DIGI-ME One Semester Exchange Scholarship Award Procedure and Selection Rules at UNIVAASA (University of Vaasa)
Overview
The University of Vaasa DIGI-ME one semester exchange scholarship offers up to five lump-sum scholarships (total call budget €21,500) for Master's students to undertake a single-semester mobility at the University of Pavia (Italy) or Grenoble School of Management (France) during September–December 2026. Eligible applicants are full-time students matriculated in 2025–2026 in the University of Vaasa Master’s programmes in International Business (MIB) or Strategic Business Development (SBD), must hold EU/DEP-eligible citizenship and meet English proficiency requirements. Awards include a monthly living contribution (€700), a one-time travel contribution (€500) and an optional monthly top-up (€250) for participants with defined fewer opportunities, with payments disbursed 80 percent on signature and 20 percent on verified completion. Applications must be submitted via the dedicated online form by 22 June 2026 17:00 CET and selection is competitive based on academic record, motivation and additional experience with a 70 percent threshold.
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Highlights
What it funds
Lump‑sum scholarships to support one semester exchange (September–December 2026, up to 4 months) at University of Pavia (Italy) or Grenoble School of Management (France) to study advanced digital technologies within the DIGI-ME programme.
Total budget and awards:Up to €21,500 available in this call; up to 5 scholarships awarded (up to 3 for Pavia, up to 2 for Grenoble). Typical components: monthly living contribution €700, travel contribution €500 (one-time), and an additional monthly top-up €250 for participants with fewer opportunities. Payments are disbursed in two instalments (80% on signature, 20% on completion). 1
Who can apply
Current full-time master’s students enrolled in University of Vaasa DIGI-ME programmes:Master’s Programme in International Business – Sustainable Global Business (MIB) or Master’s Programme in Strategic Business Development (SBD), matriculated in academic year 2025–2026, within standard programme duration, not on academic leave.
Applicants must be citizens of EU/EEA or Digital Europe Programme associated (DEP) countries, demonstrate English proficiency (IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 88, Cambridge 180, or a bachelor degree taught fully in English), and must not receive other EU funding for the same purpose.
Key dates and practicals
- 1Opening date: 23 April 2026
- 2Application deadline: 22 June 2026, 17:00 CET (single-stage, submission via dedicated online form)
- 3Mobility period: September 2026 to December 2026 (max 4 months)
- 4Selection: internal evaluation by University of Vaasa experts; passing threshold 70%; reserve list policy applies
- 5Acceptance: successful applicants must confirm within 5 business days; appeals within 3 business days after notification
Application requires transcripts, CV, motivation letter (max 3 pages), proof of English, copy of passport/ID and completion of the dedicated online form. Selection weights: academic background 65%, motivation 25%, additional experience 10%.
How payments are made:Scholarship paid as lump sum in two tranches: first 80% within 30 days of signing the Mobility Agreement (after approved Learning Agreement and bank details), final 20% after verified completion and fulfilment of conditions.
Scholarship tax treatment follows Finnish law; recipients must verify tax obligations (grants may be tax‑exempt or taxable depending on payer and amounts).
Apply via the dedicated form linked from the University of Vaasa DIGI-ME Open Call page; administrative contact digime@uwasa.fi.
Footnotes
- 1Full guidelines and applicant instructions are in the call document: DIGI-ME Guidelines OSE.
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Breakdown
Opportunity summary
Call title:DIGI-ME One Semester Exchange Scholarship Award Procedure and Selection Rules at UNIVAASA (University of Vaasa). Open call launched by University of Vaasa under the DIGI-ME project (Grant Agreement No. 101123009). Opening date: 23 April 2026. Deadline (single-stage): 22 June 2026, 17:00 CET. Expected duration of participation: 3 to 4 months (mobility period Sept 2026 to Dec 2026, maximum 4 months depending on Learning Agreement). Total funding available for this UNIVAASA call: €21,500. This call is an Open Call managed by the University of Vaasa as part of the DIGI-ME project; the University provides the scholarships in its own name and under its own responsibility. The publication on the EU portal is for information and visibility only.
Primary objective:To support selected master’s students enrolled in University of Vaasa DIGI-ME partner programmes to complete one semester exchange at University of Pavia (Italy) or Grenoble School of Management (France) to extend knowledge and skills in advanced digital technologies and related areas of innovation management and entrepreneurship.
