Erasmus+ Digitalisation
![[Translate to English:] Erasmus+ Claim](/fileadmin/_processed_/b/3/csm_Erasmus_Logo_Claim_0bb76fa09d.png){kind=logo}
Digitalisation is one of the four key priorities of the current Erasmus+ programme generation. Through the European Student Card Initiative (ESCI), the European Commission aims to simplify and digitalise the administrative processes associated with international student mobility. As a pioneer in the digitalisation of the Erasmus+ programme, the Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt (KU) is actively implementing this priority through the comprehensive digitalisation of its mobility and recognition procedures.
European Student Card Initiative (ESCI) and Erasmus Without Paper (EWP)
A key component of the European Student Card Initiative is the Erasmus Without Paper (EWP) network. It enables European higher education institutions to electronically exchange Erasmus+ inter-institutional agreements, student data for students selected to participate in Erasmus+ (nominations), and digital Learning Agreements directly between their administrative systems.
The KU was an early adopter of ESCI and EWP and has actively promoted their implementation. In digitalising its Erasmus+ processes, the university goes well beyond the European minimum requirements.
Completely digitalised grade recognition
![[Translate to English:] KU Digital](/fileadmin/_processed_/d/f/csm_55245-2_eee7dc7ae0.webp)
One of the KU's distinctive features is the complete digitalisation of the process for pre-approving and recognising academic credits earned abroad. While many higher education institutions limit the digitalisation of Learning Agreements to their preparation, approval and exchange, KU has also fully digitalised and interconnected its internal procedures and the IT systems involved.
The entire process is fully digital and seamless – from selecting the courses at the KU to be replaced by courses taken abroad, through academic assessment and approval, to the exchange of the Learning Agreement via the EWP network. The final recognition and recording of academic credits earned abroad are also fully integrated into this digital process.
Previously recognised modules are stored in a transparent and accessible "whitelist" for three years. During this period, other students enrolled in the same degree programme who wish to take the same module at the same partner university receive automatic approval without the need for another academic assessment.
As a result, the KU has the most extensively digitalised Learning Agreement and recognition process of any German university. Students benefit from transparent procedures, reduced bureaucracy and greater certainty regarding the recognition of their academic achievements abroad.
Recognition as German ESCI Champion 2025-2027
![[Translate to English:] ESCI Champions Badge](/fileadmin/_processed_/6/9/csm_ESCI_Champion_badge_EWP_01v_400-2_ac145e1112.webp){kind=icon}
In recognition of its pioneering role in implementing the European Student Card Initiative, the KU was designated Germany's “ESCI Champion” by the European Commission in 2025. Only one higher education institution was selected from each participating country, making the KU the only German university to receive this distinction.
As an ESCI Champion, the KU advocates for efficient and practical administrative procedures within the Erasmus+ programme in its dialogue with the European Commission, while representing the interests of German higher education institutions. At the same time, the KU contributes its experience and expertise directly to the further development of the Erasmus+ programme and the design of future digital procedures.
The award highlights the KU's pioneering role in the digitalisation of European higher education cooperation and its active contribution to the development of a digitally interconnected European Higher Education Area.
