In a significant policy shift, the British government has announced the UK will rejoin the European Union's flagship Erasmus+ student exchange programme. This move will restore opportunities for British students to study at universities across Europe for the first time since the country's departure from the EU.
What the Erasmus+ Return Means for Students and Apprentices
The reinstatement of the UK to the Erasmus+ framework is set to benefit over 100,000 people in the UK in 2027 alone, which will be the first full year of renewed operation. Crucially, participants will face no financial penalty for taking part. Both UK and EU students will avoid extra tuition fees, with British students continuing to pay their standard domestic fees—capped at £9,535 per year—to their home institution while studying abroad.
The programme's scope extends beyond traditional university degrees. Opportunities will also be available for further education students and apprentices, who can secure work placements with leading companies in Europe. The government has pledged to collaborate closely with educational institutions to maximise participation, with a particular focus on extending access to disadvantaged groups.
The Financial and Political Backdrop of the Decision
Rejoining the scheme comes with a revised financial arrangement. The UK has secured a 30% discount on the programme cost for the first year. The total UK contribution for the 2027/28 academic year is projected to be approximately £570 million, with a multi-year funding framework to be negotiated in the future.
This decision marks a clear reversal from the post-Brexit stance. The UK left Erasmus+ in 2020 following the agreement of its Brexit deal, with then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson criticising the programme as "extremely expensive." The exit was met with disappointment from the education sector, including Universities UK.
Under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the government is actively seeking to rebuild ties with the EU. In a recent foreign policy speech, Starmer acknowledged Brexit as a democratic expression but stated the manner in which it was "sold and delivered was simply wrong." He emphasised the need to make the UK-EU relationship work for British citizens.
Reaction and the Path Forward
The announcement has been welcomed by education leaders. Paul Whiteman, General Secretary of the school leaders' union NAHT, praised the move, highlighting the welcomed focus on ensuring all young people, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, can benefit.
Pro-European voices are now urging the government to capitalise on this momentum. Groups like the Liberal Democrats and Best for Britain are calling for broader negotiations, including a comprehensive youth mobility scheme, to foster closer relations with the European Union.
The return to Erasmus+ signifies a major step in reconnecting British youth with international opportunities that were severed after Brexit, setting the stage for a new chapter in educational and cultural exchange.
