KA121 vs KA122 — Erasmus+ Mobility Funding Routes Explained
KA121 and KA122 are the two main funding routes for Erasmus+ mobility under Key Action 1. KA121 is for accredited organisations that receive annual mobility funding. KA122 is for non-accredited organisations that apply for short-term project-based funding. Both fund the same types of mobility activities — work placements, traineeships, job shadowing, and staff training — but differ in application process, duration, and flexibility.
KA121 vs KA122 — Key Differences
| Who it's for | KA121: Erasmus+ accredited organisations | KA122: Non-accredited organisations |
| Funding model | KA121: Annual grant allocation | KA122: Per-project application |
| Project duration | KA121: Ongoing (annual cycle) | KA122: 6–18 months per project |
| Application complexity | KA121: Simplified (post-accreditation) | KA122: Full project application required |
| Group flexibility | KA121: Multiple flows per year | KA122: Defined in project scope |
| Best for | KA121: Regular, recurring mobility | KA122: First-time or occasional mobility |
| Max participants per project | KA121: Based on annual allocation | KA122: Defined in application (typically up to 30) |
How KA121 Works
Get Accredited
The institution applies for and receives Erasmus+ accreditation from their National Agency.
Receive Annual Funding
Once accredited, the institution receives an annual mobility budget without needing to reapply each year.
Plan Multiple Flows
The institution can organise multiple mobility flows throughout the year using their annual allocation.
Report Annually
At the end of each year, the institution submits a progress report to the National Agency.
How KA122 Works
Submit a Project Application
The institution applies for a specific short-term mobility project through their National Agency's annual call.
Receive Project Funding
If approved, the institution receives funding for the specific mobility activities defined in the application.
Execute the Project
The institution organises the mobility activities within the approved timeline (6–18 months).
Submit Final Report
After completion, the institution submits a final report covering activities, outcomes, and financial use.
Which Route Should You Choose?
The right choice depends on your institution's mobility goals and experience level.
Decision Tree — In 60 Seconds, Which Route Fits Your Institution
Answer the five questions in order. The first 'Yes' picks the route. Based on the 2025 Programme Guide eligibility rules.
| # | Question | If Yes → Route | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Does your institution already hold a valid Erasmus+ Accreditation (KA120)? | KA121 | Accreditation is the entry ticket to annual funding — using KA122 would waste the asset. |
| 2 | Do you plan ≥ 2 mobility flows per year for the next 4+ years? | KA121 (after accrediting) | Annual allocation removes per-call workload and gives multi-year predictability. |
| 3 | Is this your institution's first Erasmus+ mobility project? | KA122 | Short-term project lets you build experience before committing to the Quality Standards. |
| 4 | Do you need to deliver a specific one-off project (e.g. school partnership in a single city)? | KA122 | 6–18 month single project is exactly the KA122 design. |
| 5 | Are you uncertain you can sustain mobility every year? | KA122 | KA121 imposes annual reporting and continuity expectations on the National Agency. |
Concrete Figures — KA121 vs KA122 (2025 Programme Guide)
Reference figures from the 2025 Erasmus+ Programme Guide. National Agencies may apply national ceilings on top.
| Item | KA121 | KA122 |
|---|---|---|
| Project duration | 12, 24 or 36 months (annual) | 6 to 18 months |
| Application deadline (2025) | Annual budget letter (no per-year call) | 20 February & 1 October (indicative) |
| Max mobilities per project | Driven by annual allocation & accreditation profile | Up to 30 mobilities per project |
| Required documents | Valid KA120 accreditation; Erasmus Plan | Full project application form |
| Typical first-time success rate | n/a (post-accreditation, allocation-based) | ≈ 40–60% (varies by National Agency) |
| Quality Standards compliance | Mandatory, audited | Mandatory, audited |
| Switching path | Can stay accredited indefinitely | Can apply for KA120 in parallel for next cycle |
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & Further Reading
Primary references from the European Commission, National Agencies and recognised EU institutions used to compile this guide.
- Erasmus+ Accreditation (KA120) — VET, School Education & Adult Education
European Commission — DG EAC — Prerequisite for accessing KA121 annual mobility funding.
- Erasmus Quality Standards
European Commission — Binding standards every KA121 / KA122 project must respect.
- KA121 — Accredited mobility projects (call page)
European Commission
- KA122 — Short-term mobility projects (call page)
European Commission
- EU Funding & Tenders Portal — Erasmus+ calls
European Commission — Live deadlines and official application forms for both KA121 and KA122.
- Erasmus+ Programme Guide 2025
European Commission
Planning a KA121 or KA122 Mobility Project?
Piktalent provides full logistical support for both accredited and short-term Erasmus+ group mobility projects.