Frequently Asked Questions About Erasmus +

Today, we will discuss the most frequently asked questions and common issues related to the application process for Erasmus+ projects. If you see a project that seems perfect for you but are unsure how and where to apply, our FAQ on Erasmus+ is just for you.

1- What is Erasmus+?

Erasmus+ is a program designed by the European Union to help individuals, especially young people, develop themselves in education, cultural, sports, and work experience areas.

2- Is there a difference between Erasmus and Erasmus+?

The Erasmus Program, which operated under the Lifelong Learning Program from 2007 to 2013, has been known as Erasmus+ since 2014. Various programs such as Comenius, Erasmus, Leonardo da Vinci, and Grundtvig, which were part of Lifelong Learning, have now been consolidated under Erasmus+, making it easier to apply for Erasmus projects on a personal basis.

3- Who is responsible for coordinating the Erasmus+ Program?

Erasmus+ is coordinated in Turkey by the Turkish National Agency, which operates under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with funding provided by the European Commission.

4- In which areas does Erasmus+ operate?

Erasmus+ supports activities and provides funding in the following areas:

• Higher Education
• Vocational Education
• School Education
• Adult Education
• Jean Monnet

5- Where can I find information about institutions?

You can find information on projects through the Turkish National Agency’s website or Eurodesk contact points, which provide accurate and comprehensive information. You can visit Eurodesk’s website to find and contact the nearest information point.

YOUTH PROGRAM FAQs

1- What is the Erasmus+ Youth Program?

The Erasmus+ Youth Program offers project opportunities for those working in the youth sector and young people who want to participate in various projects.

2- What types of activities can I participate in under the Erasmus+ Youth Program?

You can participate in:

• Volunteering Activities
• Youth Exchanges
• Mobility of Youth Workers (Training and Networking)
• Structured Dialogue

3- Do I need to pay to participate in the Erasmus+ Youth Program?

All activities within this program are free of charge.

4- How do I participate in the Erasmus+ Youth Program?

You can find a project that interests you through our website or Telegram group. Apply to the project that suits you. You will need to follow the application process, which may include submitting a Europass-style CV or a motivation letter or completing an online form.

5- Is there a language requirement for participating in the Erasmus+ Youth Program?

For volunteering activities and youth exchanges, no specific language requirement is needed. For courses, having enough language proficiency to understand the content is sufficient. No language tests or exams are required for these activities.

6- What is the age range for participating in the Erasmus+ Youth Program?

• Volunteering Activities: (17-30)
• Youth Exchanges: (13-30)
• Mobility of Youth Workers: (18 – 65+)
• Structured Dialogue: (13-30)

ESC PROGRAM FAQs

1- What is ESC (European Solidarity Corps)?

The European Solidarity Corps (ESC), known in Turkish as the Avrupa Dayanışma Programı (ADP), is a new program that replaced the Erasmus+ Volunteering Activities program starting in 2019. It adds value to the previous European Voluntary Service under Erasmus+ and other EU funding programs.

The ESC aims to promote the personal, educational, social, civic, and professional development of young people by providing opportunities to engage in voluntary activities, work, or networking activities that address societal needs.

2- What does ESC aim to achieve?

ESC aims to promote personal, educational, social, and professional development while encouraging young people to volunteer, work, or network in their own countries or abroad. It seeks to build a more inclusive society, support vulnerable people, and address social challenges. The program offers inspiring and empowering experiences for young people who want to help, learn, and develop themselves.

3- How does ESC work?

Young people aged 17-30 can register on the European Solidarity Corps Portal. Participants aged 18 and above can receive invitations from organizations with access to the database to join solidarity projects. Organizations can also post project announcements on the portal to directly reach out to young people.

4- How can I get involved?

Young people can register on the European Solidarity Corps Portal and submit their CV and motivation letter to organizations. If selected, they can participate in a project. Accredited organizations’ list can be accessed via the link below.

We recommend checking our ESC REGISTRATION GUIDE for more details.

