3.1. Application process and requirements
The Erasmus+ program is an EU-funded initiative that supports education, training, youth, and sport in Europe. If you’re interested in participating in Erasmus+, here’s a general overview of the application process:
- Research and Choose a Program: Start by researching the Erasmus+ program and its different opportunities. Determine which program fits your interests, academic goals, and eligibility criteria. Erasmus+ offers various opportunities such as study exchanges, traineeships, volunteering, and more. You can check out the Erasmus+ 2024 Guide here.
- Check Eligibility: Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for the specific program you’re interested in. Eligibility criteria can vary depending on the type of activity (study, traineeship, volunteering, etc.), your educational level, and your country of origin. You can find more info about the criteria here.
- Contact Your Institution: If you’re a student, speak to the International Office or Erasmus+ coordinator at your home institution. They can provide information about available opportunities, application deadlines, and application procedures. If you’re a staff member or a representative of an organization, you can also contact the relevant department for guidance. You can find more information visiting the National Agencies websites, here you have the directory.
- Prepare Required Documents: Depending on the program you’re applying for, you may need to prepare various documents such as a CV/resume, motivation letter, language proficiency certificate (e.g., for English, if required), academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, etc. Make sure to carefully read the application guidelines and provide all necessary documentation. You can check the here to get more information about this kind of documents.
- Submit Application: Follow the application instructions provided by your institution or the organization managing the Erasmus+ program in your country. Applications are typically submitted online through dedicated platforms or portals. Be mindful of application deadlines, as late submissions may not be considered. Here you have a guide on the Erasmus+ webpage to show you how to apply to the different processes.
- Selection Process: After the application deadline, a selection committee will review the applications and select candidates based on various criteria such as academic performance, language skills, motivation, and relevance to the program’s objectives. The selection process may include interviews or assessments depending on the program. In this video you will find some useful tips to prepare the interviews.
- Pre-Departure Preparation: If selected, you’ll receive information about pre-departure arrangements including visa procedures (if applicable), accommodation options, health insurance, and other practical matters. You may also be required to attend pre-departure orientation sessions. Salto Youth usually prepares some trainings and guides that you can look for in order to get more information about the place you are going to travel to and the requirements.
- Participation: Once all preparations are complete, you can start your Erasmus+ experience whether it’s studying abroad, undertaking a traineeship, volunteering, or participating in another activity. Make the most of your experience by actively engaging with the local community, immersing yourself in the culture, and seizing opportunities for personal and professional development.
- Evaluation and Reporting: After completing your Erasmus+ activity, you may be asked to provide feedback and participate in evaluation surveys to help improve the program. Keep in touch with your institution or the Erasmus+ National Agency for any reporting requirements. You can follow this guide here.
Remember, the application process may vary slightly depending on your country and the specific Erasmus+ program you’re applying for. It’s essential to carefully read and follow the instructions provided by your institution or the relevant authorities.
3.2. Potential barriers Roma youth may face when applying for programmes and strategies to overcome them
Members of the Roma community may face various barriers when applying for Erasmus+ programs. These barriers can include social, economic, cultural, and institutional challenges. Here are some potential barriers and strategies to overcome them:
- Access to Information: Lack of access to information about Erasmus+ programs due to limited outreach efforts or communication channels that don’t effectively reach Roma communities.
Strategy: Increase outreach efforts by partnering with community organizations, local NGOs, and Roma advocacy groups to disseminate information about Erasmus+ opportunities. Utilize multiple communication channels such as community events, social media, and local newspapers to reach Roma individuals and families. This project is an amazing example itself for raising awareness on the opportunities that the Erasmus+ Programme has to offer them.
- Language and Literacy: Limited proficiency in the official language of the host country or low literacy levels may hinder participation in the application process and integration into the host environment.
Strategy: Provide language support and resources, including translated application materials and language courses tailored to the needs of Roma applicants. Offer pre-departure language training to improve communication skills and cultural orientation sessions to facilitate integration into the host community.
Examples of these resources can be the EduRoma app by the Roma Education Fund.
- Financial Constraints: Economic disadvantage and financial insecurity may prevent Roma individuals from covering the costs associated with participating in Erasmus+ activities, such as travel expenses, accommodation, and living costs.
Strategy: Offer financial assistance and scholarships specifically targeted at Roma applicants to cover travel and living expenses. Provide information about available funding opportunities, grants, and financial support schemes offered by Erasmus+ and other sources. Advocate for inclusive funding policies that prioritize diversity and socio-economic inclusion.
The Roma Education Fund is an international organization dedicated to promoting educational opportunities for Roma children and youth. They provide scholarships, grants, and capacity-building support to schools, teachers, and NGOs working on Roma education projects across Central and Eastern Europe.
- Discrimination and Stereotypes: Discrimination, prejudice, and stereotypes against Roma people may create barriers to accessing educational and employment opportunities, including participation in Erasmus+ programs.
Strategy: Implement anti-discrimination policies and awareness-raising campaigns to challenge stereotypes, combat prejudice, and promote diversity and inclusion within Erasmus+ programs and host institutions. Provide training for staff and participants on cultural sensitivity, intercultural communication, and inclusive practices.
The European Roma Rights Centre is an international human rights organization advocating for the rights of Roma communities across Europe. They conduct research, legal advocacy, and strategic litigation to combat discrimination, improve access to justice, and promote equal opportunities for Roma individuals and families.
- Cultural Differences and Social Integration: Cultural differences and social isolation may impact the overall experience and well-being of Roma participants in Erasmus+ programs, leading to feelings of alienation or exclusion.
Strategy: Foster a supportive and inclusive environment by promoting intercultural dialogue, diversity awareness, and mutual respect among participants. Encourage cross-cultural exchange and collaboration through joint activities, cultural events, and community engagement initiatives. Provide mentoring and peer support programs to help Roma participants navigate cultural challenges and build social networks.
Phiren Amenca is a network of Roma and non-Roma volunteers and organizations working together to challenge stereotypes, combat discrimination, and promote social inclusion. They organize international volunteering projects, training seminars, and advocacy campaigns focused on Roma youth empowerment and intercultural dialogue.
By addressing these barriers and implementing targeted strategies, Erasmus+ programs can promote greater participation and inclusion of Roma individuals, enabling them to benefit from the valuable opportunities for education, training, and personal development offered by the program.
For more information, you can check the information available on the topic of organizations such as the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA), the Council of Europe, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
