Universities UK International responds to the finalised agreement for the UK to join Erasmus+

Universities UK International (UUKi) is delighted that the UK and EU governments have finalised the agreement which enables the UK to participate in Erasmus+ in 2027, and we welcome the appointment of the British Council as the UK’s National Agency for Erasmus+.  

“With the UK now a full member of the Erasmus+ programme, UK organisations will be able to access the full scope of Erasmus+ funding and activity, including student and staff mobility, cooperation projects, joint master's programmes, policy-focused initiatives and participation in European Universities alliances. 

“This is a wonderful opportunity, reflecting a key ask set out in UUK’s Blueprint for Change. Backed by significant investment from the UK Government, we must work together across the sector to make the most of it.  

“The announcement of the UK National Agency provides important clarity for programme delivery ahead of UK participation in 2027, supporting institutions across higher education, further education and wider sectors to engage with Erasmus+ opportunities and plan with greater confidence.  

“The appointment also builds on the British Council’s previous role in delivering Erasmus+ in the UK, alongside its wider international education activity. This provides a foundation for supporting programme implementation across all eligible education sectors.  

“To support sector readiness, UUKi has developed an Erasmus+ FAQ resource addressing key questions on participation and implementation. The confirmation of the National Agency will help to build on this activity and enable the next phase of mobilisation.  

“We look forward to continuing to work with the British Council, the UK Government and partners across Europe to support effective delivery of the programme and maximise its benefits for students, staff and institutions.”