Youth Mobility and Erasmus Return to the Table in EU-UK Talks

By Advay May 22, 2025
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In a potential game-changer for young students and professionals, leaders from the United Kingdom and the European Union are working towards reinstating the Erasmus exchange programme and establishing a new youth mobility scheme. The initiatives were discussed during a high-level UK-EU summit addressing a range of bilateral matters from education to defence.

According to documents seen by Reuters, a proposal for a “balanced youth experience” would allow individuals aged 18–30 to live, work, or study in either the UK or the EU for a limited period. While the full details remain under negotiation, both sides have signalled a willingness to model the plan on similar agreements the UK already maintains with countries like Australia and New Zealand.

Notably, the United Kingdom could also rejoin the Erasmus scheme, which facilitates overseas study and internships for students and staff. The UK has not participated in Erasmus since 2020, following its departure from the EU.

The proposals have sparked both excitement and concern within the education sector. While many welcome renewed access to mobility and exchange, uncertainty remains around tuition fees for European students, who currently pay significantly higher international rates in the UK. British officials have also hinted at the possibility of capping the number of EU students eligible to study in the country.

Stakeholders across Europe expressed cautious optimism. Poland’s Minister of Science and Higher Education, Andrzej Szeptycki, highlighted that reduced costs could encourage more Polish students to consider the UK once again. Meanwhile, Universities UK International praised the talks as a positive step forward for bilateral academic cooperation.

However, critics, including HEPI director Nick Hillman, warned that allowing EU students to pay domestic fees could financially strain UK universities, potentially displacing home students due to subsidised seat limits.

As the talks continue, Prime Minister Keir Starmer framed the developments as part of a broader strategy to secure “common sense, practical solutions” in the national interest. The final details and timelines are yet to be determined.

Source: THE PIE NEWS

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