The United Kingdom has made the decision to rejoin the European Union’s student exchange program known as Erasmus, providing a significant advantage to young individuals. This move will enable British students to pursue studies at European universities post-Brexit for the first time. It is anticipated that over 100,000 individuals in the UK will benefit from the program in 2027, its inaugural year of operation.
Under the rejoining agreement, both British and EU students will not face additional fees. British students will adhere to their standard domestic tuition fees, capped at £9,535 annually, even when studying abroad, continuing to pay fees to their home university. Opportunities within Erasmus+ encompass placements for further education students and apprentices in esteemed European companies. The government has committed to collaborating closely with educational institutions and young people to maximize participation, particularly among disadvantaged groups.
The successful negotiation to rejoin Erasmus+ was finalized by EU Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds during a meeting with his EU counterpart Maroš Šefčovič in Brussels. Minister Thomas-Symonds emphasized the significance of this decision, stating that it offers a gateway for young individuals to broaden their horizons and access educational and training opportunities abroad. The collaboration with the EU reflects a prioritization of public interests and a commitment to fostering opportunities for all.
Baroness Jacqui Smith, the Skills Minister, highlighted the transformative impact of Erasmus+, emphasizing how it will open avenues for numerous students and staff across various educational institutions in the UK. The reentry into the Erasmus program comes after the UK’s departure in 2020 following the Brexit agreement. The UK is expected to receive a 30% discount on the program for the initial year, with an estimated contribution of approximately £570 million for the academic year 2027/28, subject to future multiyear agreements.
In response to this development, Liberal Democrat Universities and Skills spokesman Ian Sollom expressed optimism about the UK’s reintegration into Erasmus+, viewing it as a positive step towards rectifying the adverse impact of the Conservative Brexit deal. Additionally, leaders in education, such as Paul Whiteman from the school leaders’ union NAHT, welcomed the decision, recognizing the program’s potential to enhance learning, skills development, and cultural understanding. James Coldwell, Senior Manager of External Affairs at Best for Britain, emphasized the broader benefits of rejoining Erasmus, underscoring the positive implications for students, vocational training opportunities, and community enrichment across the UK.