What is the “ESCI Champions” initiative?
The ESCI Champions initiative expands on the “Erasmus Without Paper Champions” initiative and aims to recognize:
- Higher Education Institutions that have demonstrated significant progress in adopting the building blocks of the European Student Card Initiative (ESCI).
- Other organizations, such as National Authorities, student unions, and third-party processors, that issue the European Student Card in line with the terms and conditions set by the EU.
Which organisations are eligible and for which categories;
Higher education institutions holding an Erasmus Charter for Higher Education (ECHE) can become ESCI Champions in one of three categories:
- ESCI Champion in the implementation of the Erasmus Without Paper (EWP)
- ESCI Champion in the implementation of the European Student Card (ESC)
- ESCI Champions of excellence (for organisations who demonstrate successful implementation of both EWP and ESC)
Other higher education institutions and organisations that issue European Student Cards are eligible to participate in the ESC category only.
How many ESCI Champions can be appointed per country?
- Per country, only one institution or organisation can be appointed as an ESCI Champion, within one of the three available categories.
What is the role of the ESCI Champions?
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The selected ESCI Champions are appointed for a period of two years. During this time, they benefit from increased visibility and access to promotional and communication materials to support the dissemination of the ESCI initiative in their country. They also participate in various consultation activities.
ESCI Champions are required to take part in ESCI meetings, national events, and a range of outreach activities, including the sharing of testimonials and best practices.
The European Commission launched (03/04/2025) a Call for Interest for HEIs and other organisations interested in being recognised as «ESCI Champions for the period 2025–2027». The basic timeline of the Call is presented below:
- Expression of interest by organisations: Until 16 May 2025
- Evaluation by Digital Officers: 17–29 May 2025
- Nomination of 3 ESCI Champions (in all, part, or one category): 30 May 2025
- Evaluation by DG EAC in collaboration with Digital Officers: 31 May – mid-June 2025
- Selection of one ESCI Champion (in one category) per country: Mid-June 2025
- All applicants informed of the call results: Mid-June 2025
- Introductory webinar for new ESCI Champions: End of June 2025
- Kick-off meeting (in-person) – Gothenburg, Sweden: 9 September 2025
