Erasmus Experience in Groningen, Netherlands by Marie

Why did you choose to go to Groningen, Netherlands?

Unique classes were offered for study abroad. The school had a good reputation and a positive relationship with my home university.

Source

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

For 90 days. I believe it was about €400 per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Groningen?

Absolutely fantastic. I could not have had a better experience.

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

Most definitely. I wish I could go there again for a Ph. D. study abroad!

What is the food like?

Affordable! All kinds of food from different cultures are available, so you don't have to eat just Dutch.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Groningen?

Yes, I rented the upstairs in a family's home for cheaper than student housing. It was about a 35-minute walk/15-minute bike ride to class from the house.

I did have to pay €15 or so to find this place to rent (on a website).

Source

How much does it cost to live in Groningen?

I paid €435/month, everything included.

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

There were language courses available I'm sure, but because I was only there 90 days and the university offered unique classes for my degree, I focused on taking those classes instead. The language was no issue though.

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

I flew to the Amsterdam airport, then took a FlixBus to Groningen. Very easy, very affordable. There are also trains from the airport to Groningen that is more popular and faster than buses, but the bus was cheaper that day, and it was very comfortable.

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

I'm boring, sorry. I loved the family I lived with, and we would just have dinner and watch a movie, go for walks, etc.

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

Everything I tried was great. I tried Sushi, Mid Eastern, Indian, etc, and did not have a bad experience. The grocery store was so cheap that I cooked my own meals every day though. Plus Covid/the lockdown made staying home more important.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The Prinsenhof Gardens and Pepper Street guesthouses! They're for free and beautiful.

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

Get ready to fall in love. I felt so welcomed.

Source