If you are looking at top European master’s programmes in economics or finance, the UniCredit Masterscholarship is worth serious attention. Run by the UniCredit Foundation, the programme funds one-year master’s study at a short list of highly regarded European universities. It covers tuition and contributes to living costs, making it one of the more generous private initiatives in the field.
What the Scholarship Offers
Each edition awards a limited number of one-year scholarships (recently eight). Winners receive full coverage of documented tuition fees plus a contribution toward living expenses for one year of the master’s programme. The living stipend varies by country and has typically ranged in the region of €1,000–€2,000 per month depending on location.
The award can support either the first or the second year of a two-year master’s, depending on the structure of the chosen programme.
Partner Universities
The list of participating schools is updated periodically. Recent editions have included:
• Barcelona School of Economics – MSc in Economics or Finance
• Bocconi University (Milan) – Master in Economic and Social Sciences or in Finance
• London School of Economics – relevant MRes or master’s pathways in economics
• University of Mannheim – Master in Economics
• University of Oxford – MPhil in Economics
• Sciences Po (Paris) – Master in Economics
• Stockholm School of Economics – MSc in Economics or Finance
• Toulouse School of Economics – relevant Master 2 / doctoral-path programmes
Who Can Apply
The competition is aimed at students from countries in which UniCredit operates. You must first secure admission to one of the listed master’s programmes through the normal university application process. The schools then put forward top candidates for consideration by the Foundation. There is usually one scholarship per university.
Because selection is competitive and rests on the quality of the admitted cohort, strong academic records, clear motivation for economics or finance, and a polished application to the university itself are essential.
How the Process Works
1. Apply directly to the master’s programme(s) of interest at the partner universities, following each school’s deadlines and requirements.
2. If admitted, the university may nominate you among its strongest candidates for the UniCredit award.
3. The Foundation makes the final selection and announces winners (timing has varied by edition).
4. Successful candidates begin or continue their master’s studies with tuition covered and living-cost support for one year.
Practical Advice
Treat the university admission as the primary hurdle. A weak application to the school will not reach the scholarship shortlist. Prepare strong recommendation letters, a clear statement of purpose focused on economics or finance, and any quantitative evidence (GRE/GMAT if required, transcripts, research experience).
Monitor the UniCredit Foundation website for the latest call, exact partner list, and deadlines. Editions are numbered (for example, the 16th edition for academic year 2026/27) and details can shift slightly from year to year.
Why It Stands Out
Many scholarships cover only partial fees. The UniCredit Masterscholarship removes the full tuition burden at some of Europe’s strongest economics and finance departments and adds meaningful living support. For students from UniCredit countries who can gain admission to one of the partner schools, it is one of the most attractive funding routes available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I apply directly to UniCredit Foundation for the Masterscholarship?
A: No. You first apply to the master’s programme at one of the partner universities through their normal admissions process. The university nominates top admitted candidates; the Foundation then selects the final winners.
Q: Which countries are eligible?
A: The programme targets students from countries where UniCredit operates. Check the current call on the UniCredit Foundation website for the exact list of eligible countries.
Q: Does the scholarship cover the full two-year master’s?
A: It covers one year (tuition plus living contribution). For two-year programmes it can support either the first or the second year, depending on the rules of that edition.
Q: How many scholarships are awarded each year?
A: Recent editions have awarded eight scholarships, typically one per partner university. The exact number can vary by edition.
Q: What makes a strong candidate?
A: Outstanding academic performance, clear motivation for economics or finance, and successful admission to a partner master’s programme. The university shortlist is the critical first filter.