Erasmus Experience in Graz, Austria by Luiza

Why did you choose to go to Graz, Austria?

Random choice

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

one year

Source

I have to put a bit from my own money because scholarship covers the rent and some small grocery expenses (room in Graz +/- 300euro)

What is the student lifestyle like in Graz?

Separately Erasmus students lifestyle and 'normal' students lifestyle.

Erasmus students keep together and have fun. 'Normal' students don't get often in touch (just for project/presentation)

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

It is nice to live here, the city is very friendly, slow life without stress. During the weekend is cool to make a trip around - e. g hiking, chocolate fabric, Vienna (2h)

And they really care about Erasmus student (at Karl-Franzes Uni for sure)

Source

What is the food like?

typical Austrian - schnitzel and potatoes (e. g. 3 Golden Kuglen), international - Italian, Japanese, Chinese restaurants in all the city

basically, I cook at home, it's cheaper

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Graz?

I've found via internet private apartment for students - it costs less than dorm and you don't have to pay so much for caution. Also, dorms are at the borders of Graz and public transport is a bit expensive, so it is easier to find something in the city center.

How much does it cost to live in Graz?

When you don't spend money like crazy but also eat something more than onion and potatoes, go for some trips and party at least once per week it is about +/- 500 euro monthly.

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

Yes, there are but paid. Fortunately not really expensive. German/English/Italian/Spanish etc... 1 or 2 times per week in language center - Treffpunkt Sprache (all Uni's cooperate with) But the majority of people speaks English. (German-Austrian is difficult to understand)

In Graz works also Tandem - Language Exchange - you have to search for someone who wants to learn e. g. polish and offers you German etc., I also participate, cool idea

Source

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Graz from your city?

by carpooling

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

well... depends on music type... the most popular clubs are at Elisabethstrasse but I don't like them (bum bum bum tsss bum bum bum shake your ass bum bum)

some clubs have 'subject' parties like in Postgarage or PPC, some are only with Latin music, the others are pubs with special kind of music like rock or Irish.

but what is weird for me - you have to register when it is your first time in the club (not in all but e. g. in Three Monkeys)

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

Buschenchank, Don Camillo with Italian food, 3 Golden Kugeln (the cheapest one where you can eat meat)

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Schlossberg, OPERA! is not so expensive (8 euro sitting place when you buy before it starts), Maria Trost church, Kunst museum (I didn't like exhibitions but you should go there and look at the 'friendly alien' or how they call this weird top of architecture skills... )

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

You don't have to watch out when you cross the street, cars will stop even when it is the middle of crossroad.

Take your bike - is a total bike city!