Erasmus+ internships offer students a life-changing opportunity to gain hands-on experience, immerse themselves in a new culture, and enhance their employability across Europe. However, navigating the application process can be a challenge for many students, especially when they are new to the system or unfamiliar with all the details of the Erasmus+ framework.
This guide will break down the entire Erasmus+ internship application process, share insights that only a mobility platform like Piktalent or Spain Internship can provide, and ensure you’re prepared every step of the way. Whether you’re a student applying for the first time, or an institution offering guidance, this post will make sure that you understand exactly what is needed and why it matters.
Why Apply for an Erasmus+ Internship?
Before we dive into the step-by-step process, it’s important to reflect on why you should apply for an Erasmus+ internship in the first place.
- Global Experience: Erasmus+ internships allow you to experience international working environments that enrich your academic learning.
- Professional Growth: Many students find that their Erasmus+ internship gives them a head start in their careers, offering practical experience and exposure to new industries.
- Cultural Exchange: You’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in a different culture, learn a new language, and expand your personal network globally.
- Networking Opportunities: Erasmus+ connects you to professionals across Europe, helping you build connections that could benefit you for years to come.
- Financial Support: Erasmus+ provides financial assistance, helping you cover your travel and living expenses while gaining valuable experience abroad.
These advantages are why so many students choose Erasmus+ — it’s a valuable opportunity that provides much more than just a job placement. It opens doors to **new opportunities**, **career growth**, and an **international perspective** that other internships simply cannot match.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for an Erasmus+ Internship
Now, let’s walk through the step-by-step process to help you apply for an Erasmus+ internship. Whether you’re a student looking to start your career or an institution helping students apply, here’s what you need to know.
Step 1: Research Your Options
The first step is **finding the right internship**. Erasmus+ offers students access to a broad network of host companies and organizations across Europe, but it’s essential to match your interests, skills, and field of study with the right opportunity.
How to start your search:
- Visit ErasmusIntern, a platform dedicated to Erasmus+ internship offers, where you can filter opportunities by location, industry, and duration.
- Engage with your university’s Erasmus+ office to access curated internships and partnerships with companies in your field.
- Reach out to alumni who have participated in Erasmus+ internships and can offer advice and guidance.
- Look into sector-specific internship portals and international job boards that offer Erasmus+ placements.
Tip from Piktalent: At Piktalent, we partner with hundreds of verified companies across industries such as hospitality, marketing, engineering, and design. Our curated internship opportunities ensure that each placement provides a meaningful learning experience that aligns with your educational and professional goals.
Step 2: Consult with Your Erasmus+ Coordinator
Your university’s Erasmus+ office plays a central role in ensuring your internship experience is organized and aligned with academic goals. Consult with your Erasmus+ coordinator to discuss the following:
- Learning Agreement: This is a formal document that outlines the educational objectives of your internship and ensures it meets your university’s academic requirements.
- Application Guidance: Your Erasmus+ coordinator will help you prepare the necessary documentation for your internship application, including the Learning Agreement and other forms.
- Eligibility Check: Confirm that you meet the eligibility criteria for Erasmus+ and that the internship aligns with your program’s goals.
They will provide essential resources and information to help you proceed with the application process. It’s important to work closely with them to make sure everything is in order.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documentation
Once you’ve identified your preferred internship and have been approved by your Erasmus+ coordinator, you’ll need to prepare several key documents:
- Learning Agreement: A document signed by you, your home institution, and your host organization, detailing your internship tasks and learning outcomes.
- Motivation Letter: A tailored letter explaining why you’re applying for the internship, how it relates to your studies, and what you hope to achieve during your time abroad.
- CV/Resume: Update your CV to highlight relevant experiences, skills, and qualifications that make you an ideal candidate for the internship.
- Reference Letters: Some internships may require references from professors or previous employers.
- Proof of Enrollment: A document confirming your enrollment in a higher education institution or vocational training program.
- Health Insurance: Ensure you have valid health insurance coverage for the duration of your internship abroad.
Tip from Spain Internship: Make sure your CV highlights international experiences, even if they are non-academic. This will make you stand out as a globally-minded candidate.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Once your documentation is prepared, you’ll need to submit it to your Erasmus+ office for review. Depending on your university’s process, they may submit the application directly to the host organization or assist you with application submission to the host company.
When submitting directly to the host organization, ensure you:
- Follow their application guidelines exactly.
- Submit all necessary documentation by the application deadline.
- Follow up with a polite email to confirm receipt of your application.
Step 5: Wait for Confirmation
After submitting your application, you’ll wait for confirmation from both your Erasmus+ office and the host organization. If successful, you will receive your Erasmus+ grant confirmation and further details about the next steps.
Tip from Piktalent: Erasmus+ internships are competitive, so it’s always a good idea to apply early to secure the best opportunities. Also, stay in touch with your Erasmus+ coordinator to ensure there are no delays.
4. Financial Support: How the Erasmus+ Grant Works
Erasmus+ provides financial support to help students cover travel, accommodation, and living expenses during their internship. However, the amount varies depending on the host country, cost of living, and internship duration.
Grant Breakdown:
- Students in countries with high living costs (e.g., Nordic countries, the UK) may receive higher grants.
- For the 2025-2026 period, Erasmus+ grants will range from €300 to €1,500 per month.
- Additional funding opportunities may be available for students with fewer financial resources or specific needs.
Official Resource: For up-to-date Erasmus+ funding details, refer to the European Commission’s Erasmus+ Portal.
5. Making the Most of Your Erasmus+ Internship
To get the most out of your Erasmus+ internship experience, it’s important to approach it with an open mind and proactive attitude:
- Set Learning Goals: Have clear objectives for what you want to achieve during your internship.
- Be Proactive: Take initiative, ask questions, and offer help when possible.
- Network: Build connections with colleagues and other interns to expand your professional network.
- Immerse Yourself: Take advantage of your free time to explore your host country, learn the language, and experience the local culture.
Tip from Spain Internship: Document your achievements and challenges in a journal. This will not only help you reflect on your experience but also strengthen your CV when applying for future jobs.
Conclusion: Take the First Step Towards an International Career
Applying for an Erasmus+ internship is a valuable opportunity that can shape your academic and professional future. By following this step-by-step guide, preparing early, and leveraging the support available through your university’s Erasmus+ office, you can successfully navigate the application process and embark on a life-changing international experience.
Ready to apply? Start by visiting your Erasmus+ office or searching for available internships. And remember, Piktalent is always here to assist with curated internship opportunities in a variety of sectors, ensuring that your Erasmus+ internship aligns with your personal and academic goals.
Take the leap. Your international career begins now.
