2024 STUDENT HANDBOOK

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master

Redesigning the Post-Industrial City (RePIC)

CONTENTS

1. Welcome 5

2. Purpose of this Handbook 7

3. Becoming a RePIC Master Student 8

Student Application, Selection and Admission 8
RePIC Support for Students with Special Needs 11
RePIC Supports You After Graduation! 12

4. Being a RePIC Master Student 13

Mobility 13
Buddy and Orientation Programmes 14
Student Representation 14
EMJM Scholarship Management System 14
Performance Monitoring 15
Final Degree 17
Participation Costs 18
Attendance, Progress, Exit 18
Thesis 18

5. After Graduation from RePIC 20

Suitable Careers 20
How to Find an Appropriate Job? 20
Stay Connected to the RePIC Network! 20

6. Studying at the RePIC Universities 22

6.1 Studying at RUB in Bochum, Germany 22
The Town and its Region 22
The University 23
RUB Department of Geography 24
Prior to your arrival: Preparing Your Stay at RUB 25
Enrollment Process & Registration at the City 28
Campus Services & Student Life 30
Health Insurance & Medical Services 36
Financing Your Studies & Finding a Job After Graduation 37
6.2 Studying at UCC in Cork, Ireland 40
The Town and its Region 40
The University 41
The Department of Geography & the Centre for Architectural Education 41
Prior to your arrival: Preparing Your Stay at UCC 42

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 Enrollment Process & Registration at the City 44
Campus Services & Student Life 44
Health Insurance & Medical Services 48
Financing Your Studies & Finding a Job After Graduation 48
6.3 Studying at EUR in Rotterdam, Netherlands 49
The Town and its Region 49
The University 51
The Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies 52
Prior to your arrival: Preparing Your Stay at EUR 53
Enrollment Process & Registration at the City 56
Campus Services & Student Life 58
Health Insurance & Medical Services 62
Financing Your Studies & Finding a Job After Graduation 63
6.4 Studying at KU in Istanbul, Turkey 64
The Town and its Region 64
The University 65
The Graduate School of Social Sciences and Humanities (GSSSH) 66
Prior to your arrival: Preparing Your Stay at KU 66
Enrollment Process & Registration at the City 67
Campus Services & Student Life 68
Health Insurance & Medical Services 73
Financing Your Studies & Finding a Job after Graduation 73
6.5 Studying at ULiège in Liège, Belgium 75
The Town and its Region 75
The University 75
The Department of Geography 76
Prior to your arrival: Preparing Your Stay at ULiège 77
Enrollment Process & Registration at the City 82
Campus Services & Student Life 85
Health Insurance & Medical Services 87
Financing Your Studies & Finding a Job after Graduation 88
6.6 Studying at UOulu in Oulu, Finland 89
The Town and its Region 89
The University 90
RePIC Faculties and Fields 90
Prior to your arrival: Preparing Your Stay at UOulu 91
Enrollment Process & Registration at the City 93
Campus Services & Student Life 94
Health Insurance & Medical Services 97
Financing Your Studies & Finding a Job after Graduation 98
6.7 Studying at UniZG in Zagreb, Croatia 100
The Town and its Region 100
The University 101
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 RePIC Faculties and Fields 101
Prior to your arrival: Preparing Your Stay at UniZG 103
Enrollment Process & Registration at the City 105
Campus Services & Student Life 107
Health Insurance & Medical Services 110
Financing Your Studies & Finding a Job After Graduation 112
6.8 Studying at UDeusto in Bilbao, Spain 113
The Town and its Region 113
The University 114
The Faculty of Social and Human Sciences 115
Prior to your arrival: Preparing Your Stay at UDeusto 116
Enrollment Process & Registration at the City 122
Campus Services & Student Life 122
Health Insurance & Medical Services 123
Financing Your Studies & Finding a Job After Graduation 124

Copyright notice

©2024 RePIC Consortium Partners. All rights reserved. RePIC is an Erasmus Mundus Joint
Master Project funded by the European Union under contract No. 101128126. For more
information on the project, its partners and contributors, please see the RePIC website
(https://unic.eu/en/repic#all). You are permitted to copy and distribute verbatim copies of
this document, containing this copyright notice but modifying this document is not allowed.
Views and opinions expressed are those of the RePIC Consortium Members only and do not
necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture
Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible
for them.

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1. Welcome
Welcome to the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Redesigning the Post-Industrial City (EMJM
RePIC). This is an inter-university, multidisciplinary postgraduate programme, jointly offered
by Ruhr University Bochum (RUB, Germany), University College Cork (UCC; Ireland),
Universidad de Deusto (UDeusto, Spain), Erasmus Universiteit Rotterdam (EUR, The
Netherlands), Koç University (KU, Turkey), Université de Liège (ULiège, Belgium), University
of Oulu (UOulu, Finland), and the University of Zagreb (UniZG, Croatia). All RePIC Partners
are members of the European University Alliance UNIC – The University of Cities in Post-
Industrial Transition.
UNIC is committed to the promotion of cross-border cooperation in research, teaching and
knowledge transfer by means of sharing access to educational resources and enhancing the
international mobility of students, faculty members and administrative staff. The Erasmus
Mundus Joint Master Redesigning the Post-Industrial City is a key milestone towards this
ambition. Creating societal impact through RePIC includes bringing our students to the city
as well as bringing the challenges of post-industrial cities to our learning pedagogies.

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The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Redesigning the Post-Industrial City provides high quality
academic education and professional competencies for talented and committed international
students who are eager to specialise in urban studies encompassing urban development,
planning, policy and design perspectives, and who intend to build bridges into neighbouring
disciplines, e.g., Architecture, Business and Law, Urban and Environmental Sociology, Urban
and Regional Economics, (Spatial) Data Science or Psychology. The RePIC Partner
Universities foster collaboration and inter-university knowledge exchange in an open culture
of learning to reshape our present and future – working differently, but collectively!
Modern societies, we argue, urgently need the type of graduates RePIC educates, i.e., well-
qualified, open-minded, multidisciplinary professionals able to detect and respond
comprehensively to the challenges posed by transformative change relevant in different areas
of urban development, planning, policy and design. Building sustainable urban futures,
providing better services to meet the needs of demographic diversity in cities, fighting
unemployment and precarious employment, improving access to eGovernance structures and
digital public services, means that the demand for highly qualified experts able to manage
urban transformations in multi-level and multi-stakeholder partnerships is increasing.
RePIC graduates will be able to initiate and manage change, foster innovation, increase social
cohesion and improve communication between all stakeholders. They will have acquired
essential project management skills relevant to the labour market and to their future lives:
leadership, critical thinking, technological proficiency. With this in mind, the main ambition
of RePIC is to educate people able to effectively guide and manage urban sustainability
transformations.
RePIC will enable students to engage in co-design, co-production and co-creation processes
for the sustainable transformation of the post-industrial city. RePIC faculty and invited guest
lecturers from various disciplines will participate in the programme and offer their expertise
to our students. In addition, representatives from local governments, development agencies,
businesses and NGOs will also be invited to present challenges they are facing and to discuss
options to solve them, which may result in collaborative projects, suggestions for master theses
or topics for upcoming City Labs.
City Labs are a special didactic feature of RePIC, a format to explore team-based practices and
co-design approaches in specifically challenging urban research locations, thus aligning
RePIC’s curriculum with the EU’s Urban Agenda. Through these engaged research processes,
RePIC will interpret alternate socio-urban inventories that begin to conceptualise new
epistemological limits as well as explore viable, place-specific transition pathways for post-
industrial cities. The findings will thus disrupt normative urban design orthodoxies through
experimental participatory modalities that will catalyse new learning and action practices in
reconceptualising the civic, cultural and socio-urban fabric of the post-industrial city.
We are convinced that RePIC graduates will be excellently qualified to start attractive careers
in various areas of the public and private sectors as well as in university and non-university
research.

