Details

• Netherlands
• BaWiSo-19
• Undergraduate
• SoSe 2025
• Time spent at the partner university: 4 months

1. Preparation

Start the administrative process as early as possible, since some forms and approvals (like the Learning Agreement and Recognition Notice) may take longer than expected. It helps to keep a personal checklist of deadlines and required documents, and to stay in regular contact with both the sending and receiving coordinators.

2. Accommodation

I stayed at Willemskade 13 in an 18m² apartment with a private bathroom and a shared kitchen (shared with 10 others). The location was excellent—very central and safe, with easy access to public transport and the university. However, accommodation in Rotterdam is quite expensive (around €1000/month), and the housing market is very competitive. I highly recommend starting the search as early as possible and applying to multiple housing platforms simultaneously.

3. Academic life at host university

Erasmus University Rotterdam offers a very modern and well-organized campus with excellent study facilities, a gym, and even a bar right on campus, which creates a lively and social atmosphere. The teaching style largely depends on the courses you choose—some are highly interactive and based on group work, homework, and projects with no final exam, while others follow a more traditional format with a written final exam. Overall, the workload is well distributed across the semester, and the academic culture is open, international, and encourages active participation and critical thinking.

5. Every day life in the host country

Rotterdam offers a vibrant student life with plenty of social and leisure activities both on and off campus. The university provides a large gym, various student clubs, and regular events that make it easy to meet new people. Outside the university, the city has great cafés, parks, and cultural spots, and public transport is reliable and easy to use. Amsterdam and The Hague are only about 1–1.5 hours away by train, making weekend trips very convenient. Overall, it’s a safe, international, and lively environment with many opportunities to stay active and social.

6. Testimonial

My exchange at Erasmus University Rotterdam was an incredible experience—academically enriching and full of memorable moments. I met students from all over the world, joined fun social events, and even went on a trip to Paris with a student association for only €90. The mix of international atmosphere, great campus life, and easy travel opportunities made the semester truly unforgettable.