We’ve collected the most common questions we get from prospective students here. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, or if something’s still unclear, feel free to get in touch via our contact page. We’re happy to help!
1. General
You will study across three countries:
- Semester 1: St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences (Austria)
- Semester 2: Saxion University of Applied Sciences (Netherlands)
- Semester 3: Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences (Latvia)
- Semester 4: You may choose your preferred campus for your thesis project.
The programme is taught entirely in English. All courses, materials, assignments, and communication with staff and mentors are conducted in English.
GRACE is a fully on-site programme. Physical mobility is an essential and mandatory part of the curriculum. You will study and live in at least three different countries during the programme.
The programme takes two academic years to complete, divided over four semesters (120 ECTS credits in total).
A maximum of 25 students are admitted each year to maintain a high-quality, personalised learning environment with close interaction between students, lecturers, and industry partners.
2. Programme Details
Yes. GRACE is a Joint Master’s Programme, accredited under the European Approach for Quality Assurance of Joint Programmes. Graduates receive a joint Master of Science degree that is fully recognised across Europe and internationally.
GRACE graduates are equipped to work in sectors such as healthcare, education, creative industries, and smart industries. Typical roles include XR developer, game designer, instructional designer, innovation consultant, or researcher. The consortium’s industry partners are closely involved in projects and often offer internships and career opportunities.
A technical background is helpful and highly useful for succeeding in GRACE. Applicants who have not developed programming skills during their academic career can still apply, but they should demonstrate their ability and potential through their portfolio. From 2026 onwards, bridging courses will be available for students who wish to strengthen their programming skills before starting the programme, ensuring a smoother transition into GRACE.
3. Admission & Eligibility
The final deadline for applications is 1 February 2026.
Yes, you may apply if you are in the final phase of your bachelor’s studies. However, you must provide proof of graduation in late October 2026.
You must hold a Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in one of the following fields or closely related disciplines:
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Creative Computing
- Creative Media and Game Technologies
- Game Development
- Game Design
- Digital Games
- Multimedia Technology
- Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation
- Extended Reality (XR)
- Expanded Reality
- AR/VR/XR Development & Design
- XR Design
Your portfolio is an essential part of your application. It allows us to assess your technical skills, creativity, and problem-solving approach in XR/Gamification-related projects. We are not just interested in final results—we want to understand your role in the development process and how you approach challenges.
What should your portfolio include?
Your portfolio should showcase your most relevant work, providing insight into both your technical abilities and creative problem-solving skills. Each project should include:
Project Description & Context
- What was the goal of the project? What problem were you trying to solve?
- Was this an individual project or part of a team?
Your Role & Contributions<
- What specific responsibilities did you have?
- Which aspects did you personally work on (e.g., programming, design, research, testing)?
- What tools, software, or technologies did you use?
Challenges & Learning Outcomes
- What difficulties did you encounter, and how did you overcome them?
- What did you learn from this project that will help you in GRACE?
Technical Complexity & Creativity
- How technically advanced or innovative is the project?
- If applicable, how does it relate to XR, Gamification, AI, or Interactive Media?
- How is your approach unique or industry-relevant?
Format & Submission Guidelines
- You may submit your portfolio as a PDF document with links to online projects, videos, or repositories (e.g., GitHub, personal website, ArtStation, Behance).
- If your portfolio is a website, ensure that it is clearly structured and accessible.
- Keep the explanation concise but informative—avoid overly technical jargon, but ensure we understand your contributions.
What to Avoid?
- Portfolio items without clear attribution (e.g., just final images without an explanation of your role).
- Overloaded portfolios—focus on quality over quantity; include 3-5 strong, well-documented pieces instead of many without explanation.
- Unclear or inaccessible links—if hosting online, ensure your projects are public or provide access.
We recommend to submit two recommendation letters:
One from an academic reference (professor, thesis advisor, etc.)
One from an academic or professional contact (e.g. internship supervisor, team leader)
They should be signed, on letterhead (if possible), and provide concrete, personalised insight into your skills and motivation for joining GRACE.
Your motivation letter is an opportunity to show us who you are beyond your academic records and explain why you are a great fit for the GRACE Joint Master’s Programme.
What should your letter cover?
We encourage you to structure your motivation letter around the following key areas:
Your academic & professional background
- What previous experiences have led you to apply for GRACE?
- How have your studies, work, or personal projects prepared you for this programme?