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2. Purpose of this Handbook
The purpose of this Handbook is to explain how RePIC works and what you as a student can
expect from it.
This Handbook offers orientation right before and during your studies and helps you settle
into academic life at the different locations as quickly as possible. It outlines what you can
expect at each stage of your studies, the resources available, the structure and staffing at each
Partner University and the procedures for dealing with any problems you may encounter.
Please read the RePIC Student Handbook as carefully as the RePIC Module Handbook – and
consult it regularly, as it helps you to familiarise with the regulations and procedures.
(Disclaimer: This Handbook is no legal document.)
Students who are uncertain about the information provided in this Handbook should ask their
RePIC Local Coordinator or contact any of the involved staff. Please also check the RePIC
programme website regularly for updates and contact details.
The separate RePIC Module Handbook outlines in detail the curriculum, semester structure,
stud pathway. Learning outcomes and detailed module descriptions The programme is
structured around central components, representing the key expertise of each partner in the
field, all of which contribute to its overall aim in a specific way. These components are well
articulated, integrated and continuously updated. In each semester, teaching represents the
key areas of expertise of the lecturers and universities in charge for the respective learning
activity. RePIC continuously adapts teaching content to recent developments.
Kindly note that the RePIC Consortium is dedicated to constant improvement of the
programme and its content. Therefore, information given in the handbooks is subject to
change. Most importantly, the handbooks are open for your comments, questions and
contributions.

We hope you will find your time as a member of the RePIC family at each Parter University
rewarding and enjoyable!

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3. Becoming a RePIC Master Student
Student Application, Selection and Admission

Application

The application procedure for the programme is jointly developed and implemented by the
Consortium in agreement with the RePIC Examination Regulations. Ruhr University Bochum
organises, receives, and process all applications for admission to the degree programme, on
behalf of the Consortium. All applications must be made online via the RePIC Application
Portal in accordance with its instructions and before the deadlines stated on the website.
Applications must include the following documents:
• A copy of passport (only the main pages)
• a certified copy of the Diploma (if this document is not in English, an official translation
should be attached) and, if available, of the Diploma Supplement. In case that a Bachelor
degree has not yet been handed out to an applicant, a declaration from the relevant
authorities that the requirements of a Bachelor degree have been satisfied, must be
submitted instead)
• certified copies of the academic transcripts (if this document is not in English, an official
translation should be attached)
• a Curriculum Vitae in English
• official proof of English language proficiency, at least on level B2 as defined in the Common
European Framework of Reference (CEFR)
• a structured motivation letter describing their specific interest in the RePIC programme
and their envisaged contributions to the programme.

Admission Procedure

1. The overall responsibility for the admission procedure lies with the RePIC Admission and
Examination Committee (AEC).
2. Applications for the admission to the degree programme must be submitted before the given
deadline. Subsequent submission of documents is possible until a second given deadline.
3. The admission process assures that all local rules and requirements for admission are met.
Applicants who do not fulfil the national requirements of a partner cannot be accepted. No
applicant in conflict with national legal requirements for admission at any RePIC Partner
University can be admitted to the programme.
4. The AEC will rank all eligible applicants based on the final grade of their Bachelor degree (or
equivalent), documented prior knowledge and experience in the field, persuasiveness of the
motivation letter, language skills, and their preferred study tracks. According to the available
number of study places, the applicants will be admitted and offered a track.
5. Admission is granted under the condition that the applicants has met all the requirements
and paid the tuition fee in time.
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6. Applicants who have not yet obtained their Bachelor degree at the time of the selection
procedure but who would normally do so before the master’s degree programme begins,
may be granted a conditional admission. Those applicants must submit a declaration from
the relevant authorities that they have satisfied the requirements of a Bachelor degree
before the start of the degree programme. Missing parchments must be submitted by the
date which is stated in the admission notification.
7. It is the responsibility of the students to check that the authorisations required for visa and
residence permits are in order before the Partner University permits the student’s activities
in RePIC to take place for students with or without an EMJM Scholarship. The Partner
Institutions will make every effort to aid students in obtaining any necessary visa and
residence permits before their studies commence.
8. Rejected applicants may appeal to the AEC. The procedure is explained on the RePIC
Website.

Admission Requirements

RePIC invites candidates from diverse backgrounds, who have completed a Bachelor’s degree
(university first cycle, Bachelor, EQF level 6) preferably with a dissertation, or an equivalent
degree, in a discipline of relevance to RePIC, that gives them access to a Master degree
programme and demonstrable experience in themes related to redesigning of post-industrial
cities and design-related backgrounds, including but not limited to the following fields:
• Architecture
• Urban Design, Urban Planning, and Urban Development
• Geography and Geoinformatics
• Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering
• Sociology
• Public Administration
• Business Studies
• Culture, Media, and Visual Arts Studies
• Other related fields of study
This list is not exhaustive and shall serve for orientation of applicants.

Eligibility Criteria

The RePIC Consortium has defined clear eligibility criteria to which all candidates must abide.
Admission may be granted to applicants who meet the following common minimum eligibility
criteria:
• All applicants must follow the RePIC application procedure,
• A completed application must have been received,
• Applicants must have obtained, at a minimum, a university first cycle degree
(Bachelor, EQF level 6) in a discipline of relevance to RePIC.

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• English language requirements: Applicants who are either nationals of countries deemed
by RePIC Partner Institutions to be English-speaking or hold a Bachelor degree /
equivalent qualification which was taught entirely in English will normally be assumed to
have met RePIC language requirements. All other students must provide evidence of
sufficient knowledge in the teaching languages at least on level B2 as defined in the
Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). However, in some circumstances,
such applicants may be required to submit evidence of an English language qualification
as well to be admitted.

Selection Criteria

Applicants are chosen based on the following selection criteria:

• Type and level of academic qualifications
• motivation and concern for topics taught in RePIC as expressed in the motivation letter
• type and level of research experience
• type and level of professional experience, such as practical experience in the field of Urban
Studies in governmental, inter-governmental and/or non-governmental organisations and
institutions
• results of admission interviews (if applicable).

