Recently, the Department for Education (DfE) has announced that the United Kingdom will rejoin the Erasmus+ programme from 2027. This marks a significant development in the UK’s post-Brexit education and international mobility policy. The decision is expected to reopen structured study and exchange opportunities between the UK and European institutions, benefiting students, educational providers, and training organisations across both the UK and Europe.
What is the Erasmus+ programme?
Erasmus+ is the European Union’s long-standing programme supporting international student exchanges, academic placements, and educational cooperation across Europe, which aims to wide access to study and training abroad for learners from all backgrounds, including higher education students, apprentices, further education learners, and adult learners, as well as education, youth, and sports professionals. It enables students to study abroad at partner universities and higher education organisations by offering grants to help with living costs. British students will be able to spend a year studying at European universities as part of their UK degree courses without paying extra fees, and vice versa for European students.
Under Erasmus+, students enrolled at participating institutions can study or train abroad for a defined period, often without paying additional tuition fees to the host institution, which are covered by the EU. The programme also provides financial support and administrative coordination, making international study more accessible and predictable. The programme will create educational and training opportunities for British apprentices, further education students and adult learners, as well as those in higher education. The government will work closely with institutions and young people to maximise take-up – particularly among disadvantaged groups.
Under the current announcement, in 2027–2028 academic year, British students will once again be able to spend part of their degree studying at European universities, and European students will be able to study in the UK under the same framework. Opportunities will also extend beyond higher education, including work placements with European companies for apprentices and further education students. A UK-based national agency will oversee the programme’s implementation, working closely with institutions to encourage participation, particularly among disadvantaged groups.
What Will be the Impact on Students and Immigration?
The return of Erasmus+ is expected to reduce barriers to international study for both UK and EU students.
For European students wishing to study or train in the UK, Erasmus+ participation may enhance academic experience and improve future prospects under UK post-study immigration routes, such as the Graduate Route or, where applicable, the Skilled Worker route.
Erasmus+ placements are typically short-term and clearly defined, which can make immigration planning more straightforward compared to longer independent study arrangements. UK universities may also see renewed interest from EU students, contributing to greater diversity within the higher education sector.
However, it is important to note that participation in Erasmus+ does not remove the need for appropriate immigration permission. Visa requirements will continue to apply depending on the student’s nationality, length of stay, and nature of the visit.
Our Recommendations
Students considering study or exchange opportunities from 2027 onwards should begin planning early and stay informed as further guidance is released. Immigration requirements, visa conditions, and permitted activities must be carefully reviewed to ensure compliance with UK immigration rules.
Lisa’s Law Immigration team will continue to monitor policy updates and provide further guidance as details of the scheme’s implementation become available. Should you need further advice on student visas or education-related immigration matters, please feel free to contact our immigration team.
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