What’s New in the Erasmus+ Programme Guide 2026? A Simple Breakdown for Schools & Teachers (Updated)

The Erasmus+ Programme Guide 2026 introduces several important changes that schools, teachers, coordinators, NGOs, and mobility organisations need to know. Whether your organisation is Erasmus-accredited or planning to apply for funding, the 2026 updates affect how you prepare, manage, and submit your projects.

This updated breakdown highlights the most important changes, explained in simple and teacher-friendly language.

1. Updated Deadlines for Erasmus+ Programme Guide 2026 Applications (New Calendar)

The 2026 Guide introduces a revised timeline for applications. Some examples include:

• Capacity Building in Higher Education (CBHE): 10 February 2026

  
  

• Small-scale Partnerships: 5 March 2026

  • Plus an optional second deadline: 1 October 2026 (depending on the National Agency)

    
    

• Jean Monnet Teacher Training: 3 February 2026

  
  

What this means for schools

• You must plan mobility and partnerships earlier.

• Schools need to prepare paperwork, partnerships, and Erasmus Plans well before deadlines.

2. New Call IDs for All Erasmus+ 2026 Actions

All Erasmus+ funding calls for 2026 now have updated Call IDs.

Examples:

• ERASMUS-EDU-2026-CBHE

• ERASMUS-JMO-2026-OFET-TT

• ERASMUS-SPORT-2026-SSCP

Why this matters

These IDs help applicants quickly identify the correct opportunities and ensure you apply in the right category.

3. Stronger Focus on Environmental Sustainability (Green Priority)

The 2026 Guide reinforces Europe’s sustainability goals. All organisations are encouraged to:

• Integrate green practices in projects

• Reduce environmental impact (travel, waste, materials)

• Promote climate awareness among learners

• Choose eco-friendly mobility options when possible

Impact on schools

Schools planning teacher or student mobilities should include sustainability as a clear priority in their Erasmus Plan.

4. Increased Emphasis on Digital Literacy, Media Literacy & Critical Thinking

Erasmus+ 2026 places strong priority on modern learning themes:

• Digital literacy

• Media literacy and fake news awareness

• Critical thinking and problem solving

• Safety in the digital environment

• Active citizenship and democratic participation

This aligns perfectly with teacher training courses focusing on digital transformation and innovative pedagogy.

5. Important Changes in Erasmus+ Accreditation Rules (Major Update)

Organisations holding an Erasmus+ Accreditation must be aware of these key updates:

• Accreditation may be terminated if it is not used for three consecutive years.

• Detailed rules for transfers (due to mergers, legal changes, restructuring).

• National Agencies may conduct more frequent monitoring visits or request extra reporting.

• Erasmus Plans must be regularly updated and aligned with 2026 priorities.

  
  

Key takeaway

Accreditation is no longer “automatic.” Schools must actively use it and maintain quality standards.

6. Optional Second Round for Small-Scale Partnerships (More Chances!)

A very teacher-friendly update:

National Agencies may (not must) launch a second call for Small-Scale Partnerships on:

1 October 2026

Why this is great news

• Schools that miss the March deadline get another opportunity.

• Small or new organisations can access Erasmus+ more easily.

• Higher chances of funding approval.

7. New EU Financial Regulation Applies Fully in 2026

The new financial regulation EU 2024/2509 now applies to all Erasmus+ actions. This affects:

• Eligible and ineligible costs

• Financial reporting requirements

• Grant management procedures

In simple terms:

Financial rules are now clearer but stricter. Coordinators must follow guidelines closely to avoid errors.

8. Changes in Mobility, Learning Activities, and Funding Rules (2026 Refinements)

(New additions based on updated guide language)

The 2026 Guide provides new clarifications on:

• Mobility duration rules

• Exceptional cost reimbursements

• Funding ceilings for KA121 and KA122

• Inclusion support for learners with fewer opportunities

• Digital tools recommended for reporting and management

These refinements make the programme more structured and easier to understand for new applicants.

9. Stronger Emphasis on Inclusion & Equal Access

The 2026 edition highlights the EU’s goal to make Erasmus+ more inclusive. This includes:

• Extra financial support for disadvantaged learners

• Simplified procedures for schools with limited administrative capacity

• Clearer rules for applying for inclusion support

What These 2026 Changes Mean for Schools and Teachers

Plan earlier

Deadlines have shifted, and accreditation rules are stricter.

Align your project with EU priorities

Green skills, digital literacy, media literacy, and critical thinking will strongly influence evaluation scores.

Keep accreditation active

If your school is accredited, you must use it consistently—non-use can lead to termination.

More opportunities for beginners

The new second-round option for small-scale partnerships is a big advantage.

Be financially precise

The new EU regulation requires cleaner budgeting and reporting.

Final Advice

Erasmus+ 2026 is more structured, more transparent, and more aligned with Europe’s needs in sustainability, digital skills, and inclusive education.

If schools prepare early, align their projects with EU priorities, and follow the updated rules closely, their chances of successful funding increase significantly.

For full details, you can also check the official Erasmus+ Programme Guide.