Your Guide to Fisheries and Aquaculture Scholarships in Europe

Are you passionate about sustainable food sources and marine ecosystems? A degree in fisheries or aquaculture could be your calling. If you’re looking for opportunities to study in Europe, this guide provides detailed insights into the top scholarships available to help fund your education and launch your career in this vital field.

Why Pursue Fisheries and Aquaculture Studies in Europe?

Europe stands at the forefront of marine science and sustainable aquaculture. With a rich maritime history, advanced research facilities, and a strong political commitment to the “Blue Economy,” the continent offers an unparalleled educational experience. Universities in countries like Norway, Scotland, the Netherlands, and Denmark are globally recognized for their cutting-edge programs.

Studying here gives you access to world-class experts, diverse marine environments from the North Atlantic to the Mediterranean, and a network of professionals dedicated to solving global food security challenges. Many programs are taught in English and emphasize practical, hands-on learning, preparing you for a successful international career.

Major Pan-European Scholarship Programs

Many of the most prestigious and generous scholarships are funded by the European Union and are open to students from around the world. These programs are highly competitive but offer incredible benefits.

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJM)

The Erasmus Mundus program is the gold standard for international students. It funds joint master’s degrees offered by a consortium of universities from different European countries. These scholarships are comprehensive, typically covering full tuition fees, travel costs, and a monthly living allowance. You get to study in at least two different countries, providing a unique cultural and academic experience.

Key Programs for Fisheries and Aquaculture:

Aquaculture, Environment and Society (ACES-STAR): This is a leading program for aspiring aquaculture professionals. The consortium includes the University of the Highlands and Islands (UK), the University of Crete (Greece), the University of Nantes (France), and Radboud University (Netherlands). The program focuses on sustainable aquaculture practices from both a scientific and societal perspective.
European Master in Animal Breeding and Genetics (EMABG): While broader, this program has specializations highly relevant to aquaculture, focusing on breeding programs for fish and shellfish to improve sustainability and productivity. Partner universities include Wageningen University (Netherlands) and the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU).
Marine Biological Resources (IMBRSea): This joint master’s program focuses on marine biological resources and the sustainable management of marine ecosystems. It is a fantastic option for those interested in the broader context of fisheries.

Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)

For those pursuing a PhD or postdoctoral research, the MSCA offers excellent funding opportunities. These actions support researchers at all stages of their careers, irrespective of nationality. MSCA funding is available across all disciplines, and projects related to sustainable fisheries, marine biotechnology, and aquaculture are frequently funded. You typically apply for specific funded positions advertised on the EURAXESS portal.

Top Countries and Universities for Your Studies

Beyond pan-European programs, many countries and individual universities offer excellent scholarships for international students.

Norway

As a global leader in salmon farming and marine research, Norway is a top destination. Norwegian public universities do not charge tuition fees for most students, but living costs are high, making scholarships essential.

Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU): Offers master’s programs in Aquaculture and Aquatic Food Production. They provide a limited number of scholarships for international students.
University of Bergen (UiB): Known for its strong marine biology and fisheries science programs. Students can explore funding options through university-specific grants or programs like the NORPART program, which supports academic collaboration with institutions in the Global South.
Nord University: Offers a Master in Biosciences with a focus on marine ecology and aquaculture.

Scotland (United Kingdom)

Scotland has a world-renowned aquaculture industry. The University of Stirling’s Institute of Aquaculture is one of the most respected institutions in the field globally.

University of Stirling: Offers MSc programs in Sustainable Aquaculture and Aquatic Pathobiology. The university provides various international scholarships.
Saltire Scholarships: This is a Scottish Government scholarship program for students from Canada, China, India, Japan, Pakistan, and the USA. It offers up to 50 awards, each worth £8,000, towards tuition fees for a one-year master’s degree at any Scottish university.

The Netherlands

The Netherlands is famous for its expertise in agriculture, water management, and life sciences.

Wageningen University & Research (WUR): Consistently ranked as one of the world’s best universities for agriculture and forestry. Their MSc in Aquaculture and Marine Resource Management is a top-tier program. WUR offers several scholarship programs, including the Holland Scholarship and the Orange Tulip Scholarship for students from specific countries.

Denmark

Denmark has a strong focus on sustainable technology and environmental science.

Technical University of Denmark (DTU): The National Institute of Aquatic Resources (DTU Aqua) is a leading research center. They offer an MSc in Aquatic Science and Technology, covering fisheries, aquaculture, and oceanography. DTU offers a limited number of tuition fee waivers for exceptional non-EU/EEA students.

How to Build a Winning Scholarship Application

Securing funding is competitive. A strong application is crucial for standing out.

Start Early: Researching programs and deadlines should begin at least a year before you plan to start your studies. Scholarship deadlines are often much earlier than university application deadlines.
Tailor Your Personal Statement: Avoid generic essays. For each application, highlight why you are passionate about fisheries or aquaculture, why you chose that specific program and university, and how your academic and professional goals align with their mission.
Gain Relevant Experience: Practical experience strengthens your profile. Seek out internships, volunteer opportunities, or work experience at fish farms, research labs, conservation organizations, or government agencies.
Secure Strong Recommendations: Ask professors or employers who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities, work ethic, and passion for the field. Give them plenty of notice and provide them with your CV and personal statement.
Meet the Requirements: Double-check all eligibility criteria, including academic grades, English language proficiency test scores (like IELTS or TOEFL), and specific documents required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can non-EU students apply for these scholarships? Yes, absolutely. The Erasmus Mundus programs and many university-specific scholarships are specifically designed to attract talented students from all over the world. Always check the eligibility criteria for each specific scholarship.

Do these scholarships cover all expenses? It varies. Erasmus Mundus scholarships are very comprehensive and are designed to cover tuition, travel, and living costs. University or government scholarships might cover only tuition or provide a partial stipend for living expenses. It is important to read the details of each scholarship carefully to understand what is included.

What are the career prospects with a degree in this field? Graduates have diverse career options. You could work in farm management, feed production, environmental impact assessment, government policy and regulation, scientific research, or for non-governmental organizations focused on sustainable seafood and marine conservation.