UK Rejoins EU’s Erasmus Student Exchange Programme After Brexit

Government Allocates £600 million (≈ $760 million) for the 2027 Cohort

The United Kingdom has announced its return to the European Union’s Erasmus+ student‑exchange scheme, a programme it abandoned following the 2020 Brexit transition. The move marks a significant shift in the country’s higher‑education policy, aiming to restore the long‑standing academic links that once connected British universities with their European counterparts.

Funding Commitment: The Department for Education confirmed that it will earmark £600 million – roughly US$760 million – to support British students who wish to study, train, or volunteer abroad under the Erasmus+ umbrella starting in 2027. The budget will cover scholarships, travel grants, and administrative costs, ensuring that the opportunity is accessible to a broad range of learners.

Why Rejoin? Officials cite several reasons for the reversal, including the desire to boost international experience, enhance employability, and foster cultural understanding among young people. “Re‑engaging with Erasmus+ is about giving our students the chance to compete on a global stage and to build networks that will benefit the UK economy for years to come,” said the higher‑education minister in a statement.

The reinstatement also aligns with recent discussions about strengthening ties with European neighbours in research and innovation. Universities across the UK are preparing to expand their partnership agreements, and many anticipate a surge in applications once the programme officially restarts.

Students and educators alike have welcomed the news, viewing it as a step toward restoring the vibrant exchange culture that defined pre‑Brexit higher education. With the funding now secured, the UK is set to welcome its first batch of Erasmus+ participants in the academic year beginning 2027.