A new agreement between the United Kingdom and the European Union will allow young people from across the UK to once again take part in Erasmus+, reopening opportunities to study, train and gain experience abroad. The announcement, published by the UK Government on 17 December 2025, marks a significant step in restoring educational cooperation following the UK’s withdrawal from the scheme after Brexit.
Under the agreement, UK participation in Erasmus+ is expected to resume from 2027, giving access to a wide range of mobility opportunities for students, apprentices, adult learners, youth workers, teachers, sports coaches and civil society organisations.
A key emphasis of the deal is inclusivity. According to the UK Government, the renewed participation aims to ensure that young people from all backgrounds, including those from disadvantaged communities, are able to benefit from international learning and exchange opportunities. Early estimates suggest that more than 100,000 people across the UK could take part in Erasmus+ activities during the first year of renewed involvement.
A dedicated national agency is expected to be established to manage the programme in the UK, with preparations beginning in 2026 to ensure a smooth relaunch. The UK contribution for 2027 will be approximately £570 million, covering the 2027/28 academic year. Any participation in Erasmus+ into the next Multiannual Financial Framework will need to be agreed in the future and be based on a fair and balanced contribution.
The return to Erasmus+ is widely seen as more than a technical policy change. It restores a long-standing framework for cultural exchange, skills development and European cooperation, offering a new generation of young people the chance to gain international experience and strengthen ties across borders.