Selection and Admission

The Admission Committee is responsible for the selection and admission of all students to the
degree programme in accordance with the joint procedures and criteria specified in the RePIC
Examination Regulations. The selection process identifies eligible and well-qualified
candidates in four steps:
1. Collecting of applications through a central gateway website
2. Rejecting ineligible candidates
3. Compiling list with eligible candidates
4. Finalising selection in a joint selection meeting.
Based on the applications received, the AEC will evaluate and create a main list and a waiting
list of selected applicants as well as rejected candidates. All applicants are notified of the result
of the selection process. Selected applicants will receive an admission notification with the
relevant dates for the enrollment in RePIC and the terms of payment for the participation fees.

Registration

After successful enrollment, payment of the participation fee, and the signature of the Student
Agreement, administrative registration is concluded at the university of the first semester,
RUB. All students are registered at RUB and will be additionally enrolled at other RePIC
Universities, in conformity with the local regulations of these universities and the respective
national legal requirements. The Partner Universities inform students in a timely and

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transparent manner about necessary procedures to be followed. Students must comply with
all provisions of the RePIC Examination Regulations.

RePIC Local Coordinators

Each partner institution has appointed a RePIC Local Coordinator. The RePIC Local
Coordinator is the focal contact point for the students and carries out day-to-day administrative
and technical tasks concerning the students, quality enhancement, mobility, and general
administrative matters. He or she liaises with the other RePIC Local Coordinators, the
Programme Manager, administrative staff of the Partner Universities and with external
partners.

RePIC Support for Students with Special Needs

RePIC strives to facilitate equal-opportunity access to education: students with disabilities or

chronic diseases that impair their access to higher education are eligible for access
arrangements (“Nachteilsausgleiche”) – when they get admitted to university, for individual
exams or lecture, and in some cases for the duration of the entire degree programme (if, for
example, their health impairment means that it will take them longer to complete their degree).
Thus, we do not only comply with legal requirements, but we also work towards the common
goal of establishing inclusive higher education in accordance with the notion of universitas. We
would like to encourage and invite you to get advice – it is fully confidential and might help
you assess to what extent and in what way your academic career may benefit from access
arrangements.
Advice
The Service Centre for Disabled Students (BZI) at the academic services office Akademisches
Förderungswerk provides professional and individual advice to RUB students with health
impairments regarding university admissions, degree programmes and access arrangements.
The service centre, moreover, houses wheelchair-accessible workstations and technical aids.
These workstations are monitored by IT.Services, which also implement access arrangements
for exams. Additional information at the BZI homepage: https://www.akafoe.de/inklusion
Funding
All students enrolled in RePIC (with or without a scholarship), regardless of their scholarship
status, who have disabilities such as long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory
impairments certified by a competent national authority, may apply for financial assistance to
acquire special equipment or services, third-party assistance, adaptation of their working
environment and additional travel or transportation costs.
Further Information
RUB Campus map for wheelchair users: https://www.ruhr-uni-
bochum.de/anreise/rollstuhlfahrende_en.html
RUB Barrier-free accommodation: https://www.akafoe.de/inklusion/
RUB Sport service office: https://hochschulsport-bochum.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en

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RePIC Supports You After Graduation!

At each partner university, the local RePIC staff takes utmost care to secure a smooth transfer
into employment. This starts long before graduation and is strongly supported by the manifold
opportunities to get in touch with possible employers during each semester and is especially
supported by choosing a topic for the Master thesis that relates to local demands.
Each partner provides students with information about the local and regional job market and
offers career guidance and assistance in finding appropriate positions after graduation in the
local environment. Please consult Chapter 6, Studying at the RePIC Universities, for the
respective services offered at each location.
RePIC students will be qualified to take on attractive positions not only in the region and
Europe, but also worldwide. The RePIC education and training secures that you will match
employers’ expectations and will find employment fast and easy after graduation.
In addition, the RePIC Consortium fosters a strong alumni community. After graduation, all
students will be encouraged to stay in touch with RePIC and link via social media, mailing lists
as well as annual graduation ceremonies possibly combined with alumni forums.

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4. Being a RePIC Master Student

Studying RePIC at the eight Partner Universities offers you a variety of opportunities and
advantages: You profit from excellent cross-faculty and cross-discipline research and teaching
and will receive a joint degree from eight internationally renowned universities, which is highly
acknowledged by employers worldwide. Not to forget, RePIC is a high-level joint master under
the umbrella of the EU’s prestigious Erasmus Mundus programme.
During each of the four semesters, the student service units at the Partner Institutions provide
support with respect to all social, cultural, and university matters, as well as administrative and
legal questions. By offering numerous events and advisory services, you will be assisted not
only throughout your social integration in campus live but also when facing academic
challenges.
You are also a member of a high-performance network: If you decide to pursue a career in
academia after graduation, RePIC offers first-rate doctoral programmes, career support, and
development options for obtaining executive positions in the world of academia and research.

Mobility

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master students must complete a full semester in at least two of the
eight partner universities, which, must not be in their countries of residence. The universities
decide in mutual agreement on the distribution of students among the universities,
considering:
• The RePIC students’ preferences
• the availability of places in the tracks (semester 2), options (semester 3) and of suitable
thesis topics (semester 4) and qualified supervisors at the different locations
• the sustainability of the network
• other relevant factors.
The RePIC mobility scheme offers various pathways through the programme. Each semester
and each mandatory mobility period must result in the completion of 30 credit points (ECTS)
at one of the partner institutions. Virtual teaching activities are part of the learning experience,
but physical mobility of students cannot be replaced by virtual mobility unless force majeure
(e.g., a pandemic) necessitates different temporary solutions.
The RePIC Examination Regulations regulate and describe the applicable requirements and
procedures for mobility in detail. All universities provide appropriate information to students
about the academic requirements, the services facilitating mobility, the administrative
requirements, and the financial aspects implied. Examinations passed at one of the partner
institutions as part of the degree programme are fully and automatically recognised by the
other Partners of the degree programme.

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Buddy and Orientation Programmes

The RePIC Partners offer different forms of orientation and onboarding activities, e.g., a
Welcome Week, Buddy Programmes or Orientation Days, as a welcome service at each of the
participating universities, organised by the host institution responsible for delivering the
respective parts of the RePIC programme. These activities help mobile RePIC students to get
started with their studies and life at the different locations of the programme.
Before arrival at the host university, you will be provided with the respective information.
You can expect:
• Support in finding your way around the city (city tour) and on campus (e.g., how to find
the library, the dining halls)
• Help with administrative formalities (e.g., registering at the residents' registration office,
signing a rental contract)
• Help with opening a bank account, health insurance, buying a mobile phone, etc.
• Support in settling in (e.g., showing you the nearest shopping facilities, explaining public
transportation, etc.), but also general cultural exchange.
However, please keep in mind that such orientation programmes are not responsible for
finding accommodation, for offering academic advice or advice relating to application,
admission, and enrollment at the host universities or for supporting you in legal matters. If
you have questions on these matters and need support, the Local RePIC Coordinators or the
local International Relations Offices or Registrars’ Offices are there to help you.

