A Youth Exchange is a short, funded Erasmus+ project where groups of young people aged 13 to 30 from different countries meet in one host country for 5 to 21 days to learn together through creative, hands on activities. Travel, accommodation and meals are covered, so you can take part without paying to join.
It is one of the most popular parts of the Erasmus+ Programme, and often the easiest first step into international youth work. This guide explains what a Youth Exchange is, who can join, what is covered, what a typical day looks like, and how to apply. 👇
What Is the Point of a Youth Exchange? 🎯
Youth Exchanges are built on one idea: learning does not only happen in classrooms. It happens when young people from different backgrounds meet, share and create together. Every exchange is based on non-formal learning, which means you learn by doing, not by sitting through lectures.
A Youth Exchange helps you:
🌎 Discover different cultures and perspectives
💬 Learn through creativity and teamwork
💪 Build confidence and leadership
🤝 Live European values of respect, inclusion and solidarity
What Happens in a Youth Exchange? 🎬
During a Youth Exchange, groups of young people from different countries meet in one host country for 5 to 21 days (travel days not included). Each group comes with a group leader, and together everyone works on a shared theme, such as sustainability, digital skills, art, inclusion or active citizenship.
The days are full of interactive, youth led activities, for example:
🎨 Creative workshops in art, music, theatre or photography
🌿 Environmental and sustainability activities
💻 Digital storytelling and media sessions
🧭 Outdoor games and team challenges
💬 Cultural nights where each country shares its food, music and traditions
All activities are designed by and for young people, with guidance from experienced youth leaders. It is a mix of structured sessions, free time and cultural discovery.
What Does a Typical Day Look Like? ☀️
No two exchanges are the same, but a typical day often includes a morning workshop on the project theme, an afternoon of group tasks or an outdoor activity, and an evening cultural night or reflection session. You share the experience with the same group throughout, which is how the friendships form so fast.
Who Can Join a Youth Exchange? 🌍
Youth Exchanges are open to:
👩🎓 Young people aged 13 to 30 (the participant age set for each project sits inside this range)
👥 Group leaders aged 18+ (no upper age limit for leaders)
🏢 Youth organisations, NGOs and informal groups of young people
There are no language requirements and no academic grades needed, just motivation, curiosity and openness. Basic English is usually enough to take part. Not sure if your country is eligible? Check the full list of eligible countries, and see the Erasmus+ and ESC age limits guide for the exact age rules. For the full picture of who can apply, visit Who Can Apply.
What's Covered? Is a Youth Exchange Free? 💰
Youth Exchanges are funded by Erasmus+, so you do not pay to take part. Typically covered:
✈️ Travel costs, funded according to distance
🏠 Accommodation and meals during the project
📚 Activity materials and support
🛡️ Insurance coverage for the activity
⚠️ One honest note: travel is reimbursed within distance bands, so on very long trips it may not cover 100% of your ticket. Everything on the ground (accommodation, meals, activities) is provided. For a full breakdown, see what Erasmus+ covers.
Why Join a Youth Exchange? 💬
Because it is more than a trip, it is often a turning point. A Youth Exchange lets you:
🌍 Meet new friends from all over Europe
💬 Improve your communication and language skills
🎯 Learn through fun, teamwork and creativity
🌱 Discover your strengths and passions
💙 Become part of the Erasmus+ youth community
Many young people do their first Youth Exchange and then go on to training courses, volunteering or even leading their own group. If giving back long term appeals to you, look at the European Solidarity Corps, and see how ESC and Erasmus+ differ.
Youth Exchange vs Training Course: What's the Difference? 🔎
People often mix these up. A Youth Exchange is for young people aged 13 to 30 and focuses on peer learning and cultural exchange. A Training Course is aimed at youth workers and educators (usually 18+) and focuses on professional skills and methods. If you work with young people, read our guide to what a Training Course is.
How to Join a Youth Exchange 🧭
Getting in is simpler than most people expect:
1️⃣ Find an open Youth Exchange project on youthworkshub.org
2️⃣ Contact the hosting or sending organisation
3️⃣ Fill in a short application (usually a motivation letter or survey)
4️⃣ Get selected and pack your bags for the adventure 🎒
Two things that boost your chances: a clear, genuine motivation letter and our 10 application tips. It also helps to have a tidy Europass CV ready, and you can review the general how to apply steps.
👉 Find your Youth Exchange today: youthworkshub.org
Frequently Asked Questions ❓
How long does a Youth Exchange last?
Between 5 and 21 days, not counting travel days. The exact length is set by each project.
Do I need to pay for a Youth Exchange?
No. Erasmus+ funds accommodation, meals and activities, and reimburses travel within distance bands, so very long trips may not be fully covered.
What age do you need to be for a Youth Exchange?
Participants are aged 13 to 30, and each project sets its own age range inside that. Group leaders must be 18 or over.
Do I need to speak a foreign language?
Not fluently. Youth Exchanges use non-formal methods and basic English is usually enough. Openness matters more than perfect grammar.
What is the difference between a Youth Exchange and volunteering?
A Youth Exchange is a short group experience focused on learning and cultural exchange. Volunteering through the ESC is a longer, individual placement supporting a community, usually for people aged 18 to 30.
In Short 💙
Youth Exchange = Learning + Friendship + Europe 🌍
A chance to learn by doing, travel with purpose, and become part of something bigger. Every exchange is a story that stays with you.
👉 Start here: youthworkshub.org
