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Europe 2026: The New Rules of Studying Abroad (And Why Students Should Care)

2026 is shaping up to be a turning point for international students in Europe.
December 8, 2025 by
Europe 2026: The New Rules of Studying Abroad (And Why Students Should Care)
Eurum

New funding calls, stricter admissions rules, shifting language requirements, and upgraded mobility pathways — everything is changing at once.

Eurum podsumowuje najciekawsze trendy, które już wpływają na wybory kandydatów spoza UE.


1. Erasmus+ just got more powerful

The 2026 European Universities call opened with €145.6M in bridge funding.

This means more alliances. More cross-campus mobility. More joint degrees.

Europe is doubling down on transnational education.

Why it matters: students entering in 2026-2027 may study in 2–4 countries under one programme.


2. Countries are resetting admissions rules

Poland introduced stricter language requirements (B2 minimum for non-EU/OECD documents).

The Netherlands is limiting English-taught programmes.

Germany is tightening financial documentation.

Pattern: Europe is not closing the door, it's raising the bar.


3. Europe is shifting toward multi-campus degrees

Joint degrees are no longer “special programmes”.

They’re becoming mainstream - thanks to European Universities alliances.

Imagine:

1 admission →

1 programme →

3 countries →

1 European degree.

This is the future Europe is building.


4. Visa and arrival steps are becoming more structured

More embassies require form accuracy checks, financial proof upgrades, and pre-arrival insurance.

Students who prepare early have a massive advantage.


5. Skills, mobility and employability are the EU’s new priorities

Erasmus+ 2026 emphasises digital skills, green skills, and cross-border experience.

This will shape entire study offerings in the next 2-3 years.


The takeaway?

Studying in Europe is becoming more structured, more international, and more competitive.

Students who plan early will get the best spots, and the best mobility options.

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