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Erasmus+: How to study abroad

Erasmus+: How to study abroad
Editor-in-Chief
213630/05/2025
In short

Erasmus+ is an EU program that allows students, teachers, and graduates from participating countries, as well as Ukrainians studying at European universities, to study, do internships, or participate in youth projects abroad. The program provides grants to cover costs, and to complete it successfully, you need to meet academic requirements. Otherwise, you may have to return part or all of the grant. To participate, you need to contact the Erasmus+ coordinator at your university and submit the necessary documents.

Studying or working abroad might seem difficult and out of reach, but Erasmus+ makes this process simple and accessible. It is a European Union program that supports education, professional development, and youth initiatives. No matter if you are a student, a teacher, or a recent graduate, Erasmus+ offers opportunities for personal and career growth. Below, we will explain step-by-step who can participate, what formats are available, how to apply, what financial support to expect, and how to avoid returning the grant due to not meeting the conditions.  

Who can participate?

Erasmus+ is open to a wide range of participants, but there are certain requirements depending on your status and country of residence. Here are the main categories:
  • Students from the 2nd year of bachelor's studies (first-year students can apply, but can only go starting next year). Master's students can also participate.
  • PhD students and teachers — for exchanges, training, or teaching at partner universities.
  • Graduates — within the first year after finishing university, if you are looking for a job or planning to continue your studies.
  • Citizens of participating countries (all EU countries, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Serbia, Turkey, etc.).
  • Participants from non-associated countries, like Ukraine: If you are studying at a Ukrainian university, you can join the Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters program. If you are Ukrainian and studying at a European university (in an Erasmus+ participating country), you can take part in standard Erasmus+ programs under the same conditions as local students.
 

What are the participation formats?

Erasmus+ offers several formats so you can choose the one that fits your goals:
  • Studies: From 3 to 12 months at a partner university. You can choose a university from the available list — from Greece to Norway, depending on your university's agreements.
  • Internships: From 2 to 12 months at a company, non-governmental organization, or university abroad.
  • For university teachers and staff: Short-term training, teaching, or experience exchange.
  • Volunteering and youth initiatives: Programs for those who want to participate in social or cultural projects.
Each format allows you not only to gain new knowledge but also to immerse yourself in another culture, improve your language skills, and expand your network. Internship offers, study programs, and volunteering opportunities can be found here or here  

Financial Support

Erasmus+ provides grants that cover most of the costs for living, transport, and studies. The grant amount depends on the destination country and the cost of living. If you plan your budget wisely (live in a dormitory or share an apartment), you can even save money! You will gain not only experience but also financial benefits. 😎

Estimated grant amounts:

  • Studies: €400–€974/month.

Sources

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Frequently asked questions

Who can participate in the Erasmus+ program?+
Participants can be bachelor students (from the second year), master's students, doctoral students, teachers, graduates within the first year after finishing, as well as citizens of participating countries and Ukrainians studying at European universities.
What participation formats does Erasmus+ offer?+
The program includes study periods from 3 to 12 months at partner universities, internships from 2 to 12 months in companies or organizations, short-term training for teachers, as well as volunteering and youth initiatives.
What financial support is provided?+
Erasmus+ provides grants from 400 to 974 euros per month for study and from 420 to 870 euros for internships, depending on the country and university. 80% of the grant is paid after signing the agreement, the remaining 20% after successful completion of the program.
What happens if the program conditions are not met?+
If a participant does not earn the minimum number of ECTS credits, they must return part or all of the grant. For example, if 10 or fewer credits are earned, 100% of the grant is returned.
How to apply for participation in Erasmus+?+
You need to contact the Erasmus+ coordinator at your university, find out about available programs and deadlines, prepare an application, a motivation letter, a resume, a language proficiency certificate, and other documents. For internships, you need to find a host organization and get confirmation.

Updated 29 July 2026

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