Erasmus scheme to return for UK students
🇪🇺 UK to Rejoin Erasmus+ Scheme in 2027
The United Kingdom is set to officially rejoin the Erasmus+ education and youth exchange programme in 2027, six years after exiting the scheme as part of the post-Brexit arrangements. The breakthrough follows a major package of agreements between the UK and the EU aimed at resetting their relationship.2
The deal, described by EU Relations Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds as a "huge win for our young people," is expected to benefit more than 100,000 people in its first year alone.3
Key Financial Details of the Re-entry
The UK government has negotiated terms that it claims represent a "fair balance" between the country's contribution and the benefits received.4
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Total Cost: The UK will pay approximately £570 million to join the expanded Erasmus+ scheme for the 2027/28 academic year.
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30% Discount: The government successfully negotiated a 30% reduction on the membership fees compared to the default terms under the current Trade and Cooperation Agreement.6
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Future Funding: Participation beyond the 2027/28 cycle will be subject to further negotiation during the EU's next long-term budget cycle starting in 2028.7
Comparison: Erasmus+ vs. Turing Scheme
Since 2021, the UK has operated the Turing Scheme as a domestic alternative.8 While the government has not yet confirmed if Turing will be scrapped, the return to Erasmus+ introduces several key changes.
| Feature | Erasmus+ (from 2027) | Turing Scheme (2021–Present) |
| Reciprocity | Two-way: Supports both UK students going abroad and EU students coming to the UK. | One-way: Primarily funds UK students going abroad. |
| Tuition Fees | International fee waivers for EU students (capped at £9,535) and no extra fees for UK students abroad. | Expects host universities to waive fees; no support for inward mobility. |
| Scope | Includes education, training, youth, culture, and sport. Open to apprentices and adult learners. | Focused on study and work placements; limited support for staff. |
| Global Reach | Primarily Europe, but includes some international "third country" associations. | Marketed as a truly global scheme with over 150 destinations. |
Diplomatic and Academic Impact
The move has been hailed by the university sector and pro-European campaigners as a vital step in restoring "people-to-people" ties.9
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Broad Opportunities: Unlike the original university-focused model, the modern Erasmus+ includes vocational training, school group travel, and sports coach exchanges.10
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Economic Boost: Supporters argue that rejoining will renew the contributions EU students and staff make to UK campuses and the wider economy.11
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Broader Reset: The deal was announced alongside agreements to start talks on energy market integration and a deadline for a food and drink trade deal in 2026.12
David Cameron, the EU Relations Minister, emphasized the long-term vision:
"This is about more than just travel; it's about future skills, academic success, and giving the next generation access to the best possible opportunities."