Structured eligibility and applicant details
Eligible applicants, applicant restrictions, nationality and language requirements, and required documents are detailed below. Applications are submitted exclusively via the dedicated online form referenced in the call and Guidelines for Applicants. Applications missing required documents or not submitted through the dedicated form by the deadline will be deemed ineligible.
Eligible Applicant Types
Eligible applicant types:individual students. Specifically: full-time master’s students matriculated in academic year 2025-2026 in either of the University of Vaasa master’s programmes participating in DIGI-ME: Master’s Programme in International Business – Sustainable Global Business (MIB) or Master’s Programme in Strategic Business Development (SBD). Students must not be on academic leave and must not have exceeded the standard duration of their curriculum.
Funding Type
Primary funding mechanism:Scholarship provided as financial support (grant) to third parties. Scholarships are paid as lump sums to selected individual students to cover living and subsistence costs and travel for a mobility action (one semester exchange).
Consortium Requirement
Application structure:single applicants (individual students). No consortium is required or accepted; selection is of individual scholarship beneficiaries.
Beneficiary Scope (Geographic Eligibility)
Nationality and geographic eligibility:Applicants must be passport holders from EU / EEA countries or Digital Europe Programme (DEP) participating/associated countries as defined by the DEP participating country list. The DEP participating countries list includes EU Member States, EEA EFTA countries (Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein) and a set of DEP associated/participating third countries (see DEP participating countries list). Candidates enrolled at University of Vaasa who meet nationality requirements are eligible. The full DEP participating country list and status is available in the DEP guidanceDIGI-ME Guidelines OSE 1.
Target Sector
Target thematic sectors:digital skills and education in the fields of digitalisation of innovation, innovation management, entrepreneurship, international business; advanced digital technologies; data and artificial intelligence in management. This is an education/skills development scholarship linked to the Digital Europe Programme specialised education topic DIGITAL-2022.
Mentioned Countries
Countries explicitly referenced in the call materials:Finland (University of Vaasa host institution, and Finnish tax guidance referenced), Italy (University of Pavia as mobility host), France (Grenoble School of Management as mobility host). DEP list includes multiple countries and associates—refer to DEP participating country document for full list1.
Project Stage / Expected Maturity
Project stage:student mobility / education participation for learning and training. Expected maturity: academic learning, curriculum integration and validation of learning outcomes (learning agreement, ECTS recognition). This is not a research development or commercialization grant; it supports students at the study/learning stage.
Funding Amount and Financial Components
Total available for this UNIVAASA call:€21,500 to be distributed to up to five (5) beneficiaries: up to three (3) selected for University of Pavia exchange and up to two (2) selected for Grenoble School of Management exchange. Individual scholarship composition and payment mechanism are specified below.
| Component | Value and description |
|---|---|
| ITEM A: Monthly contribution | €700.00 per month (for the mobility period; mobility max 4 months between Sept 2026 and Dec 2026). |
| ITEM B: Travel contribution | €500.00 one-time travel fee. |
| ITEM C: Additional monthly contribution for participants with fewer opportunities | €250.00 per month. ITEM C is conditional and applies only for participants who meet specified fewer opportunities criteria (see eligibility conditions). |
| Example maximum individual estimate | If awarded for a full 4-month mobility and eligible for ITEM C: (ITEM A 700 x 4) + (ITEM C 250 x 4) + ITEM B 500 = €6,600. Actual awarded amount depends on individual mobility duration and eligibility for ITEM C. |
Payment mechanism and taxation
Payment mechanism:scholarships are disbursed in two instalments. First tranche equals 80% of the total estimated scholarship amount and is paid within 30 days of signing the Mobility Agreement, conditional on (a) approved Learning Agreement signed by University of Vaasa and the host HEI, and (b) correct bank details entered in the Reserved Area. If these conditions are fulfilled later, payment will be made within 30 days of actual fulfilment. The second tranche (20%) is paid after mobility completion subject to verification of fulfilment of administrative obligations, completion of authorised mobility period, achievement of training results consistent with the Learning Agreement, and correct administrative conclusion of the mobility. Failure to comply with any of the end-of-mobility conditions may lead to loss of balance payment and potential recovery of amounts already paid. Cancellation rules: cancellations must be promptly communicated and documented; cancellation typically requires refund of previously disbursed amounts and may lead to exclusion from future mobility selections.
