{"id":10393,"date":"2023-11-17T22:36:01","date_gmt":"2023-11-17T21:36:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/svjmedia.nl\/internationaljournalism\/?p=10393"},"modified":"2023-11-17T22:40:39","modified_gmt":"2023-11-17T21:40:39","slug":"the-true-cost-of-erasmus-exchanges","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/svjmedia.nl\/internationaljournalism\/10393\/the-true-cost-of-erasmus-exchanges\/","title":{"rendered":"The True Cost of Erasmus+ Exchanges"},"content":{"rendered":"
The European Union’s Erasmus+ program is celebrated for its promotion of educational mobility and experiences for students. However, the program’s financial challenges often overshadow its benefits. While the program provides support, it struggles to keep pace with escalating costs, leaving students from diverse economic backgrounds facing financial difficulties.<\/em><\/p>\n Studying abroad offers numerous advantages, including exposure to new countries, languages, and cultures, the opportunity to build international friendships and develop adaptability. According to the annual report, in 2021, the number of participants in Erasmus+ mobility activities exceeded 648,000, demonstrating a steady increase since the program\u2019s establishment in 1987. However, the financial burden on students raises questions about the feasibility of mandating exchange semesters.<\/p>\n With 279,000 students currently enrolled in higher education, Belgium exemplifies the financial challenges faced by exchange students. The International Student Housing Report 2023 reveals that over 20 % of students reported paying more than 600 \u20ac per month and 23 % between 301-400 \u20ac for accommodation. The average Erasmus+ grant is lower than 400 \u20ac. Additionally, food expenses in Belgium average between 300 and 400 \u20ac. These figures do not include costs for public transport, events, and study materials.<\/p>\n \u201cWe will have to have some discussion about how to revise this grant system because it’s actually not fulfilling the whole student needs.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n Although Erasmus+ grants range from 292 to 606 \u20ac for students moving from one country with medium living expenses (e.g., Belgium, Netherlands, Germany) to another one, the reality is that alone the cost of accommodation often exceeds this amount. Tanguy Guibert, vice-president of the European Student Union (ESU) calls for a more comprehensive approach: \u201cWe will have to have some discussion about how to revise this grant system because it’s actually not fulfilling the whole student needs.\u201d<\/p>\nBelgium: A microcosm of European struggles<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Housing crisis and beyond<\/strong><\/h3>\n