Why GRACE?
- What excites you about this programme, and how does it align with your goals?
- Are there specific topics in XR/Gamification that particularly interest you?
Your vision for the future
- How do you see yourself using the knowledge and skills from GRACE in your career?
- Do you already have a field, industry, or type of project in mind for your master’s thesis?
Clarity & Structure<
- Ensure your letter is well-organised, clear, and logically structured.
- Keep it concise and personal, avoiding generic statements.
Non-native English speakers must submit one of the following:
IELTS: minimum overall 6.5 (no band below 6.0)
TOEFL iBT: minimum 90
Cambridge CAE/CPE: minimum 180
You may be exempt if you completed your studies in English or are from a country where English is an official language. In all cases, proof is required. See the detailed English Proficiency section for format guidelines.
Yes, if your degree is closely related and your portfolio and motivation letter clearly show that you have the necessary skills, motivation, and affinity with XR/gamification.
You must submit at least two letters of recommendation as part of your application. These letters should provide insight into your academic abilities, professional skills, and potential for success in the GRACE Joint Master’s Programme.
What makes a strong letter of recommendation?
We encourage you to select referees who know you well and can provide a detailed, personalised assessment of your qualifications. Ideally, your letters should cover:
Credibility & Strength of the Reference
- The referee should clearly state their relationship to you (e.g., professor, supervisor, mentor).
- A strong letter provides specific examples of your skills, work ethic, and achievements, rather than generic statements.
Relevance to XR/Gamification
- At least one letter should highlight your connection to technology, innovation, or digital creativity.
- If you do not have direct experience in XR/Gamification, your referee should explain how your background and skills make you a strong candidate for the programme.
Professional and Academic Perspective
- One letter can be from an academic referee (e.g., professor, thesis supervisor) discussing your research ability, technical skills, or academic potential.
- The second letter may come from an industry professional (e.g., employer, mentor, project supervisor) speaking about your professional skills, teamwork, or problem-solving abilities.
Structure & Content
- The letter should be formal, signed, and on official letterhead if possible.
- It should be at least one page in length and provide specific details about your qualifications.
What to Avoid?
- Letters that are vague or overly general (e.g., “The student is hardworking and motivated.”)
- Letters from personal contacts or family members—recommendations should come from academic or professional sources.
- Copy-pasted templates—your referees should take the time to write a personalised letter that reflects your strengths.
Your personal video is an opportunity to introduce yourself beyond your written application. It should highlight your motivation, background, and personal qualities that make you a great fit for the GRACE Joint Master’s Programme.
What should your video include?
Your Background & Journey
- Who are you, and what led you to apply for GRACE?
- What relevant academic or professional experiences have shaped your interest in XR/Gamification?
Your Fit for GRACE
- What excites you about this programme?
- How do you see yourself contributing to the GRACE community?
- Have you worked in collaborative, multidisciplinary, or international environments before?
Your Personal Strengths & Working Style
- What role do you typically take in projects or teams? (e.g., leader, problem-solver, designer, researcher, developer)
- Can you share an example of a challenge you faced in a project and how you approached it?
- How do you handle learning something completely new?
Format & Submission Guidelines
- Length: Keep your video between 2–3 minutes.
- Style: No need for a highly produced video—clarity and authenticity matter more than editing skills.
- Presentation: Speak clearly and naturally—this is about communication, not perfection.
- Language: The video must be in English to ensure your communication skills align with the programme.
What to Avoid?
- Overly scripted videos—we want to see your personality and communication skills.
- Generic statements—focus on specific experiences that highlight your strengths.
- A video that just repeats your motivation letter—this is your chance to add something new and personal.
4. Tuition Fees & Scholarships
Tuition fees depend on your nationality:
- EU/EEA Students: €363.36 per semester (plus a small student union fee)
- Non-EU/EEA Students: €1,500 per semester (plus a small student union fee)
These fees apply for each of the four semesters of the programme. Additional living costs will depend on the country and city you are based in during each semester.
No. There is a difference in tuition fees based on nationality:
EU/EEA students pay €363.36 per semester
Non-EU/EEA students pay €1,500 per semester
This difference reflects national tuition policies and funding structures. However, non-EU/EEA students may be eligible for merit-based refunds or external scholarships to help cover the higher fee.
The tuition fee covers participation in all GRACE courses, access to university facilities, supervision, and academic support across all partner institutions. It does not cover accommodation, travel, insurance, or daily expenses.