Tax treatment:scholarship payment is subject to Finnish tax law. Depending on nature and payer, scholarship may be tax-exempt or taxable. Scholarships for studies or academic activities may be exempt; if paid by a public authority it is generally tax-exempt; if paid by a private entity some exemptions up to thresholds may apply. Mandatory contributions (health insurance contribution, public broadcasting tax) and pension insurance considerations (MYEL) may apply. Recipients are responsible for verifying and declaring tax obligations (reference: Grants - vero.fi).
Co-funding requirement:No co-funding from applicants is requested as part of the scholarship award. The call notes that double funding for the same costs from EU sources is prohibited; applicants must declare they have not received other EU funds for the same purpose. No cash or in-kind co-financing requirement from students is specified.
Application process, documentation and evaluation
Submission:Applications must be submitted EXCLUSIVELY via the dedicated online form during the call period (22 April 2026 09:00 CET to 22 June 2026 17:00 CET). The University of Vaasa will compile a list of applicants for statistical and transparency reporting; some applicant data will be shared with the European Commission as required. Applications will be subject to an admissibility and eligibility check, internal evaluation by University of Vaasa experts, ranking, and selection. Outcome will be published on the University of Vaasa DIGI-ME project website. Successful applicants must confirm acceptance within five business days by replying to digime@uwasa.fi. A written appeal may be submitted within three business days of receiving results.
Application Type
Method:Open call (single-stage), competitive, public submission via dedicated online form. Not rolling; one fixed deadline (22 June 2026 17:00 CET).
Required application documents
- 1Transcript of Records for passed exams and grades within the MIB or SBD programme (and, where applicable, study merits from foreign institutions according to issuing university practices).
- 2Curriculum Vitae (CV): max 3 pages, no photo, academic history, professional experience, skills, achievements.
- 3Personal Statement / Motivation Letter: max 3 pages explaining motivation, interest in DIGI-ME path and alignment with chosen host (University of Pavia or Grenoble School of Management).
- 4English language competency proof: certified score meeting minimum thresholds (IELTS Academic overall 6.5, TOEFL iBT overall 88, Cambridge English C1/C2 score 180) or evidence of a fully English-taught bachelor’s degree; documentation not required for native English speakers.
- 5Copy of passport or ID card (valid).
- 6Optional: voluntary information on gender, age and socio-economic status for diversity monitoring; may be used as tiebreaker in selection.
Evaluation criteria, scoring and stages
Process overview:three-stage methodology: (1) admissibility and eligibility check, (2) internal evaluation by a panel of three experts from University of Vaasa, (3) ranking and selection with reserve list policy and redress/appeal mechanism.
- 1Stage 1: Admissibility and eligibility check (mandatory criteria and document completeness).
- 2Stage 2: Internal evaluation by experts (qualitative and quantitative scoring).
- 3Stage 3: Ranking and selection; successful applicants receive Evaluation Summary Report and invitation; unsuccessful applicants receive ESR or rejection letter; reserve list maintained if qualified applicants exceed available places.
Evaluation scoring (weighting):Academic background 65% (weighted average grade adjusted by ratio of earned to expected ECTS credits), Motivation 25% (motivation letter and fit with DIGI-ME advanced digital skills), Additional experience 10% (academic and non-academic achievements reported in CV). Candidates must meet a minimum evaluation threshold of 70% to be considered successful. In case of tied scores, priority order used by selection committee: female applicants, applicants from low socio-economic backgrounds, applicants experiencing disabilities, applicants from low DESI countries, applicants belonging to minority groups (in that order).
Application Stages and Success Rates:Number of formal selection stages to obtain the scholarship: 3 (eligibility check, internal expert evaluation, ranking/selection). Success rates: not explicitly provided in call documentation. Based on call parameters: up to 5 scholarships available and eligibility restricted to MIB and SBD 2025-2026 cohorts at University of Vaasa; success rate depends on number of applicants but historically unknown. No official percentage success rate is published in the guidelines.
Definitions and criteria for participants with fewer opportunities
ITEM C provides an additional monthly contribution of €250 for participants with fewer opportunities. Fewer opportunities are defined by the call as students who, prior to the mobility start, meet one or more of the following conditions: certified disability with at least 50% invalidity; hold refugee status or international/subsidiary protection or are displaced persons; have dependent minor children (birth during 2025/26 academic year, evidence via birth certificate up to the child’s first birthday); engaged in employment (documented employment or self-employment for at least six months within the 12 months preceding the mobility, excluding occasional work or employment by close family members); recognised professional athletes (certificate from sports federation); orphan of at least one parent under specified conditions (under 26 at submission and/or financially dependent on the deceased parent); child of victims of terrorism or organised crime. Supporting documentation for ITEM C is requested only from successful applicants.
