Erasmus and other study or work placements
Funding rules can be different if you are studying abroad or are on a work placement (sometimes known as a ‘sandwich year’). Fees may be reduced, but in some circumstances student support for living costs may also be limited.
Students on Erasmus study exchanges or work placements can claim support for living costs as usual, and they may qualify for an additional Erasmus grant. See the Erasmus+website for more details (). Although students in England, Scotland and Wales will no longer be able to participate in Erasmus following following the UK’s withdrawal from the EU, Northern Irish students are expected to be able to continue due to arrangements with the government in the Republic of Ireland. Exact details are not yet available, but check with your university or college.
A new scheme for international study, the Turing Scheme, has been launched by the UK Government to replace the Erasmus scheme in the UK. This will be available from the 2021/22 academic year. Northern Irish universities and colleges are able to participate, although participation will not be compulsory. The support you can receive for a Turing placement will vary by institution. Contact your university or college to ask if they are participating and what their arrangements are.
The funding rules for study abroad and sandwich years can be complex. Ask Student Finance NI or your university or students’ union advice centre for more information.