THE Westminster Government is under pressure to guarantee the future of a European student exchange programme in the wake of the Brexit vote.
The Scottish Liberal Democrats said ministers should continue to guarantee access to the Erasmus programme even after the UK leaves the European Union.
New figures show between 2011 and 2016 Scottish universities received over £25 million in funding as a result of taking part in the programme.
Students choosing to come to Scotland for part of their studies under the Erasmus programme have outnumbered those leaving Scotland to experience university life elsewhere in the EU - with more than 13,000 EU students choosing Scottish institutions in the last five years. Estimates suggest EU students contribute £84m to the Scottish economy in off-campus spending.
Tavish Scott, education spokesman for the Scottish Liberal Democrats, said: "The Erasmus programme is a fantastic initiative which opens up the world for universities and students alike.
"The option to study in a different country has given thousands of Scottish students a richer student experience. Losing access would be a step backwards for higher education.
“Scottish universities are facing a multi-million pound black hole if they lose access to the Erasmus programme and the UK government must make a commitment to protect this scheme."
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