Against the backdrop of the world’s preeminent study abroad programme, namely Erasmus+, this special issue presents a number of studies which reflect important areas for Erasmus+ participants and researchers. In doing so, the articles highlight a number of emerging key thematic areas in contemporary European research on study abroad, with a particular focus on language development and retention (Magliacane; Hessel); formation of social networks and friendships (Baten); and intercultural guidance during and post sojourn (Moreno Bruna & Goethals and Holfter & Rieder). It does so across a range of languages and geographical contexts including Ireland, Belgium, Germany, Spain and Italy.

In the introduction to the special issue, we offer a short overview of the Erasmus programme in the context of international student mobility.  While international student mobility has experienced bigger growth than any other type of global mobility / migration, Erasmus+ is the largest global facilitator and provider of transnational student experiences. Moreover, it is a programme created by a supranational legal, social, political and economic union where the intention of mobility is motivated to bring economic and social benefits to both the European Union and individual citizens across member states. Although the reach of Erasmus+ may seem bounded politically and geographically, it nevertheless plays a significant role within a larger global landscape of student mobility. Against this backdrop, this special issue seeks to highlight recent research directions and findings.