UK and EU sign agreement to rejoin Erasmus+ program in 2027

The European Union and the United Kingdom have finalized an agreement for the UK to rejoin the Erasmus+ program effective January 1, 2027. This decision follows a commitment made during the first EU-UK summit in May 2025 and involves an amendment to Protocol I of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement. The UK government expects over 100,000 individuals, including students, trainees, and youth groups, to participate in the program during its first year of reinstatement. As a non-EU member, Britain successfully negotiated a 30% reduction in its participation fees. The agreement aims to foster academic cooperation, innovative teaching methods, and the use of new educational technologies. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who took office in July 2024, has prioritized this move as part of a broader effort to improve bilateral relations. While the EU frames the deal as a continuation of centuries-old educational ties, British reports emphasize the economic and strategic motivations behind the closer relationship. The UK will establish a National Agency to oversee the program's implementation locally.