Radboud University Nijmegen; A short guide to the student life.

Continuing my “Promoting Erasmus and studying abroad” pages, I now introduce you to the Radboud University of Nijmegen. 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 Nijmegen!

Radboud University Nijmegen is a public university with a strong focus on research located in Nijmegen, the Netherlands. It was established on 17 October 1923 and is situated in the oldest city of the Netherlands. The RU has seven faculties and enrols over 19,900 students. The university features many student associations which encourage participation in extracurricular activities. As far back as 1656 Nijmegen boasted a university that offered lectures in law, theology, philosophy, medicine and other subjects. Unfortunately, it was forced to close its doors in 1679 due to lack of funds. With their own university, Dutch Catholics sought to promote the emancipation of Roman Catholics in the Netherlands, who at that time were strongly underrepresented in public administration, the legal profession, medicine and other sectors. The Radboud Foundation was the body behind this initiative. Today, Radboud University continues its commitment to the emancipation of certain groups.

The life in the city

Nijmegen is one of the largest student cities in the Netherlands. With 40,000 national and international students, there’s always a party going on somewhere. As in the rest of the Netherlands, most people speak English. Nijmegen is an average medium-sized city, with churches, high-street shops and several hotels. But there’s more to this city than meets the eye. The many events each year, the rich gay history and culture, the green areas around the city (Nijmegen’s back garden) and the Honigcomplex all make Nijmegen the city it is today.

Nijmegen has a lively nightlife. Countless cosy pubs, hip bars and pubs – there is something to do for everyone until the early hours of the morning. And if you like to take a gamble, Nijmegen naturally also has an excellent casino. If you just want to have a beer and a chat, there are plenty of authentic ‘brown cafes’ or pubs. De Blaauwe Hand (behind the Hoofdwacht 3), the oldest pub in the city is definitely a must-see pub!

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 Nijmegen. 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;

The International Office accommodation service has different types of rooms on offer: Rooms in SSH& complexes (Student Housing Nijmegen), rooms in residences of real estate companies, rooms of students going abroad, rooms in private houses The prices for rooms range from €355 to €580 per month, depending on the size of the room and the availability of a private kitchen. This price includes energy, water and internet. There are also some studios and apartments with (partly) own facilities on offer. You can find more detailed information on the complexes, including photos, at www.bookyourroom.nl

Important info;

Average rental in shared accommodation; 400 euros. Monthly food cost; 220 euros. Average lunch price at a restaurant; 12 euros. Average Fitness subscription; 23 euros. Beer Price at a bar; 3,5 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 Nijmegen as your Erasmus or studying abroad destination! Cheers!