Regional Pathways to Internationalization: The Role of Erasmus+ in European HEIs

This study examines the geographic distribution of Erasmus+ incoming student mobility across European Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) from 2014 to 2020, highlighting significant regional disparities. It addresses the crucial questions of how regional and institutional factors influence student attractiveness and the emerging hotspots of mobility, which are vital for understanding the dynamics of educational internationalisation and regional development. The primary goal of this work is to identify the regional and institutional determinants of Erasmus student mobility and to propose strategies for enhancing the attractiveness of less favoured regions. Employing hotspot analysis and a two-level random intercept model, this research analyses spatial patterns and the influences of regional characteristics and institutional variables on Erasmus mobility rates. The findings reveal that while Spain, Germany, and the UK are leading recipients of Erasmus students, significant mobility hotspots exist primarily in Spain, Portugal, and southern France, with unexpected clusters emerging in Ireland and Sweden, indicating evolving dynamics in student mobility patterns. The conclusions underscore the importance of targeted regional policies to enhance HEI attractiveness and promote balanced internationalisation across Europe, particularly in underserved areas. These findings call for strategic interventions that align with broader regional economic goals, ensuring that the benefits of the Erasmus+ programme are distributed more equitably. Ultimately, this work contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing empirical insights into the factors shaping Erasmus+ mobility, informing policymakers and educational institutions about the potential for fostering regional development through enhanced internationalisation.