Representatives from 13 European Union Member States presented study opportunities in their countries during the European Higher Education Fair (EHEF) 2026 press conference held on October 28, 2026, at the Yuchengco Museum in Makati City.
EHEF 2026 will bring together more than 70 universities, embassies and education partners. This year’s fair will feature representatives from Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Romania, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.
In her opening remarks, Agata Nowicka, Deputy Head of Mission of the Delegation of the European Union to the Philippines, highlighted how studying abroad can contribute to closer international cooperation.
“When students learn in another country, they gain more than academic knowledge. They encounter new ideas, experience different cultures, and develop an understanding that can strengthen cooperation long after their studies have ended,” she said.
The new EU–Philippines Enhanced Partnership, launched on July 24, 2026, builds on existing education cooperation, with a commitment to student and staff exchanges and closer links between European and Philippine universities.
Between 2021 and 2025, 364 Filipinos received Erasmus Mundus scholarships to pursue joint master’s programmes at European universities. In 2026, another 85 Filipino students were accepted into the Erasmus+ programme.
Filipino alumni Jan Carlo Castro and Jessica Isabelle Badua, both EHEF Goodwill Ambassadors, also shared their experiences of studying in Europe. Castro recounted studying in Portugal, Ireland, Poland and Austria, and spending time in the Netherlands during his internship.
“The thing about Erasmus is that at the end of it, you’re never the same afterward,” he said.
Visitors to EHEF can speak with representatives about postgraduate programmes, admission requirements, tuition fees, scholarships and life in Europe. The fair will also feature EU-supported education and research initiatives, including 28DIGITAL Master School, Erasmus+ and EURAXESS.
Under the theme “EU: Pathways to Excellence. Building the Future,” the fair will take place on November 20-21 at the Midtown Atrium of Robinsons Manila, followed by online sessions on November 23-25.
The press conference served as a platform to introduce the participating countries and outline the opportunities available to Filipino students interested in pursuing higher education in Europe. Officials emphasised the value of international academic exposure in fostering long-term cooperation between the Philippines and the European Union.
Students and parents attending the fair will have the chance to gather detailed information directly from university and embassy representatives. Discussions are expected to cover a wide range of postgraduate options, practical aspects of living and studying in Europe, and available financial support through scholarships and exchange programmes.
The inclusion of both physical and online components aims to make the fair accessible to a broader audience across the Philippines. The in-person event at Robinsons Manila on November 20 and 21 will allow face-to-face interactions, while the subsequent online sessions from November 23 to 25 will extend reach to those unable to attend in person.
EHEF continues to serve as a key platform connecting Filipino students with European higher education institutions. The participation of 13 EU Member States this year reflects sustained interest in strengthening educational ties under the recently launched Enhanced Partnership.
Alumni experiences shared during the press conference underscored the transformative impact of studying in multiple European countries through programmes such as Erasmus. Participants noted personal and professional growth resulting from exposure to diverse academic environments and cultures.
Organisers highlighted that the fair will provide comprehensive guidance on application processes, programme structures and support systems available to international students. Representatives will also discuss research collaboration opportunities and career pathways that can follow European study programmes.
Also Read: EHEF 2025 Attracts Thousands Of Filipino Students And Educators
The event builds on previous editions by expanding the number of participating institutions and reinforcing the focus on excellence and future-oriented education pathways. With more than 70 universities, embassies and partners expected, EHEF 2026 is positioned as a major gathering for those exploring international academic options.
Prospective students are encouraged to prepare questions regarding specific fields of study, scholarship eligibility and living costs in the participating countries. The presence of goodwill ambassadors who have completed European programmes offers attendees practical insights drawn from first-hand experience.
Overall, the press conference set the stage for the upcoming fair by outlining the scale of participation, the range of opportunities and the broader framework of EU-Philippines educational cooperation. The combination of in-person and digital sessions is intended to maximise access for interested Filipino students nationwide.
