The European Union is pushing for a rapid agreement for the UK to rejoin the Erasmus+ programme, with the goal of enabling student exchanges from January 2027, The i Paper has learned. A European Commission official stated that negotiations are at a critical juncture and a deal is needed by the end of October if the UK is to join the scheme in just over a year.
An EU source indicated a desire to finalise membership in time for next year's Brexit reset summit, following the agreement in May to explore UK association with Erasmus+. However, The i Paper understands that the UK believes talks are still in early stages, with EU relations minister Nick Thomas-Symonds exploring options. If an agreement is not reached soon, the UK could join at a later date, with the Government prioritising a deal that works for students and is financially sound.
Maurizio Cuttin, international spokesperson for the British Youth Council, expressed optimism: “We see that there is a renewed sense of optimism. People recognise the benefits that Erasmus+ can give to a young person starting out in their life and starting out in their professional career. And after years of isolation, we want to see Britain return to the scheme.” Austrian MEP Andreas Schieder, who co-wrote the European Parliament’s 2021 Brexit trade deal legislation, added: “The EU and some member states want a solid basis for student exchanges. This is in the interest of both sides.”
The UK withdrew from Erasmus+ after Brexit under Boris Johnson, who deemed it too expensive as more European students came to Britain than vice versa, costing an estimated £100m to £200m annually. However, Chatham House argued in 2021 that the UK made a net profit of £243m from European students. In June, the UK cut funding for the Turing scheme, its replacement for Erasmus+, suggesting it could be scrapped or slimmed down alongside the EU programme.
The Common Understanding Brexit-reset agreement in May stated that the UK and EU would negotiate “mutually agreed financial terms” for Erasmus+ membership. EU insiders have also linked progress on a separate “youth experience” under-30s visa to the food and drink deal, indicating that UK concessions may be needed. While Erasmus+ membership is politically easier than the youth experience deal, sticking points remain in negotiations.
