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The Turing Scheme explained: A guide for studying or working abroad with UK funding
Learn how the Turing Scheme supports UK students studying or working abroad, including eligibility, funding, and how to apply.
Studying or working abroad can be one of the most rewarding experiences a student can have—and the Turing Scheme makes that possible for thousands of UK learners every year. Created after Brexit as the UK’s replacement for Erasmus+, the program gives students the chance to gain international experience, boost employability, and immerse themselves in new cultures across more than 160 countries worldwide.
Whether you’re dreaming of a semester in Canada, an internship in Japan, or a research project in Australia, this guide breaks down what the Turing Scheme is, who can apply, how funding works, and how to prepare for your adventure—especially when staying connected abroad.
What is the Turing Scheme?
The Turing Scheme is the UK Government’s global mobility program that supports students in studying, training, and completing work placements in countries around the world. It was launched to expand international opportunities beyond Europe and make overseas mobility more accessible for students from all backgrounds.
The scheme:
- Replaced Erasmus+ for UK outbound mobility after Brexit
- Offers grants for education, internships, and vocational training
- Covers placements in over 160 destinations
- Supports schools, further education, higher education, and vocational institutions.
You can explore official funding details on the UK Government website.
A brief history of the Turing Scheme
The Turing Scheme program was:
· Announced in 2020 and launched in 2021
· Named after British mathematician and codebreaker Alan Turing
· Created as an outward-only scheme—meaning UK students go abroad, but foreign students do not come to the UK through this program
· Designed to widen access to global mobility, with funding prioritized for disadvantaged or underrepresented students.
Since its launch, the Turing Scheme has funded hundreds of thousands of life-changing experiences across the globe.
Who is eligible for the Turing Scheme? Who can apply?
Eligibility for the scheme is broad, ensuring students from different educational backgrounds can participate. You can apply if you are:
· A UK national or a student enrolled in a UK institution
· A learner in:
o Higher Education (undergraduate and postgraduate)
o Further Education (colleges)
o Vocational Education and Training (VET)
o Schools (pupils aged 13+)
· Priority goes to students from disadvantaged backgrounds, including:
o Low-income households
o Students with disabilities
o Underrepresented communities
o Students with limited previous international travel opportunities
If you’re wondering who is eligible for the Turing Scheme, the answer is: far more students than you might expect.
Which countries are covered by the Turing Scheme?
One of the biggest strengths of the scheme is its global reach. Unlike Erasmus+, which was largely limited to the EU, the Turing Scheme countries list includes destinations across:
· Europe (France, Spain, Italy, Germany, and more)
· North America (USA, Canada, Mexico)
· Asia (Japan, South Korea, China, India)
· Africa (South Africa, Kenya, Morocco)
· Oceania (Australia, New Zealand)
· Latin America (Brazil, Chile, Argentina)
In total, more than 160 countries participate—but note that institutions must form partnerships with host organizations for placements to be eligible.
How to apply for the Turing Scheme
Here’s the most important thing to know: students cannot apply individually. All applications go through your school, college, or university.
How it works:
· UK institutions apply first
Between January and April, institutions submit project proposals to the government.
· Funding is awarded
Approved institutions receive a budget to support placements globally.
· Students apply internally
Your school or university will open applications for students once funding is confirmed.
· You secure a placement
Successful applicants are matched with programs abroad.
While each institution’s process varies, you may need to submit:
· A motivation letter explaining why you want to go
· Academic documents or transcripts
· CV or résumé
· Language certificates (if required by the host country)
· Pre-departure training attendance
What to keep in mind when applying?
Be clear about your goals—why this country, program, or placement?
· Demonstrate adaptability, curiosity, and cultural openness
· Track deadlines carefully
· Research visa rules early
· Check health, language, or academic requirements for your destination
If you’re wondering how to apply for the Turing Scheme, the key is contacting your institution’s mobility office or international coordinator—they manage the entire process.
What costs are covered by the Turing Scheme?
Funding varies depending on distance, country, and type of placement, but generally the scheme covers:
✔ Travel Costs
Based on the distance between the UK and the destination.
✔ Living Costs
A monthly allowance calculated according to the cost of living in your host country. Higher-cost countries receive higher grants.
✔ Additional Support
Extra financial assistance is available for:
· Students from low-income households
· Students with disabilities
· Students requiring special arrangements
✔ Other Covered Costs
Visa fees
Passports
Required vaccinations
Health insurance (in some cases)
What’s not covered in the Turing Scheme?
The program does not cover full tuition fees if the host institution charges them. However, many international partners waive or reduce fees through agreements with UK institutions.
Is the Turing Scheme right for you?
If you’re dreaming of studying, training, or working abroad, the Turing Scheme is one of the most accessible and supportive ways to make it happen. With funding that helps cover travel, living expenses, and essential documentation, the scheme opens doors for students who may never have considered international mobility before.
Whether it’s your first time leaving the UK or you’re ready for your next adventure, the Turing Scheme can be the launchpad to a life-changing experience—helping you build confidence, broaden your horizons, and gain real-world skills that will shape your academic and professional future.
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