Applying for CyberMACS: What I Learned and What You Should Know
Nov. 3, 2025
When I first started preparing my CyberMACSErasmus Mundus application, I had more questions than answers.
What makes an application stand out?
Do grades matter more than experience?
Do I need to take an English test? Should I have a passport already?
Months later, I’ve found myself on the other side, studying Applied Cybersecurity under CyberMACS and, unexpectedly, getting many of those same questions from new applicants.
So instead of replying one message at a time, I decided to write everything I’ve learned here.
This isn’t an official guide. It’s simply what helped me, what I wish I had known, and what I’ve seen matter most for others.
What CyberMACS Really Is
CyberMACS is a two-year Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s (EMJM) in Applied Cybersecurity. A consortium of three universities offers it:
- Kadir Has University, Istanbul (Turkey) – the coordinating institution
- Ss. Cyril and Methodius University (UKIM), Skopje (North Macedonia)
- SRH Berlin University of Applied Sciences, Berlin (Germany)
The structure is simple but exciting: two years, three universities, two degrees.
Students study at two of the partner universities and graduate from both.
What makes it special isn’t only international mobility but also the combination of technical depth, management insight, and hands-on exposure through industry partners who offer internships, company visits, and guest lectures.
It’s part of the Erasmus+ Programme and counts among Europe’s top-quality Master’s courses.
The Fall 2026 CyberMACS Erasmus Mundus application cycle has officially launched!
If you’re ready to begin your journey in Applied Cybersecurity, you can start your application here:
👉 https://cybermacs.eu/apply
Remember to review the eligibility criteria and document list carefully before submitting, and good luck with your application!
Before You Apply
If you’re reading this, you’re probably somewhere between curiosity and decision.
You’ve checked the website, maybe opened the application portal, and now you’re wondering how to make yours strong enough.
Here’s what I learned early on:
- The process is competitive but not impossible.
- There’s no “perfect” applicant.
- What matters is clarity of purpose, consistency across documents, and authentic motivation.
Meanwhile, according to the official admission page, applicants must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognised higher-education institution (equivalent to 180 ECTS or 4 years of full-time study).
- Meet English-language proficiency requirements (minimum scores listed below).
- Submit all required documents before the deadline in English (or with certified translations).
- Demonstrate academic relevance to cybersecurity, computer science, IT, or related disciplines.
Even applicants in their final year of studies can apply, provided they graduate before August 2026 and can submit their diplomas by the deadline.
Each year’s call for applications lists the same core requirements.
Here’s what you’ll prepare:
| Document | What It Is & How to Approach It |
|---|---|
| Motivation Letter / Cover Letter | Use the Europass CV . Keep it to one or two pages. Focus on relevant experiences — academic, professional, or volunteer. |
| Bachelor’s Degree or Attestation | If you’re awaiting graduation, an attestation showing your completion date works until your diploma is ready. |
| Transcript of Records | Official list of courses and grades. |
| Passport / National ID | Must be valid through your studies. |
| Two/Three Recommendation Letters | Choose professors or supervisors who know your work. Signed and dated letters on letterhead look best. |
| High School Diploma | Occasionally required for background verification. |
| Cybersecurity Certificates / Work Experience | Any relevant training, internships, or projects. |
| English Proficiency Certificate | See accepted tests below. |
| Proof of Residence | A certificate or recent utility bill (in English or officially translated), house contract or for Cameroonians you can obtain a letter of this from the DO's office (though it was not required - as your ID can show the place issued) |
| Publications (optional) | Include abstracts if not in English. (If you have published research papers or articles, you can upload them. If those publications are in another language (e.g., French, Turkish, etc.), you should include an English translation of the abstract only, not the full paper.) |
💡 Tip: Name files clearly — Firstname_Lastname_DocumentType.pdf.
The Motivation Letter
This is where many people overthink or underestimate the importance of being personal.
When I wrote mine, I focused less on impressing and more on explaining.
Why cybersecurity? Why now? Why CyberMACS?
The committees read hundreds of letters.
I believe the ones that stand out aren't just about being grand, but so much more genuine.
What to include
- Your story. What first made you curious about cybersecurity?
- Your preparation. Coursework, research, or experiences that led here.
- Why CyberMACS. Mention the programme’s international setup and applied focus — show that you actually read about it.
- Your goals. How will you use what you learn?
