The UK will rejoin the European Union’s Erasmus student exchange programme from 2027. This comes as part of the post-Brexit education policy and the restoration of a scheme that many young people saw as one of the biggest losses of the UK’s departure from the EU
The decision has been confirmed by the government and will allow students, apprentices and learners in the UK to study, train or gain work experience across Europe under the Erasmus+ framework. European participants will also be able to come to the UK under the same terms, the BBC reported.
What the return to Erasmus means
From the 2027/28 academic year, UK students will be able to spend up to a year studying or training in Europe as part of their existing courses without paying additional tuition fees. Grants will be available to help cover living costs while abroad, reducing financial barriers that have prevented many students from taking up international opportunities in recent years.
The scheme is not limited to university students. It will also be open to apprentices, further education students, school pupils travelling as part of organised groups, adult learners, education staff and volunteers in youth organisations. This wider access reflects the modern Erasmus+ programme, which has expanded far beyond its original university-focused model.
Cost and funding arrangements
The UK will contribute approximately £570 million in the first year of participation. The government says this represents around 30% less than the standard rate paid by non-EU countries that participate in the scheme. Funding will come from existing departmental budgets, and ministers argue the deal offers value for money while ensuring full access to Erasmus benefits.
In addition to standard grants, extra financial support will be available for people with disabilities, those with additional learning needs, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds, aiming to make international study and training more inclusive.
Impact on students and institutions
The government estimates that up to 100,000 people of all ages across the UK could benefit in the first year alone. Universities, colleges and training providers will be able to rebuild partnerships with European institutions that were paused or lost after Brexit.
Since the UK left Erasmus in 2021, UK students’ participation in European study programmes has dropped significantly. European student numbers in the UK also declined, reducing cultural exchange on campuses. Rejoining Erasmus is expected to reverse these trends and restore international mobility as a normal part of education and training.
What happens to the Turing scheme?
Erasmus was replaced after Brexit by the UK’s Turing scheme, which offers global study and work placements beyond Europe. While the Turing scheme broadened geographical reach, critics have argued it lacked the depth, reciprocity and institutional links provided by Erasmus.
The government has not yet confirmed whether the Turing scheme will continue alongside Erasmus or be phased out. Its future is expected to be clarified closer to 2027.
Next steps for applications
A dedicated government website with detailed guidance is expected to launch by summer 2026. Once the scheme reopens, participants will apply through their school, university, college, workplace or organisation, provided it is registered with Erasmus+.
The return to Erasmus is part of the government’s effort to reset relations with the EU, alongside planned cooperation on areas such as energy, food and drink, and carbon capture. For many young people, the reopening of Erasmus represents a practical and symbolic step toward renewed opportunity and connection with Europe.
