How to apply to mobilities?
How do we select participants?
It depends on the certain project, and each project is unique, but generally, we need to get to know our future participants a little bit before sending them to represent our organisation and Hungary. The application form can be challenging if you are very excited to take part on a project, so we share some advices about how do we see it from the "other side".
MOTIVATION - if your motivation is to "travel and have fun", you have the possibility to go on holidays. The learning mobility projects require more of you than just your presence. Be enthusiastic about the topic (the best is if you have prior knowledge or you study in the field), be aware of what you can give to others, and be ready to put some effort, share your knowledge, be proactive during the project!
ERASMUS EXPERIENCE - we are interested about your experience because in some cases (especially on trainings) ideally you have already participated in Erasmus+ projects, so the trainer and organisers don't have to pay special attention to everybody. We try to choose less and more experienced participants as well, who can help each other during the project. However, in some cases, especially in youth exchanges being unexperienced in Erasmus+ can be your greatest advantage too.
ENGLISH KNOWLEDGE - let's be honest: if you go to a project with very poor English knowledge, you can't really contribute to the project, neither can take advantage from it. Of course you don't have to be fluent, but be able to express yourself, talk with others and understand the trainer/facilitator, otherwise it can be uncomfortable for everybody else, and for you too. However, don't underestimate your knowledge, if you are able to talk about yourself and have general conversations, it is usually enough.
YOUR CONTRIBUTION - it's very important to actively participate in a project; that's why you attend it. Your contribution can be games you can show, you can also be socially active thus encouraging everybody else, you can have some dance moves in your mind, bring something unique, know about the area where you stay at and suggest places to go, arrange some meditation sessions... it's all about connecting with others! Share your ideas in the application, so we can see how amazing participant you will be :)
Selection process
We publish the open call with a detailed infopack and application information in our Facebook group first, then other Facebook groups too. To be among the first to know about newly announced projects, join our group and subscribe to every notifications.
Download and read the infopack. These documents may seem very similar to each other, but be careful, there are important information in it about the programme schedule, travel conditions, accommodation and your tasks and responsibilities. During the application, you have to confirm that you have read and understand everything so it's worth your time and energy!
Write the application - it is usually an online form, most of our hosting partners do not ask for CV and motivational letter. (If so, you must also upload them into the form. Please do not send us extra unrequested documents, they are not an advantage!) Be honest, concise, or even creative - suprise us :) And don't forget: we don't judge, we want the best out of you!
Wait until the application deadline and 4-6 days more before you ask us about the selection results. During these days, we evaluate the applications (yes, we read all of them) and two colleagues decide by consensus on the final participants. The order of application doesn't matter, we do not decide on first come-first served base! See above what really matters :)
If you are among the lucky chosen ones, you will receive an email from us within 1 week after the application deadline. We will ask you to confirm your participation as soon as possible - don't wait too long with the answer! If you do not receive an email, you are probably on the waiting list until every selected participant confirms their participation. The result will be communicated eventually, and not all projects are the same, please be patient!
Better to avoid...
Asking unnecessary questions. Asking is okay of course but before, please read the infopack carefully, maybe the information you need is already in it. The ideal participant is attentive and inventive!
Too much communication. Please respect our time and do not write emails and messages to us on every channel, especially avoid our project managers' private accounts if they do not initiate a conversation with you. If you are really motivated and committed, honour us by following our rules and following the application steps.
Stepping back for trivial reasons. If you feel sick, an unforeseen obligation has arisen or you have other good reason, please let us know as soon as you can. Otherwise try to tailor your plans and only apply for projects for which you are sure their dates are suitable for you.
Communicating accountably after an unsuccessful application. Our selection process is public and transparent. We try to provide opportunity for everybody who wants to participate but you may have to wait a bit. If you would like to improve your next application, we can help you!
Good to know...
Although we encourage you to meet new people and make new friendships, applying together with your friends is not a disadvantage. Write it in the comment box, we will try to take such requests into account!
We generally do not recommend to apply for more than one project at the same time. If you can choose one, we can see that you are really committed. But we know that sometimes there are too many great opportunities and interesting topics, so it is not a problem. In this case, in the comment box please write us which is the other project you are applying for and which one would you prefer to go to!