Administrative, legal and data protection information
Legal disclaimer:This call and the financial support provided through it are NOT an EU action. The call is launched and managed by University of Vaasa; financial support is provided directly by University of Vaasa under its own responsibility. Publication on EU portal is for visibility only and not an endorsement by EU authorities. Personal data processing: the University of Pavia acts as Data Controller for data submitted through the dedicated form for DIGI-ME purposes; data processing follows GDPR requirements; University of Vaasa and DIGI-ME consortium must retain generated data for at least five years after project balance payment or longer if audits, investigations or litigation persist. Confidentiality obligations: selected applicants must keep project-related documents confidential during implementation and for five years after completion, extendable by agreement.
Results, acceptance and redress
Results notification:after evaluation, eligible applicants are ranked and scholarships awarded by order of merit. Successful applicants must accept the formal offer within five business days by replying to digime@uwasa.fi. Redress: dissatisfied applicants may submit a written appeal within three business days of receiving results. Appeals are reviewed by a panel composed of two University of Vaasa DIGI-ME representatives and one external member. Appeals are limited to procedural errors or valid claims such as assessment errors or discrimination; not normally for disagreement with academic judgment.
Templates and application form structure guidance
Applications must be completed via the dedicated online form. The Guidelines for Applicants document (Annex / full call guidelines) provides a step-by-step application walkthrough and an eligibility checklist. The required uploaded documents must be in PDF format and subject to specified maximum lengths (CV max 3 pages, Motivation Letter max 3 pages). Applicants will be required to sign a Declaration of Honour, a Mobility Agreement and a Learning Agreement if selected. The call provides an eligibility checklist table (used by evaluators) and an evaluation summary reporting template will be used to notify applicants of results.
- 1Application form sections (as described in Guidelines): personal details and contact, programme enrollment details (MIB or SBD), nationality and passport, uploaded documents (transcript, CV, motivation letter, English certificate, ID), declaration of non-duplication of EU funding, optional diversity information, bank details (for beneficiaries only upon selection).
- 2Post-selection documents to be signed: Declaration of Honour, Mobility Agreement, Learning Agreement (Learning Agreement must be approved and signed by both sending and host institutions prior to first tranche disbursement).
Key deadlines and timeline
Call opening:23 April 2026. Application window: 22 April 2026 09:00 CET to 22 June 2026 17:00 CET. Internal evaluation and ranking: late June 2026. Notifications and acceptance: successful candidates notified and must reply within five business days. Mobility period: expected between September 2026 and December 2026 (students must complete one semester exchange by October 2027 per enrolment obligations). Exact internal deadlines for evaluation and administrative tasks are given in the Guidelines.
What this opportunity is about — summary
This open call provides targeted scholarships for up to five University of Vaasa master’s students enrolled in DIGI-ME partner master programmes (MIB or SBD) to undertake a one semester exchange at University of Pavia (up to three scholarships) or Grenoble School of Management (up to two scholarships) during the 2026-2027 academic year. The financial support is a lump sum composed of monthly living contributions and a travel contribution; an additional monthly allowance is available to students with specified fewer opportunities. Selection is competitive and based on academic record, motivation and additional experience, with a minimum evaluation threshold of 70%. Applications are submitted exclusively through a dedicated online form by 22 June 2026, and the University of Vaasa manages selection, contracting, payments and data handling under GDPR. The call is part of the DIGI-ME project (Digital skills for transformative Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship), co-funded by the European Commission; however, the University of Vaasa administers these scholarships in its own name and responsibility. The opportunity advances students’ digital skills and cross-institutional learning in advanced digital technology, innovation management and entrepreneurship.
Footnotes
- 1Full Guidelines for Applicants and detailed call documentation are available in the DIGI-ME Guidelines OSE document and on the DIGI-ME call web pages. See DIGI-ME Guidelines OSE for details, including DEP participating country list and full evaluation and administrative proceduresDIGI-ME Guidelines OSE.
