I am still studying for my undergraduate degree. Can I apply?
No – you need to have at least one year of full-time professional experience after graduation in order to take part in ADVANCES. If you are still finishing your degree, then think about applying in future years.
Do internships or placements count as relevant professional experience for ADVANCES?
No – the programme is designed for experienced professionals and the teaching activities draw on this experience in the social sector. It is therefore important to have worked in the welfare or social sector for at least a year. Many participants in the programme often have far more experience.
Do I need to submit an IELTS certificate if my university degree was taught in English or I took special classes in English?
All candidates must submit an official IELTS certificate of English ability apart from the country exceptions listed on this website under Eligibility requirements. This a requirement for obtaining a student visa for the United Kingdom and exceptions are therefore not possible. Proof that English was the medium of instruction at your university unfortunately cannot be accepted.
Do I need to submit an official certificate of English ability with my application?
You can apply to ADVANCES without official proof of your English proficiency, but obtaining the required IELTS certificate will be a condition of an offer and would need to be completed by the May before the course begins in September.
Will the programme be offered in future years?
ADVANCES will admit new cohorts every September until at least 2022. Candidates who are therefore still finishing their degree or gaining professional experience can therefore apply in future years if they meet the eligibility criteria of a degree in social work and at least one year of professional experience.
Do all students on the programme receive Erasmus Mundus scholarships?
No – Erasmus Mundus scholarships are only available to 21-22 students each year. We strongly encourage other students to participate in the programme on a self-funding basis or if they can find sponsorship from an employer or other source. The ADVANCES team will provide supporting letters and information for potential employers and sponsors.
Can I still apply if I do not have a social work degree?
You can only apply to ADVANCES if you studied a subject related to social work – examples of relevant subjects are available on this website under Eligibility requirements. Note that applications from candidates without a social work degree (in countries where social work education exists at university level) may not score as highly as applicants who have a social work degree.
Is there a separate application for the Erasmus Mundus scholarship funding?
No – all applications received within the scholarship deadlines will automatically be considered for an Erasmus Mundus scholarship, which are awarded to the top candidates by merit.