- Closing reflection. Gratitude and a confident but humble tone.
Avoid
- Copy-paste templates.
- AI-generated essays (they’re checked, and many were disqualified).
- Empty statements like “I’m passionate about cybersecurity.” Instead, show how that passion grew, or just what it translates to
If you’re unsure where to start, think of one experience that made you say, “This is the kind of work I want to do.” Build from there.
Recommendation Letters
Ask early so they have the time to do it, about two to three weeks before submission.
Provide your referees with your CV and a short summary of what CyberMACS is so they can tailor their letters.
Choose people who can speak about your growth and curiosity, not just your grades.
CyberMACS accepts these tests (valid for two years):
Preparation resources
If you’re in Cameroon, AnB Testing Centre offers reliable preparation and testing support.
💬 Some Questions I Got from Applicants:
Over time, I’ve noticed that almost everyone worries about the same things.
- “My GPA isn’t first-class. Should I still apply?”
Yes. There’s no application fee, and CyberMACS looks at the whole picture. A clear sense of direction can weigh more than numbers. - “Which English test should I take?”
Choose what’s accessible and recognised in your country. All accepted tests carry equal weight. - “I’m entry-level in cybersecurity. Do I still stand a chance?”
Absolutely. Many students enter from computer science or engineering backgrounds without prior work experience. Highlight curiosity and transferable skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and research. - “I haven’t received my degree yet — can I still apply?”
Yes. You can apply with an attestation of completion or an official statement confirming that your degree has been approved by your university senate. That’s what I used, and it’s completely acceptable — as long as your transcript is ready and your graduation date is clear. - “How do I talk about the universities?”
CyberMACS involves three partners, and you’ll study at two. Mention this in your letter to show you understand the programme’s mobility path. Reflect on how studying across countries will shape you professionally and personally. - “What’s the selection process like?”
If your documents are eligible, you’ll move to the academic evaluation stage. Shortlisted candidates are invited for a test and interview.
The test during the time of my application was a 30-minute multiple-choice quiz (about 60 questions) covering cybersecurity basics, Python/C fundamentals, and a bit of maths.
The interview that follows focuses on your motivation, background, and critical thinking, communication, and understanding of cybersecurity concepts, not on catching you off guard, lol. - “Does the written test affect the final decision?”
Yes, I believe it does, but it’s not the only factor. The test, interview, and overall quality of your application are evaluated together. So even if your test didn’t go perfectly, a strong interview and motivation letter can make up for it. (I honestly got so much stress about mine as I thought I missed answering some questions right...) - “Is the motivation letter a Statement of Purpose (SOP)?”
Not exactly. It is a motivation letter, not a research proposal. It should focus on you: your journey, your goals, and why CyberMACS is the right fit. Keep it professional but personal.
| ❌ Don’t | ✅ Do Instead |
|---|---|
| Wait until the last week | Apply early; servers get busy. |
| Use one generic essay for all programmes | Personalise it for CyberMACS. |
| Submit partial or blurry scans | Upload clean, translated PDFs. |
| Ignore word limits | Stay concise and focused. |
| Depend on AI tools | Write in your authentic voice. |
Best Practices for Erasmus Mundus-Style Applications
These habits help with CyberMACS and almost any international scholarship:
- Start early. Gathering documents takes longer than you think.
- Stay organised. Keep one labelled folder with backups in cloud storage.
- Research deeply. Know each partner university’s role and modules.
- Be consistent. Your CV, letter, and recommendations should tell the same story.
- Communicate professionally. Every email reflects you.
- Prepare mentally. Studying abroad tests your adaptability as much as your academics.
After You Submit
You’ll receive a confirmation email once your application is in.
Eligible files go through an academic evaluation; shortlisted candidates are invited for the test and interview.
Successful applicants later receive an Admission Letter and, if selected, an Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Award Letter.
Then comes the fun part — visas, housing, travel, and a new chapter ahead (hopefully, it comes to this for you ;-)
Final Thoughts
Applying for CyberMACS was one of those rare experiences that felt both terrifying and transformative.
You spend weeks rewriting paragraphs, rechecking attachments, and wondering if your story is enough.
It usually is.
If you take one thing from this guide, let it be this: clarity and honesty go farther than perfection.
Your application is not just paperwork; it is the first reflection of the professional you’re becoming.
So take your time, give it heart, and send it off proudly.