Europe's Erasmus Student Exchange Program

Students studying any subject, both undergraduate and postgraduate, can apply to participate in the Erasmus program for studying abroad – as long as the European university they’re studying at supports the program.

A huge number of universities, in 36 different European countries, are signed up as members in the scheme. Study abroad placements last between three and 12 months, and can take place at any point in your degree after the first year – the exact timing may depend on your course structure.

Successful applicants receive a small scholarship, which does not cover all the expenses involved, but does help! Most of this (80%) is received at the time of departure, and the rest once the exchange has been completed.

After being accepted onto the Erasmus program, students work with their course supervisor to develop a plan of study which they agree to follow during the exchange – to make sure the experience is productive and relevant to their overall degree program.

For Erasmus program students travelling to a country that has one of the less widely spoken and studied European languages, intensive language support is available before the exchange – known as Erasmus Intensive Language Courses. English, German, French and Spanish are excluded, as these are fairly widely taught and studied across Europe.

For students who want to gain some practical work experience related to their studies, the Erasmus program also offers opportunities to complete internships abroad.

In this case, students are hosted by a company that signs an agreement with the European university – a contract of training which is approved by both parties. This allows students to better understand the industry they’re interested in, while, also improving their language skills in a working environment.