Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
The OLS assessment
Online Language Support helps Erasmus+ participants improve the language they will study in (OLS). Taking the OLS assessment before departure is a prerequisite for higher education students on mobility of 14 days or more, to check they meet the recommended level at the receiving organisation. Native speakers and duly justified cases are exempt, and the results do not prevent participation.
After the assessment, participants can follow free online courses before and during their stay, and take a final assessment on return to measure progress.
| Question | Erasmus+ study exchange |
|---|---|
| English test like IELTS required by Erasmus+? | No |
| Language assessment | OLS, before departure, for mobility of 14 days or more |
| Can a low OLS result stop you? | No, results do not prevent participation |
| Who selects students | Your sending institution, fairly and transparently |
| Tuition at the host | Exempt |
Selection is your university's job
There is no central Erasmus+ application form. You apply through your university's international or Erasmus+ office, which must select applicants in a fair and transparent way (Erasmus+: studying abroad). Your institution or the host can still ask for language evidence as part of that selection, so ask the Erasmus+ office what it uses.
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Length and recognition
Long-term exchanges last from 2 to 12 months; short blended exchanges last 5 to 30 days abroad. Before you go, you sign a learning agreement with your sending and receiving institutions, and afterwards your home university must recognise the credits (Erasmus+: studying abroad). Requirements change between intakes and scholarship rounds. Confirm the current rule on the Erasmus+ studying abroad page before you book a test or apply. This guide is general information, not admissions advice.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need IELTS for Erasmus+?+
Not as a programme rule. You take the free OLS assessment before departure; your university may set its own selection criteria.
Can I fail the OLS assessment?+
The European Commission says OLS results do not prevent participants from taking part.
Is OLS required for a short exchange?+
It is a prerequisite for higher education students going abroad for 14 days or more, except native speakers or justified cases.
Do Erasmus+ students pay tuition at the host university?+
No. Erasmus+ students are exempt from tuition, registration and exam fees at the receiving institution.
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Related
Guide updated on 31 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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