Erasmus+ Exchange Programme Guide: How to Study Abroad at a European University

Understanding the Erasmus+ Programme

The Erasmus+ programme represents one of Europe’s most significant educational initiatives, offering students the opportunity to study at universities across the European Union and partner countries. Since its inception in 1987, Erasmus has transformed the landscape of European higher education, enabling millions of students to experience different educational systems, cultures, and perspectives while earning credits toward their home degree. For students studying in Europe, Erasmus offers a structured pathway to international education without the cost and complexity of traditional international study.

Erasmus+ funding has evolved beyond simple student mobility to encompass internship placements, youth exchange, adult learning, and institutional partnerships. For university students, the key opportunity remains the study exchange programme, which allows students to spend one or more semesters studying at a partner institution across Europe, with credits earned abroad automatically recognized by their home university through the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

Eligibility and Key Requirements

To be eligible for Erasmus+ exchange, you must be a student at a higher education institution participating in the Erasmus+ programme. Most universities across the EU, UK, Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, and Turkey are Erasmus+ members. You’ll typically need to be enrolled as a degree-seeking student and not currently on leave of absence. Many Erasmus+ exchanges are available during second and third years of undergraduate programs, though some universities permit first-year participation.

Language requirements vary by destination. If you’re studying in a country where you don’t speak the local language, look for programs taught in English, which have expanded significantly across European universities. However, many Erasmus+ recipients improve their language skills substantially during their exchange period. Your home university will advise on specific eligibility criteria and minimum language requirements for different destinations.

The Application and Selection Process

The Erasmus+ application process typically begins in autumn of the year before your exchange. You’ll work with your university’s International Office or Erasmus Coordinator to identify available partner institutions that match your interests and academic level. Most universities maintain lists of affiliated institutions in specific countries and subject areas.

Your application will typically include: expression of interest and ranking of preferred destination universities, academic transcript demonstrating your current performance, letters of recommendation from academic supervisors, a personal statement explaining your motivation and what you hope to gain from the exchange, and often a language assessment if studying in a language other than English. Selection is competitive, with priority often given to students with strong academic records, demonstrated motivation, and readiness for an independent study experience abroad.

Choosing Your Destination and Partner University

Selecting an appropriate destination and partner institution is one of the most important decisions in the Erasmus+ process. Consider: the quality and reputation of the partner institution and specific academic programs, the country’s language and culture and your readiness to engage with these, the climate and geography (some students thrive in Northern Europe’s cities; others prefer Mediterranean climates), cost of living and availability of Erasmus+ funding, and whether the university’s academic calendar and course offerings align with your needs.

Research thoroughly before selecting. Visit the partner university’s website, look for student testimonials from previous Erasmus+ recipients from your institution, connect with students from the partner university to learn about their experiences, and consider whether specific courses available there align with your academic interests. Some excellent smaller universities may offer better teaching and learning environments than prestigious but overcrowded institutions.

Understanding Erasmus+ Funding

Erasmus+ provides monthly stipends to support living costs during your exchange. The amount varies depending on the destination country, typically ranging from €300-400 monthly for exchanges in lower-cost regions to €400-600+ for expensive cities like London, Paris, or Stockholm. This funding is meant to supplement, not replace, your living costs: you’ll typically need additional financial support from family, part-time work, or scholarships.

Importantly, Erasmus+ funding is intended to support participation regardless of financial circumstances. If you face financial barriers to participation, discuss this with your university’s International Office, as additional funding or support may be available. The principle of Erasmus+ is that financial constraint should not prevent otherwise capable students from participating in international exchange.

Academic Planning and Course Selection

Before departure, you’ll complete a “Learning Agreement” with your home university and the partner institution, specifying which courses you’ll take abroad and how they’ll be recognized toward your degree. This is crucial: you want to ensure that credits from your exchange courses will count toward your degree requirements and that the academic level and content align with your needs.

Research the partner university’s course catalogue, discuss your plans with your academic adviser, and communicate with the partner institution about course availability, prerequisites, and academic expectations. Choose courses that genuinely interest you, not just those that sound easy. Part of the value of Erasmus is intellectual engagement with different educational approaches and subject matter. Maximize this opportunity by selecting courses that stretch and inspire you.

Preparing Practically and Psychologically

Practical preparation includes: obtaining necessary visas or residence permits (requirements vary by destination country and your nationality), arranging accommodation (many universities provide housing for Erasmus+ students, often in student residences conducive to meeting other international students), understanding public transportation systems, registering with relevant authorities in your host country, and arranging health insurance coverage.

Psychological preparation is equally important. Erasmus+ exchange is an adventure but also involves adjustment challenges: culture shock, language barriers, homesickness, and the difficulties of rebuilding social networks are normal experiences. Research the destination, connect with other students going on exchange, prepare to be curious and patient with cultural differences, and remember that initial adjustment difficulties are temporary. Most Erasmus+ students report that the exchange period becomes among their most formative educational experiences.

Making the Most of Your Exchange

Beyond academics, Erasmus+ exchange offers unparalleled opportunity for personal growth and international network building. Actively engage with the host community: join student clubs and societies at the host university, travel to other European countries while based abroad (Erasmus+ students often spend semester breaks exploring nearby regions), make genuine friendships with both local and other international students, and develop language skills through immersion.

Take advantage of Erasmus+ social events, which facilitate connection between international students. These events and shared experiences often lead to lifelong friendships and professional networks spanning Europe. The social dimension of Erasmus+, the connections you build, is often as valuable as the academic experience itself.

Returning Home and Leveraging Your Experience

After returning from your Erasmus+ exchange, you’ll complete your degree at your home institution. However, the impact of your exchange extends far beyond your time abroad. You’ll have developed language skills, international perspectives, cultural competence, and networks spanning multiple countries. Employers increasingly value international experience, viewing Erasmus+ participation as evidence of adaptability, independence, and cultural awareness.

Document your exchange experience thoughtfully: reflect on what you learned academically and personally, consider how your experience abroad has shaped your perspective and career aspirations, and actively articulate the skills and insights you’ve gained when seeking employment or further study. Your Erasmus+ experience is valuable professional and personal capital.

Erasmus+ Beyond Exchange: Internships and Advanced Learning

Beyond semester-long academic exchanges, Erasmus+ funding also supports internship placements (typically 3-12 months), practicum experiences in professional settings, and intensive language courses. Some students combine academic exchange with internship placements, maximizing their time abroad. If you’re interested in professional experience abroad, discuss with your International Office how Erasmus+ can support internship placements.

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About Adam Girsault

With a Bachelor's (LLB) from UCL and Assas, and the Grande Ecole program at HEC Paris, Adam co-founded Your Dream School in 2018. Since then the company has coached more than 1,000 students through university admissions and interview preparation for top global institutions.

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