Short Summary
Impact Funded mobilities will develop students' advanced digital skills in innovation, entrepreneurship and international business management to create a pipeline of leaders able to apply digital technologies in transformative innovation. | Impact | Funded mobilities will develop students' advanced digital skills in innovation, entrepreneurship and international business management to create a pipeline of leaders able to apply digital technologies in transformative innovation. |
Applicant Applicants should demonstrate strong academic performance, clear motivation for digital innovation and entrepreneurship, relevant academic or practical experience, and certified English proficiency to complete and credit the mobility successfully. | Applicant | Applicants should demonstrate strong academic performance, clear motivation for digital innovation and entrepreneurship, relevant academic or practical experience, and certified English proficiency to complete and credit the mobility successfully. |
Developments Activities will fund one‑semester study mobilities focused on advanced digital technologies (e.g., explainable AI, generative AI, digital twin, blockchain, data analytics, IoT, cybersecurity) applied to innovation management, entrepreneurship and international business. | Developments | Activities will fund one‑semester study mobilities focused on advanced digital technologies (e.g., explainable AI, generative AI, digital twin, blockchain, data analytics, IoT, cybersecurity) applied to innovation management, entrepreneurship and international business. |
Applicant Type Individuals — specifically full‑time master's students enrolled in the specified University of Vaasa master’s programmes (MIB or SBD) for the 2025‑2026 academic year. | Applicant Type | Individuals — specifically full‑time master's students enrolled in the specified University of Vaasa master’s programmes (MIB or SBD) for the 2025‑2026 academic year. |
Consortium Single applicants only — this is a scholarship to individual students, not a fund for consortia or partner projects. | Consortium | Single applicants only — this is a scholarship to individual students, not a fund for consortia or partner projects. |
Funding Amount Total call budget €21,500 for up to 5 scholarships (up to 3 for one host and up to 2 for the other); typical components are €700/month (Item A), €500 travel lump sum (Item B) and optional €250/month top‑up (Item C); an estimated maximum individual award for a 4‑month mobility with the top‑up is €6,600. | Funding Amount | Total call budget €21,500 for up to 5 scholarships (up to 3 for one host and up to 2 for the other); typical components are €700/month (Item A), €500 travel lump sum (Item B) and optional €250/month top‑up (Item C); an estimated maximum individual award for a 4‑month mobility with the top‑up is €6,600. |
Countries Eligibility targets EU Member States, EEA countries and Digital Europe Programme associated countries (applicants must hold citizenship of one of these); mobility hosts are located in Finland (call administrator), Italy and France. | Countries | Eligibility targets EU Member States, EEA countries and Digital Europe Programme associated countries (applicants must hold citizenship of one of these); mobility hosts are located in Finland (call administrator), Italy and France. |
Industry This funding is targeted at the Digital Europe Programme theme for digital skills and specialised education (digital skills and education sector). | Industry | This funding is targeted at the Digital Europe Programme theme for digital skills and specialised education (digital skills and education sector). |
Additional Web Data
Funding Opportunity Overview
This is a cascade funding opportunity launched by the University of Vaasa as part of the DIGI-ME project, co-funded by the European Union through the Digital Europe Programme under grant agreement 101123009. The call supports talented students from EU and associated countries to undertake one semester exchange mobility at either the University of Pavia (Italy) or Grenoble School of Management (France) to advance their digital skills in innovation, entrepreneurship, and international business management.
Key Dates and Deadlines
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Call Opening | 22 April 2026 at 09:00 CET |
| Application Deadline | 22 June 2026 at 17:00 CET (Brussels time) |
| Internal Evaluation Period | 23-24 June 2026 |
| Notification of Results | 24 June 2026 onwards |
| Mobility Period | September 2026 to December 2026 |
| Expected Duration | 3 to 4 months |
Funding Amount and Distribution
Total funding available is €21,500. Up to 5 scholarships will be awarded:up to 3 selected candidates for one semester exchange at the University of Pavia and up to 2 selected candidates for one semester exchange at Grenoble School of Management.
Scholarship Components:Scholarships are provided as lump sums covering living and subsistence costs. Fixed components include Item A (€700 monthly contribution) and Item B (€500 one-time travel contribution). An additional Item C (€250 monthly contribution) is available for participants with fewer opportunities, such as those with disabilities (minimum 50% certified invalidity), refugee status, dependent minor children, employed students, professional athletes, orphans of at least one parent, or children of victims of terrorism or organised crime.
