Erasmus+ for Adult Education: Learning and Development Opportunities Across Europe
- FI Gesundheits- und Sportverein
- Mar 30
- 2 min read
When people hear about the Erasmus+ programme, they often think of university students studying abroad. However, Erasmus+ is not limited to young people or higher education students. The programme also supports adult education providers and adult learners by offering international learning experiences that foster both personal and professional development. Through these opportunities, adult learners can explore educational practices in other countries, acquire new skills, and benefit from intercultural learning experiences.
Within the Erasmus+ framework, the term “adult learner” refers to individuals participating in an adult education programme. The programme places a strong emphasis on inclusion and encourages the participation of people with fewer opportunities. This includes individuals facing economic, social, cultural, or geographical barriers, people with health issues or disabilities, learners with educational difficulties, and those with migrant backgrounds. By supporting these groups, Erasmus+ aims to ensure more equitable access to learning opportunities across Europe.
Special priority is given to activities that help develop basic skills and key competences. Adult learners participating in programmes focused on literacy, numeracy, digital skills, health literacy, financial literacy, social competences, and technology-based problem-solving can benefit from international mobility opportunities. These experiences help participants not only gain knowledge but also develop practical skills that can improve their everyday lives and future employment prospects.
Erasmus+ offers three main mobility opportunities for adult learners. The first is Group Mobility of Adult Learners, which lasts between 2 and 30 days. During these activities, groups of adult learners travel to another European country and participate in peer learning, volunteering activities, work-based learning, and other innovative educational approaches. The second option is Short-Term Individual Learning Mobility, lasting from 2 to 29 days, while the third is Long-Term Individual Learning Mobility, which can last from 30 to 365 days. Individual mobility activities are based on personalized learning programmes tailored to each participant’s learning objectives and development needs.
To support participation in international learning activities, Erasmus+ provides financial assistance for travel and living expenses. The level of support depends on the destination country and the duration of the mobility period. Additional financial support may also be available for participants with fewer opportunities, helping to remove barriers that might otherwise prevent participation. It is important to note that individuals cannot apply directly for funding. Applications must be submitted by eligible public or private adult education organizations through their respective National Agencies.
Erasmus+ recognizes adult education as a vital component of lifelong learning and personal growth. By participating in mobility activities abroad, adult learners can expand their knowledge, develop valuable skills, increase their self-confidence, and gain international experience. At the same time, educational institutions and civil society organizations can strengthen international partnerships, exchange good practices, and enhance the quality of their educational activities.
Source and Further Information: This article is based on official information regarding Erasmus+ opportunities for adult learners. For more detailed and up-to-date information about mobility opportunities, eligibility requirements, and application procedures, please visit:
