The Erasmus program, launched in 1987 by the European Union (EU), allows European citizens to study, train, or work abroad by offering financial support for individual stays and collaborative projects between institutions. Originally designed for university students, the program was expanded in 2014 to include apprentices, employees, and teachers, and was subsequently renamed Erasmus+. A 2014 study by the European Commission found that 27% of Erasmus participants had found a romantic partner through the program, with an estimated one million children born from these relationships. These so-called "Erasmus children" are often cited as a symbol of the program's role in strengthening a shared European identity, as reported by the Spanish newspaper El Periódico de Catalunya in 2016. Eligibility for Erasmus+ is not limited to university students. The program also includes vocational trainees, employees, and educators, such as apprenticeship supervisors, vocational school teachers, and even youth group leaders and sports coaches. Maria Gómez Ortueta, head of apprentices in Erasmus+ mobility at Spain’s Sepie agency, explained that the program is open to people from a wide range of backgrounds, including those up to 60 years old pursuing vocational qualifications. For example, Sebastian Maas, a journalist for Der Spiegel, took part in an Erasmus exchange at the age of 35, though he encountered some challenges during the process. Mobility under Erasmus+ is available in all 27 EU member states, as well as in six associated countries: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Turkey. Participants can also go to other countries if their home institution has partnerships with universities or organizations there. Switzerland, which has a special relationship with the EU, is expected to rejoin the program in January 2027. The United Kingdom, which left the program after Brexit, is set to return for the academic year 2027–2028, according to Der Spiegel. Until then, up to 1,700 mobilities per year can be funded using 20% of Erasmus+ funds for countries not in the program. EU citizens can stay in the UK for up to six months with an electronic travel authorization (ETA), while longer study stays would require a student visa. Applying for Erasmus+ requires careful planning, as noted by the German newspaper Die Zeit. For a full year abroad, applicants should start preparing about 18 months in advance, and for a semester, about a year ahead. This is due to the varying academic calendars across Europe, with some countries, like those in Scandinavia, starting their spring semester as early as January. Applying to a university with an existing Erasmus+ partnership can make the process easier, especially in terms of credit transfer and access to information. For employees and apprentices, it is important to consult with employers who must have an Erasmus+ accreditation. Non-students can also participate through youth exchanges or projects under the "European Solidarity Corps." In France, detailed information for participants can be found on the Erasmus+ Youth and Sport website.