Within the + 2021-2027 Erasmus programme, Key Action 1 has been renewed with the introduction of the so-called Blended Intensive Programme, abbreviated as BIP.
A BIP involves short periods of in-person activities combined with online learning and cooperation activities, in which joint groups of students, lecturers, and administrative staff from different countries can participate to collaborate on specific activities collectively and simultaneously. It can arise from an existing programme that is renewed in its delivery methods, or it can be completely new, focused on specific topics not covered elsewhere. The innovative BIP formula is designed to develop transnational and transdisciplinary curricula, innovative teaching and learning methods, including online collaboration, as well as to promote research-based learning through a challenge-based approach that is strongly connected to the current context.
A BIP must be designed and implemented by at least 3 higher education institutions holding an ECHE (Erasmus Charter for Higher Education) from at least 3 countries of the Programme.
In a BIP, the virtual component does not have a minimum duration but is mandatory. Combined with physical mobility – lasting between 5 and 30 days – it must ensure the achievement of at least 3 ECTS credits upon completion of the programme.
A BIP should not include any registration fee for participants.
There is no maximum number of participants, but the minimum number of participants in a BIP for the physical mobility component is 15 Erasmus+ mobility students from higher education institutions who collaborate in organising the BIP. Participants from other higher education institutions in Erasmus+ programme countries are also admitted, as well as participants from higher education institutions in Erasmus+ programme partner countries. However, these latter two categories of participants do not count towards the minimum number of 15 in-person participants.