Student Representation

RePIC student representation takes place via the Programme Advisory Board (PAB), ideally
constituted of four representatives per cohort, i.e., eight representatives in total. The
representatives for each cohort are elected by the students in early November. RePIC student
representatives will advise the Academic Study Board (ASB) in matters of teaching and
academic affairs, in matters of further educational development and the evaluation of RePIC.
Moreover, one student representative will be elected as a Programme Representative (PR) for
the Erasmus Mundus Association (EMA).

EMJM Scholarship Management System

The Consortium has successfully applied for Erasmus Mundus Joint Master funding from the
European Commission and provides Erasmus Mundus Joint Master (EMJM) Scholarships
(2023-2029 period). The following procedures and regulations apply.

Application for EMJM scholarships

The Coordinating Institution (RUB) organises, receives, and processes all applications for
Erasmus Mundus Scholarships on behalf of the consortium and in close cooperation with the
partners. Applicants for EMJM Scholarships, as all applicants to the RePIC programme, go

14
through a joint application and selection procedure organised by the Consortium. The
selection is based on grades, documented prior knowledge and experience in the field,
persuasiveness of the motivation letter and language skills. The general eligibility and selection
criteria as well as the rules of procedure for the joint application and selection procedure for
EMJM Scholarships are the same as those for the regular application and selection procedure
of student application, selection, and registration. They are in line with the specific
requirements for EMJM Scholarships as specified in the Erasmus+ Programme Guide.

Selection of EMJM Scholarship Holders

EMJM Scholarships shall be awarded to the best applicants worldwide, chosen by means of a
RePIC evaluation grid and respecting the required maximum numbers per nationality (not
more than 10 % of EMJM Scholarships per country), and in agreement with the eligibility and
selection criteria and procedures established by the Consortium in the RePIC Examination
Regulations, as well as the specific criteria and procedures stipulated by the European
Commission.

Scholarship Payment

The Coordinating Institution manages the EMJM scholarship funds and processes their
payments to the grantees in a timely fashion. An EMJM Scholarship Annex to the RePIC
Student Agreement regulates students’ rights and obligations concerning EMJM Scholarships.

Performance Monitoring

Examination of Students

The joint RePIC Examination Regulations specify the types, rules, and procedures of
examination of the RePIC students. The examination regulations also inform students about
the structure of the curriculum, assessment methods and criteria, grading system, retakes and
re-assessments, functional disorders and handicaps, unfair practice, and fraud.
Examinations and assessments are conducted in accordance with the policies and procedures
in force at the Partner Institutions without prejudice to those adopted by the Academic Study
Board and stated in the RePIC Examination Regulations, provided so possible in accordance
with national law.

For the overall grading, RePIC uses the following grading scheme:
1 = VERY GOOD An outstanding performance
2 = GOOD A performance that is considerably above average requirements
3 = SATISFACTORY A performance that corresponds with average requirements
4 = SUFFICIENT A performance that despite some shortcomings satisfies requirements
5 = NOT SUFFICIENT A performance that due to considerable shortcomings fails to meet
requirements

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Intermediate values can be created by increasing or decreasing the individual grades by 0.3 to
allow differentiation. The grades 0.7; 4.3; 4.7 and 5.3 are in this case precluded. Ungraded
examinations receive the grade “passed”, or, where applicable, “failed”. An examination has
been passed if it was assessed with a grade of 4.0 or better, in the case of ungraded examination
performance if it was graded with “passed”.
All examinations passed at one of the Partner Institutions as part of the RePIC degree
programme are fully and automatically recognised by the other Partner Institutions of this
degree programme. Grades obtained at each partner will be converted according to a joint
conversion table established by the Consortium in conformity with the ECTS System. In case
a student fails an exam in a course or a module, he/she can re-sit it according to the regulations.

EMJM RePIC Conversion Table for Grades

Germany Türkiye Ireland The Belgium Finland Croatia Spain

Netherlands (French-
ECTS Appreciation speaking
Mark part)

A Excellent [1.0-1.3] A/4 70-100% 9,5-10 [18-20] 5 5 9,0-10

B Very good ]1.3-2.0] B+ / 3,3 60-69% 8,5-9,4 [16-18[ 4 4 8,0-8,9

C Good ]2.0-2.7] B- / 2,7 50-59% 7,5-8,4 [14-16[ 3 3 7,0-7,9

D Satisfactory ]2.7-3.3] C+ / 2,3 45-49% 6,5-7,4 [12-14[ 2 2 6,0-6,9

E Sufficient ]3.3-4.0] C/2 40-44% 5,5-6,4 [10-12[ 1 2 5,0-5,9

F Fail 5.0 C-, D + F 0-39% 1,0-5,4 [0-10[ 0 1 0-4,9

/0

Definitions:
A EXCELLENT – Outstanding performance with none or only minor errors
B VERY GOOD – Above the average standard but with some errors
C GOOD – Generally sound work with a number of notable errors
D SATISFACTORY – Fair but with significant shortcomings
E SUFFICIENT – Performance meets the minimum criteria
F FAIL – Considerable further work is required

In case of students’ disagreement with examination results, students first must follow and
conclude the local appeal procedures in force at the respective Partner Institution. If a solution
cannot be found locally, the student has the right to bring his case to the RePIC Academic
Study Board.

Student Records

The students’ records will be kept centrally at RUB as the Coordinating University of RePIC.
Nevertheless, each Partner Institution keeps accurate records of the students attending its
courses, for providing students and partners the certification of a student’s performance on
justified request and transfers these data to RUB. The communication about questions on

16
examination and related matters should be addressed to the Local Coordinator of RePIC at the
respective Partner University, or to the Programme Coordinator of RePIC at RUB. The actual
contact data can be found on the UNIC Website.
Each Partner Institution immediately notifies the Coordinating Institution of any student that
terminates his or her participation in the degree programme (“dropouts”), either upon the
student’s formal notification to terminate his or her participation in the degree programme,
or upon, de facto, substantial continued absence from the degree programme. The
Coordinating Institution will inform the European Commission concerning any dropouts of
EMJM Scholarship Holders.

Final Degree

Joint and Mutual Recognition

Each Partner Institution formally recognises all modules offered within the joint programme
and the credits awarded upon their successful completion.

Joint Degree Award

Each student who successfully completes the degree, including the compulsory mobilities, and
who has fulfilled the requirements of the applicable national legislations shall receive a joint
degree Master of Science “Redesigning the Post-Industrial City”, testified by a joint diploma
on behalf of the European degree awarding Partner Institutions involved in the provision of
the degree programme to that student.

Diploma Supplement and Joint RePIC Certificate

The award of the M. Sc. degree is accompanied by a joint Diploma Supplement presenting the
details of the student’s academic programme and academic achievement, following the
template developed by the European Commission, the Council of Europe and
UNESCO/CEPES, and adapted to any further specifications in national legislation where
applicable.
RUB as the issuing university is responsible for processing and keeping the student’s records,
preparing the issuing of degrees and Diploma Supplements, and coordinating the award of
the joint degree to the graduates. The Partner Institutions are responsible, if applicable, for
registering the official joint degree according to national law and custom within their
countries.

