Erasmus Experience in Nijmegen, Netherlands by Anna Rae

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Why did you choose to go to Nijmegen, Netherlands?

I chose Nijmegen mainly because of Radboud Universiteit and the left/socialist leaning stance of the city.

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

1 year, £2500 erasmus grant plus my usual student loan.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Nijmegen?

There are parties and club nights however these are not on the same scale and do not come with the same variety as you might get in bigger cities. Group meals and city trips make up a lot of your social life here. Trains returns can be as cheap as €7 return to any city if you use group tickets.

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

I would recommend the city to those that prefer a city good for shopping and a laid back lifestyle, also great for fitness enthusiasts! I might not recommend Nijmegen for students that prefer partying more than studying as other cities in the Netherlands definitely provide better nightlife. Radboud courses (especially in science) require a 5. 5-6 out of 10 to pass and the courses often include weekly exercises or group assignments, this might be more than you're expecting.

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Nijmegen?

No, the university arranged it for free.

How much does it cost to live in Nijmegen?

I spent my first term in a private house (6 housemates, double bedroom, very clean house w dishwasher etc) which cost €355/month all inclusive. This was arranged by the uni.

My second term I will spend in Hoogeveldt student halls for the same price, sharing with 15 others, single room and it is not so clean. There are new halls (Talia) for €435 that are worth looking up if you can afford the balcony and club underneath. Cheaper and better accommodation can be seen private but is difficult to find/be chosen for a house if you don't speak Dutch, there's quite a shortage on housing in Nijmegen so wing it.

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

There are courses available for €100-200; however, most international students I have met have been put off learning the language because it is a difficult language to learn and Dutch people speak very good English so it's hard.

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

From the UK to NL there are Ryanair/flybe.

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