Details

• Indonesia
• BBE-18
• Undergraduate
• SoSe 2025
• Time spent at the partner university: 5 months

1. Preparation

I started preparing for my exchange around three to four months before departure. I looked into flights, courses, insurance, transport options, and generally how everyday life in Yogyakarta would work. One thing I organized early was accommodation, which made the whole process much more relaxed. Administrative processes and visa-related topics were surprisingly straightforward, and I did not run into any major difficulties. Looking back, my biggest advice would actually be not to overprepare. It is easy to spend months trying to optimize every detail, but Indonesia teaches you very quickly to be flexible and open. My advice: prepare the essentials, then let yourself enjoy what will likely become some of the most beautiful months of your student life.

2. Accommodation

Finding accommodation was incredibly easy. Most exchange students in my semester organized housing through Ganda, who helps many incoming students find places around northern Yogyakarta. I stayed at Cozy K (Kenari), which I would personally highly recommend for people who want a more relaxed atmosphere while still living in a social environment. Rent was around €220 per month. The villa had a large pool, a shared kitchen, green surroundings, and private rooms with bathrooms. One of the biggest advantages was the shared common area, which naturally created a strong community feeling. Around 14 people lived together, and friendships formed very quickly. The neighborhood felt extremely safe and peaceful. If future students want more detailed information about rooms or housing options, I am always happy to help personally.

3. Academic life at host university

Academically, my exchange experience at Universitas Gadjah Mada was very positive. I completed 30 ECTS during my semester. Compared to WU, the workload felt significantly lighter and less stressful, while still offering valuable learning experiences. The academic culture was more community-oriented, with stronger emphasis on collaboration, group work, participation, and creativity. Relationships with professors felt approachable and supportive while maintaining respectful academic standards. My personal favorite course was International Relations of the Middle East. One tip many WU students may not know: you are not strictly limited to FEB courses. I also took a course from FISIPOL (Political Science Faculty). You usually need to ask explicitly and communicate with university staff, but it is absolutely worth exploring opportunities outside your primary faculty. In general, academic life felt more flexible and less formal than Vienna, which created a refreshing contrast.

5. Every day life in the host country

Everyday life in Yogyakarta became one of the highlights of my entire exchange experience. We mostly moved around by motorbike, which quickly became part of everyday routine and freedom. After classes we would often drive to cafés, study together, play football, tennis, padel, go swimming, work out, or simply spend time together. AGOGE became one of our favorite spots, alongside places like Indochine and Sangmane Studios. One thing that surprised me culturally was simply how warm, open, and welcoming people were. Life felt slower, more social, and less rushed than back home. One piece of advice I strongly want to give future students: eat locally. At first it is very easy to stay inside the exchange bubble and seek comfort through familiar habits, but actively challenge yourself to explore local food and local culture. Some of the most memorable moments happen when you step outside comfort zones. If you need inspiration for that mindset, watch Anthony Bourdain or read one of his books.

6. Testimonial

My exchange changed me because it exposed me to a completely different way of living. Everyday life looked different, priorities felt different, and the people I met challenged many assumptions I had carried from home. It taught me flexibility, openness, and appreciation for cultural differences in a way that cannot be learned inside a classroom. Looking back, this semester was honestly one of the best things I have done during my studies. Beyond academics, I gained friendships, experiences, and memories that I know will stay with me for a very long time.