Securing Your Place in the RePIC Programme

Upon selection and when the application is in full conformity with the RePIC programme
guidelines, prospective students will receive an official letter of admission. To secure a place
in the programme, students are requested to confirm the acceptance of the offer as soon as
possible. If the confirmation of acceptance is not received by the announced date, the place
will be offered to another candidate.

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Participation Costs

The consortium aims to minimize economic barriers for qualified applicants to participate in
the RePIC programme. Other administrative and social fees (such as stamp and certification
fees, library and laboratory costs, social contribution fees, examination fees) and any other
mandatory costs charged by the Partner institutions are to be paid by the students. Students
also must cover sustenance, accommodation, travel to and from partner universities, visa costs
etc. Any costs arising from unjustified prolongation of studies beyond the standard duration
of the programme (four semesters) shall be charged at the publicly published standard rates of
the Partner Institution involved.

Attendance, Progress, Exit

Class attendance

RePIC values peer learning and encourages faculty to employ good practice in shared learning
in the classroom. In case of any problems regarding attendance to the courses and training
activities, the student is expected to contact the professors. If a student cannot attend a lecture
or seminar, he/she should notify the relevant programme coordinator giving justification for
his/her absence. In case of prolonged absence because of illness, the student is expected to
transmit a medical certificate to the RePIC Local Coordinator. A student can be refused to take
the exam if he or she did not attend the class on a regular basis without valid justification.

General Conduct and Behaviour

Students are expected to behave in a proper manner. Rights and obligations of RePIC Students
are outlined in the RePIC Student Agreement, to be signed by each RePIC student While
staying at a Partner Institution, the local student discipline rules and exam regulations will
apply.

Complaints

While staying at a Partner Institution, the local policies for the resolution of complaints relating
to the staff of the hosting Partner Institution and the modules taught there shall apply. Any
other complaints can be made anonymously at the Student’s Secretariat at the Coordinating
University.

Transferring or Withdrawing

The student can, at any time, withdraw from the programme. Withdrawal from the
programme must be addressed in written form to the RePIC Director. Any fees paid locally to
any of the partner universities are, in principle, non-refundable.

Thesis

In the fourth and final semester, and considering the multidisciplinary nature of the
programme, students can choose among three forms of master dissertation/thesis:

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• Traditional dissertation
• Research manuscript aiming at journal publication
• Practical project accompanied by documentation.
This happens at different locations and under the supervision of one academic from the RePIC
Consortium and two examiners. From the first semester onwards, RePIC students are
systematically prepared to write their thesis and can choose among a range of topics early on.
Once having selected an appropriate topic, the discussion of topics with the lecturers and
researchers of the degree programme runs through all semesters.
Regarding accommodation, it is advisable to make proper arrangements in good time, too,
ideally already in the preceding semesters, e.g., by exchanging flats or rooms with students
from the following student cohort or by reserving accommodation or extending rental
contracts in good time. Here, too, the local accommodation offices of the Partner Universities
will support the students in the best possible way.

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5. After Graduation from RePIC
After successfully completing RePIC, graduates are excellently qualified to start attractive
careers in various areas of the public, private, and academic sector as well as renown research
institutions. For this purpose, and to stay in touch with your (former) fellows, the RePIC
Alumni Organisation serves as meeting place for former graduates as well as current students
wishing to learn about their prospects and to develop their networks.

Suitable Careers

We see great potential for RePIC graduates to find employment, considering the public sector
as core employability sector. Graduates are likely to find jobs in areas such as: Education and
research; urban strategists in planning, community engagement and related municipal
departments; geospatial data analysis and visualisation; governmental organisations at local,
national, European, and international level; social work and third sector; NGOs engaged in
neighbourhood development; foundations and organisations dealing with urban development
and transformation; companies, branch and trade organisations focused on metropolitan
transitions, e.g., in sectors such as energy, data management, mobility, health, housing and
education; consultancies with a focus on innovation and change management, architecture
and planning; developers and construction companies; architectural and design firms;
development aid agencies; philanthropic organisations and media.

How to Find an Appropriate Job?

At each partner university, the local RePIC staff takes utmost care to secure a smooth transfer
into employment. This starts long before graduation and is strongly supported by the manifold
opportunities for you to get in touch with possible employers during each semester. Each
partner provides information about the local and regional job market, offers career guidance
and assistance in finding appropriate positions after graduation, and organise job fairs. The
dense network of the UNIC Partner Universities, in combination with their specific offers on
each campus to enhance professional and personal skills, secure that students match
employers’ expectations and will find employment fast and easy after graduation. Partners will
use the expertise of external lecturers, professionals in companies, and city administrations for
a constant assessment of employability of RePIC graduates.
It also does not end after having handed in your thesis. The Career Support Offices of the eight
partner universities naturally support students in their search for suitable employers. The eight
universities are in the middle of prosperous post-industrial cities and regions that offer a
variety of interesting and well-paid jobs. (Please compare the following chapters on local
opportunities.) Of course, the students are qualified to take on attractive positions not only in
Europe, but also worldwide.

Stay Connected to the RePIC Network!

After graduation of th first intakes, the RePIC Alumni Organisation will start to play an
important role in gathering information on the study experience and graduates’ employability,

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too. The Alumni organisation will also facilitate meetings between current students and RePIC
alumni, to network and exchange about career prospects and job opportunities. For this end,
the students from different academic intakes will be encouraged to link via social media,
mailing lists as well as on occasion of graduation ceremonies, to form the basis for a close
network of professionals in the field of redesigning post-industrial cities.
The RePIC Consortium will use its alumni network as a mechanism for monitoring and
evaluating career paths and the roles of RePIC graduates in transformative change processes.
The Partners use similar assessments already in different study programmes offered locally.

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6. Studying at the RePIC Universities

6.1 Studying at RUB in Bochum, Germany

The Town and its Region

Bochum is a lively modern city with around 370,000 inhabitants. It is part of the post-
industrial Ruhr area, one of the main metropolitan regions in Europe. Hospitable by tradition,
the Ruhr with its very diverse population of about 5 million is one of the largest economic hubs
and one of the most important centers for education, science, and research in Europe. The
four major cities of the region – Duisburg, Essen, Bochum, and Dortmund – once were the
heart and backbone of Germany’s coal and steel industry. Today, the entire region stands for
smart and innovative answers to the big challenges of technical, economic, and social change.
Bochum being situated in the heart of the Ruhrgebiet (Ruhr area, named after the river Ruhr),
leisure activities of any kind are within easy reach. Nature, sightseeing, nightlife, shopping,
art, and culture, as well as numerous events – there is a lot to explore. The unique charm of
the area is particularly striking at former industrial premises that have been transformed into
cultural sites to celebrate the past and the future of the Ruhr. Situated in Bochum´s Westpark,
the Jahrhunderthalle is one of the best examples of successful transition. The venue annually
hosts the Ruhrtriennale, the Ruhr metropolis’ arts festival, and Extraschicht, the night of
industrial culture. A vibrant night life and a pub culture prove that Bochum is a thriving
student town. Students love to hang out in the legendary pub district Bermudadreieck. Along
the riverbanks of the Ruhr and Emscher rivers, hiking and biking routes connect the different
landscapes of the Ruhrgebiet. Soccer is the most popular sport in the region with the VFL
Bochum team playing in the first national league, but of course there are hundreds of activities
that everyone can pursue, from kickboxing to yoga, from sailing to even Quadball (formerly
Quidditch), in countless clubs and for every age group.
Since all students can receive a public transportation ticket for the whole state of North Rhine-
Westphalia (optionally even Germany) upon enrollment, recreational activities are not limited

