Erasmus Experience in Leuven, Belgium by João

Why did you choose to go to Leuven, Belgium?

Didn't know much about the country or the city so I thought it would be a good opportunity to get to know it. Being an university city was appealing

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

In my case we could have a scholarship for a semester or 2; I don't recall the amount but I would advise to save some money before going to be more comfortable with expenses

What is the student lifestyle like in Leuven?

Brilliant! It's filled with students from all around the world and it's a multicultural experience. Students tend to be on the lookout for bargains as usual and the housing is good

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

I highly recommend both!

What is the food like?

Besides the belgian chips, chocolate and waffles, the dishes are not the country's best asset but you always have a lot of beers to try out

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Leuven?

It can be difficult during September and January (beginning of the semesters). Especially September considering the beginning of the academic year, I recommend finding a room during Summer, with the housing support from the university. I went in the beginning of January and I managed to find a room in a week.

How much does it cost to live in Leuven?

Comparing to Portugal, it is expensive! However you can find good deals and cheap supermarkets like Colruyt. For housng, my rent was €330 for a room in the city centre but expect some rooms above €400 

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

Dutch can be challenging if you come from nongermanic language background but with some study it is achievable to reach a conversational level. There are free courses provided by the university for Erasmus students and I recommend taking this course

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

From Lisbon, only by plane

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

Definitely the Oude Markt where all the bars are. I also recommend De Werf for a good hot chocolate in the colder nights

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

Again De Werf is a good place to eat and you also have good kebabs stores around the city

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Begijnhof, Heverlee campus, town hall, St Peters church, Ladeuzeplein, Kasteel van Arenberg, Kessel-Lo park

Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Leuven?

Just go and see it for yourself! It will be one of the best experiences in your life. It was for me!