Erasmus Experience in Ghent, Belgium by Temple

Why did you choose to go to Ghent, Belgium?

Ghent is a cool city that combines ancient charm and modern amenities. It looks so quiet, although the heavy presence of both international and local students. The University of Ghent is a multi-faculty university, with each faculty located in different areas. Lectures are of international standard. Most often, you get other international professors and renowned figures giving lectures either being physically present in Ghent or through video conferences. Through this means, you get direct insight of contemporary issues... you get answers to who, why and how global decisions are made.

The school education\learning website is super. You can have access to various educational software and world class publications at a click away.... all for free. It is interesting that often times students are invited to give their own point of view on how the school could improve. What else to say... You can enjoy more freedom, studying at your pace, professors are kind and understanding... then your colleagues are from all over the world. You have the opportunity to develop a permanent network of friends from all works of life. Studying in Ghent is like having a two year meeting in the UN. I can't forget to even mention that locals are lovely, helpful and smiling. You can't be lonely.

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How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

The scholarship lasts for 2 years... through out the official duration of master programme. Most eramsus scholarships range from 1, 000 to 1, 200 euros per month. And this money is generally sufficient for an average student. Erasmus scholars are often advised to earn at least a moderate result to maintain their scholarship for the next academic year. Some students get into trouble when their first year results are not up to expectations. But you don't need to be scared... you will continue your programme but at a subsidized tuition fee.

What is the student lifestyle like in Ghent?

Ghent is surrounded with various ancient structures and other monuments. Most 20th century churches are located in the city center. Transport for students is mostly by bicycle (Bike). Buying a bicycle is cheap but most students prefer to hire.. which is even cheaper.

Ghent is made for those who have a very conservative life-style as well as those who are seeking for fun. There are student parties organized mostly Wednesday and Thursday at clubs.... for those with active life-style.

The university also have great sport facilities, where all manner of sports are organized. Good to know that the city of Ghent also house a big stadium. The local team sometimes participates in Champions League.

There are also cinema and parks for relaxation.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Ghent to other students?

Yes, the University of Ghent is one of the best in Europe, it has good academic culture and locals are simply lovely. It is totally international in all its ramifications. Have you ever wondered studying in a classroom with people from all over the continents... the beautiful Asians, the smart Africans, the classic Americans... and the smiling Europeans. When added with the finest prefessors? That is what you get in Ghent.... if you want to have this experience, then Ghent is where you want to be.

What is the food like?

Well, if you like pasta, potatoes and beer... then you might not want to leave Ghent even after graduation. And if you like spices, pepper, then bring yours from home. Ghent, and indeed Belgium, is a country of beer... it is surprising, despite you will hardly see drunks lying on the street. You get pizza, chips, McDonalds, and quality international dishes. You might want to try their assorted restaurants, like Italian, African and Indian.

Take care...don't go with all your money... you might end up spending them all.

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Ghent?

Accommodation costs between 300 and 400 euros for a student living in the university hall of residence. However, private accommodations which sometimes are difficult to get, cost less. If you want to stay in a private apartment, you would prefer to start searching early as many students already book these apartments before September or October. All houses have internet connections.

How much does it cost to live in Ghent?

It really depends on your student lifestyle. But in general, cost of living ranges from 550 to 1000 euros monthly. Most students, expecially self funding students, could live with 450 euros, depending on the cost of accommodation. The cheaper the accommadation the better for you. And if you have a bike... then you spend less.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

There are language courses, however, all international courses are provided in English. Language courses are available in Dutch, French, etc., also private language courses are available.

Dutch is the official language of Ghent. However, almost everyone in the city is able to speak English. A good English level is sufficient to live happily in Ghent. Something you can hardly get in other non-English European universities.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Ghent from your country?

From Africa you just have to use a plane, but if you are in Europe, most likely you would prefer to use a train. It all depends on distance anyways. Make sure you ask for a map from your programme coordinator before coming. I advice you to study how to navigate with Google Maps. This knowledge will be invaluable in your first days in Ghent.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Ghent?

If you like partying then Overpoort would be your precious place to hang out at night.... But you might want to keep your valuables at home. There are also movies, shows, music at cinema for good and gentle students like me.

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And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Ghent?

Well, for students, I won't advice you to experiment with the restaurants in Ghent. This is not because the food is bad but it is quite expensive compared to eating in student restaurants.

So, I will recommend students to eat in student restos, they are located in most faculties and student houses. A meal costs less than 4 euros... but you must present your student ID to enjoy this subsidy, otherwise you might pay as high as 10 Euros for the same meal.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Just go to museums, go and see monuments, ancient buildings, the WWI burial site. You won't feel lonely in Ghent.

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Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Ghent in the future?

Yes. Just as I said before, make sure you learn how to read maps and get a map installed in your phones. You will find it handy in Ghent. Use taxi only when it is extremely important. Always use your bike or trams and make sure you get your tram ticket ahead.

Lock your bike, lock you bike and lock you bike!

Obey traffic rule and be polite. Never, never, never, never get in trouble with police, otherwise you may pay heavily as tax.

Good luck!