The Online Language Support (OLS) is free and integral part of the Erasmus+ program
Knowing the local language is definitely a big part of the Erasmus experience. Even if in many universities you can study in English, especially at the master’s level, having some knowledge of the host country’s language can make a huge difference.
Why it’s so important and how the Erasmus program addresses it? Imagine stepping into a new country, trying to follow your very first lecture in a foreign tongue. That’s where Erasmus + OLS (Online Language Support) swoops in like a linguistic lifeline. Did you know that by December 2022, more than 65,000 participants had already hopped on board—and by mid-2023, that number had soared to over 100,000 users in the core area and 30,000+ in the open area? OLS is growing – it’s thriving with 29 languages at its fingertips and lively communities for popular tongues like English, Spanish, Italian, French, and German. Plus, through an inspiring EU-backed initiative, 100,000 refugees over three years now gain free access to OLS, supported by a €4 million investment. Whether you’re nailing down grammar or gearing up for small talk abroad, OLS is there—transforming your Erasmus adventure, one phrase at a time.
The Language Advantage
Even if your classes are in English, daily life, from grocery shopping to interacting with locals, happens in the native language. To be able to communicate in the local language helps you in connecting with people outside of your fellow international students. For you, this can lead to more meaningful friendships, much deeper understanding of the culture, and more authentic and less isolated experience. It also makes you more independent and confident.
How Erasmus+ Supports Language Learning
The Erasmus+ program is aware of this need and offers resources to help the students. A key tool is their Online Language Support (OLS). Before you even leave, you can take a language assessment to determine your level in the host country’s language. Based on your results, you’ll get access to online language courses to help you improve. This allows you to get a head start on your language skills before you arrive.
Some of the host universities will also offer intensive language courses to their Erasmus students at the beginning of the semester, and these courses are a fantastic way to meet other international students while learning. Even if the fluency isn’t a requirement for every program, making an effort to learn the language of your host country will enrich your experience and give you a valuable skill for life.
About OLS Students
The OLS is provided by the European Commission. It’s specifically for students and trainees participating in the Erasmus+ and European Solidarity Corps programs. This is how it works:
1. Linguistic Assessment:
Before your mobility period begins, you’ll take a mandatory online language assessment in the main language of your host country. This test is not pass/fail; it’s designed to measure your current language proficiency level, from A1 (Beginner) to C2 (Proficient), based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
2. Free Language Course:
Depending on the results of your assessment, you may be required to or have the option to take a free online language course. This course is interactive and includes activities to help you improve your vocabulary, grammar, and listening skills. It’s a great way to brush up on your skills, or learn the basics before you go.
3. Final Assessment:
At the end of your mobility period, you’ll take a second assessment to see how much you’ve improved.
The OLS is available for the majority of the official languages of the European Union, including Italian, Dutch, and Russian. While Russian isn’t an official EU language, it’s often included because of its prevalence in some Erasmus+ partner countries.
Language Requirements by Country
The specific language requirements for your Erasmus program will depend on the host university you choose, not just the country. Many universities in non-English speaking countries will offer courses taught in English, but some may still require you to demonstrate a certain level of proficiency in the local language, especially for the programs focused on humanities or social sciences. It’s a good idea to check the specific requirements on the host university’s website. Generally, a B2 level (Upper-Intermediate) in the language of instruction is a common requirement, but this can vary. Some institutions may only require a B1, while others might accept a lower level if they have dedicated language support programs.
Highlights of the program
1. Rapid Growth in Participation
As of December 2022, the redesigned OLS had already welcomed over 65,000 participants, with nearly 150,000 language assessments taken—underscoring its strong uptake among Erasmus + and European Solidarity Corps users . By June 2023, that number had surged to over 104,000 users in the OLS core area and 31,000+ members in the open-access community. In July 2023, the platform celebrated having 100,000 members in its core area and 30,000 in its open area .
2. Language & Community Reach
OLS supports 29 languages—covering all 24 official EU languages, plus Icelandic, Macedonian, Norwegian, Serbian, and Turkish (Erasmus+, European School Education Platform). Participants actively engage through language communities, especially vibrant in English, Spanish, Italian, French, and German forums where average proficiency is around B2 .
3. Refugee Access & Integration
There’s a dedicated initiative that extends OLS support—including language assessments and courses—to 100,000 refugees over three years, backed by a €4 million budget (Publications Office of the EU, Migration and Home Affairs).
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