Frequently Asked Questions

Individuals cannot apply directly. Applications must be submitted by VET institutions (vocational education and training schools or colleges), who then select participants from their staff or students. Partner organisations can also host teachers or trainers for placements abroad.

The programme supports several mobility activities:

• Staff training placements: VET teachers and trainers gain professional experience at a partner institution abroad.
• Learnerships: VET students undertake practical work experience in another European country.
• Job shadowing: VET learners observe professionals working in their chosen field at a host organisation abroad.

VET institutions must be established in an Erasmus+ programme country and hold a valid Erasmus+ VET Mobility accreditation in order to apply for funding and submit mobility projects.

The programme supports mobility activities ranging from two weeks to twelve months for learners, and from two days to two months for staff, depending on the activity type and the agreement between the sending and receiving organisations. Tellus Spain typically hosts groups for periods of two to six weeks.

The programme provides grants to cover travel costs and a daily subsistence allowance for each participant. The exact amount depends on the sending country, the destination country, and the duration of stay. Your sending institution will be able to provide the figures applicable to your specific project.

Application deadlines vary depending on the specific call for proposals published each year. Check the official Erasmus+ website for the latest information, or contact your national agency directly.

Yes. Participants typically receive a Europass Mobility document, which officially records the skills and competences acquired during the placement. This is a recognised European document that can be added to a CV or portfolio. Tellus Spain assists both sending and receiving organisations with the preparation of this documentation.

Salamanca is one of Europe's oldest university cities and has been welcoming international students for centuries. It offers a vibrant student atmosphere, a safe and welcoming environment, stunning historic architecture — including a UNESCO World Heritage Old City — and a social scene that never sleeps. Its compact size makes everything easy to reach on foot.

• Immerse yourself in Spanish: Salamanca is renowned across Spain for its clear, standard Castilian Spanish — the ideal place to improve your language skills.
• Historic city centre: Explore iconic landmarks like the Plaza Mayor and the University of Salamanca, one of the oldest universities in the world.
• Lively social scene: Countless bars, cafés, and clubs, all with a young and international crowd.
• Affordable living: Compared to Madrid, Barcelona, or other major Spanish cities, Salamanca is significantly more budget-friendly.
• Great location: Easy access to nearby cities like Ávila and Segovia, and Portugal is just a couple of hours away.

Salamanca has a continental Mediterranean climate: hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly above 35 °C, and cool winters that can dip close to freezing. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant. Pack layers for the evenings, even in summer, as temperatures can drop noticeably after dark.

Yes — Salamanca is consistently regarded as one of the safest cities in Spain. Its relatively small size, large student population, and active street life create a relaxed and secure environment. As with any city, standard precautions apply, especially at night in busy areas.

Salamanca is steeped in culture. You can explore centuries-old cathedrals, attend local festivals and traditional markets, and discover the famous tapas culture — where many bars serve a free tapa with every drink. The city hosts events throughout the year, from flamenco performances to international film screenings, and the student community ensures there is always something happening.

Basic Spanish is helpful but not essential. Salamanca has a large international student community, and many people — especially in hospitality and commerce — speak some English. That said, even a few words of Spanish go a long way and will be greatly appreciated by locals. Your stay will be the perfect opportunity to learn or improve your Spanish in a natural, immersive setting.

Tellus Spain offers a range of housing options to suit different needs and budgets:

• Homestay: Live with a Spanish host family — ideal for language immersion and a more personal experience.
• Shared apartments: Independent living with other students, offering more freedom.
• Student residences: Purpose-built facilities with communal spaces and on-site support.
• Hotels: Available for shorter stays or specific group requirements.

We recommend contacting us as early as possible to secure the best options, as availability can be limited during peak periods.

While the grant covers travel and a daily subsistence allowance, participants typically budget separately for personal expenses such as leisure activities, eating out, local transport, mobile phone costs, and any excursions. Salamanca is affordable by European standards: a meal at a local restaurant costs around €8–12, and a monthly bus pass is under €20.

Tellus Spain acts as the receiving organisation and provides end-to-end support throughout the mobility. This includes coordinating accommodation, organising orientation activities, facilitating placements with local companies and institutions, providing on-the-ground assistance during the stay, and helping with the preparation of all required documentation — including learning agreements and Europass Mobility certificates.

• Develop new technical and professional skills relevant to your field.
• Gain real international work experience and boost your employability.
• Improve your communication and intercultural understanding.
• Build a professional network across Europe.
• Grow in confidence and independence through living abroad.
• Receive an officially recognised Europass Mobility document.

Absolutely. Employers across Europe consistently value international experience. The combination of practical skills gained during the placement, proven adaptability, and language competence makes candidates stand out. Many alumni of Erasmus+ programmes report that the experience was a turning point in their professional lives — opening doors to opportunities they would not otherwise have had access to.

Yes. Staff mobility is a core part of the Erasmus+ VET programme. Teachers and trainers who take part in job shadowing or training placements at partner institutions gain fresh methodological approaches, broaden their professional networks, and bring new perspectives back to their home institutions — benefiting their entire school community, not just themselves.