22
to Bochum and the Ruhr. A little further along the way interested students can also visit
Cologne with its famous cathedral as well as Düsseldorf, Bonn, or Münster. The proximity and
good connections by train to the Netherlands, Belgium, and France also allow for convenient
and fast travel to visit the neighbouring countries.

The University

Located in the heart of Europe in the dynamic metropolitan region of the Ruhr Area, Ruhr
University Bochum (RUB) with its 21 faculties is home to about 39,000 students from more
than 130 countries. The Ruhr Area is not only Germany’s largest academic hub, but also an
epicenter of innovation that fosters close interaction between academia and the private sector.
As a comprehensive university, it unites the arts, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences,
engineering, and medicine. Its strong tradition of research, outstanding international
networks, and innovative education make the RUB a sought-after cooperation partner and an
attractive place of study for young people from all over the world.
In 2007, RUB joined forces with the neighbouring universities in Dortmund and Duisburg-
Essen to form the University Alliance Ruhr, one of the largest and most productive scientific
associations in Germany. The strategic merger offers researchers diverse opportunities for
cooperation and gives students the option to attend courses and use the infrastructure at the
neighbouring universities.

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RUB Department of Geography

At RUB, RePIC is hosted by the Department of Geography (Geographisches Institut), located

in the IA Building. The Department contributes to the integrated understanding of
structures, functions, and processes in spatially coupled Human-Earth-Environment
systems, their complex feedback, interaction loops, and corresponding changes. Data
acquisition in the field, geospatial data processing and visualization are at the heart of its
contribution to RePIC in research, teaching, and knowledge exchange with interdependent
foci on smart, sustainable, and resilient cities. More than 70 scientists (led by 13 professors)
contribute to enhancing our understanding of the transformations of metropolitan areas and
their specific development pathways. Empirical evidence is provided for the development and
implementation of informed strategies for managing these transformations in close
cooperation between public, private, and academic partners. A regional focus is put on the
Ruhr Area and its post-industrial developments as well as on metropolitan regions in Asia
and the USA. The teaching staff prepares the students for a broad and professionally
oriented spectrum of careers worldwide. The PhD programme of RUB’s Faculty of
Geosciences provides opportunities to conduct doctoral research integrated in projects of
experienced working groups in the multi-perspective and multi-scalar geographical field of
the transformation of metropolitan regions.

The Transformation of Metropolitan Regions –

Integrative Research and Teaching as a Priority of
RUB’S Department of Geography

Digital, ecological, economic, demographic, and

social transformation processes accompanied by
profound functional and structural changes of urban
landscapes take place in an interplay of planned and
unplanned processes. This comprises selective
processes of growth and shrinking as well as re-, sub-
or post-suburbanization processes. Notably urban
areas like the Ruhr Area, an agglomeration of post-
industrial cities, are facing special challenges of an integrated smart, sustainable, and
resilient re-designing, leading to new types of urban developments. Any attempt to
understand and to influence the processes of transformation in post-industrial areas requires
a thorough understanding of the respective dynamics and their mutual interplay. This entails
knowledge about societal structures and processes, about urbanity as a social and spatial
condition sui generis, about technological conditions and potentials, and about the dynamics
in the natural environment. Besides the specific local conditions, the processes of global
transformation pose key challenges.
The complex and interplaying challenges of re-designing post-industrial cities and
metropolitan areas require a modern understanding of geography, including close co-
operation with neighboring disciplines. Bringing together the perspectives of an
interdisciplinary community is an integral part to contribute to analytical research resulting
in an improved planning of smart, sustainable, and resilient post-industrial areas. The

24
integration of both scientific perspectives (including established theory and modern
methods) and the views of practitioners is essential for the research and teaching approach
of the RUB Department of Geography.
The Department of Geography, together with other RUB entities, offers various services for
RePIC students:
• First semester welcoming activities
• Weekly RePIC office hours (digital and on campus)
• Services for internship and professional opportunities: https://studium.ruhr-uni-
bochum.de/de/willkommen-beim-career-service (in German)
• Services for academic writing:
https://www.zfw.rub.de/sz/angebote/studierende/%C3%BCbersicht (in German)
• Services for library usage and literature search: https://www.ub.ruhr-uni-bochum.de
• Services for language courses: https://www.zfa.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/index.html.en
• Services for the e-learning system: https://studium.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/e-learning-
studying-online
Practical Information
How to get to the Department of Geography:
• Address: Universitätsstraße 150, 44801 Bochum, Building IA, Floors 5 & 6
• Closest train and metro station: From Bochum downtown, main station (“Bochum Hbf”),
take metro line U35 (“Campus Line”). During working days, the metro line departs in 5-
minute intervals, and it takes about 10 minutes from Bochum Hbf to Ruhr Universität
and vice versa.
• Located on the north-east side of the campus (the IA Building is the first one in the white
row of faculty buildings in the I-Nordstraße and can be reached by descending the steps
in front of the SSC building if you arrive by metro.)
Relevant Links
• Department of Geography: https://www.geographie.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/index.html.en
• RUB International Office (RUBiss – International Student Services):
https://international.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/international-degree-seeking-students
• RUB Homepage: https://www.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en

Prior to your arrival: Preparing Your Stay at RUB

Before starting their studies at RUB, all students are required to carry out preparations for their
stay. Students are expected to proactively inform themselves concerning the necessary
preparations and regulations in their individual case. Most importantly, students need to
organise accommodation and apply for visa and/or residence permit (non-EU international
students only) for the whole duration of their stay. Please note that students are fully

25
responsible to find accommodation & organise the visa / residence permits. The visa
application process and finding an accommodation can take some time. Students are advised
to start both processes as soon as possible.

Entry Regulations (Visa)

Entrance requirements to Germany depend on the nationality of the applicant. Before

travelling to Germany, you should get more information regarding the entrance requirements
applying to your individual case as outlined by the Federal Foreign Office.
Entrance requirements can be divided into three types of passport holders:
1. Citizens of EU states, the European Economic Area and Switzerland:
https://international.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/visa-and-residence
2. Citizens of Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, and the
USA: https://international.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/visa-and-residence
3. Other Non-EU citizens: https://international.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/visa-and-residence
Please note:
• The visa application process can take a long time; therefore, applicants are advised to start
the process as soon as possible.
• We recommend you consult the diplomatic mission or your local Foreign Citizens’ Office
as early as possible.

