Erasmus Experience in Leuven, Belgium by sheeba

Why did you choose to go to Leuven, Belgium?

I decided to go for KU Leuven, because of high university ranking, its location in a small city and good environment for students, with students making large part of city's population.

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

My scholarship is for two years, but under some conditions. I receive a grant of 1000 euro every month for all my expenses.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Lovaina?

Leuven is a perfect place for students, with its beautiful campus buildings, many libraries, places to study. Also there are lot of cafe and bars in city centre making place more comfortable and lively for students. City is small with all the places easily accessible with a bicycle, which is mode of transport for most of the students.

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

I would recommend the city and university to other students.

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What is the food like?

There are many options for food. You can go for regular sandwiches, Pizza, Thai, Greek, chinese or Indian food. There are many food options. Also there are weekly markets for fresh vegetables and other food stuff.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Lovaina?

University provides you many options for accommodation, but you have to go for it well in advance. I live in a university hostel. You can alsos search on websites which is easy to find and gives you many options for rent.

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How much does it cost to live in Lovaina?

According to my expanses, I believe it should cost a student around 600-800 euros a month.

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

There are language courses available. Learning may differ from person to person. But almost all the people speak English, so language will not be a problem if you study in Leuven.

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

I am an international student. I took a flight from India to Brussels. From Brussels, Leuven is only 15 min if you take a train. Within Leuven you can travel in city buses. University also gives you a bus pass for entire year for only 20 euros.

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

You can go to city centre, Oude market, a favorite hangout place for students.

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

There are many good restaurants in city center, you can chose as per taste and affordability. A pizza place called amici, and royal Indian food both on naamsestraat are my favorite.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There is an unesco world heritage site within leuven, other than that there are many beautiful churches, botanical garden, museum to visit.

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

Leuven is a small student town, if you are coming to leuven, come well in advance so that you can rent a good place.