The convergence of materials science and additive manufacturing (3D printing) is redefining the future of manufacturing, healthcare, aerospace, and sustainable engineering. Europe, at the forefront of this technological revolution, offers cutting-edge research facilities, innovation ecosystems, and a wide range of fully funded scholarships for international students pursuing degrees in materials engineering and 3D printing technology.
Why Study Materials Engineering and 3D Printing in Europe?
Europe is a global leader in advanced manufacturing and materials innovation. Institutions like TU Delft, ETH Zurich, RWTH Aachen, and Politecnico di Milano are globally recognized for pioneering research in nanomaterials, composites, biomaterials, and metal 3D printing. Europe is also home to major additive manufacturing companies such as EOS, SLM Solutions, Renishaw, and Materialise.
Key Advantages:
- Access to state-of-the-art labs and FabLabs
- Participation in EU Horizon Europe research programs
- Internship opportunities in automotive, biomedical, and aerospace sectors
- Collaboration with industrial innovation hubs and startups
- Fully or partially funded scholarships for international students
Top Scholarships for Materials Engineering & 3D Printing Technology in Europe (2025)
1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD)
Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend (€1,000+), travel, insurance
Relevant Programs:
- AMASE – Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
- MaMaSELF – Materials Science Exploring Large Scale Facilities
- EIT Additive Manufacturing Master School – with 3D printing specialization
These joint programs involve study at two or more European universities with integrated industrial placements, focusing on materials innovation, digital manufacturing, and design for additive processes.
Deadline: December 2024 – February 2025
Website: https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu
2. DAAD Scholarships – Germany
Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend (€934–€1,200), travel and health insurance
Relevant Programs:
- MSc in Advanced Materials and Processes (FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg)
- MSc in Additive Manufacturing and Lightweight Design (TU Munich)
- MSc in Materials Science and Engineering (RWTH Aachen)
Germany is a manufacturing powerhouse and global leader in industrial 3D printing, offering unmatched opportunities for research and industrial collaboration.
Website: https://www.daad.de/en/
3. ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Program (ESOP) – Switzerland
Coverage: Full tuition + CHF 12,000/year for living expenses
Relevant Programs:
- MSc in Materials Science and Engineering
- MSc in Robotics, Systems and Control (with additive manufacturing electives)
- PhD opportunities in micro- and nanofabrication, functional materials, and smart surfaces
ETH Zurich’s advanced materials research integrates machine learning, quantum design, and high-performance composites.
Deadline: December 2024
Website: https://ethz.ch
4. EIT Manufacturing Master School
Coverage: Full or partial tuition, monthly living allowance, innovation grant
Relevant Programs:
- MSc in Advanced Manufacturing – with modules in additive manufacturing and materials innovation
- Study across institutions such as Politecnico di Milano, TU Wien, and Aalto University
The EIT program emphasizes entrepreneurship, sustainability, and digital manufacturing with strong industry linkage.
Deadline: January–February 2025
Website: https://eitmanufacturing.eu/education
5. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)
Coverage: Full tuition, SEK 11,000/month stipend, travel allowance
Relevant Programs:
- MSc in Materials Engineering (Luleå University of Technology)
- MSc in Additive Manufacturing and Product Development (University West)
- MSc in Industrial Engineering and Management (with focus on digital manufacturing)
Sweden’s clean-tech focus and strong industrial base support 3D printing innovation across biomedical and automotive sectors.
Website: https://si.se/en/apply/scholarships/
6. France Eiffel Excellence Scholarships
Coverage: Tuition, €1,181–€1,700 monthly stipend, travel, health insurance
Relevant Programs:
- MSc in Materials Science and Nanotechnology (Université Paris-Saclay)
- MSc in Advanced Manufacturing (INSA Lyon, CentraleSupélec)
- MSc in Additive Manufacturing for Aerospace (ISAE-SUPAERO)
France is deeply involved in EU-funded research projects in materials sustainability, AM standardization, and aerospace applications.
Deadline: January 2025
Website: https://www.campusfrance.org/en/eiffel-scholarship-program-of-excellence
7. TU Delft Excellence Scholarships – Netherlands
Coverage: Full tuition + €30,000/year (Justus & Louise van Effen Scholarship)
Relevant Programs:
- MSc in Materials Science and Engineering
- MSc in Mechanical Engineering with Additive Manufacturing Track
- PhD in Composite and Advanced Materials Research (CAMaR)
TU Delft is among the leading institutions in Europe for smart materials, nanostructures, and sustainable 3D printing innovation.
Deadline: December 2024
Website: https://www.tudelft.nl
Focus Areas in Materials Engineering & Additive Manufacturing
Students can specialize in numerous high-impact subfields:
- Polymer and Metal Additive Manufacturing
- Smart and Functional Materials
- Bio-compatible Materials for Medical 3D Printing
- Nanomaterials and Nanoengineering
- Lightweight Composite Materials for Aerospace & Automotive
- Sustainable Materials and Circular Economy in Manufacturing
Eligibility & Application Tips
Academic Prerequisites:
- Bachelor’s degree in materials science, mechanical engineering, chemistry, or physics
- Strong foundation in materials characterization, CAD/CAM, and computational modeling
Technical Profile:
- Proficiency in CAD (e.g., SolidWorks), simulation software (e.g., ANSYS, COMSOL), and exposure to AM platforms (FDM, SLS, SLA)
- Portfolio or publications in related projects is a strong advantage
Tips:
- Customize your Statement of Purpose to highlight interest in advanced manufacturing and societal applications (e.g., sustainable tech, healthcare, mobility).
- Highlight research or industrial experience, especially with materials characterization, nanotechnology, or 3D printing.
- Apply early and thoroughly review each scholarship’s eligibility criteria.