What is Erasmus+ mobility?

You’ve probably heard a lot about Erasmus+ mobility. This European program for international mobility, in place for 30 years, has enabled more than 9 million beneficiaries to gain experience abroad.

Although this program was originally set up to facilitate exchanges between students from different European universities, Erasmus actions now extend to a wide range of fields and are open to an ever-increasing number of young Europeans. Initially, only 11 countries took part, and mobility was restricted to schools and students, and could only last between 3 and 12 months.

In 2016, 2.3% of the world’s student population took part in international mobility, compared with 8% in Europe. These figures support the Erasmus+ objectives and prove that this program truly promotes international exchanges for the younger generation. What’s more, the program is now open to apprentices and students of all levels, as well as teaching staff. It is now possible to obtain Erasmus mobility for a period of study or work experience.

Since 2014 and until 2020, Erasmus has become Erasmus+. This new name follows an adaptation of the fields of action of this European program to respond to the socio-economic changes facing Europe. Erasmus+ is now active in the fields of education, training, youth and sport.

WHAT ARE THE CURRENT OBJECTIVES OF THE ERASMUS+ PROGRAM?

The general objectives of the Erasmus+ program are to promote growth, employment, equity and social inclusion. In 2010, the member countries of the European Union (EU) established a new common strategy called Europe 2020. This plan for coordinating economic actions aims to enhance Europe’s attractiveness and competitiveness on a global scale by improving sustainable development indicators. One of the levers of the Europe 2020 strategy is, of course, education. The first objective is therefore to support this strategy. Indeed, Erasmus+ experiences offer students and young professionals the chance to develop their professional and linguistic skills, and open doors for their careers beyond borders.

The Erasmus+ program also aims to promote European values. 83% of students taking part in the program said they felt more European after their mobility.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR AN ERASMUS+ GRANT?

The Erasmus program is now open to an ever wider public. Initially available only to students, it now enables all types of profile to benefit from a grant. To benefit from a grant, you can’t apply individually to the Erasmus+ program. It is essential to contact the organization responsible for a project financed by the program.

WHICH ORGANIZATIONS CAN APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS?

Erasmus+ grants are open to any organization with a proven track record in education, training, youth or sport. These may be associations, schools or institutions.

WHICH PROFILES ARE ELIGIBLE FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE?

• Primary and secondary education staff, such as teachers, pedagogical advisors, management and inspection staff, health personnel, administrative and technical employees.
• Students in vocational training, such as BTS, Bac Pro, CFA or MFR.
• Education and vocational training staff.
• Students in higher education: students, apprentices at university or post-baccalaureate school.
• Adult and popular education staff.
• All young people aged 13 to 30, taking part in youth meetings and contributing to the development of youth policies through debates with decision-makers.
• Professionals and decision-makers in the youth sector taking part in training activities and the exchange of innovative practices.
• Sports professionals, volunteers, athletes and coaches.