Payment Mechanism
The scholarship is paid in two instalments. The first tranche equals 80 percent of the total estimated amount and is paid within 30 days of signing the Mobility Agreement, provided the student has presented an approved Learning Agreement and correctly entered bank details. The second tranche of 20 percent is paid at the end of the mobility period, subject to verification of compliance with administrative obligations, regular completion of the authorised mobility period, achievement of training results consistent with the Learning Agreement, and correct administrative conclusion of the mobility. Failure to comply with any condition results in loss of the balance payment and may lead to total or partial recovery of sums already received.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements 1:
- Be regularly enrolled full-time students in the Master's Programme in International Business (MIB) or Master's Programme in Strategic Business Development (SBD) at the University of Vaasa, matriculated in the academic year 2025-2026
- Not have exceeded the standard duration of the curriculum and not be on academic leave
- Hold citizenship of an EU member state or a Digital Europe Programme (DEP) associated country, including EEA countries (Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein), acceding countries, candidate countries, potential candidates, and Switzerland
- Demonstrate certified English language proficiency with minimum scores: IELTS Academic 6.5, TOEFL iBT 88, Cambridge English (C1/C2) 180, or proof of completion of a fully English-taught bachelor degree. Native English speakers are exempt from providing certified evidence
- Not have received other European Union funds allocated for the same purpose. All applicants must declare compliance with this requirement in the application form
Required Documents
All documents must be submitted through the dedicated online form by the deadline. Required documents include:
- Transcripts of Records showing all passed exams and grades within the MIB or SBD programmes. If studying at a foreign institution during 2025-2026, study merits must be provided according to the issuing university's regulations
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing academic history, professional experience, skills, and relevant achievements. Maximum 3 pages, no photo required
- Personal Statement or Motivation Letter (maximum 3 pages) explaining motivation for applying, interest in the programme, and how the applicant's background aligns with the DIGI-ME one semester exchange path at the chosen host institution
- Certified evidence of English language proficiency meeting the specified minimum scores
- Copy of valid passport or identity card
- Optional: Information on gender, age, and socio-economic status. These factors may be positively considered in case of equal scores, in line with the University of Vaasa's commitment to supporting a diverse student body
Evaluation Process and Criteria
The evaluation follows a three-step methodology:admissibility and eligibility check, internal evaluation by experts, and ranking and selection. Only eligible candidates are evaluated. Successful candidates must reach an evaluation threshold of 70 percent.
Evaluation Scoring Breakdown:Academic background accounts for 65 percent, assessed based on weighted average grade adjusted by the ratio of earned to expected ECTS credits. Motivation accounts for 25 percent, reflecting the applicant's positive mindset towards advanced digital skills in innovation, international business, and entrepreneurship as assessed from the motivation letter. Additional experience accounts for 10 percent, considering both academic and non-academic achievements reported in the CV.
Diversity and Inclusion Commitments
The DIGI-ME project and University of Vaasa are committed to promoting diversity, social and economic equality, and gender balance. In case of equal scores assigned to multiple applicants, the selection committee will prioritize candidates in the following order: female applicants, applicants from low socio-economic backgrounds, applicants experiencing disabilities, applicants from low DESI-countries, and applicants belonging to minority groups. All information provided regarding gender, age, and social background is collected voluntarily and treated confidentially in accordance with GDPR regulations, used solely for diversity monitoring and inclusive selection measures.
Results Notification and Acceptance
Following expert evaluation, all eligible applicants are ranked according to their final assessment scores. Scholarships are awarded based on order of merit, beginning with the highest-ranked candidates. Successful applicants receive an Evaluation Summary Report and invitation to proceed to the enrolment phase. Rejected applicants who passed the eligibility check receive an Evaluation Summary Report. Ineligible applications receive a rejection letter. Successful applicants must confirm acceptance of the formal scholarship offer within 5 business days by replying to the University of Vaasa Open Call team at digime@uwasa.fi. If the number of qualified applicants exceeds available places, candidates meeting the quality threshold but falling below the offer cut-off are placed on a reserve list, ranked by score, and may receive a waiver offer if selected candidates decline.
Redress and Appeals Process
Applicants not satisfied with the evaluation of their application may submit a written appeal within 3 business days of receiving their result. Appeals are reviewed by a panel composed of two University of Vaasa DIGI-ME representatives and one external member. Appeals are typically not allowed for disagreements with academic judgment or if the decision was based on applicant misunderstanding of instructions. Valid grounds for appeal generally focus on errors in the assessment process or claims of discrimination. All appeal requests must be sent to digime@uwasa.fi.
