Established in 1987 to encourage student exchanges throughout Europe, the European Union's Erasmus Programme now has almost 200 000 higher education students receiving grants to study or train abroad.

This represents an overall increase of 8.7% on the previous academic year.

The countries sending the highest numbers of Erasmus students were France, Germany and Spain. These countries were also the most popular destinations for Erasmus students.

According to independent studies, the Erasmus programme has had a substantial impact on many levels: the participants acquire skills that increase their future employability or, in the case of staff, their career prospects. Higher education institutions internationalise their campuses, introduce new teaching methods and services, build up management capacity, strengthen research activities and create links to business.

The Commission believes the Erasmus programme can contribute to the Union's 'Europe 2020' strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth by equipping young people with the adaptable skills needed for a competitive, knowledge-based society.

Click here for more information on the Erasmus programme.