(And have the time of your life while doing it!)
So, you’re thinking of taking the plunge into Erasmus or exchange studies? Congrats! But before you start packing, one of the biggest questions looms: Which university should you choose for the best experience? Whether you’re after a wild social scene, an academic challenge, or the chance to travel every weekend, picking the right place is key.
Let’s dive into the key things to consider:
1. Location, Location, Location!
Your Erasmus experience is about more than the classroom—it’s about where you’ll be living for months! Think about what kind of environment you thrive in:
- Big cities: If you crave nightlife, diverse cultures, and constant things to do, then head to major cities like Madrid, Milan, or Berlin. You’ll find endless events, restaurants, and cultural experiences.
- Small towns or student cities: Prefer a cozier feel where everyone knows each other? Check out places like Coimbra (Portugal) or Leuven (Belgium). These student-heavy towns offer tight-knit communities where you’ll never feel lost in the crowd.
Also, consider the climate! Love the sun? Southern cities like Seville or Athens might suit you. Prefer a chillier vibe? Head to the Netherlands or Denmark.
2. Academics vs. Lifestyle: What’s Your Focus?
Let’s be real: everyone’s Erasmus priorities are different. Some are there to ace their courses; others are looking for the ultimate social experience (or both!). Here’s how to balance them:
- Academically focused? Look at the university rankings for your field of study. For example, universities like KU Leuven or Humboldt University in Berlin are known for their academic rigor and reputation. Check course availability, teaching quality, and whether the credits transfer back easily to your home university.
- Social butterflies: If your primary goal is making lifelong friends, see how active the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) is at your prospective universities. Universities with strong Erasmus networks often host weekly events, trips, and mixers. Some of the best places for this? Think Barcelona, Valencia, and Amsterdam.
You can always mix both by finding a university that’s renowned for both education and an active student life!
3. Cost of Living: Make Sure It Fits Your Budget
As much as we want to live the dream, budgeting is a real concern. Some cities are way pricier than others, and it’s important to understand your financial situation before choosing a university.
- Low-budget destinations: Eastern European cities like Budapest, Krakow, and Brno offer fantastic Erasmus experiences at a fraction of the cost of Western Europe. Rent is cheaper, meals out don’t break the bank, and public transport is affordable.
- Moderate budget: Places like Lisbon, Prague, or Valencia balance fun and affordability. You can enjoy nights out and good food without having to live off ramen noodles every day.
- Higher budget: If you’re dreaming of Parisian boulevards or studying in Copenhagen, be prepared for higher rents, pricy coffee, and expensive nightlife. It’s doable—but you’ll need to budget wisely.
Always check if the university offers scholarships or affordable student housing!
4. Language: English or Go Local?
Language is a big deal when choosing a university abroad. Do you want to dive into a new language and culture or stick to courses in English?
- English-speaking programs: Universities in Scandinavia, Germany, or the Netherlands offer a huge range of English-taught courses, making it easy for non-native speakers. If you don’t want to worry about a language barrier in class, these might be perfect.
- Local language experience: If you’re excited to learn Spanish, Italian, or French, look for universities in those countries. Many universities offer language classes alongside your regular studies, giving you the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture.
And don’t worry—even if your courses are in English, learning the local language for daily life can make your experience much richer.
5. Social Scene & Erasmus Community: The Life of the Party
The Erasmus community can truly define your experience. Some cities are buzzing with student life, while others are quieter. Before you make your choice, check how vibrant the Erasmus scene is at each university:
- Student party hubs: If you want to make friends quickly and enjoy social events, cities like Lisbon, Valencia, and Barcelona are famous for their welcoming Erasmus communities. Expect weekly parties, international student meetups, and trips.
- Smaller communities: Some smaller cities, like Uppsala (Sweden) or Braga (Portugal), may not have the wildest nightlife, but they have close-knit student groups. You’ll be part of a small community that organizes cozy gatherings and memorable experiences.
Universities with active ESN chapters often have a year-long calendar of events. Be sure to check ESN social media groups before deciding on a destination!
6. Travel Opportunities: How Adventurous Are You?
Erasmus isn’t just about studying—it’s also about traveling and exploring new places! If you’re an adventure lover, pick a university located in a country with easy travel access to other European cities:
- Central Europe: Studying in Germany, Austria, or Poland puts you in the middle of Europe, perfect for weekend trips to cities like Prague, Vienna, or Budapest. Cheap train tickets and budget airlines make exploring a breeze.
- Southern Europe: Universities in Spain, Italy, or Portugal offer sunshine, stunning coastlines, and historical cities to explore. Traveling within the Mediterranean region is easy, and you’ll be close to beautiful islands like Sicily or Ibiza.
Be sure to check visa requirements if you’re planning on traveling outside of the Schengen Zone!
7. Check the University’s Reputation with Erasmus Students
Sometimes, hearing from those who have been there can be the best guide. Check online forums, Erasmus groups, and university reviews to see what other students have to say about the university and the city.
- Join Erasmus Facebook groups: These are often filled with students who are happy to give honest advice on their experiences. They’ll let you know the pros and cons of their time abroad and answer any questions you have.
Look for universities with glowing recommendations, and don’t be afraid to message a few students to ask about their experience!
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right university for your Erasmus experience is like picking the perfect adventure. Whether you’re seeking academic excellence, endless travel, or lifelong friendships, the right destination will help you create memories that last a lifetime.
With a bit of research and self-reflection, you’re bound to find the university that matches your goals, dreams, and lifestyle. Wherever you end up, remember—it’s the people you meet and the experiences you embrace that will truly shape your Erasmus journey.
