The United Kingdom will spend £570 million to rejoin the European Union’s Erasmus+ student exchange programme from 2027, the UK government and EU announced on December 17, 2025.
The deal allows over 100,000 UK students, apprentices, and young people to study, train, or work across Europe in the 2027/28 academic year. Prime Minister Keir Starmer called it a “new era” in UK-EU relations since Brexit.
Why did UK leave Erasmus+?
Britain exited the programme in 2020 after Brexit. The former Conservative government said it wasn’t “value for money” and launched its own “Turing Scheme” instead.
What is Erasmus+?
It’s the EU’s flagship programme for education and youth exchanges. Students can study in another European country for up to 1 year, with funding for travel and living costs. The UK secured a 30% discount on fees compared to standard terms.
Can Nigerians benefit?
Erasmus+ is mainly for UK citizens and residents. However, Nigerians studying at UK universities that join Erasmus+ may access placements through their school. The UK’s Turing Scheme also funds global placements, including in Europe, and remains active.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the deal “opens the door for new shared experiences for young people” and marks a “renewed partnership” with Britain.
The agreement still needs to be formalised. UK participation after 2028 will be reviewed based on first-year data.
