The European Union is offering 35,000 train tickets to young people through its DiscoverEU initiative. This program, which is part of the Erasmus program, aims to promote cultural connections throughout the European Union region. It provides the opportunity for 18-year-olds to explore Europe’s heritage, meet people from different regions, and learn about different cultures.
To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must be 18 years old on July 1, 2023, meaning that they were born between July 1, 2004, and June 30, 2005. Applicants must be legal residents of the 27 EU member states or overseas countries such as Iceland, Liechtenstein, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, and Turkey.
Applications opened on March 15, and the deadline for submission is March 29 at noon. Selected candidates will receive an email notification after the end of the selection period in May.
The rail passes will be valid for up to one month between June 15, 2023, and September 30, 2024. Applicants can choose to travel alone or with up to five friends, and the pass can only be used within the country of residence for one outward and one return journey, including travel to another eligible country.
The program also offers the possibility of using coach and ferry passes, with flights being granted in exceptional cases. The most sustainable option will always be favoured.
Selected candidates will receive a European Youth Card (EYCA) valid for one year, which offers discounts on various visits, cultural activities, learning, nature, sports, accommodation, and food throughout the EU.
With the free pass, the winner agrees to become a “DiscoverEU Ambassador” and report their travel experiences through social media or school and community presentations. Young travelers will also have to answer an online survey after participating in the program.
France and Germany will soon allow their citizens under 27 years of age to apply for free train tickets between the two countries, while Spanish citizens and tourists can benefit from a free train travel plan until December 2023.
Overall, DiscoverEU initiative provides an excellent opportunity for young people to explore Europe and to learn about different cultures while promoting cultural connections throughout the region.