Rejoining Erasmus+

Information from DCMS Youth Newsletter – January 2026:

We are delighted to confirm that the UK has successfully agreed terms to join Erasmus+ in 2027, widening opportunities for young people from all backgrounds.

The UK has negotiated financial terms that strike a fair balance between our contribution and the benefits the programme offers, including a 30% discount compared to the default terms under the Trade and Cooperation Agreement. This ensures value for UK taxpayers while guaranteeing full participation benefits.

Through our association to Erasmus+:

• Young people and youth workers will be able to enjoy valuable international experiences, helping them develop new skills, broaden horizons, and enhance future career prospects. Erasmus+ offers a wide range of opportunities for individuals to study, work, train, or volunteer abroad – whether for short or long-term placements.

• Youth sector organisations can build stronger ties with European counterparts. Erasmus+ fosters collaboration between organisations across Europe and beyond, promoting knowledge exchange and innovation.

What are the next steps?

A UK National Agency will be appointed to administer the programme, with a dedicated website and guidance to launch in Summer 2026 ahead of the 2027 application window (funding call). The funding call period for 2027 is expected to run from approximately November 2026 to February 2027.

We are now preparing to establish an Erasmus+ Youth Stakeholder Group. The group will provide valuable strategic direction, guidance and stakeholder representation for Erasmus+ policy development. We are eager to draw upon the rich expertise in international exchange from across the sector, and create meaningful opportunities for consultation. We are also committed to ensuring genuine youth participation in the forum from across all four nations.

The stakeholder group will be established to:

• Ensure youth stakeholder needs and expectations are taken into account, and build youth sector engagement.
• Gather youth sector insights on the perceived value, opportunities, and challenges of Erasmus+ to inform policy development and optimise delivery for young people across the UK.
• Ensure youth sector readiness for Erasmus+, coordinating guidance and sector communications.
• Support decision making on key issues and milestones.

The first meeting will take place on 12th February. Please email sara.mills@dcms.gov.uk to express your organisation’s interest in participating.