Tax Treatment and Financial Obligations
The scholarship is subject to applicable Finnish tax legislation. Grants or scholarships awarded for studies, academic research, or artistic activities may be tax-exempt. If paid by a public authority such as the State of Finland, a municipality, or other public bodies, it is generally fully tax-exempt regardless of amount. If paid by a private entity, it is tax-exempt only up to the annual limit defined by the State artist grant; amounts exceeding this threshold may be considered taxable income 2. Grants are subject to mandatory contributions including health insurance contribution and public broadcasting tax. Grant recipients are typically covered by pension insurance under the MYEL system, and corresponding income may be taken into account when calculating social security contributions. Recipients are responsible for verifying their individual tax situation and complying with all applicable tax obligations.
Programme Enrolment and Commitments
To secure the DIGI-ME scholarship, selected applicants must formally accept the offer via email and sign the Declaration of Honour within 5 business days of receiving the email from the DIGI-ME Open Call team. Acceptance confirms agreement to academic and participation conditions, including completing the one semester exchange programme by October 2027, adhering to specified course requirements, and actively participating in student ambassador activities. Acceptance of the mobility period constitutes a formal commitment. Cancellations must be limited to serious and duly documented cases of force majeure, communicated in writing to the DIGI-ME coordinator with adequate justification, and submitted promptly. Cancellation entails refund of any financial contributions already received. The reason for cancellation or failure to communicate it may be evaluated for possible exclusion from subsequent selection processes for the University's international mobility programmes.
Course Selection Requirements
To fulfil DIGI-ME project requirements, applicants must select courses from the host institution's DIGI-ME educational offering for the academic year 2026-2027. At the University of Pavia, the available programme is the Master's Programme in International Business and Entrepreneurship (MIBE). At Grenoble School of Management, available programmes include the Master's Programme in Managing with Data and Artificial Intelligence, Master's Programme in Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Master's Programme in Management in International Business, and Master's Programme in International Project Management. All programmes are taught in English and focus on advanced digital technologies including Explainable AI, generative AI, augmented intelligence, digital twin, blockchain, data analytics, IoT, and cybersecurity.
Data Protection and Confidentiality
Personal data submitted through the application form is processed by the University of Pavia as Data Controller for purposes of DIGI-ME programme implementation and evaluation. Data is managed in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (EU) 2016/679 (GDPR). A Data Protection Officer has been appointed to ensure compliance with data protection regulations and that personal data is collected, processed, and stored securely. Data is stored in the project repository on Microsoft Teams managed by the project coordinator at the University of Pavia. The DIGI-ME consortium must retain generated data until five years after the balance of the DIGI-ME project is paid or longer if ongoing procedures such as audits, investigations, or litigation are underway. Selected applicants are required to maintain confidentiality of any project data, documents, invoices, and other materials during implementation and for 5 years after project completion. This confidentiality period can be extended by agreement with the European Commission and the DIGI-ME consortium. Information shared during the project is considered non-confidential only if DIGI-ME agrees and confirms it in writing within 15 days. Confidential information must be used only for project implementation unless otherwise agreed.
Important Legal Disclaimer
This call and the financial support provided through it are NOT an EU action. The call is launched solely by the University of Vaasa. Financial support to selected successful applicants is provided directly by the University of Vaasa in its own name and under its own responsibility. The University of Vaasa's responsibility includes preparation and drafting of the call as well as selection of successful applicants. Publication of this call in the EU Funding and Tenders Portal is made solely for information purposes to increase visibility to the general public and potential applicants. This publication shall not be construed as direct or indirect approval of the call's content and conditions by relevant EU authorities or as any form of waiver from the University of Vaasa's described responsibility.
Contact Information
For technical issues with the application process, contact the support team at digime@uwasa.fi. For administrative information after the selection procedure, contact outgoing.international@uwasa.fi. Additional DIGI-ME Open Call documents are available at DIGI-ME Educational Offer. The DIGI-ME project website provides comprehensive information about the initiative at DIGI-ME Project.
