What is the Erasmus Programme?
The Erasmus Programme (EuRopean Community Action Scheme for the Mobility of University Students) is a European Union (EU) student exchange programme established in 1987, promoting the mobility of students, young adults, foreign company staff and lecturers in over 30 countries of the EU. The programme was named after the philosopher Desiderius Erasmus of Rotterdam, more than 9 Million people have participated in the Erasmus Programme since its creation.
The Erasmus exchange programme enables students to study abroad at a University for a period of 2 to 12 months or to complete an internship, participants will receive financial and non-material support.
The advantages of studying abroad with Erasmus allows students to improve their communication, language and intercultural skills combined with self confidence, creative skills and independence, sought after by future employers. In addition, students will benefit from a lifestyle of stress free pleasure, as Cyprus has so much to offer:
- Wonderful beaches;
- Vibrant nightlife;
- Coastal and country walks;
- Historical sites;
- Amazing local and international restaurants serving freshly sourced ingredients;
- Healthy standard of living;
- Low crime rate;
- Reasonable cost of living;
- Over 300 sunshine days.
English is widely spoken in Cyprus as it is a multicultural country, but if the applicant can also speak Greek it will be advantageous.
Opportunities for studying abroad are available to students registered in a higher education institution, enrolled in studies leading to a recognised degree and to be at least in the 2nd year of studies. The period of study abroad must be relevant for the degree-related learning and personal development needs and part of the study programme with the home institution having an inter-institutional agreement between them for study with Erasmus. Both institutions must hold the Erasmus Charter for Higher Education.
The most popular programmes in Cyprus are those of Tourism and Hospitality sectors, primarily hotels. Students can benefit from:
- Professional experience;
- Develop personally, professionally and academically;
- Gain knowledge in new teaching methods;
- Enhance self-confidence;
- Broaden physical and mental horizons;
- Practical training and interaction;
- Theoretical skills;
- Financial support between €700-800 each month;
- Free meals and accommodation.
The Erasmus Internship requires the positive candidate to work 5 or 6 days per week on 8 hour shifts with a 1 hour break included. Each student needs to adopt a positive attitude, be able to communicate in English, behave in a polite and professional manner, work well under pressure whilst offering excellent customer service.
In addition to the tourism and hospitality sectors there are international companies actively seeking students on 3, 6 or 12 month contracts to work in Cyprus within industries that specialise in:
- Business Studies;
- Management and Information Sciences;
- Programme Assistant;
- Art and Design;
- Construction and architectural;
- Marketing;
- Public Relations (PR);
- Communication and Information Sciences;
- Engineering and Technology;
- Education and/or Teacher Training Assistant;
- Humanities;
- Social Sciences;
- Digital Media and Marketing;
- Information Technology (IT).
Financial support via an Erasmus Grant is available and covers travel and subsistence costs, the amount is dependent on the number of students applying for the grant, the difference in living costs between your country and the Republic with the availability of other grants. There is additional support for students undertaking a traineeship and those from disadvantaged backgrounds as well as funding for students that suffer from Physical, Mental or Health-Related conditions. Scholarships are available for a Joint Master Programme or an EU-guaranteed student loan, applications are to be made through the International or Erasmus office of the Higher Education Institution. Rideo Group are on hand to assist you in your application of grants/loans, we are experienced in this sector and can offer full support where required.
The benefits of the Erasmus Programme are not only for the student but for companies alike:
- Getting students insights into their home culture opens doors to new markets and expands the business;
- Students can provide:
- New International perspectives;
- Innovative ideas;
- Active support.
- New students brings fresh enthusiasm, increased competitiveness and innovation;
- Enhanced competences at the company as the student learns from other employees, in return employees can also learn from the international student through interaction with different languages and up to date IT skills.
Rideo Group welcomes any questions or queries that you may have, we understand that the application process can be daunting (especially in another country) but we have experienced professionals that can assist with dealing with the relevant authorities, form filling and submission of documentation on your behalf, for a swift and stress free outcome.
