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Monday 23/02/2026

UK to Rejoin Erasmus Scheme in 2027, Strengthening EU Ties

Diverse students exchanging flags and textbooks with European landmarks
Alex CarterAlex Carter

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The UK is expected to rejoin the Erasmus scheme, allowing students to participate from January 2027.
  • The Erasmus scheme was replaced by the Turing scheme in 2021, which focused on global placements.
  • UK students will pay domestic fees while studying in Europe, with grants available for living costs.
  • The rejoining of Erasmus is part of the UK's efforts to improve relations with the EU post-Brexit.
  • The future of the Turing scheme remains uncertain as the UK prepares to re-enter Erasmus.

The United Kingdom is poised to rejoin the Erasmus scheme, a significant move aimed at enhancing educational and cultural ties with the European Union. This decision marks a pivotal shift in the UK's post-Brexit strategy, with students expected to participate in the EU-wide exchange program starting January 2027.

Reviving Educational Exchange

The Erasmus scheme, renowned for facilitating student exchanges across Europe, was discontinued in the UK in 2020 as part of the Brexit deal. It was replaced by the Turing scheme in 2021, which expanded opportunities globally. However, the UK government, under Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, has been negotiating a return to Erasmus, viewing it as a step towards mending relations with the EU.

Financial and Academic Benefits

Under the new agreement, UK students will be able to study in Europe without incurring additional fees, paying only their domestic tuition rates. They will also be eligible for grants to cover living expenses abroad. This arrangement mirrors the benefits extended to EU students studying in the UK, who will pay domestic fees capped at £9,535 annually. The Erasmus scheme, which began in 1987, has grown to include vocational training and work placements, offering a comprehensive educational experience.

Political and Social Implications

The decision to rejoin Erasmus is seen as a strategic move to improve UK-EU relations, which have been strained since Brexit. The scheme is viewed as a tool for fostering cultural exchange and cooperation, aligning with the Labour government's broader goals of closer ties with Europe. Alex Stanley of the National Union of Students hailed the development as a "huge win for the student movement," emphasizing the long-standing demand for re-entry into the program.

Uncertain Future for Turing Scheme

While the return to Erasmus is celebrated, questions remain about the future of the Turing scheme. Introduced to provide broader access to international placements, particularly for disadvantaged students, its role will need reassessment as the UK re-engages with Erasmus.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The UK's re-entry into the Erasmus scheme could significantly impact its educational landscape, offering students broader opportunities for cultural and academic exchange. Politically, this move may signal a thaw in UK-EU relations, potentially paving the way for further collaborations. However, the government must address the future of the Turing scheme to ensure that the benefits of international education remain accessible to all students. As negotiations continue, the focus will likely be on balancing the advantages of both programs to maximize educational and diplomatic outcomes.