About the DIGI-ME Project
DIGI-ME is a four-year project co-funded by the Digital Europe Programme of the European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA). The project involves eight partners from Italy, Finland, and France: the University of Pavia (coordinator), Grenoble Ecole de Management, University of Vaasa, and five additional partners including SMEs and research institutions. The project aims to develop a community of EU leaders capable of mastering digital tools through innovative training offerings. It creates single, double, and multiple master's programmes (120 ECTS) delivered by the three Higher Education Institutes, targeting students of economics, business administration, finance, management, engineering, and data science. The project also develops the Digital Ecosystem for Transformative Innovation (DETI), an international ecosystem that transfers digital skills from research and academic institutions to the labour market by bringing together higher education institutions, science parks, and digital innovation hubs. Project funding for the University of Vaasa is €1,009,010 with a total budget of €2,018,020.
Footnotes
- 1Detailed eligibility information is available in the University of Vaasa Open Call Guidelines for Applicants document and the EU Funding and Tenders Portal listing.
- 2For 2025, the annual limit for tax-exempt grants from private sources is €26,671.92. Recipients should consult Finnish tax authorities (vero.fi) for current year thresholds and individual tax circumstances.
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DIGI-ME Double Degree Scholarship Award Procedure and Selection Rules at UNIVAASA (University of Vaasa)
The University of Vaasa is offering the DIGI-ME Double Degree Scholarship under the DIGI-ME project with a total allocation of EUR 41,500 to fund up to five scholarships for full-time master’s students enrolled in the MIB or SBD programm...
DIGI-ME Double Degree Scholarship Award Procedure and Selection Rules at UNIPV (University of Pavia)
UNIPV (University of Pavia) offers up to five DIGI‑ME double degree scholarships (total envelope EUR 40,000) to students enrolled full‑time in the Master in International Business and Entrepreneurship (MIBE) for 9–12 months mobility at t...
VILNIUS TECH MERIT Project Excellence Scholarship and Mobility Grant Award Call
The MERIT Project Excellence Scholarship and Mobility Grant Award is an EU-funded initiative aimed at promoting advanced digital skills among master's students at Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (VILNIUS TECH), specifically in the...
Summer School - Digital Leadership, Social Innovations and Resilience in the Digital Society (DigLead)
The DigLead Summer School Scholarship Programme, funded under the EURIDICE project co‑funded by the European Union (Digital Europe Programme, grant agreement 101123121), offers up to 22 one‑week scholarships of EUR 300 each (total call b...
EURIDICE 5th Digital Humanism Summer School 2026
TU Wien is offering up to five scholarships through the EURIDICE 5th Digital Humanism Summer School 2026 (6–10 July 2026, Vienna) with a total scholarship budget of EUR 13,140 to support participation in a five-day programme on Democracy...
POLITO GreenChips-EDU Scholarship
Politecnico di Torino (POLITO) offers the POLITO GreenChips-EDU Scholarship, an institutionally funded mobility grant (total budget EUR 10,000) to reimburse travel and accommodation for up to 10 Master’s students enrolled in the Electron...
Phortify Mobility Grants - Pilot Call
Phortify Mobility Grants – Pilot Call provides lump-sum financial support for short-term, learning- and training-oriented mobility activities (workshops, summer schools, conferences) for Bachelor, Master and PhD students enrolled at Phor...
Funding to Attend DigiQ Networking Events
The DigiQ Digitally Enhanced European Quantum Technology Master project offers financial support for students to attend DigiQ networking events, organized under Grant Agreement No: 101084035, focusing on specialized education programs in...
Student Entrepreneur Grant Scheme (SEGS)
The Student Entrepreneur Grant Scheme (SEGS) by EIT Urban Mobility is a cascade funding programme to help students and recent graduates from EIT-labelled MSc/PhD programmes develop urban mobility projects into startups. Total envelope EU...
G INP-UGA GreenChips-EDU Scholarship
The G INP-UGA GreenChips-EDU Scholarship is a funding initiative by Grenoble INP-UGA aimed at Master's students focusing on sustainable semiconductor technologies, electronics, and microelectronics. The program supports students enrolled...
DIGITWIN4CIUE project-Scholarships for the Executive Master in Digital Twins on Infrastructures and Cities
This opportunity offers EUR 2,000 scholarships under the DIGITWIN4CIUE project (Grant Agreement 101084054) for admitted participants of the Executive Master in Digital Twins for Infrastructures and Cities, with a total 2025–26 budget of...
VIC FSTP - ISTEC Summer School Scholarships 2025-2026
ISTEC (Instituto Superior de Tecnologias Avançadas de Lisboa) is offering 10 institutional scholarships of EUR 250 each (total EUR 2,500) as fee reductions to support participation in the VIC Summer School 2025-2026 under the Virtual Inn...