Accommodation

Prior to arrival, students can rely on the support of the International Office´s International
Students Services team. Each RePIC student shall receive an email with important information
from the RUB International Office about living in Bochum. Depending on your planned length
of stay in Bochum, you have two options:
1. Finding a room on the private market (recommended if you are staying in Bochum for less
than 5 months)
Apart from the (partly subsidized) student residences, which work with a minimum rental
period of 12 or 6 months, there are several private providers where you can book
apartments/rooms for an individual rental period.
These providers are:
• https://www.seven-stones.de/studenten/studenten-wohnungen.html
• https://green-stay.eu/
• https://www.nena-apartments.de/standorte/bochum/nena-bochum-city/
• http://www.inbochum.org/index1.php/
You can also find interesting offers on the following pages:
• www.wg-gesucht.de

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• www.housinganywhere.com
• Wohnen auf Zeit in Bochum - Möblierte Wohnungen bei ImmoScout24
(immobilienscout24.de)
• https://www.ebay-kleinanzeigen.de/stadt/bochum/
• https://www.meinestadt.de/bochum/immobilien
These links from the DAAD are helpful when searching on your own. Be careful and pay
attention to the information on scam offers!
2. Booking a room in an AKAFÖ student hall of residence with a minimum rental period of
6 or 12 months
The AKAFÖ (Akademisches Förderungswerk), in co-operation with the International Office,
offers rooms in five different halls of residence for exchange students:
• Single rooms in shared flats in the AKAFÖ houses: Markstraße 105, Markstraße 137, and
Spechtsweg 10-18
• Single rooms in the AKAFÖ houses: Laerholzstraße 80 and Glücksburger Straße 27
The rental period at the AKAFÖ dorms is 6 or 12 months, and the rental contract cannot be
cancelled during this time. Regardless of the actual move-in or move-out date, full calendar
months are always charged. Further information on this offer can be found in the AKAFÖ
leaflet. If you would like to apply for a room in a hall of residence, please use the
"Accommodation Request" form attached to the e-mail from the International Office.
Further Information
Finding accommodation in Germany entails several important bureaucratic steps, such as
signing a legally binding rental contract (Mietvertrag). You can find an overview of specific
German regulations as to housing online here:
https://www.justlanded.com/english/Germany/Germany-Guide/Housing-Rentals/Contracts

Welcome and Orientation

The RePIC staff will organise a joint welcome week (9/30-10/6/2024) together with the RePIC
Student Amabassdors (“Buddies”) at the beginning of each taught semester, and particularly
at the start of semester 1. As the starting university, RUB’s staff provides the incoming students
with information about the entire programme as well as about the courses offered specifically
on its campus. The Department of Geography will organise specific formats for the purpose
of socializing and networking with fellow (senior) students and lecturers, e.g., in form of get-
togethers. Information about studying will also be provided in individual counselling sessions.
Experience has shown that many students are more likely to ask questions in this environment
than in larger group meetings.
To make it easier for new international students to start their studies, the RUBiss team (RUB
International Student Services) of the International Office organises orientation days for new
students before the beginning of each semester. During these days, important formalities for
the start of studies are taken care of, counseling opportunities are offered, and students are

27
introduced to German culture and Bochum's surroundings through events and excursions.
The idea is that the support and guidance of international students during their first steps at
RUB and during the first semester is provided by students – the Campus Guides,
complementary to your individual RePIC Buddy.
During the semester, RUBiss organises additional events especially for international students.
It offers a variety of gatherings, workshops, and excursions. These include, for example, hiking
days, information sessions on orientation in academia or study financing as well as a
“Stammtisch” and intercultural trainings.
Additional links:
• Information on the orientation week offered by the International Office:
https://international.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/orientation-days
• RUBiss events and offers for international students: https://international.ruhr-uni-
bochum.de/de/rubiss-events

Enrollment Process & Registration at the City

RUB Enrollment Process

To study at RUB, you as a RePIC student must enroll in the correct form and in due time.
At first, you must register online (be careful to provide the correct information!). After that,
you can upload your documents to the Information Portal Enrollment, which will be checked
by the Registrar’s Office. Please find out in good time which documents are required for you
to request them in advance (e.g., from your health insurance company).
After having successfully applied for RePIC, the actual enrollment at RUB takes five steps:
1. You received a letter of admission for RePIC and accepted it signing the Declaration of
Acceptance.
2. You can then enrol online within the deadline specified in the letter of admission.
Complete your data. The link for your personal online enrollment can be found in the
admission information portal. Please complete the online enrollment exclusively via the
personal link in the admission information portal.
3. Upload your documents, also within your enrollment deadline, to the Information Portal
Enrollment. After uploading the required documents, please approve your enrollment in
due time, otherwise your application cannot be processed.
4. It can take several days to process your application. Pay close attention to the status of
processing on the matriculation information portal, because if documents are missing, you
will be informed via the portal and via email.
5. After you are registered as a RePIC student at RUB, you will receive an email with the most
important information about paying the social contribution fee (Sozialbeitrag), using the
RUB online services and how to proceed.
Please note:

28
• Incorrectly and / or not uploaded documents can lead to the rejection of your application.
• Check if all information stated in the documents are correct (name, birth date, etc.)
• At RUB, the International Office in cooperation with the RePIC Programme Manager at
the Department of Geography will take care of the enrollment for the semesters spent in
Bochum during the regular duration of the study programme (4 semesters).
• Students who choose RUB as location for the thesis semester (Semester 4) should contact
the Registrar’s Office about re-enrollment as active student (“Rückmeldung”).
More information: https://studium.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/registrars-office
Relevant links:
Website of the Admission Office with detailed information about enrollment at RUB:
https://studium.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/enrollment
Website of the Registrar’s Office:
https://studium.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/registrars-office

Registration at the City of Bochum

According to German federal law, every person who resides in Germany must register at the
local city administration. Registration at the city should take place within two weeks of moving
to or within Germany. This means that you should register within no more than two weeks
after moving to your apartment in Bochum. If you do not receive an appointment within two
weeks of your arrival, simply book the next available appointment. It is important that you
have booked an appointment at the Citizens' Office within the two weeks. To register as a
resident of a German city, you need to proove that you are accommodated in that city.
Therefore, you can only register as a resident after finding a place to stay.
Follow the link for more information on City Registration & required documents (under City
Registration): https://international.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/visa-and-residence
Please note:
• You need to register within 2 weeks after moving to a new address in Germany (e.g., 2
weeks, counting from the date you are moving into your new apartment).
• You need a permanent accommodation to register.
• Registration takes place at the local Citizens’ Advice Bureau (“Bürgerbüro”).
• You can find a list of all relevant documents required for registration on the RUB
International Office website.
After registration, you will receive important letters via postal mail to your German address:
• National tax identification number (Important! Please keep it!)
• TV/Radio fee (“Rundfunkbeitrag"): Approx. 18 EUR per month and per apartment; used to
fund the German public radio, TV and online contents that are available for free. The fee

