The UK and Erasmus+
The UK is no longer an EU Member State. It has also opted not to take part as an associated third country in the new Erasmus+ programme 2021-27. The UK will therefore not be taking part in the new programme as a Programme Country but it can still participate as a non-associated third country.
What happens now? Erasmus+ projects selected from 2022 onwards
European institutions wanting to renew their collaboration with LSE:
LSE will ensure the perennity of the high quality collaborations established prior to 2022. To maintain those partnerships, GAE will assist our partners so that new template agreements can be signed to continue our joint projects.
For student exchanges to take place, a bilateral exchange agreement must be negotiated as the legal basis for exchange. Should our European partner wish to access Erasmus+ funding for their outbound students, it is still possible to sign an Erasmus+ Inter-Institutional Agreement between an EU member state and 'third countries not associated to the programme' (United Kingdom, Region 14). These agreements will be valid for the Erasmus+ call years 2021-2027 in KA131. Please note that the UK's status as 'third country not associated to the programme' means there is no Erasmus+ funding available for LSE students or staff. Do not hesitate to contact our European Partnerships Coodinator Helen to discuss the process and next steps: h.v.rosemont@lse.ac.uk
We will be working closely with our European partners to reiterate our commitment to exchanges and to agree to the terms and arrangements under which future exchanges can continue beyond Erasmus+. This work is ongoing but for more information, contact Rhys who manages mobility and partnerships opportunities for GAE.
LSE is also part of the CIVICA alliance and is collaborating with nine other European institutions to deliver a range of ambitious and exciting projects with our European colleagues. Check the latest news and opportunities here, and email Helen or civica@lse.ac.uk for more information.
Students interested in exchanges with European partners
The UK’s decision not to be involved as an associated third country – i.e. on the same footing as EU Member States – means that LSE will not receive Erasmus+ funding for its students wanting to take part in exchanges with European partners.
The UK Government launched a new £110m Turing Scheme designed to offer global mobility opportunities for 35,000 students from UK schools, colleges and universities. As an exceptional social science specialist university, LSE received funding from the Turing Scheme both times our institution applied. To find information on year abroad exchanges and funding options, contact our colleagues from the GO LSE team and check their website here.
