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Every year, tens of thousands of young Europeans participate in Erasmus+ youth exchanges — yet most young people outside active NGO circles have never heard of them. This guide answers the most common questions honestly, without the marketing spin.
What Actually Is a Youth Exchange?
A youth exchange is a short-term international programme — typically 6 to 21 days — where groups of young people from different countries come together to explore a shared theme. Past themes have included climate activism, mental health, digital rights, intercultural dialogue, and democratic participation.
It is not a holiday, though you will have fun. It is not a conference, though you will have discussions. It is experiential, non-formal education: you learn by doing, discussing, creating, and living alongside people who grew up very differently from you.
Who Can Participate?
Youth exchanges under Erasmus+ KA1 are open to young people aged 13 to 30. There is no requirement for prior experience, specific education level, or language skills — though the programme language is usually English. The only prerequisite is being part of a group organised by a participating NGO or youth organisation.
How Much Does It Cost?
Almost nothing. The Erasmus+ grant covers travel (up to a distance-based maximum), accommodation, food, and programme activities for all participants. Organisations typically ask participants to pay a small contribution — €20 to €40 — as a commitment fee. That is usually the only cost to the participant.
Many young people assume Erasmus+ is only for university students. It is not. The youth exchange strand was designed specifically for young people who are not in higher education — including those who left school early, are unemployed, or come from disadvantaged backgrounds.
What Is a Typical Day Like?
Mornings usually start with energisers — short, physical ice-breaking games that help multilingual groups wake up and connect. The main sessions follow: workshops, simulations, creative exercises, debates. Afternoons might involve field visits or outdoor activities. Evenings are cultural exchanges — each national group presents something from home.
The programme runs from early morning to late evening. It is intense. It is also, for most participants, unforgettable.
What Will I Actually Learn?
This depends on the project theme — but across all exchanges, certain competences consistently develop: intercultural communication, the ability to navigate unfamiliar social contexts, non-formal facilitation skills, project-thinking, and — critically — European civic identity. Many alumni describe their exchange as a turning point in how they think about their place in the world.
How Do I Find One?
The most reliable route is through local youth organisations and NGOs. Follow organisations active in youth work on social media — most post open calls when they have participant spots to fill. SALTO Youth Tools and the Erasmus+ Project Results Platform also list upcoming exchanges. You can also contact your national Erasmus+ agency directly and ask for a list of accredited organisations in your region.
What About YouthTICK?
YouthTICK is building its first Erasmus+ partnerships now. If you want to be among the first participants in a YouthTICK exchange, register your interest through our volunteer and opportunities page — we will contact you when our first open calls go live.