Germany, renowned for its world-class education system, offers a unique opportunity for students worldwide. While most German higher education institutions do not charge tuition fees, the cost of living and semester fees can be a burden for many. To mitigate this, various scholarships and support programs are available, including the prominent Erasmus+ EU Grants.
Understanding the Erasmus+ Programme
The Erasmus+ is a European Union initiative for education, training, youth, and sport for 2014-2020. Administered by the European Commission, this program aims to enhance skills and employability among European youth. With a budget of €14.7 billion for seven years, it supports over 4 million students for study, training, work experience, and volunteering abroad. The Erasmus+ program is integral to the Europe 2020 strategy, focusing on reducing unemployment rates.
Erasmus+ Eligible Countries
The Erasmus+ EU Grants are accessible through specific open calls, with countries categorized into three groups:
Programme Countries
This includes EU member countries and several non-EU countries, fully participating in all Erasmus+ actions.
Partner Countries
These countries, including regions like Western Balkans, Eastern Partnership countries, South Mediterranean countries, and the Russian Federation, participate in specific Erasmus+ actions under certain conditions.
Other Partner Countries
Countries in this category can participate in some Erasmus+ actions and are grouped into several regions, ranging from Andorra to countries in Africa and the Middle East.
Studying in Germany through Erasmus+ EU Grants
The Erasmus+ program facilitates students already enrolled in a university to study for a semester or two in a German university. This exchange program enriches students’ academic, professional, intercultural, and language skills.
Requirements for Studying in Germany through Erasmus+
Eligible students must:
- Be enrolled in a home university part of the Erasmus Charter for Higher Education.
- Pursue studies leading to a recognized degree in Germany.
- Choose a German university also a member of the Erasmus Charter.
- Be part of a student exchange under a mutual agreement between the home and German universities.
Finding Erasmus+ Opportunities
- Contact your university’s international office or Erasmus+ office.
- Seek information from the national Erasmus+ agencies of your home country.
Additional Support under Erasmus+
- Internships: Opportunities in German organizations during studies.
- Erasmus+ Master Loans: Offered at lower interest rates, repayable post-employment.
Application and Grant Procedure
- Submit a completed application form for specific mobility action.
- On approval, sign an agreement for the mobility period.
- Obtain a Learning Agreement for the study program in Germany.
- Receive the Erasmus+ Student Charter detailing rights and obligations.
Duration of Study
Erasmus+ students in Germany can study for 3 to 12 months, with the possibility of an internship.
Costs Covered by Erasmus+ EU Grant
The grant covers travel, living costs, enrollment, university fees, library resources, and other study-related expenses in Germany.
Degrees Offered
The home university recognizes study records from the German host university. Erasmus Mundus joint degree scholarship recipients may receive a double or joint degree.
Visa Requirements for Studying in Germany
Non-German residents require a visa, with exceptions for EU, EEA countries, Switzerland, and select other nations. Visas are categorized based on the length of stay.
For more detailed information:
- Consult the Erasmus+ Programme Guide,
- Visit the Erasmus+ official webpage,
- Review the Frequently Asked Questions on Erasmus+.
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