Britain's Big Move: Back to Erasmus After Brexit

After leaving the Erasmus program during Brexit, Britain is now planning to rejoin in 2027. This decision is seen as a big win for young people, offering them the chance to study abroad without extra costs.

The Catch: A Hefty Price Tag

The UK will pay £570 million for the 2027/28 academic year—far more than its previous contributions as an EU member. This has raised questions about the real benefits of Brexit.

A Shift in Policy

The idea to rejoin was discussed during a UK-EU leaders' meeting in May. Since then, the UK has been mending fences with the EU. The program was canceled in 2020 by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who believed it wasn't worth the cost.

Economic and Social Benefits

Think tanks like Chatham House argue that Erasmus actually brought in money. International students spent on education, services, and hospitality. Additionally, over a million "Erasmus babies" have been born since the program began.

Beyond Travel: Skills, Education, and Global Standing

Rejoining Erasmus isn't just about travel—it's about skills, education, and opportunities for the next generation. It also helps boost Britain's global standing. As one university leader noted, even a short visit to the UK leaves a lasting impression.