The United Kingdom has decided to rejoin the European Union’s student exchange initiative known as Erasmus, providing a significant opportunity for young individuals. This reintegration will enable British students to pursue academic studies at European universities following the Brexit departure.
In the upcoming year of 2027, over 100,000 individuals in the UK are expected to benefit from the program. Participants from both the UK and the EU will not face additional fees, allowing UK students to maintain their standard domestic tuition rates capped at £9,535 annually while studying abroad. Tuition fees will still be paid to their home institutions.
Erasmus+ offers various opportunities, such as work placements for further education students and apprentices in prominent European companies. The government plans to collaborate closely with educational institutions and youngsters to encourage participation, particularly among disadvantaged groups.
The agreement was finalized by EU minister Nick Thomas-Symonds in a meeting with his EU counterpart Maroš Šefčovič in Brussels. Thomas-Symonds emphasized the significance of joining Erasmus+, highlighting the initiative’s role in promoting skills, academic development, and enhancing opportunities for the youth.
Baroness Jacqui Smith, the Skills Minister, expressed enthusiasm for the Erasmus+ program, emphasizing its potential to benefit students and staff across universities, schools, colleges, and adult education centers. The UK opted out of the Erasmus scheme in 2020 as part of the Brexit agreement; however, under the new terms, the UK anticipates a 30% discount on the program’s costs for the initial year.
For the 2027/28 academic period, the UK is estimated to contribute around £570 million, with future multiyear agreements to be established. The decision to rejoin Erasmus has received positive feedback from various stakeholders, recognizing the advantages it brings in terms of learning, skills development, and cultural exchange.