As you probably know, French students are very active and are among the most involved Europeans in the Erasmus Plus program. But they are not the only ones and young Spanish students are also on board. In any case, Spain is a flagship destination of the Erasmus program.
In this article, we want to understand how Spanish students get involved in the Erasmus Plus program and where they go. You will see that France is at the top of the list of preferred countries.
What are Spanish students’ favorite destinations ?
Spain has an extensive university network with quality university campuses. Just like French participants, Spanish students take the opportunity offered by Erasmus Plus to improve their European mobility.
What is the Erasmus + program?
First of all, it is important to remember that the Erasmus Plus program has been in existence for 30 years, with more than 10 million participants since its creation. It is a program of educational, pedagogical, cultural and solidarity projects.
The Erasmus program is growing in popularity and is highly appreciated by European students. This European mobility program allows them to be accompanied during their university exchanges and to benefit from study or internship grants.
Erasmus exchanges between French and Spanish students are very prolific, as revealed in a study showing that the European universities that welcome the most French students are Spanish !
Spanish students’ destinations
Spain is still the favorite destination for European students. Its relaxed lifestyle, its gastronomy, its cultural diversity and the quality of higher education at its universities are very popular.
In spite of these idyllic conditions, Spanish students are not left behind and wish to open up to Europe. More than 40,000 of them leave their country during their university studies, either to study abroad or to do an internship in a company.
Among the preferred destinations for Spaniards, France takes the first position, then Germany, the United Kingdom (this may change with Brexit), Italy, the Netherlands, Belgium and Portugal.
What are the criteria for choosing an Erasmus Plus destination?
The European Commission regularly conducts statistical surveys among students who plan to study abroad.
When preparing their application, Spanish students will pay attention to several specific elements:
- The level of language and the ability to express themselves abroad.
- Course specialties.
- The cost of living.
- Cultural attractiveness.
Learn easily a language with the Erasmus + application
Erasmus Plus has adapted to the demands of students by offering educational tools via its application. Spanish participants who decide to study in France can follow French language teaching modules and gradually get used to the local specificities.
In French universities, it is also possible to follow refresher courses or official modules to validate one’s level of English, French or Italian.
The cost of living
Students do not have a lot of money and that is why the Erasmus Plus program offers financial aid to young Spaniards who wish to spend a whole year abroad. In the form of a scholarship or internship grant, a pension is paid in one or more installments.
This financial support is most appreciated, as it is necessary to pay for tuition fees, accommodation and public transport in Spain.
