Erasmus UK: Students Rejoin EU Scheme in 2027

Published: 17 December 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

The UK government has confirmed that young people will regain access to the EU’s Erasmus scheme for the first time since Brexit, with plans to rejoin at an estimated cost of £570 million. The announcement follows detailed negotiations between London and Brussels, fulfilling a Labour manifesto pledge aimed at enhancing educational and training opportunities. Erasmus+, as the programme is officially known, will be available from 2027, offering study, work experience, and cultural exchange opportunities to students, apprentices, and adult learners across the UK.

Officials said up to 100,000 people could benefit in the first year alone. Skills Minister Jacqui Smith highlighted the scheme’s potential to “break down barriers to opportunity, giving learners the chance to build skills, confidence and international experience that employers value.” She emphasised that Erasmus+ would open doors for thousands of students and staff across universities, colleges, schools, and adult education programmes.

David Hughes, chief executive of the Association of Colleges, described the move as “brilliant news” for learners and educators alike. He added that the scheme would broaden students’ perspectives, exposing them to different cultures and ways of life, while enabling staff to gain insights into international technical education practices. The UK’s contribution of £570 million will come from existing departmental budgets, reflecting a commitment to supporting educational exchange without additional taxpayer burdens.

The agreement was finalised after discussions between the UK’s EU Relations Minister, Nick Thomas-Symonds, and the European Commission’s Maroš Šefčovič. In a joint statement, they noted that the association would provide substantial opportunities across education, training, sport, and youth sectors for individuals in both the UK and the EU. The financial terms were described as balanced, ensuring value for taxpayers while securing full participation benefits.

University students will now be able to spend up to a year studying at European institutions as part of their UK degrees, with no extra fees. Likewise, European students will be welcomed into UK universities under the same conditions. Grants will also be available to assist with living costs for those studying or completing work placements abroad, including students in further education colleges.

Alex Stanley, vice-president of the National Union of Students, highlighted the stark decline in UK student mobility since the UK left Erasmus. He emphasised that the reintroduction of Erasmus+ would restore opportunities for the next generation, enriching UK campuses with international perspectives.

Erasmus began in 1987 as a university exchange initiative but has since expanded to encompass work placements, vocational training, school trips, and cultural projects. Following Brexit, the UK withdrew from Erasmus, with the previous administration arguing it lacked value for money. A separate, more limited initiative, the Turing scheme, was introduced, though its future remains uncertain amid the Erasmus return.

The reopening of Erasmus+ reflects a significant step in strengthening international collaboration and education access. It promises to enhance skills, global awareness, and employability for young people, while fostering deeper ties between UK and European institutions. This development marks an important milestone in post-Brexit relations and represents renewed opportunities for cultural exchange and professional development across generations.