What is Erasmus+ and how does it work?

Erasmus+ is the European Union programme that supports education, training, youth, and sport across Europe. It is designed to promote learning mobility, cooperation between institutions, and the development of skills that improve employability and social inclusion.

Overall, Erasmus+ is open to learners and education professionals from participating institutions. But beyond the name, many people still ask: who can participate, and how does Erasmus+ mobility actually work?

Tip #1 - What Is Erasmus+?

Erasmus+ funds international learning experiences that allow participants to:

• study

• complete an internship

• take part in training courses

• join job shadowing activities

These mobilities take place in another European country and are organised through schools, VET centres, universities, or training institutions.

Tip #2 - What Is Erasmus Mobility?

Erasmus mobility refers to a period spent abroad for educational or professional learning purposes. This mobility can last from a few days to several months, depending on the project type.

During the mobility, participants:

• work or learn in a host organisation

• develop professional skills

• improve language competences

• strengthen autonomy and adaptability

• gain intercultural experience

All activities are structured around learning objectives agreed upon before departure.

"The programme’s core goal is not travel, it is learning through international experience."

Different Types of Erasmus+ Mobility

Erasmus+ is not only for university students. The programme includes several target groups.

1. Erasmus VET (Vocational Education and Training)

Erasmus VET mobility is designed for:

• vocational school students

• apprentices

• learners in technical and professional training

Participants usually complete work-based learning experiences, such as internships in companies related to their field of study (hospitality, mechanics, ICT, business, and more).

This type of mobility strongly connects education with the labour market.

2. Staff Mobility

Erasmus+ also supports the professional development of staff, including:

• teachers

• trainers

• school staff

• administrative personnel

They can take part in:

• structured courses

• training programmes

• job shadowing in partner organisations abroad

The goal is to improve teaching methods, exchange best practices, and strengthen international cooperation.

Tip #3 - Who Can Participate in Erasmus+?

Participation depends on being part of an organisation involved in an approved Erasmus+ project. These can include:

• schools

• vocational training centres

• universities

• adult education institutions

• training providers

Individuals usually do not apply alone — they take part through their institution, which manages the project and selects participants.

Tip #4 - How Does It Work in Practice?

Although each project has specific rules, the general process is:

1. An institution applies for Erasmus+ funding through its National Agency.

2. Mobility activities are planned, including destination, duration, and learning goals.

3. Participants are selected by the sending organisation.

4. The host organisation abroad (Lexema) provides the learning or work experience.

5. After the mobility, learning outcomes are recognised and documented.

Everything is structured to ensure that the experience is educational, monitored, and aligned with European quality standards.

Conclusion

Erasmus+ is more than a mobility programme — it is a framework that connects education with real-life learning across Europe.

Whether for Erasmus students, Erasmus VET learners, or staff and faculty, Erasmus mobility offers structured international experiences that develop professional skills, language competences, and intercultural understanding.