Archive · 18 Dec 2025
UK Rejoins EU's Erasmus+ Program
The UK is going to join the Erasmus+ program again.
This is a big student exchange program in the EU.
UK students will be able to study and do training in other EU countries without paying extra money.
EU students studying in the UK will also pay the same fees as UK students.
This is happening because the UK wants to be friends again with the EU.
The program will start in January 2027.
It's a good thing for students because they can learn and travel more.
Some people think this is the first step towards the UK joining the EU again, but others think it's just about improving education and trade.
UK to rejoin EU's Erasmus+ program starting January 2027.
UK students can participate without additional fees.
EU students in UK universities will pay domestic fees (capped at £9,535/year).
Program includes vocational training, sports exchanges, and study exchanges.
Agreement demonstrates UK's push to improve relations with the EU.
- Who
- UK government and EU
- What
- UK rejoining Erasmus+ program
- When
- Agreement announced on December 17, participation starts January 2027
- Where
- UK and EU
- Why
- To improve relations with the EU and provide educational opportunities for students
Pro-EU Integration
Brexit Supporters
EU Reintegration
Pro-EU Integration
The UK's rejoin of Erasmus+ is seen as a step towards closer ties with the EU, potentially leading to rejoining the customs union or even the EU.
Brexit Supporters
Brexit supporters argue that rejoining EU programs undermines the Brexit referendum result and the UK's independence.
Economic Benefits
Pro-EU Integration
Pro-EU advocates believe stronger ties with the EU will boost economic growth and business opportunities.
Brexit Supporters
Brexit supporters contend that rejoining EU structures will impose economic burdens and restrict the UK's ability to negotiate independent trade deals.
- Program
- Erasmus+
- UK Participation Start
- January 2027
- UK Student Fees
- No additional fees
- EU Student Fees in UK
- Domestic fees (capped at £9,535/year)
- Program Benefits
- Vocational training, sports exchanges, study exchanges
- Political Context
- Labour government seeks closer EU ties while maintaining Brexit framework
Sources
UK to rejoin EU’s Erasmus scholar exchange program. Details here
UK to rejoin EU’s Erasmus student exchange program, offering study, training opportunities across 27 nations in post-Brexit reset
Is Labour changing course on Brexit?
