Utrecht University; A short guide to the student life.

Continuing my “Promoting Erasmus and studying abroad” pages, I now introduce you to the University of Utrecht. Let’s suppose that you are an Erasmus student or in general a student planning to study abroad for a semester or so. What are the factors that you would take into consideration before choosing your next destination and university? How would you organise your background research? What are the things that you’d love to know about your university in advance? Here’s a short research I did about one of the biggest universities in the Netherlands that welcomes thousands of Erasmus students every year.

Welcome to the University of Utrecht!

Utrecht University is an international research university of the highest quality and the alma mater of many leading names, academics and scientists who have made an important contribution to the quality of society. Utrecht University has seven faculties that provide education and conduct research in the fields of the humanities, social sciences, law, economics, governance and organisation, geosciences, natural sciences, veterinary medicine and medicine.

Utrecht University

Korte Nieuwstraat 4, 3512 NM Utrecht, Netherlands

The life in the city

Known also as the “Small Amsterdam”, Utrecht is one of the Netherlands' oldest cities, with a compact medieval centre set out around canals unique to the Netherlands! While the canals form Utrecht's restful core, elsewhere the city is busy reinventing itself, and part of the excitement is witnessing this ongoing transformation.

Utrecht's student population of 40,000 is the largest in the country, making the city a very vibrant place. Utrecht is absolutely chock-full of must-see attractions. If you stroll between the lively docks of the historical Oudegracht and the city centre, you come across countless national monuments and world heritage. And if you jump on your bike, you'll be at impressive citadels, forts and castles within a half hour. No idea where to start? Then here's a selection of attractions that you simply must see.

Domtoren

Domtoren, Domplein 21, 3512 JE Utrecht, Pays-Bas

Domkerk

Domkerk, Achter de Dom 1, 3512 JN Utrecht, Pays-Bas

Trajectum Lumen Tour

Croesestraat 105, 3522 AD Utrecht, Netherlands

Hoog Catharijne shopping

Hoog-Catharijne CS en Leidseveer, Utrecht, Ολλανδία

MOA | Museum Oud Amelisweerd

Koningslaan 9, 3981 HD Bunnik, Netherlands

Canoe Rental

Oudegracht 4, 3511 AM Utrecht, Netherlands

Kolenmaarkt

Janskerkhof 16BIS, 3512 BM Utrecht, Netherlands

Centraal Museum

3512 XJ Utrecht, Pays-Bas

Life tips;

1) Learn some of the language. Of course, most Dutch people can speak English fluently but showing that you are at least trying to speak their language will go a long way. 2) Get a bike. It’s just a MUST. You can’t adjust into the Dutch culture without a bike! 3) Visit more places than just Utrecht. The Netherlands has lots to offer. It’s not all just coffee shops and red light districts. 4) Be careful crossing the street. Well, that goes for every country right? 5) Enjoy your time abroad!

Housing and accommodation;

Utrecht is one of the most popular university cities in the Netherlands. Because of this, the demand for student housing in and around Utrecht is extremely high. Many students find it difficult and time-consuming to look for accommodation. It is a good idea to anticipate the time and effort it may take you to find a room, and start your search several months in advance, even prior to your admission. Unfortunately, Utrecht University cannot guarantee housing.

Accommodation SSH

SSH is the largest student housing foundation in Utrecht. Next to SSH Short Stay, SSH also offers Regular Accommodation to Dutch and Internationals between the ages 16 and 27. If you are a degree seeking student or PhD-candidate planning to stay in Utrecht for a year or more, we recommend you to register with SSH Regular Accommodation as soon as possible.

And a few extra websites that you might wanna keep in mind while searching for accommodation;

Important info;

Average rental in shared accommodation; 450 euros. Monthly transportation subscription; 60 euros . Monthly food cost; 226 euros. Average lunch price at a restaurant; 15 euros. Average Fitness subscription; 23 euros. Beer Price at a bar; 4 euros.

..and of course do not forget to join the local ESN community!

ESN works in the interest of all international students, not just for Erasmus students. ESN offers a clear introductory programme for all international students to introduce them to the laws, rules and customs of their host country.

Pack your bags and choose Utrecht as your Erasmus or studying abroad destination! Cheers!