British students are set to rejoin the European Union’s Erasmus exchange programme as the Labour government moves to dismantle elements of Boris Johnson’s Brexit settlement.
The Cabinet Office is expected to formally confirm the decision on Wednesday following talks between UK ministers and EU officials. Under the plan, UK undergraduates will be able to participate in Erasmus from 2027, giving them the chance to study at European universities for a year without incurring additional tuition fees.
The agreement will also reopen the door for European students to study at British universities, restoring a two-way academic exchange that ended after Brexit.
UK-EU Erasmus Return Marks Major Shift in Post-Brexit Policy
Boris Johnson’s government withdrew the UK from Erasmus after the 2016 referendum, arguing the scheme was too expensive.
In its place, ministers introduced the Turing scheme, which allowed UK students to study abroad globally but did not offer the same reciprocal access for European students.
Rejoining Erasmus has been a central issue in discussions between London and Brussels, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer seeks to reset the UK’s relationship with the EU. HuffPost UK understands the breakthrough is due to be confirmed later today.
Students and Universities Welcome Erasmus Comeback
The announcement has been met with strong support from students and the higher education sector.
Alex Stanley of the National Union of Students (NUS) said it was “fantastic that another generation of students will be able to be part of the Erasmus programme.”
Tim Bradshaw, chief executive of the Russell Group, said, “We’re delighted at the UK’s association to Erasmus+. With an even greater scope than previous programmes, Erasmus+ opens up fantastic opportunities for students, adult learners and young people to all benefit from new experiences and learning.
“It will also renew the huge contributions that EU students and staff make to life on our university campuses.”
Political Reaction Highlights Push for Closer EU Cooperation
Pro-European campaigners have also hailed the decision as a significant step forward.
James Coldwell of Best for Britain said, “Rejoining Erasmus is a major win for young British students, for countless others who will be able to access its vocational training schemes, and for towns and cities across the UK that will once again benefit from its cultural exchange, enriching their communities and broadening horizons for their young people.
“It also shows the UK government is serious about resetting our relationship with the EU.
“The UK and EU should now build on this momentum to expedite progress towards the areas of cooperation set out in May, particularly on a Youth Experience Scheme which can restore even more opportunities for young people.”
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Liberal Democrat universities and skills spokesperson Ian Sollom added, “After years of campaigning by the Liberal Democrats, we welcome the news that the UK is finally set to rejoin the vital Erasmus+ student exchange scheme from 2027.
“This is a moment of real opportunity and a clear step towards repairing the disastrous Conservative Brexit deal.
“However, while this is a welcome breakthrough, it must be viewed as a crucial first step on a clear roadmap to a closer relationship with Europe – starting with negotiating a bespoke UK-EU customs union, and committing to a youth mobility scheme for the benefit of the next generation.”
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