Europe’s flagship education programme, Erasmus+, is once again creating new opportunities for students, teachers, and organisations. The 2026 funding call is now open, with a €5.2 billion budget aimed at boosting future-oriented skills, strengthening mobility, and fostering cooperation across European education systems.
Prioritising Skills for the Future
The 2026 Erasmus+ call focuses on skills that matter in a rapidly changing world. It supports digital competencies, green transitions, and foundational “soft” skills such as critical thinking and civic engagement. These priorities reflect a broader EU goal: preparing learners for emerging jobs shaped by automation, technology, and sustainability.
A notable addition this year is the support for European partnerships for school development. This initiative tests and implements innovative teaching methods to strengthen basic skills, including literacy and numeracy. European education policy increasingly emphasises collaboration between schools, teachers, and communities to improve learning outcomes and quality.
Mobility and Cross-Border Cooperation
Erasmus+ remains a cornerstone of European educational mobility. Through the programme, students, teachers, and youth workers can study, train, and teach across borders. These experiences broaden cultural understanding, enhance skills, and increase career prospects.
This year’s call continues this tradition while placing greater focus on cross-sectoral projects, spanning basic education, vocational learning, and youth initiatives. The emphasis on collaboration highlights the EU’s view of education as central to competitiveness and social cohesion.
Why This Matters
The 2026 Erasmus+ funding call shows that education remains a strategic priority in Europe. By investing in skills development and cross-border collaboration, Erasmus+ helps individuals and institutions adapt to rapid changes in technology, labour markets, and society.
These investments are designed not only to improve learning outcomes, but also to prepare Europeans for a future where adaptability and innovation are just as important as academic achievement. Erasmus+ continues to empower learners, strengthen partnerships, and support educational innovation across the continent.