How do I apply and what support is available?
Applications for the Erasmus program are submitted through the services of educational institutions. After the evaluation and the results known (selection of candidates or not), it is necessary to register at the destination University. Since deadlines may differ between institutions, It is important to be aware and consult their respective websites.
Those who participate in the Erasmus Program may also be entitled to monthly financial support through the awarding of scholarships. The value of the scholarships may vary based on the difference between the cost of living in the country of origin and destination, the number of applicants and the distance between the countries.
The countries participating in the program are divided into three groups, depending on the cost of living. The value of the scholarship is different in each group. Additionally, support varies depending on whether you are a student or a recent graduate doing an internship. In the case of Portuguese people who go abroad, the amount is defined annually by the Erasmus+ National Agency for Education and Training.
How to take advantage of the Erasmus+ Programme?
Once your application has been submitted and accepted, it’s time to set off on a new adventure, in a new city, and with new colleagues. Here are some tips to help you be ready and make the most of the experience.
> Prepare your bags
Like any trip, going on Erasmus involves organizing your luggage. Time spent away from home isn’t the same as on vacation and that means bringing more stuff with you. However, you don’t need to take everything with you on your first trip.
Instead, you can choose to bring a simpler suitcase with you for the first few days, until your life in the new city is more organized. At that point, you can ask family members to send more things they need.
> Choose the house
The accommodation in which you stay is also important. After all, that’s where you’ll be spending the next few months. Understanding the condition of the home (how many bedrooms, bathrooms) and what is included in the costs is always something to take into consideration.
Furthermore, location is also important. Will you prefer the city center or something closer to college? To make this decision it is important to know the transport network of the city where you will study.
> Learn a new language
In a program with 34 countries, the variety of languages is guaranteed. In the European Union alone there are 24 official languages. If we add the languages of the other participating countries, we arrive at 29 languages. It is therefore certain that communication with teachers and colleagues during the Erasmus+ Program will take place in a language other than Portuguese.
English is an international language and perhaps some lessons are taught this way (but not all). So why not take the opportunity to learn a little of the language of the country you are studying in?
And since there will be colleagues from other countries, who knows if it will be possible to learn a few words of other languages?
It is something that is highly valued and can be decisive when entering the job market.
> Discover cities and culture
Being in a different city for a semester or a year is the ideal opportunity to get to know it in a way that a simple vacation might not allow. But, if there is an opportunity, it can also be a good idea to visit other cities that are nearby.
It can be done with colleagues who also come from the same university, with people you know on Erasmus or even alone.
> Participate in Erasmus activities
There are various initiatives dedicated to students participating in the Erasmus+ Programme. Sometimes organized by the faculties themselves or by other institutions. They can be parties, more cultural tours or visits to other cities. This is always a good opportunity to meet new people and get even more involved in the Erasmus community.
> Always be safe
We all want to have a hassle-free experience, but they can happen. But when you are protected everything becomes easier.
That’s why the General Peace of mind created Study Abroad personal accident insurance, aimed at students who will be spending time abroad.
Lasting 3, 6 or 12 months, this insurance guarantees, for example, assistance and payment of medical expenses And protection for computer or tabletin the event of theft or robbery, fire, fall or short circuit.
Furthermore, it includes Civil liability coverage which covers damage caused to third parties. So that everyone can have a more restful experience. Not only the students, but also the parents.
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