Yes, all students must pay a small student union fee each semester, as required by national regulations.
Additionally, students are responsible for their own living expenses, including accommodation, travel between countries, insurance, and daily costs — these are not covered by the tuition fee.
Yes. There are multiple options to support students with tuition or living costs:
🎓 1. Merit-Based Tuition Waiver (for Non-EU Students)
The top 20% of non-EU students of each semester may receive a waiver of the increased tuition fee based on academic performance. In case several students have the same grade average, the amount is distributed between them.
🌍 2. National and External Scholarships
Students are encouraged to explore funding options through their own governments or international scholarship portals. The most important resource is the Austrian national grant database, where students can search for relevant funding based on their country of origin.
🟢 3. Erhard Busek Grant (Developing Countries)
This competitive grant is aimed at students from developing countries and supports full-time master’s study in Austria.Â
🌍 4. Erasmus+ Student Exchange Support
Students can receive financial support for one or two consecutive semesters (ranging from 2 to 12 months) through the Erasmus+ programme. These grants are offered by the receiving institutions and include support for travel and living costs.
Example: apply at St. Pölten UAS for Erasmus+ funding when studying at Saxion (2nd semester) and Vidzeme (3rd semester).
Yes, tuition fees can be paid on your behalf by another individual or institution, such as an employer, scholarship provider, or sponsor. Please indicate this during the registration process if applicable.
If you receive a tuition-related scholarship after payment, any refundable amounts will be processed according to the GRACE financial procedures. In case of merit-based refunds, these are automatically calculated and processed after each semester.
Yes. Tuition fees can be paid in semester-based instalments. Further information will be provided after admission.
If you withdraw before the start of the programme, tuition fees paid in advance can be refunded, minus any administrative costs. Refund requests must be submitted in writing to the coordinating university.
5. Visas & Mobility
If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, you will need a valid student visa or residence permit to study in Europe.
All GRACE students start their studies at St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences (Austria). After receiving your admission offer, you must apply for a student visa or residence permit for Austria that covers the duration of your stay.
Once you hold a valid Austrian residence permit, you can usually study in the other GRACE partner countries — the Netherlands and Latvia.
Alternatively, students may apply separately for a residence permit in each country before starting their next semester.
Before applying, please consult the official guidance below for up-to-date visa information:
Yes. Once you are accepted into the programme, the local admission teams at each university will provide you with the necessary documents and guidance to apply for a visa or residence permit. However, the responsibility for obtaining the visa remains with the student.
You will live and study in at least three different countries, one per semester:
Semester 1 – Austria (St. Pölten UAS)
Semester 2 – Netherlands (Saxion UAS)
Semester 3 – Latvia (Vidzeme UAS)
Semester 4 – You choose your preferred location for your final thesis semester
Yes. In Semester 4, you may choose to complete your thesis project at one of the three GRACE partner institutions, depending on your topic, preferred location, and supervision availability.
Yes. Each partner institution guarantees access to student housing, provided that you request it in time. While accommodation is not arranged automatically, you will receive information and instructions after admission on how to secure a room through the university’s housing services. It is the student’s responsibility to request housing early, as availability depends on timely registration.
Visa processing times vary by country but may take several months. We strongly advise you to apply immediately after receiving your admission letter. The consortium provides official support letters to assist your application.
Yes. In each country, students must follow the local residence registration process. The international offices of each partner university will guide and support you with this.
6. Housing & Living Costs
On average, students should budget:
Austria (St. Pölten): €800–1,000 per month
Netherlands (Enschede): €1,000–1,200 per month
Latvia (Valmiera): €500–700 per month
This includes rent, food, insurance, transport, and other daily expenses.
Family members may accompany you if your visa/residence status allows it. However, student housing is intended for enrolled students only. Families will need to arrange private housing.
7. Student Support & Life
All partner universities offer services such as counselling, career advice, language courses, and support for students with special needs. GRACE students also benefit from a mentoring programme, buddy systems, and access to student associations.
Each GRACE partner university offers a wide range of student services beyond what’s listed here. Visit their websites to see the full details of academic, wellbeing, and community support:
Yes. The curriculum includes collaboration with industry partners, and students may find additional internships or part-time jobs, depending on local regulations. Please note that visa conditions may restrict the number of hours you are allowed to work.