The Erasmus Without Paper (EWP) initiative is coordinated through a community‑driven governance structure involving stakeholders across Europe. Following recent discussions within this structure, the European Commission will roll out a major update of the inter‑institutional agreement (IIA) API—version 7—in 2024.
Aligning IIAs with Updated Erasmus+ Standards
This new release aligns the EWP Network with the updated Erasmus+ IIA template and introduces additional functions and technical refinements. The changes aim to improve data consistency, enhance interoperability and make the system easier for institutional users. Among the improvements, institutions will be able to modify or terminate agreements in a standardised way and delete unapproved drafts, reducing outdated or confusing records. Some data fields have been made more flexible, while others—such as the use of 4‑digit ISCED codes, language requirements and participant numbers—are now required to ensure uniformity across institutions.
What Changes for Institutions During the Transition
Testing with system developers began in late 2023 and continues into spring 2024, with the update expected to be available to all users in April. Existing mutually approved agreements remain valid, and only agreements initiated or modified after the update will need to meet the new standards. Draft agreements already following the updated format will not require extra action. If a partner institution has not yet implemented the update, it will not be able to create new IIAs until its system is upgraded, though existing agreements remain unaffected.
Guidance and Support for Implementation
A comprehensive, non‑technical EWP User Guide will accompany the rollout to support institutions with the updated workflow and data fields. Users needing assistance after the update can contact the ESCI Service Desk for guidance.
For more details see: https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/news/updating-the-inter-institutional-agreement-ewp-api-version-7