Erasmus+ grant a significant boost for the University’s internationalisation efforts

Iva Pristof, International Officer at the University Administration, tells us more about the possibilities.

What does this grant mean for Uppsala University?

“The University was successful in all the grants that we applied for, which shows a lot of confidence in Uppsala University’s efforts with internationalisation and mobility. The funds go to scholarships for students, trainees, teachers and other staff who go on exchanges under the Erasmus programme. Around 130 of the University’s staff participated in teaching or continuing education mobility exchanges within the Erasmus programme in 2025.”

The programme is intended to contribute to the University’s inclusion efforts. In what way?

“The University works actively to make the Erasmus programme accessible to more groups of students and staff who, regardless of their personal, social or educational backgrounds and circumstances or disabilities, can gain international experience. The funding is also offered to incoming students from countries outside Europe. For many students from low-income backgrounds, these grants are crucial to the exchange being possible at all. Incoming staff and teachers can also receive funding for costs related to visa applications, for example.”

Uppsala University was an early adopter of sustainable travel within the Erasmus programme. In what ways does this funding support ‘green mobility’?

“In 2018, an extra grant was introduced for Erasmus students who chose to travel by train to their study destination. Many have described train travel as part of the exchange experience in itself, and feel that the journey has enhanced their sense of European identity and given them time to mentally prepare for their studies abroad. The initiative was then the first of its kind and has since inspired several other higher education institutions in Sweden and Europe to develop similar initiatives.”

In addition, the funding is intended to strengthen links between education, research and innovation. What does this mean in practice?

“Erasmus+ contributes by enhancing and supporting mobility and collaboration at all levels of education, including third-cycle level. An example is the development of Blended Intensive Programmes (BIP), which combine online and in-person learning. These shorter mobility exchanges make it easier for doctoral students and staff who conduct research to participate in international activities. Uppsala University is also planning to provide 20 scholarships to doctoral students who want to complete continuing education outside the geographical area covered by the Erasmus programme – basically anywhere in the world.”

Can you comment on the overall role of Erasmus+ partnerships in the University’s internationalisation efforts?

“Students with international experience help to create a more international campus and strengthen the University’s education environments. The programme also provides valuable opportunities for knowledge and skills development for staff. International exchanges often lead to new collaborations, better intercultural understanding, and the development of innovative and online types of instruction. Incoming lecturers, researchers and students also contribute to what is called ‘internationalisation at home’, because international perspectives become integrated into education and the work environment even for those who do not travel abroad themselves. International collaboration is also an important factor in global university rankings, as long-term, strategic partnerships within Erasmus+ can further strengthen Uppsala University’s international profile and competitiveness.”