The United Kingdom has officially confirmed it will rejoin the European Union's Erasmus+ programme from 2027, following a recent agreement between the UK and the EU. This move reopens opportunities for students, apprentices, teachers, youth workers, and sports organisations to study, train, teach, and work across Europe after several years outside the scheme.
Who Can Benefit from Erasmus+?
According to the UK government guidance, the programme provides grant funding for international placements and partnership projects across education, training, youth, and sport. Eligible participants include students in higher education, further education, and vocational training, as well as school pupils, adult learners, apprentices, teachers, youth workers, and grassroots sports staff. Organisations such as schools, universities, colleges, youth groups, and sports bodies that seek to build partnerships with counterparts in participating countries can also benefit.
What Opportunities Are Available?
The government stated that Erasmus+ will allow participants to study abroad individually or as part of a group, complete work placements or vocational training overseas, volunteer or participate in youth exchanges, teach or receive professional training in another country, and take part in coaching assignments or job-shadowing opportunities in grassroots sport. Participating organisations can collaborate with international partners on projects aimed at improving education, innovation, research, and training.
Which Countries Are Included?
The programme covers all European Union member states, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Türkiye. For some higher education and youth projects, up to 20 per cent of funding may also support activities in countries outside the Erasmus+ area.
How to Apply for Funding?
The UK government clarified that individuals cannot apply directly for Erasmus+ grants. Instead, applications must be submitted through participating organisations such as universities, schools, colleges, employers, youth organisations, or sports bodies. Eligible organisations include schools, universities and higher education providers, further education colleges, vocational education providers, adult education institutions, youth organisations, sports organisations, and non-profit organisations.
What Costs Does the Funding Cover?
For mobility projects, funding may cover travel, accommodation, and living expenses, course fees, visa and entry costs, language learning support, organisational expenses, and preparatory visits. Additional financial support will be available for participants with disabilities, additional learning needs, and disadvantaged backgrounds.
When Will Applications Open?
The next Erasmus+ funding round is expected to open in November 2026 and close in February 2027. The government advised organisations interested in participating to begin preparing projects, identifying overseas partners, and developing proposals ahead of the application window. The Department for Education also confirmed it has begun discussions with the British Council regarding its appointment as the UK's National Agency, which would oversee most Erasmus+ funding and programme delivery in the country.
