The University and Europe

Studying and working abroad: outbound

Information for current students planning a European or International exchange programme.

Erasmus+ Programme

(Updated 26 January 2021) 

Following the UK’s departure from the European Union, the UK government has decided not to participate in the next Erasmus programme (2021-2027).  This decision does not affect the UK’s participation in the current Erasmus+ programme (2014 – 2020).  

The University of Edinburgh will continue to participate in the current Erasmus+ programme until the end of our 2020 project, which has been extended until 31 May 2023. This means that all current and planned activities taking place under the current Erasmus+ scheme will continue to be eligible for funding

We will continue to support students undertaking Erasmus+ activities during the 2021/22 (and potentially 2022/23) academic session via use of our existing Erasmus+ funds.

Turing Scheme

(Updated 26 January 2021) 

The UK’s participation in Erasmus will be replaced by the new Turing Scheme, to be launched in 2021. 

The University of Edinburgh intends to fully participate in the new Turing Scheme to seek to provide the required support and funding for international work and study placements for our students, and particularly for those students who have mandatory periods abroad as part of their programme of study.

Information about Brexit and Erasmus+

Living in Europe and travelling to/from Europe 

Depending on which host country you are travelling to, there may be various steps you need to take to make sure you are able to lawfully enter your host country and continue residing there now that the UK has left the EU. 

If you are a UK passport holder travelling to/from the EU/EEA, please also make sure you follow the UK government’s travel advice for UK nationals visiting Europe following Brexit.

For official information for UK nationals moving to or living in Europe, including guidance on Brexit, residency, healthcare and passports:

UK government website

Swiss European Mobility Programme (SEMP)

University of Edinburgh students currently on exchange in Switzerland will be able to proceed with their exchange and receive SEMP funding from their host institution for the duration of their period abroad, regardless of the outcome of Brexit negotiations.

International exchange outside of Europe 

The University of Edinburgh has over 100 exchange agreements with institutions across the world, offering students a wealth of opportunities to study abroad out-with the Erasmus+ programme.  In recent years, we have seen a significant growth in demand for international exchange places and will continue to grow our portfolio to enable as many students as possible to study abroad.

More information

Go Abroad webpages