Newscast Is The Erasmus Student Scheme Worth The Money?
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Dec 17, 2025 Nick Thomas-Symonds, the UK Minister for the Constitution and EU Relations, delves into the government's ambitious return to the Erasmus study scheme, emphasizing its extensive benefits and scope. He addresses the controversial £570 million cost, defending its value and promising a thorough review. The discussion covers comparisons to the Turing scheme and alludes to future youth mobility initiatives. Additionally, insights into political dynamics arise as the new Unison leader Andrea Egan's election could reshape Labour's strategies under Keir Starmer.
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Erasmus Is A Broad Return For 2027
- Erasmus is a European study scheme returning to UK participation from 2027 with fee-waived placements and reciprocal access for EU students.
- The programme covers universities, colleges, apprenticeships and broader exchanges beyond just students.
A Gen‑Z Reaction: "Quality"
- Joe Pike asked his 19-year-old son, who had never heard of Erasmus, and the son's reaction was simply "quality."
- The moment shows generational unfamiliarity but positive instinctive response to the return.
£570m Price Tag Splits Opinion
- The UK will pay £570m for the first year of rejoining Erasmus, nearly double the pre-Brexit annual cost.
- Critics focus on the headline cost while supporters emphasise wider participation and benefits.