Erasmus is an exchange program made available to students across higher education institutes in Europe. The program was designed as a capacity development initiative to ensure students become mentally and academically equipped for the competitive job market. Since its introduction in 1987, the Erasmus exchange program continues to provide students with access to thousands of higher education institutes, placing them in the center of intercultural exchange and growth opportunities.
Tens of thousands of students have had life-changing experiences as a result of the Erasmus program, and here is all you need to know about them.
What is Erasmus?
Erasmus is short for the European Community Action Scheme for the Mobility of University Students which is an international exchange program that aims at enhancing intellectual, professional and social capabilities of those taking part in it. This program has been running since 1987. Since its launch, over 8 million students have benefited from Erasmus by going on study visits to other countries, student exchanges and internships.
Benefits of Erasmus for Students
The Erasmus program offers students a wide range of individual and collective benefits. These benefits are tied to the educational, personal and professional growth opportunities provided by the program.
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Linguistics and intercultural growth.
The Erasmus provides students the opportunity to study abroad and interact with people from different cultures. Even though most participants are primarily focused on the academic component, they have the chance to learn a foreign language and gain intercultural knowledge. -
Professional Connections. The brief academic period of Erasmus is a great way to build a professional network. This is because even while studying, students are exposed to professionals who may help them get job opportunities or serve as a reference.
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Increased Employability.
A student who partakes in the Erasmus program is more likely to land a job as he/she will have the relevant experience employers are looking for. In addition, employers can easily identify Erasmus students due to the international qualifications. -
Openness and Social Skills.
Living abroad allows students to become open-minded and develop social skills since they continuously interact with people from different nationalities, which increases their communication and interpersonal skills.
Requirements to Participate
Generally, the requirements for students to participate in the Erasmus program include:
- Being part of a higher education institution in Europe.
- Being over 18 years old.
- Possessing good grades in academics/ or have achieved a certain level of academic competence.
- Being able to prove financial capability- most universities provide Erasmus grants and scholarships to help students cover certain expenses.
- Being registered in the online database: Students must register in the online database available to those interested in the program.
Erasmus Grants and Scholarships
Erasmus grants and scholarships are available and granted to students who are eligible and have met the requirements. Normally, each grant or scholarship varies according to the destination and the grant. Generally, the grant covers tuition fees, dormitory and flight costs, insurance, and certain expenses like personal, medical, cultural and in some cases, job search related expenses.
Where to Find Erasmus Opportunities?
When looking for Erasmus opportunities, students are required to start their search with their institution. There, they can get more information about the program, their eligibility and their Erasmus options. Apart from the school, students can look for Erasmus opportunities in the following places:
• Erasmus+ website: This is the official website from the European Commission that offers current opportunities for students regarding Erasmus and other programs.
• GoAbroad: It is a website which offers a comprehensive list of current Erasmus opportunities.
• Erasmus Student Network: This is the leading student network in Europe that offers Erasmus and study abroad opportunities.
• GRENT: GRENT is an online platform that brings together all universities and study abroad programs across Europe.
• GSInet: GSInet is a search engine for Erasmus and study abroad programs.
The Erasmus program offers countless benefits that can influence both the personal and professional life of students. It is also an equal opportunity scheme as it provides grants and scholarships that make it accessible for students with financial constraints. With the world becoming increasingly reliant on technology, the program has adapted to the times and makes it easier for students to find suitable Erasmus opportunities more efficiently. With this, Erasmus offers students an opportunity to experience unprecedented growth throughout their education and beyond.