The EU's Erasmus programme is something often overlooked and even unheard of by Irish students. In many EU countries, undertaking an Erasmus semester or year abroad has been become a rite of passage for countless students. However, in Ireland the programme isn't taken up by as many students as in comparison to our European neighbours like Belgium or Spain whose students take advantage of the Erasmus programme 50% more than Irish students as per student population.
 

There is a common misperception that only language students can take advantage of the Erasmus programme but the reality is that any student in any discipline is entitled to an Erasmus grant and the opportunity to study abroad in another European country.

 
 
The vast majority of colleges and universities across the EU have signed up to the Erasmus Charter that lays out the guidelines for undertaking an Erasmus year. For example, students do not have to pay any fees at their host college, and are entitled to apply for an Erasmus grant to help fund their time abroad.
 

The benefits of Erasmus are profound in that you have the opportunity to study in a foreign country, learn a new language, experience a new culture and meet fellow Erasmus students from all across the Europe. Students returning for a semester or year abroad will often do so professing that it has been one of the most memorable experiences of their lives.
 

Spending time and studying through a foreign language may seem daunting, but it's not uncommon for Irish students to go to college in Finland, Germany, or Sweden for example, and take their lectures through English, while still getting the valuable culture experiences of studying in a different country. At the same time, students wishing to improve their foreign languages will find Erasmus a most invaluable experience and will return from their time abroad greatly improved language skills.

On top of the academic and cultural benefits, Erasmus has a famous reputation for giving students a fantastic social experience full of new people, wild parties, and unforgettable memories.

Furthermore you can arrange with your Irish college on how to make up credits while studying abroad so that they add to your studies at home and that your Erasmus year goes toward getting your final qualification.
 

This September saw the EU's two millionth student take advantage of an Erasmus semester or year abroad and the EU hopes that the number of students taking up the opportunity continues to increase.
 

To celebrate the two millionth student the EU Commission has gathered together one student from each member state to share their experiences

Here is Peter Murphy from Ireland talking about his five months in Finland.

Get more information on the Erasmus programme.

To find out how you can take advantage of the Erasmus programme we suggest that you contact the Erasmus Coordinator or International Officer in your college.