The Erasmus+ programme covers many different topics and can be confusing, even for people who have been working with the programme for many years!
To help you to more easily navigate the programme, we have gathered the most common questions we have been asked during various conferences and information sessions, and tried to give easy-to-understand answers to them
Full details of the Erasmus+ programme can be found in the Erasmus+ Programme Guide.
If you have a question which is not answered, please contact your local Erasmus+ National Focal Point in our ENFP contact details page.
Frequently asked questions:
General questions about Erasmus+
Q: I am a non-EU national? Why should I apply for the Erasmus+ program?
The Erasmus+ programme offers a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth. By participating, you can gain international experience, develop a global network, and enhance your intercultural communication skills. The programme supports a wide range of activities, including studying abroad, internships, volunteering, and professional development. It's not just an investment in your education or career, but also in your personal development and understanding of different cultures. Moreover, the programme fosters innovation and exchange of best practices, which can be invaluable in today's interconnected world.
Q: I am a head of a higher education institution in a non-EU country. Why should I apply for the Erasmus+ program?
Applying for the Erasmus+ program offers a multitude of benefits for higher education institutions in non-EU countries, including:
1. Internationalisation: Participating in Erasmus+ expands your institution's global reach, enhances its international profile, and promotes cultural diversity on campus.
2. Networking: It provides opportunities to form strategic partnerships with institutions in Europe and other parts of the world, fostering collaborative research and academic exchange.
3. Quality Improvement: Involvement in the program encourages the sharing of best practices in teaching and learning, which can lead to improvements in curriculum design, pedagogy, and student services.
4. Mobility Grants: Your students and staff can benefit from mobility grants, allowing them to study, train, teach, or learn abroad, which can significantly enhance their skills and employability.
5. Capacity Building: Erasmus+ offers funding for projects that aim to improve the administrative and academic capacity of higher education institutions, supporting reform and modernisation.
6. Innovation: The program encourages innovation in education through strategic cooperation projects, fostering the exchange of knowledge and technology transfer.
7. Research Collaboration: It opens up avenues for joint research initiatives, contributing to the institution's research output and reputation.
8. Funding: Beyond mobility and cooperation, Erasmus+ provides financial support for a broad range of activities, including curriculum development, modernization of infrastructure, and staff development.
9. Visibility: Being part of Erasmus+ enhances the institution's visibility among prospective international students and academics, attracting talent and fostering a global academic community.
10. Inclusive Education: The program promotes inclusive education, ensuring opportunities for learners from disadvantaged backgrounds, contributing to social equity and cohesion.
Q: Where do I start with the Erasmus+ program?
Beginning your Erasmus+ journey is exciting! Start by familiarising yourself with the program's objectives, the types of projects available, and eligibility criteria. You can find detailed information on the official Erasmus+ website. Next, define your goals: are you looking to study, train, teach, or collaborate on a project? Once you have a clear idea, you can look into the specific opportunities and application procedures. Don’t hesitate to contact an Erasmus+ National Focal Point in your country—they are here to guide you through the process and provide personalised support.
Q: Where can I find partners for my Erasmus+ project?
Finding the right partners is crucial for a successful Erasmus+ project. You can start by attending networking events and workshops hosted by Erasmus+ National Focal Points, where you’ll meet like-minded individuals and organisations. The Erasmus+ Project Results Platform is also a fantastic resource, as it allows you to search for projects and contact organisations directly. Additionally, consider leveraging social media platforms and professional networks such as LinkedIn to reach out to potential partners. Remember, a good partner should share your project’s objectives and bring complementary skills to the table.
Q: Who else can help me with my Erasmus+ application?
Aside from the National Focal Points, who are your primary resource, you can also seek assistance from the National Agencies responsible for Erasmus+ in your programme country. These agencies offer guidance, resources, and sometimes even workshops on how to craft a successful application. Furthermore, if you're currently affiliated with an educational institution, reach out to the International Relations or Erasmus+ office at your university or college—they often provide support to applicants. Lastly, consider connecting with past Erasmus+ participants; their firsthand experience can provide valuable insights into the application process.
Q: Where can I find application forms for Erasmus+?
The application processes for Erasmus+ vary depending on which strand of funding you are applying for and whether the funding opportunity is managed by the National Agencies or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency. More information on the application process, including templates and model application forms, can be found in the How to apply section.
International Credit Mobility
Q: What is International Credit Mobility (ICM) in the context of Erasmus+?
International Credit Mobility (ICM) is a component of the Erasmus+ program that allows for student and staff exchanges between higher education institutions (HEIs) in Erasmus+ program countries and partner countries worldwide. It offers short-term mobility opportunities, typically ranging from a few days to several months, for students, academic, and administrative staff.
Q: How can I apply for an ICM mobility period?
To apply for an ICM mobility period, you need to be enrolled or employed at a higher education institution that is part of an active ICM project. The application process is managed by your home institution, which will have specific criteria and deadlines. Contact the international office or Erasmus+ coordinator at your institution for detailed information on the application process.
Q: Are there any specific eligibility criteria for ICM participants?
Yes, ICM participants must be enrolled (for students) or employed (for staff) at one of the higher education institutions involved in the ICM project. Students should be at least at the level of post-secondary education and in good academic standing. Staff mobility is open to both teaching and non-teaching staff. Additional criteria may be set by your home institution or the specific ICM project, such as language proficiency requirements or specific fields of study.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Program
Q: Who can apply for an EMJM program?
EMJM programs are open to applicants from all over the world. You must typically hold a first degree (a bachelor’s degree or equivalent) to be eligible. Specific entry requirements can vary depending on the program.
Q: How do I find the right EMJM program for me?
You can find available EMJM programs on the Erasmus+ website or the Erasmus Mundus Catalogue. Each program has its own focus, structure, and partnership institutions, so review their specific details, curriculum, and mobility paths to find a program that aligns with your academic and professional goals.
Q: How can I apply for an EMJM program?
You need to apply directly to the consortium offering the master's program. Each consortium has its own application process and deadlines, which are typically detailed on the program's website.
Q: What kind of financial support is available for EMJM students?
Erasmus Mundus scholarships are available for EMJM students. These scholarships are highly competitive and cover tuition fees, travel costs, installation costs, and include a monthly subsistence allowance.
Q: What are the language requirements for EMJM programs?
Language requirements vary by program. Most programs require proficiency in English, but if the program includes mobility to non-English speaking countries, proficiency in the relevant languages may also be required. Check the specific requirements of the program you're interested in.
Q: Can I work while studying in an EMJM program?
This depends on the specific regulations of the host country and the intensity of the program. Some students may find time to work part-time, but it's important to prioritize your studies and comply with any visa regulations.
Q: How are academic credits recognized in EMJM programs?
EMJM programs use the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), and credits gained are recognized by all partner institutions in the consortium. Upon completion, students typically receive a joint or multiple degrees from the partner institutions.