What is the UK Government's Turning Scheme?
1 October, 2025
The Turing Scheme is the UK government’s global programme for study and work abroad. It was launched in 2021 as the replacement for the Erasmus+ programme, following the UK’s departure from the European Union. The scheme is designed to give students the chance to gain international experience, develop valuable skills, and broaden their horizons through funded placements overseas.
Each year, UK education providers can apply for grants through the scheme. If successful, they receive funding to support their students or apprentices in taking part in placements around the world. The financial support can be used to help cover travel expenses, living costs, and additional needs. Importantly, there is extra funding available for students from disadvantaged backgrounds and for those with special educational needs, helping to ensure that opportunities are accessible to as many learners as possible. Placements can last anywhere from a few weeks to a full academic year, depending on the project.
Applications to the Turing Scheme are made by institutions, not by individual students. Eligible organisations include schools, further education colleges, universities, and vocational training or apprenticeship providers. This means that students hoping to take part must do so through their place of study or training, rather than applying directly themselves.
One of the key differences between the Turing Scheme and Erasmus+ is its global reach. Erasmus+ was focused mainly on exchanges within Europe, but the Turing Scheme is worldwide. This opens up opportunities for students to travel and work in countries across the globe, making it a more outward-looking programme and offering a greater variety of cultural and professional experiences.
The purpose of the scheme goes beyond travel. It is intended to improve employability by giving young people international work and study experience, as well as encouraging cultural exchange and global understanding. Another important aim is widening participation, ensuring that students from all backgrounds are able to access placements that may once have felt out of reach.
In summary, the Turing Scheme is now the UK’s main programme for international education and work placements. It channels funding through schools, colleges, and universities to create life-changing opportunities abroad. While individuals and private companies cannot apply directly, for students studying in the UK it can open the door to unique experiences that enrich their education and boost their future career prospects.