Who will no longer be able to use Erasmus and why? – The official response from the EU

In recent weeks, information has been circulating on social media claiming that students will no longer be able to benefit from the European Union’s program Erasmus+.

Within the framework of European integration, the Erasmus+ program has allowed Georgian citizens—specifically students, lecturers, teachers, and also individuals employed in the public sector to participate in exchange programs at leading universities. Researchers also benefited from the program.

Batumelebi contacted the Delegation of the European Union to Georgia and asked whether the EU intends to suspend Erasmus+ entirely in Georgia, and who will no longer have access to the program.

According to the official response, Georgian students will still be able to participate in Erasmus+, but public officials will no longer be eligible.

“In response to your inquiry, and based on information verified with Brussels, we inform you that mobility and cooperation activities under Erasmus+ will not be suspended. The Erasmus+ Office in Georgia continues its work.

Georgian students, public and private universities, other educational institutions, as well as sports and youth organizations, will be able to participate in the Erasmus+ 2026 call for proposals.

However, representatives of the Georgian authorities—at both central and local levels—will not be eligible to take part in the call.

This decision aligns with the EU’s approach to suspend financial assistance that directly benefits the Georgian authorities.

Young people are on the front line of the efforts to keep Georgia on its path toward the European Union. The EU continues to stand with them,” the EU Delegation wrote.

The implementation of EU grant programs in Georgia’s higher education sector began in 1995 and has given Georgian students opportunities to study in European universities at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.

Until 2013, the Tempus, Erasmus Mundus, and Jean Monnet programs were active; they are now components of the unified program Erasmus+.

Over the years, thousands of Georgian students and lecturers have benefited from EU exchange programs.