How Did Erasmus Help Me Learn Languages and Explore Europe?

The UK is set to rejoin the Erasmus student exchange programme in 2027, providing future university students with opportunities to study, train, or volunteer across Europe without additional fees. This significant move follows the UK's previous withdrawal from the scheme in 2021, and aims to enhance international collaboration and academic success for students, as well as boost the global reach of UK education.

Last updated: 15 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The UK government has confirmed its intention to rejoin the Erasmus programme, following years of uncertainty since its exit in 2021. This decision marks a pivotal shift in the UK’s educational policy regarding international student mobility. With a projected contribution of approximately £570 million for the 2027-28 academic year, the initiative aims to support students from various backgrounds, especially those disadvantaged or with additional needs. The announcement has been celebrated by educators and institutions across Scotland, which previously benefitted greatly from the Erasmus scheme.

Key takeaways

The UK will rejoin the Erasmus scheme in 2027, allowing students to study abroad in EU countries.
Approximately £570 million will be allocated to support the scheme for the academic year 2027-28.
Students will not incur additional fees while participating in the programme.
The Turing scheme will continue until then, offering global opportunities beyond Europe.
The initiative aims to enhance academic success and future skills for young people.

Timeline: how we got here

Understanding the journey of the Erasmus programme's status in the UK can provide valuable context for its future. Here’s a brief timeline of key events:

January 2020: The UK officially leaves the EU, triggering changes to various agreements, including Erasmus.
March 2021: The UK government announces it will not participate in the Erasmus programme post-Brexit.
September 2021: The Turing scheme is launched, aiming to replace Erasmus with a broader global reach.
October 2023: The UK government announces plans to rejoin the Erasmus programme by 2027.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The recent announcement from the UK government to rejoin the Erasmus programme has been met with widespread approval from educational leaders and institutions. This marks a significant change from the previous stance of complete withdrawal and reflects a commitment to enhancing student mobility and international collaboration.

What was already established

The Turing scheme has been operational since 2021, providing funding for UK students to study abroad. However, it primarily focuses on non-European destinations, making the upcoming reintroduction of Erasmus important for students wishing to engage with European education systems and culture.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The reintroduction of the Erasmus programme is expected to have several positive effects on consumers and households by enhancing educational opportunities. Students will have access to a broader range of experiences that can enhance their employability and cultural understanding, potentially leading to better job prospects upon graduation.

Businesses and jobs

For businesses, the return of Erasmus means a more skilled workforce with international experience. Employers often value candidates who have studied or worked abroad, as they bring diverse perspectives and skills. This could lead to increased competitiveness for UK companies in the global market.

Policy and regulation

The UK government's decision to rejoin Erasmus will likely involve regulatory adjustments to ensure compliance with EU standards. Upcoming consultations and discussions will be essential to outline the operational details of the programme and how it fits within the broader educational framework post-Brexit.

Numbers that matter

£570 million: Estimated UK contribution to the Erasmus programme for the 2027-28 academic year.
1.5 million: Total participants in the Erasmus programme in 2024.
18,124: Number of students from Scottish institutions who participated in Erasmus from 2013 to 2023.
3,000: Turing scheme placements funded in Scotland for the 2024-25 academic year.
27: Number of EU member states that participate in the Erasmus programme.

Definitions and jargon buster

Erasmus programme: A European Union initiative that allows students to study, train, or volunteer in different countries, enhancing educational and cultural exchange.
Turing scheme: A UK government initiative that provides funding for UK students to study abroad, with a broader geographical focus than Erasmus.
Disadvantaged backgrounds: Refers to individuals from lower socio-economic backgrounds who may face barriers to accessing opportunities.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the short term, universities and students should prepare for consultations regarding the reintroduction of the Erasmus programme, focusing on eligibility and funding processes. Students should also begin to explore potential study destinations and programme requirements.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Over the next few months, institutions will likely develop partnerships with European universities and establish frameworks for student placements. Students should stay informed about application processes and funding opportunities to maximise their chances of participating.

Signals to watch

Updates from the UK government regarding the rollout of the Erasmus programme.
Information from universities about partnerships with European institutions.
Statistics on student applications and placements under the Turing scheme as a comparison to future Erasmus placements.

Practical guidance

Do

Research potential study destinations and their associated costs.
Engage with university advisors for guidance on application processes.
Consider language courses to enhance your experience abroad.

Don’t

Don’t overlook the importance of early applications for funding and placements.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to past participants for insights and advice.
Don’t ignore the eligibility requirements set by your university or the programme.

Checklist

Identify your preferred study abroad destinations.
Check your university's eligibility criteria for Erasmus participation.
Explore funding options available for your chosen programme.
Connect with peers who have studied abroad for experiences and tips.
Stay updated on government announcements regarding Erasmus.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the announcement to rejoin the Erasmus programme is promising, uncertainties remain regarding the operational details and funding availability. The UK government’s ability to secure discounts and manage costs will be crucial in determining the programme's sustainability. Furthermore, the impact of international relations and future policy decisions could influence the effectiveness and accessibility of the programme for students.

Bottom line

The reintroduction of the Erasmus programme in 2027 represents a significant opportunity for UK students to gain invaluable experience abroad while enhancing their education. As preparations begin, it is essential for students and universities to stay informed and actively engage with the developments to ensure they can take full advantage of the opportunities presented.

FAQs

What is the Erasmus programme?

The Erasmus programme is an EU initiative that allows students to study, train, or volunteer in other European countries without incurring additional fees.

How does the Turing scheme compare to Erasmus?

The Turing scheme is a UK initiative providing funding for students to study abroad, but it has a broader global reach than Erasmus, including destinations outside Europe.

What funding is available for students participating in Erasmus?

Funding for Erasmus covers travel, living costs, and course fees, with additional support for students with disabilities and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.