European Union · Youth Programmes
Discover Erasmus+, the European Solidarity Corps, and a universe of EU-funded opportunities designed to empower young people across the continent — and beyond.
Flagship programmes
The EU invests billions in helping young people study, volunteer, train, and work abroad. These are the main doors you can walk through.
The EU's flagship education and training programme. Whether you're a student, trainee, volunteer, youth worker, or educator, Erasmus+ funds exchanges, internships, and cooperation projects in over 150 countries.
Visit Erasmus+→Aged 18–30? Give up to 12 months of your time to projects that strengthen communities across Europe and beyond — all expenses covered, plus a monthly allowance and a Youthpass certificate.
Explore ESC→The European Job Mobility Portal connects young job-seekers with employers across all EU/EEA countries. Targeted schemes (Your First EURES Job) even offer financial support for relocation.
Find jobs via EURES→From coding bootcamps to AI literacy, EU-funded programmes like Digital Europe and DiscoverEU support young people in acquiring the skills the modern economy demands.
Learn more→More opportunities
The EU ecosystem of youth support goes well beyond one programme. Here are more funded pathways worth exploring.
Turn 18 and travel Europe by train for free. An Interrail pass and a cultural adventure — all funded.
Make your skills visible across borders. Free CV, language passport, and digital credential tools.
Funding for early-stage researchers to pursue doctoral projects at leading European institutions.
Entrepreneurship and innovation hubs for young changemakers across climate, health, and tech sectors.
One gateway for all EU youth opportunities, news, grants, and volunteering calls across all member states.
Country-level National Agencies administer local calls for projects, grants, and youth exchanges.
Getting started
Most programmes follow a similar pathway. Here's how to go from curious to confirmed participant.
Age, nationality, and enrolment status vary by programme. Start on the European Youth Portal to find what fits you.
Search open calls on the EU Funding & Tenders Portal or connect with your institution's Erasmus coordinator.
A motivation letter, language proof, and a Learning Agreement are typically required. Use Europass to get started.
Submit via your institution or the national agency. Deadlines vary — check the programme calendar regularly.
Once selected, document your experience. Many programmes require a post-activity report to release final funding.
Who can participate?
Enrolled at an Erasmus Charter-holding institution. Minimum 1 year of study completed. Exchange for 3–12 months.
Short-term (10–89 days) or long-term (90–365 days) traineeships abroad available via accredited VET providers.
Specific pathways under Key Action 1 and the European Solidarity Corps target NEETs with inclusive funding.
Staff mobility grants fund training, job-shadowing, and teaching assignments for professionals working with youth.
Many programmes extend to Western Balkans, Eastern Partnership countries, and beyond via International Credit Mobility.
Millions of young Europeans have already changed their lives through EU programmes. Your turn.
Start on the Youth Portal →