How to Apply for an Erasmus+ KA1 Grant

Erasmus+ Key Action 1 (KA1) grants offer fantastic opportunities for educational organizations across Europe to improve skills, exchange best practices, and foster an inclusive and modern approach to teaching and learning. This guide will help your organization navigate the steps for a successful application to secure Erasmus+ funding for teacher training or job shadowing. 

Every user applying for Erasmus+ KA1 needs an EU Login account. This is the first essential step because it grants access to the Funding & Tenders portal where your organization will register. Here’s how: 

1. Create an EU Login: Head to EU Login to create an account for free. 

1. Register Your Organization: Follow the portal prompts to register your organization, which will include providing essential details such as contact information and your organization’s focus. 

1. Obtain Your PIC: Upon registration, you’ll receive a Participant Identification Code (PIC) – a unique 9-digit identifier that will be required for the application. This code can also be used for any future Erasmus+ applications or EU-funded projects. 

Your Erasmus+ application is a project in itself, and having a motivated team will make the process smoother. Make sure to assemble a group within your organization that will collaborate on the application and implementation phases. 

• Assign Roles: Decide who will handle specific responsibilities such as researching information, communicating with partners, managing deadlines, and completing the paperwork. 

• Involve Key Staff: Ensure that those involved in the Erasmus+ project are engaged and committed to seeing the application through. 

A dedicated team increases the likelihood of success and ensures that your organization’s needs and goals are clearly articulated. 

Think carefully about what areas your organization wants to improve. This step is crucial, as the success of your application depends on demonstrating that the grant will have a meaningful impact. Consider goals that are achievable and specific, such as: 

• Language Acquisition: Enhancing language skills to improve communication. 

• Inclusion: Addressing challenges related to diversity, inclusion, and equality in your learning environment. 

• Digital Skills and Media Literacy: Boosting your organization’s capacity for digital learning. 

• Environmental Sustainability: Shaping a greener and more environmentally aware institution. 

Be realistic and focused with your objectives. Selecting too many goals may dilute the effectiveness of your project, so aim for a few that can be successfully implemented and measured. 

Each country participating in Erasmus+ has a National Agency responsible for guiding organizations through the application process. Your National Agency will be an invaluable resource, offering: 

• Seminars and Webinars: Join these to gain insights into the application process. 

• Ambassadors and Consultants: They often have Erasmus+ ambassadors available to help answer questions or provide one-on-one guidance. 

Find your National Agency on the Erasmus+ website, as they provide country-specific support and can address any concerns unique to your organization’s context. 

Erasmus+ calls for proposals are typically issued twice a year, in February and October. Deadlines are strict, so knowing the exact timeline is crucial. As the deadline approaches: 

• Check Official Communications: Be attentive to announcements from the Erasmus+ website and your National Agency for any updates or changes to submission deadlines. 

• Allocate Sufficient Preparation Time: Preparing a thorough application takes time. Start early to ensure your proposal is detailed and meets all criteria. 

The Erasmus+ Programme Guide is your ultimate reference for understanding every detail of the KA1 application process. Released at the end of November each year, the guide provides updated information on funding rules, project requirements, and evaluation criteria. 

• Read Through Relevant Sections: Focus on Part B: Key Action 1: Mobility Projects for School Education Staff in the latest guide. 

• Make Notes: Highlight sections that apply specifically to your project and note any requirements that may impact how you frame your goals and project details.

Once you’ve covered all the foundational steps, it’s time to begin drafting your proposal. Your project should be designed to benefit your entire organization and its stakeholders. Whether the goals are met through structured courses, job shadowing, or teaching assignments, ensure that your project aligns with the overall mission of Erasmus+ by fostering collaboration, learning, and improvement. 

If you need our support or help during this process, feel free to contact us info@erasmus.courses, we’ll be happy to help.