Abstract

The article profiles Italian university graduates according to their experience of study periods in foreign countries (through the Erasmus programme promoted by the European Union or other initiatives). The analysis is based on information drawn from the AlmaLaurea data base. Findings show that parents' social class and educational level, as well as type of studies undertaken, significantly influence the chances of studying abroad. Moreover, Erasmus graduates have more success in their university studies, make greater use of university structures and resources, are more critical of their domestic study experiences, and are more willing to resort to residential mobility for work reasons. Graduates who have studied abroad do not, however, seem to enjoy any advantages in terms of occupational status, at least not in the short term.