Young people and learners across the UK and EU will be able to study or gain work experience together again through the Erasmus+ scheme from 2027. The UK government announced it will spend £570 million to rejoin this popular programme. Called Erasmus+, the scheme covers education, training, culture, and sport. It ended for the UK after Brexit but now returns following talks between London and Brussels. The move fulfills a Labour Party election promise. Skills Minister Jacqui Smith said, "This is about breaking down barriers to opportunity, giving learners the chance to build skills, confidence and international experience that employers value." She added, "Erasmus+ will open doors for thousands of students and staff right across the country in universities, schools, colleges and adult education." David Hughes, CEO of the Association of Colleges, praised the decision as "brilliant news." He explained, "For students, it widens their perspective on the world, opening their eyes to different cultures and different ways of life, and for staff, the opportunity to learn from other countries on how they deliver technical education and skills is invaluable." Up to 100,000 people could benefit in the first year alone. University students will get a chance to study in Europe for up to a year without extra fees. Similarly, UK universities can accept European students on the same terms. Grants will support living costs for those studying or on work placements abroad. Nick Thomas-Symonds, UK’s EU relations minister, reached the deal with EU counterpart Maroš Šefčovič as part of Keir Starmer’s reset of EU ties. Their joint statement said the agreement "represents a fair balance between the UK’s contributions and the benefits the programme offers." Alex Stanley from the National Union of Students noted the benefits: "Since the UK left the programme, the number of UK students studying in Europe has plummeted... Now, the next generation of students from the UK would be able to experience it all." Erasmus began in 1987 as a university exchange program but grew into a broad education and training partnership. After Brexit, the UK had dropped out. It created its own Turing scheme, but no plans have been shared about its future. The large investment and reopening of Erasmus+ mark a major step to reconnect UK young people with Europe.