UK to Rejoin Erasmus in 2027 at £570m Cost
The European Union’s Erasmus exchange programme will reopen to UK students and learners for the first time since Brexit, after the British government confirmed an agreement to rejoin the scheme from 2027 at a cost of £570 million.
The move fulfils a key Labour election manifesto pledge and marks a significant step in the government’s wider effort to reset relations with the European Union. Officially known as Erasmus+, the programme supports education, training, youth, culture and sport across Europe.
Up to 100,000 UK Participants Expected in First Year
According to the UK government, up to 100,000 people of all ages could benefit in the first year of renewed participation. Erasmus+ will be open not only to university students but also to apprentices, further education (FE) students, adult learners, youth groups and staff across the education sector.
Skills Minister Jacqui Smith welcomed the announcement, calling it “a very, very good day” for young people across the UK. She said the agreement demonstrates the benefits of rebuilding ties with the EU and expanding opportunities for British learners.
Treasury Commits New Funding with EU Discount
The £570m cost represents a new funding commitment from the Treasury, in addition to the existing Department for Education budget. Smith confirmed that the UK negotiated a 30% discount with the EU, reflecting the country’s popularity as a study destination.
She said the revised financial terms offer a fairer balance than the UK’s previous participation, ensuring that benefits for UK learners are more closely matched with EU access to the UK.
Benefits for Students, Colleges and Staff
Under the scheme, UK university students will once again be able to study at European universities for up to a year as part of their degree courses without paying additional tuition fees. UK institutions will also be able to host European students on the same basis.
Participants travelling abroad will be eligible for grants to help cover living costs, including those studying at FE colleges or undertaking work placements.
David Hughes, chief executive of the Association of Colleges, described the decision as “brilliant news,” highlighting the cultural, educational and professional benefits for both students and staff.
Agreement Reached as Part of UK–EU “Reset”
The agreement was finalised by Nick Thomas-Symonds, the UK’s EU relations minister, following talks with European Commission vice-president Maroš Šefčovič. Both sides said the deal offers significant opportunities for young people across the UK and EU and represents a fair balance between financial contributions and benefits.
Political Reaction and Criticism
Shadow foreign secretary Priti Patel criticised the move, accusing the government of wasting taxpayers’ money and arguing that the UK should instead focus on post-Brexit trade and global economic growth.
The UK originally left the Erasmus programme in 2020 following Brexit, with then prime minister Boris Johnson claiming it did not offer value for money. Since then, students in Northern Ireland have continued to access Erasmus through support from the Irish government.
