The UK has successfully agreed terms to re-join the Erasmus+ programme as of January 2027, widening opportunities for young people from all backgrounds, learners, educational, youth and staff to study and train abroad.

Erasmus+ offers opportunities around education, training, youth, culture and sport for participants of all ages. Over 100,000 people in the UK could benefit from the scheme in the first year alone, to join over 10,000 each year in the Republic. The benefits are exceptional for students and staff alike, with exchanges boosting career prospects, widening access and building links with partners across Europe.

With the help of the Irish government, the North’s higher education institutions have been able to continue working with Erasmus partner institutions since the UK left the EU. With this announcement the mobility scheme will bring a renewed sense of connectivity for students throughout the EU and its programme countries.

St Mary’s has been administering its Erasmus project since 1994, and this welcome development will enable the College to enhance and expand its commitment to internationalisation, diversification, and inclusion for the foreseeable future.