The Turing scheme, named after Alan Turing, will replace the popular Erasmus scheme for students in the UK who want to spend part of their degree studying abroad. Fudning will be made available for 35,000 UK students to study at universities across the world.
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “We now have the chance to expand opportunities to study abroad and see more students from all backgrounds benefit from the experience.
“We have designed a truly international scheme which is focused on our priorities, delivers real value for money and forms an important part of our promise to level up the United Kingdom.
“These opportunities will benefit both our students and our employers, as well as strengthening our ties with partners across the world.”
The Turing scheme will cost £100 million in the initial year it runs but will be factored into spending reviews in due course.
Around 35,000 British students annually are said to study in the Erasmus scheme, which the UK joined in 1987.
What is the Turing scheme?
The Turing scheme is a replacement for the Erasmus scheme, which is currently being used by students in the UK and across the EU, allowing them to study at participating universities as part of their degree.
It is thought that the Turing scheme will extend to universities across the world, instead of just EU ones – but this has not been confirmed.
UK institutions will be asked to bid to join the Turing scheme in the new year.
Successful applicants will receive funding for administering the scheme and students will receive grants to help cover the costs of studying abroad.
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Universities UK International Director, Vivienne Stern, said: “Evidence shows that students who have international experience tend to do better academically and in employment, and the benefits are greatest for those who are least advantaged.
“The new Turing scheme is a fantastic development and will provide global opportunities for up to 35,000 UK students to study and work abroad.”
International Education Champion, Sir Steve Smith, said: “As the International Education Champion, I’m pleased to see that the govt is committed to international exchanges.
“So much of what makes education so rewarding for all is the chance for students and learners in schools, colleges and universities experience new cultures and, by doing so, develop new skills.
“This scheme represents a sizeable investment from the Government and I look forward to working with the Government to develop a scheme that will make real our commitment to Global Britain”
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