A stronger sense of how the global economy and creativity connect.
It’s perfect for people who want to work in international organizations, academia, NGOs, policy, or creative industries.
This isn’t just about education — it’s about transformation.
Final Thoughts
Applying for GLOCAL takes effort. You’ll write essays, gather documents, chase references, maybe even doubt yourself. But if you get in, it’s life-changing.
Don’t let fear stop you. Thousands apply, but only those who try have a chance.
Start early. Write honestly. Apply with heart.
Who knows? In a few months, you could be packing your bags for your first semester in Glasgow, starting a new chapter that could shape the rest of your life.
Apply here:
Official GLOCAL Application Page
