Call for interest: ESCI Champions 2025–2027

The ESCI Champions initiative aims to recognise higher education institutions and organisations that have made significant progress in adopting the different building blocks of the European Student Card Initiative (ESCI).

In doing so they are supporting the digitalisation and simplification of administrative processes in Erasmus+ mobility and contributing to improving students’ experience when abroad.

Who's eligible?

Higher education institutions

Higher education institutions holding an Erasmus Charter for Higher Education (ECHE) can become ESCI Champions in one of three categories:

• Implementation of Erasmus Without Paper (EWP)
• Implementation of the European Student Card (ESC)
• Champions of Excellence, who demonstrate successful implementation of both EWP and the ESC 

Other institutions and organisations

Other higher education institutions, national authorities, student unions, and third-party processors that issue European Student Cards in line with the ESC terms and conditions are eligible to participate in the ESC category.

The role

Selected ESCI Champions will be appointed for a period of two years (2025-2027). During this time they will benefit from enhanced visibility, access to promotional and communication material to promote ESCI in their home country. They’ll also take part in consultation activities such as this on ESCI developments.

ESCI Champions will be required to participate in ESCI meetings, national events, and various outreach activities, including through sharing testimonials and best practices.

How to apply

Interested organisations must submit their applications by 16 May 2025. Digital Officers of Erasmus+ National Agencies will review all applications from their country and suggest up to three nominees to DG EAC (European Commission) by the end of May.

Go to the application form

Before applying we invite you to consult the detailed information and QAs available for download at the bottom of this page.

Selection process and timeline

DG EAC, in consultation with the Digital Officers and based on the criteria outlined in the call, will select one ESCI Champion per Erasmus+ National Agency. Results will be announced in mid-June.

The kick-off meeting of the ESCI champions 2025-2027 will take place in Gothenburg, Sweden,  on 9 September, coinciding with the EAIE conference.

Questions?

For any questions we invite to reach us via the service desk. You can use either the Erasmus Without Paper or the European Student Card channels.