# Erasmus

/ɪˈɹæzməs/ (US) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/erasmus
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a European Union program that lets university students study or work in a different country for a few months. It helps young people experience new cultures and learn new languages while they earn credits for their degree.

For teachers: a European Union exchange programme facilitating student mobility and international cooperation between higher education institutions. When capitalised, it refers specifically to the official EU scheme; lowercase usage is non-standard.

## Examples

- She is spending her next semester in Spain on Erasmus.
- Many students choose to do an Erasmus year to improve their language skills and build an international network of friends.
- The Erasmus initiative has significantly contributed to a sense of shared European identity among the younger generation by fostering cross-border academic and cultural integration.

## Usage notes

- Usually functions as an uncountable proper noun; often used with the verbs 'do', 'go on', or 'participate in'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.