Spending part of your degree studying in another country builds independence, language skills and international experience that a purely UK-based course simply cannot offer. Since the UK left the Erasmus+ programme, the Turing Scheme has become the main funded route for UK students wanting this experience, and it opens the door to a far wider range of countries than Erasmus ever did.
This guide explains how UK students can study abroad, how the Turing Scheme works, and what to plan for around visas and costs.
Ways UK Students Can Study Abroad
- A study exchange during your degree, spending a term or year at a partner university abroad as part of your existing UK course.
- A full degree abroad, applying directly to an overseas university rather than a UK one, often at a lower tuition cost in countries such as the Netherlands or parts of Scandinavia.
- A short-term study or work placement, lasting anywhere from a few weeks to a year, often arranged and funded through your university.
- Postgraduate study abroad, pursuing a master’s or doctorate at an overseas institution once you have completed your first degree.
The Turing Scheme: The UK’s Erasmus Replacement
The Turing Scheme is the UK government’s programme funding international study, work and volunteering placements for UK students, replacing the EU’s Erasmus+ scheme after Brexit. Unlike Erasmus, which was limited mainly to European countries, the Turing Scheme funds placements anywhere in the world.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Placement length | Four weeks up to twelve months |
| Eligible destinations | Any country worldwide, not limited to Europe |
| Who applies | Your university applies for funding on your behalf; you cannot apply to the scheme directly |
| What it covers | Contributes towards travel, visas and living costs, varying by destination and personal circumstances |
Because your university must apply and select participants, the first step is always to check with your international office or study abroad coordinator whether your course offers a funded placement and how to apply internally.
Visas and Practical Requirements
Since the UK left the EU, UK students generally need a visa to study in EU countries, something that was not required under Erasmus. Requirements vary considerably by destination, so it is worth checking the specific rules for your target country well in advance.
- Check visa requirements early, since processing times and required documents vary significantly between countries.
- Confirm your course will transfer credit, ensuring study completed abroad counts towards your UK degree.
- Arrange accommodation in advance, either through the host university or independently, depending on what your placement offers.
- Sort health cover and insurance, since NHS access does not automatically extend to time spent studying abroad.
Budgeting for Time Abroad
Costs vary enormously by destination, but a few funding sources typically combine to cover a placement:
- Turing Scheme funding, which contributes towards costs but rarely covers everything, with the exact amount depending on destination and personal circumstances.
- Continued student finance, since eligible students typically keep receiving their usual maintenance loan while on an approved placement abroad.
- Personal savings and part-time work, particularly important in higher cost-of-living destinations.
Why Studying Abroad Is Worth Considering
Beyond the obvious cultural experience, employers consistently value the independence, adaptability and language skills that time studying abroad demonstrates. It also broadens your personal network internationally in a way that is difficult to replicate through a UK-only degree.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still study in Europe as a UK student after Brexit?
Yes, though you will generally need a visa to study in EU countries, unlike under the previous Erasmus scheme, and the UK is set to associate with Erasmus+ again from 2027.
How do I apply for the Turing Scheme?
You cannot apply directly. Your university applies for Turing Scheme funding and selects participating students, so check with your international office or study abroad coordinator about internal application processes.
Will I still get my student finance while studying abroad?
Eligible students typically continue receiving their usual maintenance loan while on an approved study or work placement abroad, though it is worth confirming your specific circumstances with Student Finance England or your relevant funding body.
Do I need to speak the local language to study abroad?
Not necessarily. Many international placements, particularly in Northern Europe, offer courses taught entirely in English, though basic language skills generally improve the overall experience.
Studying abroad turns a standard degree into a genuinely international experience, but it takes planning well ahead of your placement. If funding your time abroad is a concern, our guide to UK scholarships covers additional funding routes worth exploring alongside the Turing Scheme.
