January 28th, 2021 saw the online launch event for the new Erasmus+ app, which gathered more than 2000 people, including representatives of the European Commission, student organisations, Erasmus+ National Agencies, higher education institutions, as well as students and academic staff from all over Europe. The attendees were able to learn the concrete ways students can benefit from the Erasmus+ app and its further development to support both students and universities.

Developed by the ELTE University, together with the European University Foundation and the Erasmus Student Network, the Erasmus+ app is a mobile application for Erasmus+ participants which puts the whole mobility experience at the fingertips of young people. It is intended to simplify the mobility process, to make it more accessible for every user while promoting innovation and digitalisation in the long run. Users of the app will be provided information on the Erasmus+ Programme opportunities for individuals and offered guidance throughout the mobility process - from the application phase (with the integrated Online Learning Agreement) to the return to their home country. It also offers space for young people to submit Erasmus+ Tips via the built-in Tip Collector, to help future generations of Erasmus+ students. Additionally, the app features ESN’s services such as the ESNcard discounts and events organised by ESN’s local associations.

The first version of the App is already available for use, and many more new features are still to come by autumn 2021, which is why Christophidou stressed the need for the students and universities to help fill the app with information, stories, and tips, and provide the developers with feedback on how to improve the functionalities of the app. This way the app will gradually transform into a true one-stop-shop for the youth who want to pursue learning or training experiences abroad.