INFORMATIVE PACKAGE FOR EU4EU DEPARTING TRAINEES

Congratulations! 🎉

You’re about to embark on an Erasmus+ – EU4EU Traineeship experience — a journey that will help you grow, discover, and learn.
The EU4EU Team and National Coordinators will be by your side every step of the way — from preparing your departure to completing your experience abroad.

In this guide, you’ll find all the practical information and useful tips to make the most of your mobility period, whether you are receiving a grant or participating under the zero grant option.

Ready to go? ✈️

1️⃣ Before Departure

1) TEST YOUR LANGUAGE SKILLS 

Before your internship begins, it is strongly recommended that you complete the OLS (Online Language Support) test on the EU Academy platform.
It is free, easy to access, and an excellent way to assess your language level and improve it through the courses available for all European languages offered on the platform, both in English and in the language of your host country.

 

How to do it:

  1. Create an EU Login account
  2. Log in to EU Academy
  3. Search for “placement test”
  4. Take the test in the language of your internship

2) INSURANCE AND COVERAGE: TRAVEL SAFELY

Before you leave, make sure you are fully covered for healthcare, accidents, and civil liability during your stay abroad.

 

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
Always take it with you! The EHIC allows you to access public healthcare services in EU countries (as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland) under the same conditions as local citizens.

 

Please note:

  • The EHIC does not replace private travel insurance
  • It does not cover private care
  • It is issued free of charge by your national health authority

 

For extra peace of mind, you may also consider additional private health coverage, especially if the healthcare system in your destination country differs from your own.

 

Accident and liability insurance
All EU4EU trainees must be covered for accidents and third-party liability during the internship period.
Students enrolled in Italian, French, or Portuguese universities are automatically covered through their university’s institutional insurance, extended to the entire internship period abroad.
The details and policies are published on each university’s official website.


Please note: university insurance only covers internship-related activities and does not include clinical or medical practice.

3) FINDING ACCOMODATION

Securing accommodation abroad can be challenging, but with some patience and the right tools, you’ll find your place.

Useful resources:

  • EU4EU Housing Network – a map with verified contacts shared by former trainees across Europe. Contact us to receive details for your destination.
  • Accommodation Tips – practical advice from the EuGen team.
  • Best Student Accommodation Websites – explore portals dedicated to student housing in Europe.
  • Ask your Host Organization for suggestions: they often have trusted real estate partners or housing contacts.
  • Be careful of scams — read the guidance from HousingAnywhere.
  • Check Erasmus or expat Facebook groups for your destination city.

2️⃣ Arrival and Start of the Internship

Welcome to your new adventure!
Now begins the most exciting part — meeting people, learning on the job, and immersing yourself in a new environment.

Before you settle in, remember these two essential steps:

  • Letter of Arrival
    On your first day, upload the “Letter of Arrival” signed by your tutor or contact person at the Host Organization to the EU4EU Portal.
    The first installment of your grant will be arranged once this document is uploaded, usually within 30 days.
  • Entry Survey
    If you encounter any initial difficulties during your first weeks (e.g. in the workplace, accommodation, or adaptation), you can complete the Entry Survey.
    This will allow EuGen to provide tailored support if needed.

3️⃣ During Your Internship

Live the city, not just the internship

Living abroad is more than just working in a new environment — it’s a chance to grow, embrace new perspectives, and build meaningful connections.
Explore your surroundings, get involved in local life, and make every encounter a learning experience.

Useful resources to stay connected with the Erasmus community:

  • European Student Card (ESC) – is your digital pass to be recognized as a student across Europe. Check if your home university participates in the initiative: if it does, you can request the card through the online portal or the International Office. It can be digital or integrated into your existing student card. With the ESC, accessing libraries, cafeterias, and other university services becomes easier and faster, reducing bureaucracy and making your Erasmus+ experience smooth, digital, and hassle-free.
  • Erasmus App – the official app guiding you through all stages of your mobility.
  • Erasmus Student Network (ESN) – Europe’s largest student volunteer association, welcoming and supporting exchange students across 40+ countries.
     Find the ESN section in your destination country: https://www.esn.org/sections

 

Travel and discover more of Europe:

  • Interrail Pass for Erasmus+ – The Pass allows you to travel flexibly across Europe by train, choosing between two options — 4 or 6 travel days within a six-month period — at a discounted price reserved exclusively for Erasmus+ students.
    It’s a great opportunity to discover Europe sustainably, connect with other young travelers, and make the most of your mobility experience.

4️⃣ Professional Growth and Continuous Learning

Your internship is a valuable opportunity to apply your knowledge, develop new soft skills, and shape your professional direction.
Ask questions, observe, participate, and stay curious — these are the best ways to grow both personally and professionally.

Throughout and beyond your internship, you can continue to learn, grow, and stay connected to the European network through:

  • Salto- Youth – a network of European resource centers offering training, tools, and networking for young people and youth workers.
  • European Youth Portal – a platform sharing opportunities, initiatives, and projects for young Europeans who want to study, train, or work abroad.

Good luck with your EU4EU experience ✨

Your internship is part of a broader exchange of knowledge, culture, and ideas that connects Europe.
Make the most of it — build relationships, share what you learn, and contribute to the vibrant community of young Europeans shaping our common future.