BIPs in a nutshell:
The framework of Blended Intensive Programme explained
partners
minimum workload
physical component
participants minimum
Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programmes (BIPs) can be organized for all study
cycles (first/second/third cycle) and can be embedded in a curriculum or offered separately as
a specific program. BIPs are short, intensive programmes that use innovative ways of learning and teaching, including online cooperation. At least 3 universities (from three different countries) are involved in the development and implementation of the programme. Their structure and organization can be similar to the ones of Summer Schools but have to meet certain Erasmus+ requirements.
Students complete a short physical (group) mobility, which is supplemented by a virtual component (before and/or after the physical component). The virtual component must bring the learners together online to work collectively and simultaneously on specific assignments that are an integral part of the BIP and count towards the overall learning outcomes. Both parts - physical and virtual - are compulsory. The physical mobility can last from five to 30 days; the duration of the virtual phase is not limited and should allow for teamwork and interaction among students and are not designed to be traditional online lectures. Students must receive at least 3 ECTS from the host university at the end of the BIP (including the virtual phase).
At least three universities - the so-called consortium - participate in the creation and organization of the BIP. In addition, other universities that are not part of Unite! but are from other Erasmus+ programme countries can be involved. For a BIP to take place, a total of at least 10 participants (student and staff mobility for training) from all sending universities must participate (Erasmus+ Call 2024 onwards). Students and staff of the university that actually hosts the BIP do not count towards the minimum number of participants. If the BIP falls below the minimum number of participants by 10%, the programme itself is no longer eligible for funding by Erasmus+.
The coordinating university receives min. 4 000 Euro (for 10 participants) and max. 8 000 Euro (for 20 participants) for conducting the Blended Intensive Programme. The number of participants excludes participants from the coordinating university.
Students participating in a BIP can
apply for financial funding at their home university (Erasmus+ Short-Term
Mobility). However, please keep in mind that funding cannot be always
guaranteed by the home universities and can be limited to a certain number of
days only. Students are advised to always
reach out to their home university first to clarify if funding is available
before applying.
Staff from partner universities participating in the BIP can apply for Erasmus+ grants (STA/STT) to finance the trip to the host university for the physical component of the programme.
Once a Blended Intensive Programme has been established and was conducted successfully, it can take place again in the years to come.
If you are thinking about organizing/hosting a BIP or sending students to one, always involve your local BIP coordinators.
Why you should consider BIPs as a viable option
Three good reasons why
INnovation
BIP courses are predestined to deal with complex social issues, as they transcend borders, disciplines, and institutions. BIPs bear the opportunity for transdisciplinary and innovative learning-techniques including online collaboration, research-based learning and challenge-based approaches. In a BIP, transnational and transdisciplinary teams can work together to tackle challenges.
INclusion
One of the goals of the European Commission is to make the Erasmus+ Programme more inclusive for all students. By enabling new and more flexible mobility formats that combine physical mobility with a virtual part, BIPs aim at reaching all types of students from all backgrounds, study fields and cycles. BIPs are supposed to provide opportunities for students and staff that cannot go abroad for long-term mobility.
INterconnection
With their flexible structure, BIPs can facilitate collaboration with international partners, businesses, organisations, and local authorities. They can also provide a framework for mobility in highly regulated fields which are traditionally underrepresented in internationalisation due to strict national laws and mandatory curricula that complicate mobility.
(retrieved from the Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programmes Basic Toolkit of the Austrian National Agency )
Requirements summarized
Meet these requirements to become eligible!
3+ Partners
At least three Unite! partner universities need to organize the BIP together in the consortium. More Erasmus+ partners can be added.
Physical and Virtual Component
Mandatory
combination of physical mobility with joint virtual learning components (before
and/or after the physical mobility phase) .
Physical Mobility: 5 - 30 Days
The physical component needs to last at least 5 days and no longer than 30 days (excluding travel days).
Minimum of 10 Participants
From Erasmus+ Call 2024 onwards, a minimum of 10 participants (visiting students and staff) must be achieved.
High quality and interdisciplinary
Blended Intensive Programmes aim to add value to already existing learning content
Award of 3 ECTS
The host university awards at least 3 ECTS for the BIP and issues a Transcript of Records. Recognition for students at the home institution must be guaranteed.
Free of charge
Blended Intensive Programmes must be free of charge. However, the host university can charge for additional services (e.g. accommodation).
Learn more about Blended Intensive Programmes
Roles and Responsibilities
Partners in the BIP consortium need to carry out certain roles and responsibilities.