Your Guide to European Studies Scholarships in Luxembourg

Are you interested in studying at the heart of the European Union? Luxembourg offers a unique and enriching environment for students of European Studies, and various scholarships can help make this goal a reality. This guide provides detailed insights into the financial aid and scholarships available for pursuing your degree in this remarkable country.

Why Study European Studies in Luxembourg?

Before diving into the scholarships, it is important to understand why Luxembourg is an exceptional choice for this field of study. As one of the six founding members of the European Union and one of its three official capitals, alongside Brussels and Strasbourg, Luxembourg is deeply integrated into the fabric of European governance.

The country hosts several key EU institutions, including:

  • The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU)
  • The European Court of Auditors (ECA)
  • The European Investment Bank (EIB)
  • The Secretariat of the European Parliament

This concentration of major institutions provides students with an unparalleled opportunity to experience European politics, law, and finance firsthand. The country’s multilingual and multicultural environment further enriches the academic experience, preparing students for international careers. The primary institution for higher education in this field is the prestigious and modern University of Luxembourg.

Key Financial Support: Luxembourg State Aid (AideFi)

One of the most significant sources of funding for students in Luxembourg is the state-sponsored financial aid program known as AideFi. This program is not limited to Luxembourgish nationals and is accessible to a wide range of students, making it a crucial resource to investigate.

Who is eligible for AideFi? Eligibility is broad but has specific requirements. Generally, you may be eligible if you fall into one of these categories:

  • You are a citizen of Luxembourg or a family member of one.
  • You are a citizen of another EU member state or an EEA country (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway) or Switzerland, provided you have been employed in Luxembourg or are the child of a parent who has been employed or established in Luxembourg.
  • You are a non-EU/EEA citizen who has held legal resident status in Luxembourg for at least five years.
  • You hold refugee status in Luxembourg.

What does AideFi cover? AideFi is a comprehensive package that consists of several components, often combining grants and loans.

  • Base Grant: A standard amount provided to all eligible students.
  • Mobility Grant: For students enrolled in a program outside their country of residence.
  • Social Criteria Grant: An additional amount based on the student’s household income.
  • Family Grant: An extra grant if other children in the same household are also pursuing higher education.
  • Student Loan: An optional, state-guaranteed loan with a favorable interest rate.

The total amount you can receive depends on your individual circumstances. It is essential to check the official government website, Guichet.lu, for the most current eligibility criteria and application procedures.

University-Specific Scholarships and Grants

The University of Luxembourg, the country’s main public university, offers specific scholarships aimed at attracting talented international students. These are often merit-based and can significantly reduce the financial burden of your studies.

Guillaume Dupaix International Master’s Scholarship

This is a premier scholarship for international students with excellent academic records who wish to pursue a Master’s degree at the University of Luxembourg.

  • Field of Study: It is open to students in all Master’s programs offered by the university, including those in European Studies, such as the Master in European Governance.
  • Scholarship Value: The scholarship provides a stipend of 10,000 euros per academic year, for a duration of up to two years. This is intended to help cover accommodation and living expenses.
  • Eligibility: It is open to both EU and non-EU applicants who have graduated from a foreign university and demonstrate outstanding academic performance.
  • Application: The application is typically submitted alongside the application for the Master’s program itself. Deadlines are strict, so planning is crucial.

Faculty-Specific Mobility Grants

Certain faculties within the University of Luxembourg may offer their own mobility grants or small scholarships for students participating in exchange programs or specific academic projects. For students in European Studies, this could include funding for short-term study visits to other European institutions. It is always a good idea to contact the administration of your chosen program directly to inquire about such opportunities.

Applying for Scholarships: A Practical Checklist

Navigating the application process can seem complex, but a systematic approach can make it manageable.

  1. Research Programs First: Identify the specific European Studies program you want to enroll in at the University of Luxembourg. Popular choices include the Bachelor in European Cultures (BENCE) and various Master’s programs focused on European law, economics, and governance.
  2. Verify Admission Requirements: Ensure you meet all the academic and language requirements for your chosen program. Most programs in this field are taught in English, French, and/or German, and you will need to provide proof of proficiency.
  3. Check Scholarship Eligibility: Carefully read the criteria for each scholarship you are interested in, paying close attention to nationality, academic merit, and residency requirements.
  4. Prepare Your Documents: You will generally need a standard set of documents for both admission and scholarship applications:
    • Academic transcripts and diplomas
    • A compelling letter of motivation or personal statement
    • Letters of recommendation
    • Proof of language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, DELF)
    • A detailed curriculum vitae (CV)
  5. Mind the Deadlines: Scholarship deadlines are often earlier than general admission deadlines. Mark all key dates in your calendar and aim to submit your applications well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there full-ride scholarships available for international students in Luxembourg? Full-ride scholarships that cover all tuition, accommodation, and living expenses are extremely rare. Most funding, like AideFi and the Guillaume Dupaix scholarship, provides substantial support but may not cover every single cost. Students should plan on having some personal funds available.

What is the language of instruction for European Studies programs? The University of Luxembourg is known for its multilingual approach. European Studies programs are often taught in a combination of English, French, and German. You should check the specific language requirements for the program that interests you.

Can I work part-time while studying in Luxembourg? Yes, students are generally allowed to work part-time. EU/EEA students can work up to 16 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during holidays without a work permit. Non-EU students have similar rights but must ensure their student visa or residence permit allows for employment.