The UK to Rejoin the Erasmus Scheme
The UK is poised to re-enter the Erasmus program, as reported by the BBC, five years after it withdrew participation following its exit from the European Union. This initiative, which provides funding for individuals to study, train, or volunteer across European nations for up to a year, is set to welcome UK students back in 2027. In 2021, the UK introduced its own initiative, the Turing scheme, to fund similar opportunities globally.
What is the Erasmus Scheme?
The Erasmus scheme, named after the Dutch Renaissance theologian, enables students to study abroad at partner universities and higher education institutions by offering grants to assist with living expenses. Participants typically continue to pay fees to their home institutions, while the EU covers additional costs funded by taxpayers.
Background of the UK’s Withdrawal
The UK opted out of Erasmus in December 2020, coinciding with the announcement of its post-Brexit trade deal. Boris Johnson, the Prime Minister at the time, labeled the decision as “tough” but deemed the scheme “extremely expensive.” Subsequently, the UK launched the Turing scheme, named after renowned British mathematician Alan Turing, which has been operational since.
About the Turing Scheme
The Turing scheme is open to a broader range of participants, including university students, vocational course attendees, apprentices, and school trainees. In the 2024/25 academic year, it received £105 million in funding, facilitating 43,200 placements across various educational levels. Of these, 24,000 were in higher education, 12,100 in further education, and 7,000 in schools.
The Return of Erasmus
The anticipated reintroduction of the Erasmus scheme will be formally announced soon. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer hinted in May that a broader youth mobility initiative could be integrated into a new arrangement with the EU. Alex Stanley from the National Union of Students expressed excitement over the news, asserting that it marks a significant victory for students who have continuously advocated for their return to Erasmus.
Implications for Students
During its final year of participation in 2020, the Erasmus scheme benefitted 55,700 individuals, supported by €144 million (£126 million) in EU funding. The UK sent 9,900 students abroad while welcoming 16,100 students from other countries. Popular destinations included Spain, France, and Germany, with Glasgow, Bristol, and Edinburgh sending out the most participants.
Looking Ahead
As the UK prepares to rejoin Erasmus, it remains uncertain what the future holds for the Turing scheme. Liberal Democrat universities spokesperson Ian Sollom welcomed the news, considering it a valuable opportunity to mend aspects of the recent Brexit agreement that have proven to be detrimental.
Key Takeaways
- The UK is set to rejoin the Erasmus scheme in January 2027.
- The Turing scheme was launched in 2021 as a replacement for Erasmus.
- Boris Johnson described the decision to withdraw from Erasmus as challenging but necessary due to costs.
- The return of Erasmus is viewed as a crucial step towards improving student mobility opportunities post-Brexit.