Erasmus+ programme problems

Subject: Erasmus+ programme problems

In the years following on from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Erasmus+ programme has experienced some challenges with fully restoring some of its activities,

including some that appear to be undermining its practical operations. The most significant is economic in nature. As the Erasmus Student Network reported, funding often seems to be insufficient to help families to support students’ mobility, and students are already facing rising living and housing costs in almost every EU Member State.

Against that backdrop, can the Commission clarify whether it intends to update the provisions concerning Erasmus+ projects with a view to providing students with the economic support that they need?

Submitted:18.4.2024

Answer given by Ms Ivanova on behalf of the European Commission

(11 June 2024)

Based on statistical analysis and market-price research conducted in 2023, the Commission took the decision to increase the individual support for mobile learners under the 2024 call, in line with inflation rates. Specific travel support has been set up for the first time for all higher education students.

Therefore, the individual support grants can as of 2024 be fully devoted to cover costs which are not linked to travel, such as accommodation and subsistence costs.

Students with fewer opportunities are entitled to a top-up amount, in addition to their regular grant. The criteria to receive such a top-up amount is defined at national level, based on the national Erasmus+ inclusion strategy.

Moreover, by signing the Erasmus Charter for Higher Education (1) (pre-requisite for participation in the Erasmus+ programme), higher education institutions commit to providing active support to incoming mobile participants throughout the process of finding accommodation.

1 ∙ ⸱ https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/resources-and-tools/erasmus-charter-for-higher-education | | ( | | )