Erasmus Experience in Leuven, Belgium by Ana Alexandra

Why did you choose to go to Leuven, Belgium?

Since I'm from Portugal, I chose to do my Erasmus in a country further north to experience both the weather and the culture, and KULeuven posed has a great university do to exchange both for the extraordinary city and both for my curriculum.

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

I received about 1200€ for my six month stay in belgium.

What is the student lifestyle like in Leuven?

Since Leuven is a university city, I would say it's a great environment if you do want that kind of experience. Lots of party, but when you do need to study you really do need to take the effort, it's no piece of cake.

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

Yes

What is the food like?

Mostly not very good, the fires and the chocolate are good.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Leuven?

No, not really I was lucky since it's difficult to find a place to stay in Leuven.

How much does it cost to live in Leuven?

I spent an average of 600€ per month (everything included, rent, trips, food, school, party, etc.) during my stay.

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

A bad thing for me was to find courses in my field of study since they are there but they are all in the flemish native language.

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

Plane

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

Oud Market, party nights at STUK

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

Good restaurants are a bit expensive, the ones for students are not really that good, I would have to recommend Sakura a sushi place with great sushi and an ok price for something outside of the sudent vibe.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Stuk

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

Make sure you secure a good mobile subscription since prices for communicating with other fellow students via mobile are insanely high.