Erasmus Experience in Leiden, Netherlands by Heidi

Why did you choose to go to Leiden, Netherlands?

The University has a great reputation. The university was really good, the staff were lovely and spoke great English. Interesting variety of courses.

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

You can do Erasmus for half a year or the full year. I chose half a year, as I was very nervous and felt that in case things didn't go to plan 6 months was enough to have the full experience.

The EU usually fund you around 2-300 euros a month, depending on your financial situation, which is fantastic.

Also, funding varies through universities, some will say you do not have to pay home university fees, so check the situation at your uni.

What is the student lifestyle like in Leiden?

Leiden is a beautiful place with lots of cute bars and a decent amount of student events available.

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

I would. I actually ended up living in Den Haag (The Hague) and commuting to Leiden on the train (10 mins). Because I could not find cheap enough accommodation in Leiden. LOOK EARLY! and also take the universities accommodation.

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What is the food like?

The food is similar to English in a way, they have Dutch specialities but there is all European food available. Dutch specialities such as fries and pancakes, and Chocomel!

There's also an Asian shop in Leiden and a massive international supermarket in den Haag. Great place to live.

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Leiden?

It is very difficult finding accommodation on your own, companies make it very difficult and try to charge you 3x the rent and massive admin fees. Be careful of online scams. I could not find a safe/cheap enough option so ended up living in a sub-let in Den Haag. Please take the university accommodation offered.

How much does it cost to live in Leiden?

A bit pricey, did not live there so cannot remember exact figures. You will be able to find prices of uni accommodation online.

There is also a lot of Facebook pages for accommodation.

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

I didn't come across many affordable language classes. But all Dutch people speak amazing English, you do pick up a fair bit of Dutch along the way though. It's easier than you think.

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

I live in the centre of England now so I always got a plane to Amsterdam (1 hour) for about £50, then the train to Leiden (30 mins).

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

Einstein's for bar, Gebr. De Nobel for club.

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

There are loads, and in Den Haag, none specifically come to mind.

Try eazie wok for lunch!

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What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There is a lot of history in Leiden, the walls surrounding the city and the windmills etc. There is quite a few museums.

Also in The Hague there is a lot to see and museums.

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

I would advise you to take uni accommodation because I struggled a lot finding my own.

Definitely join the Orientation Week Leiden programme (OWL) they offer for a week at the end of summer.

It is where everyone meets friends from their faculty, you learn loads about Leiden and Dutch life!

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