5- What are the application deadlines?

You can apply to ESC accredited organizations throughout the year. However, organizations running ESC projects can submit project applications to the Agency three times a year.

6- Which countries can we visit?

You can go to any of the 28 EU member states, 6 program countries (4 EFTA countries and Turkey, as well as North Macedonia, which is a candidate country), 22 neighboring countries to the EU, and other countries listed in the program guide.

7- Are there European young people coming to Turkey?

Yes, there are many young people from Europe coming to Turkey and wanting to come as part of the European Solidarity Corps program.

8- How can I reach organizations involved in the European Solidarity Corps Program?

You can find all organizations with Quality Labels through the European Youth Portal.

9- Do I need to write a project to participate in ESC?

No. You just need to apply to the projects we share on our website.

10- What if the application requires information about the sending organization?

You can contact Quality Label-holding organizations listed on the European Youth Portal. You can ask them to be your sending (supporting) organization. This process is free of charge, and most organizations will accept you. We recommend choosing an organization located in your city.

11- I want to participate in ESC but I’m a university student. Should I suspend my studies?

If you will be away for a long period and will miss your classes, it is best to suspend your studies. The sending organizations can request a formal letter from the National Agency to confirm your acceptance into an EU project, but this letter does not have a binding effect; it only requests the necessary support.

12- How much does it cost to apply?

Applications are completely FREE!

13- Will I learn a language through this program?

Language training is one of the tools of the European Solidarity Corps Program but is not the primary goal. Language training is provided to all volunteers in the host country, but these are local languages. You can improve your language skills by interacting with other volunteers and local people.

14- Will my expenses be covered if I get sick during the project?

All participants in the European Solidarity Corps Program are covered by comprehensive insurance provided by the European Commission. This insurance covers medical expenses in case of illness. The details of the insurance will be provided to you before you participate in the project.

15- Do the sending organizations assist with visa applications?

A formal letter from the National Agency can be provided to help with the visa process for accepted volunteers. However, visa procedures are outside the National Agency’s control and may vary based on the decisions and practices of the relevant countries. We recommend consulting with your sending organization for their experience.

16- What will I gain from these projects?

You will gain the opportunity to learn about different cultures and languages. Spending a significant time away from your family and friends can be a valuable experience. You will also have the chance to introduce your own culture while discovering others. After completing your volunteer service, you will receive a Youthpass certificate, which is recognized nationally and internationally and documents your learning process.

17- Can I work for pay during my free time in the project?

No. Paid work is not allowed during the project.

18- Can I pursue a master’s degree during long-term projects?

No, you cannot continue formal education (university, master’s, doctoral programs, etc.) during your time in the host country.

19- I have completed middle school. Can I participate in projects?

Yes, your educational level does not hinder participation in the projects.

20- I am a young person with disabilities and it’s difficult for me to stay abroad for 2-12 months. Is there a shorter program available?

Young people with limited means (socio-economic, cultural, or geographical disadvantages) or those with disabilities/ special needs can benefit from the short-term European Solidarity Corps program, which lasts between 14 and 59 days. If the disabled young person cannot travel alone, the costs for an accompanying person will also be fully covered.

21- Will I have free days during the European Solidarity Corps program?

You will have 2 free days per week and an additional 2 days off each month. For example, if you are on a 9-month project, you will have 18 days off in total, excluding your weekly days off. You will need to arrange your time off with your host organization.

22- How many hours a week will I need to work during the European Solidarity Corps projects?

Work hours may vary by country, but generally, you will work around 35-40 hours per week, including 4-5 hours of language training. The remaining time is yours.

23- How much pocket money will I receive during the projects?

Pocket money varies depending on the economic conditions of the host country. For example, volunteers coming to Turkey may receive different amounts compared to those going to Germany or Finland. The amount is determined based on the host country’s economic conditions.

24- How is accommodation arranged during the projects?

There is no standard accommodation type; you could stay with a host family