Canary Islands Government Announces Travel Subsidy Fund for Students

Overview

The Canary Islands government has announced a €700,000 fund to support university students with travel expenses for the 2024/2025 academic year.

Objectives

• To help students from the archipelago who need to move between islands or travel to mainland Spain and Europe for higher education.
• To address the limitations or unavailability of local university offerings.

Targeted Group

• Students in non-capital islands, facing high transportation costs and limited local university options.

Funding Details

• The scheme covers air and sea travel.
• Subsidies vary based on the student's island of residence:
  • Ranging from 120 to 240 euros depending on location.
• Students participating in Erasmus or other exchange programs can receive up to 360 euros.

Application Process

• Applications must be submitted electronically within one month of the announcement.
• Required documentation includes:
  • Proof of enrollment.
  • Travel bookings.

Program Rules and Accountability

• Emphasizes transparency and accountability.
• Clear rules on funding disbursement, documentation, and possible reimbursement if conditions are not met.

Broader Context

"This move highlights the government’s effort to address insular inequalities, making higher education more accessible for students in the Canary Islands."

• The initiative aligns with broader EU policies supporting peripheral regions.
• It aims to overcome geographic and economic challenges, ensuring more equitable access to university studies across the archipelago.