Erasmus+ 2028–2034: What Schools Need to Know About the New EU Budget Proposal

The European Union has officially launched discussions on the next generation of the Erasmus+ Programme. While the current programme runs until the end of 2027, the European Commission has already presented its proposal for the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), outlining a significantly reinforced Erasmus+ programme with new priorities, structural changes and an increased budget.

For schools, vocational education institutions, universities, NGOs and public authorities, this is the right moment to understand what is changing and how these developments may influence future Erasmus+ opportunities.

A Stronger Financial Commitment

The European Commission has proposed allocating €40.8 billion (current prices) to the Erasmus+ Programme for the period 2028–2034, compared to approximately €26.2 billion for the current 2021–2027 programme.

Although this represents a substantial nominal increase, several European education organisations have noted that inflation and the planned integration of additional programme components reduce the real increase. Nevertheless, the proposal demonstrates that education, skills and international cooperation remain strategic priorities for the European Union.

Erasmus+ Will Become Part of the "Union of Skills"

One of the most important political messages behind the proposal is the creation of the Union of Skills initiative.

According to the European Commission, Erasmus+ will become one of the main instruments supporting Europe's future workforce by investing in:

• lifelong learning;

• digital competences;

• green skills;

• vocational excellence;

• innovation;

• international mobility.

This means future Erasmus+ projects are expected to place even greater emphasis on developing practical skills that respond to labour market needs.

Greater Focus on Inclusion

Inclusion has been a priority throughout the current Erasmus+ programme, but the new proposal reinforces this commitment.

The Commission intends to simplify participation and provide better access for:

• learners with fewer opportunities;

• schools in rural and remote areas;

• small organisations;

• disadvantaged communities.

Reducing administrative barriers and increasing accessibility remain central objectives of the future programme.

Digital and Green Transition Will Continue

The twin transition towards digitalisation and sustainability remains one of the strongest priorities.

Schools should expect future calls to continue supporting projects related to:

• Artificial Intelligence in education;

• digital transformation;

• innovative teaching methodologies;

• green schools;

• climate education;

• sustainability competences.

Institutions already investing in these areas will likely be well positioned for future Erasmus+ opportunities.

Structural Changes Are Also Proposed

Another notable proposal is the integration of the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) into the future Erasmus+ Programme.

The objective is to create a single, simplified programme offering mobility, volunteering and cooperation opportunities under one framework. This would make participation easier while strengthening synergies between education and youth activities.

What Should Schools Do Now?

Although the new programme has not yet been formally adopted by the European Parliament and the Council, schools should already begin preparing.

Recommended actions include:

• strengthening international partnerships;

• developing Erasmus+ project management capacity;

• investing in teachers' digital competences;

• integrating AI and innovative pedagogies into school development plans;

• aligning institutional strategies with European priorities such as inclusion, sustainability and digital transformation.

Early preparation often determines success once new funding opportunities become available.

The Proposal Is Still Under Negotiation

It is important to remember that the current document is a European Commission proposal, not the final programme.

The proposal will now be negotiated by the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union before the final Erasmus+ Regulation for 2028–2034 is adopted. As negotiations continue, certain priorities, funding allocations and implementation rules may still change.

Final Thoughts

The proposed Erasmus+ Programme for 2028–2034 demonstrates the European Union's long-term commitment to investing in education, skills and international cooperation. While negotiations are ongoing, the direction is already clear: greater emphasis on skills development, inclusion, innovation, digital transformation and high-quality international partnerships.

For schools and educational organisations, the coming months provide an excellent opportunity to strengthen their international strategies and prepare for the next generation of Erasmus+ funding.

References

• European Commission – EU Budget 2028–2034.

• European Commission – Erasmus+ Programme Guide (2021–2027 Budget).

• European Parliament – A Reworked Erasmus+ for 2028–2034.

• European Parliament – Legislative Train: Erasmus+ 2028–2034.