Study in Europe (Outgoing Students)
Erasmus is a scheme in which Cardiff students can study abroad with our partner institutions in Europe. It is available to all part two or higher full- time students. Periods abroad can range from three to twelve months, and can take place in a variety of countries. Please follow the links on the left for more information.
What exactly is an Erasmus exchange?
Erasmus stands for ‘European Community Action Scheme for the Mobility of University Students’. The exchange programme has been running for over twenty years and offers students the chance to spend a period of time studying abroad at a European partner institution. So far, over 3 million students have participated in the scheme. In some cases it may be possible to study for a whole academic year, in which case your degree would then normally take four years. In other cases, students study abroad only for one semester. If you have any queries, it is best to talk to your School coordinator, who will be able to advise you as to what kind of links your School has.
Who can go?
Most students are eligible to take part in the scheme. You must have already completed part one of your studies and be a full- time student, but eligibility extends all the way up to doctoral level. You must be a home student (EU or International) of Cardiff University, officially recognised by the United Kingdom as a permanent resident, refugee or stateless person. You must also not have already taken part in an Erasmus exchange scheme.
What if I can’t speak a foreign language?
Many students are put off by the fact that they are unable to speak a foreign language, and so feel that they would be unable to live and study abroad. However, some universities offer Erasmus courses taught in English, and so it is not essential to speak another language. Nevertheless, the ability to communicate effectively in another language apart from your own is a great skill, and the programme seeks to enhance linguistic ability. If you can’t speak another language, it is always worth looking to see if there are opportunities open to you, and it is worth remembering that the host institutions often put on free language courses for the Erasmus students. A basic knowledge of the target language though is almost always recommended.
How would the extra year be funded?
The British Council offers a grant that is available to all students participating on the scheme. The grant money is intended to offset any additional costs created by living abroad, and is meant to extend to costs such as travel or any extra accommodation costs etc. On top of this, the receipt of an Erasmus grant does not affect your eligibility for a national or state loan as you might normally receive. You would also not have to pay tuition fees to your host university.
Where can I go?
There are many countries participating in the Erasmus exchange programme. The countries you will be able to go to will vary depending on the links your home School has, and it is recommended you check with the coordinator within your School or the Erasmus office to find out.
If I decide I want to go, what do I do now?
If you feel that you may like to participate in the Erasmus scheme, the best option would be to talk to your School coordinator about your options. To find out who this is, please ask in your School office or the Erasmus Office. If you have any questions regarding the structure of the scheme itself, please e-mail the Erasmus office at erasmus@cf.ac.uk