In recent years, the Erasmus program has enabled thousands of German students to study in another country of the European Union. It is one of the most important pillars of studying abroad and will continue to evolve over the years. What you should know about a semester abroad with Erasmus is explained below.

Who can take part in a semester abroad with Erasmus?

All state-recognized universities that award a state-recognized diploma have to be able to offer the Erasmus program, and state-approved private institutions must be added to that. To take part in a semester abroad with Erasmus, a student must have completed their first year of study and be a citizen of the European Union (German citizenship grants you this automatically).

Semester abroad with Erasmus

Students of the DUT and BTS have no access to a semester abroad with Erasmus directly after graduating. They don't have a university education per se. However, IUTs and secondary schools can set up partnerships with foreign universities outside the Erasmus program. So you have to ask at your institution.

Why start a semester abroad with Erasmus?

A semester outside your country offers the chance to learn a language and discover a different way of life. It's also an opportunity to find friends on the other side of the planet. But you have to be sure that you want this. "If you go abroad like everyone else [...], you're wasting your time," warns "Die Zeit".

Undecided travelers are advised to take short stays abroad before leaving for several months. You can also take part in language tandems in Germany or invest in an association that welcomes Erasmus students.

What are the administrative procedures for the program?

To leave for a semester abroad through Erasmus, you must contact the person responsible for international relations at your institution. The following documents are requested when registering for a semester abroad with Erasmus:

Semester abroad with Erasmus
  • Erasmus letter of motivation
  • Scholarship application letter
  • Letters of recommendation from two teachers / professors

The program is selective, since each country has a quota of students who can take part, and each university can send only a limited number. This way the best students can choose their study destination, while the less strong students have to aim for less sought-after countries. Because places are limited, some of the students can't go. If you aren't selected for the program or the country you want, you can apply to universities yourself and increase your chances of success.

Optimize your professional capital

Mentioning a course abroad on your resume catches recruiters' attention. It underscores a person's ability to handle a foreign language perfectly, to adapt, and to be open and responsible. In the context of current globalization, an ERASMUS semester abroad is all the more valued by multinational companies.

In summary, studying abroad with ERASMUS is an enriching and invaluable experience. It allows you to develop new know-how.