European Commission - Erasmus+ Traineeships abroad for students

Erasmus+ Traineeship grant

You get a monthly grant of about EUR 690 to 750 for a work placement abroad, that is an internship at a company or organisation in another European country. The amount depends on how expensive the destination is: around EUR 750/month for higher-cost countries (such as Austria, Denmark, France, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden or Switzerland) and around EUR 690/month for the rest. A placement lasts 2 to 12 months. You also get a one-off travel allowance based on the distance, plus up to 2 extra travel days (6 if you travel in an environmentally friendly way). If you have a disability or chronic illness, have children, or are the first in your family to graduate, you can request an extra EUR 250/month. The European Commission funds the programme, and your university runs it.

Who can apply

• Where you study: You are enrolled at a university in Europe that holds the Erasmus+ Charter for Higher Education (ECHE). Most European universities do.
• Level: Any cycle, from short-cycle and bachelor to master and doctorate.
• Field of study: Any subject.
• Recent graduates: You can do a placement up to 12 months after graduating. You must still be enrolled when you apply and finish your degree before the placement starts.
• Nationality: Any nationality can apply, as long as your home university is in Europe and holds the ECHE charter.
• Where you go: Any company, research institute, lab, NGO or public body abroad, just not an EU institution or agency. You cannot go to the country you live in.
• Total limit: You can be funded more than once, but no more than 360 days in total per study cycle (study exchanges and placements combined).

How to apply

First find a placement and get a written offer or contract from the host abroad. Then apply through your own university's international or Erasmus+ office, not directly to the EU. Your university sets the deadline, but you normally apply at least two months before the placement starts.

How realistic are your chances?

This is not a competitive prize but a grant open to any eligible student. If you are enrolled at a participating university and organise a suitable placement, your prospects are good. The main effort is on your side: finding a host and handing in your documents on time. Apply early, as grants are awarded while funds last.