29
 is to be paid quarterly (3 x approx. 18 EUR = 54 EUR). If you live in a shared flat, you can
split the amount between all roommates.
• Non-EU Students only: Invitation letter stating your individual appointment to the
Foreigner’s Office (e.g., for visa extension and residence permit); If you do not receive this
letter close to the expiring date of your visa, please contact the local Foreign Office.
When you leave Germany, you need to formally de-register from the City of Bochum. To do
so, you need to fill out a deregistration form. As the form is provided in German only, please
find a sample version with English translation here. Please also a copy of your identity card or
passport and, if available, a certificate of residence, which you can obtain from Ms. Gundra
Stückrath or your landlord on request. Please send the PDFs directly to [email protected] so that
they can forward them to the Citizens Office.
Additional link:
RUB information website for international degree seeking students:
https://international.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/international-degree-seeking-students

Campus Services & Student Life

Campus Services

1. RUB e-Campus
E-Campus is an online platform that offers several digital services to facilitate your stay at
Ruhr-Universität Bochum. Here is a selection of relevant services available via e-Campus:
• Access & download your RUB public transportation ticket
• Download enrollment certificates for your current semester
• Sign up for classes & exams
• Manage credits and academic records and checking academic details.
There are two options for accessing e-Campus. For further information please have a look at
the following website (German only): https://www.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/ecampus/ecampus-
webclient/login_studierende.html
On campus, access points can be found:
• In the University Library
• At the Infopoint of the Central University Administration (“Universitätsverwaltung”)
Please note:
After receiving your enrollment documents, you need to access the RUB Identity
Management website to set up your personal RUB ID password: https://rub.de/login

2. Payment with RUB Student ID Card at RUB Canteens & Cafeterias

Your RUB student ID card can be used to pay at the cash desks in RUB canteens & cafeterias.
To pay with you RUB student ID card, simply place the card on the card reader at the check-

30
out. Please keep in mind that the RUB student ID card has only a prepaid function, meaning
that you need to deposit money on it before being able to pay. To deposit money (5-150 Euro)
on the student ID card, you can use one of the card-charging stations in the university canteen,
in the Q-West restaurant, or in the cafeterias.
Relevant links:
• More information about payment with the RUB Student ID Card:
https://www.akafoe.de/gastronomie/bargeldlos-zahlen (German only)
• Menu of the RUB canteens: https://www.akafoe.de/gastronomie/speiseplaene-der-
mensen

3. University Library
You can use your RUB student ID card to borrow books from the university library located on
the main campus. Books can be borrowed for 22 days. If not requested by another user, (in
which case you will benotified), they will be automatically renewed twice, thus enabling them
to be borrowed for 66 days.
Relevant link:
RUB University Library Portal: https://www.ub.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/

4. Copy and Print

The RUB student ID card can be used to pay at the printers and copy machines in the RUB
university library and in the RUB printing centre at the main campus (“Druckzentrum”; SSC
01/219).
Relevant link:
Information on the RUB printing centre:
https://www.druckzentrum.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/dz/index.html.en

5. Available Workspaces
RePIC students at RUB have access to a variety of workspaces, libraries, and laboratories:
• A Departmental Library (Geography),
• Archives of maps and aerial photographs (digital and analogue),
• 3 Computer labs (20 places each) for teaching (3D-compatible),
• 2 Computer labs with self-study workspaces,
• A Virtual Pool (remote server, incl. relevant software, e.g., GIS, Game Engines, SPSS,
Visualization Software),
• A Cartography / GI Science Research Lab (incl. Eye-Tracking in 2D/3D, Stereoscopic
Displays, Virtual and Augmented Reality Equipment, other experimental equipment),
• A Physical Geography Lab (incl. CP-OES, TOC-, CN-Analyzer, IC and MIR Spectrometer),

31
• Methods Lab for geography teacher education and training (incl. smartboards, 3D models
for student experiments and VR equipment).
RUB provides free EDUROAM WiFi access to all students. EDUROAM is available in all
facilities at RUB and can be accessed by using your RUB credentials (LoginID & Password).
To be able to access the EDUROAM WiFi network, you need to configure your device first.
Please follow the instructions provided by the RUB Network Operation Centre:
https://noc.rub.de/web/wlan
Please note:
• You need to set a password for your RUB student ID card before being able to access
EDUROAM. To set a password for your RUB student ID card, please follow the
instructions on yourenrollment documents.
• Manual for EDUROAM configuration: https://noc.rub.de/web/wlan

Student Life at RUB

Bochum has a population of 370,000 including more than 60,000 students, thereof approx.
39,000 students enrolled at RUB. As a one of the major universities in Germany, RUB offers
students a wide variety of non-curricular activities alongside their studies. Students at RUB
can choose diverse cultural programs, language courses, sports activities, and many more. All
students and members of staff can attend courses in 80 different types of sports. In Bochum’s
city centre, the university also operates its own gym called Unifit. The campus is also home to
the Musisches Zentrum. Here, students can take theatre, art, and music classes, practice with
the large university orchestra and perform in concerts. The student services organization
AKAFÖ also offers a cultural semester programme.
Many students go out in Bochum’s so-called “Bermuda Dreieck” – a premier downtown spot
for nightlife with cafés, restaurants, and clubs. Regarding recreation in nature, Lake Kemnade
and the Ruhr river valley are good spots to visit. There, in close vicinity to the university
campus, you can skate, go sailing, surfing or boating. For those who enjoy riding their bikes,
Bochum also offers numerous attractive bike trails as for example the Erzbahntrasse which
was built along formerly used train rails and which lets people explore various monuments of
industrial culture throughout the whole Ruhr area.
For more information please see:
https://studium.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/extracurricular-activities

1. Language Courses
As RePIC student, you will be offered to participate in a weekly and RePIC-only German
language course free of charge. In addition to that, the RUB Language Centre (ZFA) offers a
large variety of language courses free of charge for students. ZFA course offers encompass 16
different languages, of course including German (from beginners to advanced level including
conversation and technical language classes). Moreover, it is also possible to participate in
guided but individualized and self-directed language programmes (Individual Learning and
Tandem):

32
http://www.zfa.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/ils/index.html.en
Among other things, the International Office, together with the Language Centre ZFA and the
AKAFÖ, organises a “Sprachcafé” (language practice get-together), where you can chat with
native speakers and learners of the language of your choice. This is an opportunity to connect
with students speaking the same language or try practice a new language.
Working together with a tandem partner from a similar field of study, you can test and improve
your subject specific as well as your general language proficiency and skills in intercultural
communication.
Additional links:
• Website of the RUB Language Centre (ZFA):
http://www.zfa.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/index.html.en
• Sprachcafé at RUB: https://international.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/sprachcafe-bochum-
language-practice-meet

2. RUB Cultural Programme

As mentioned above, Ruhr-Universität Bochum offers a wide variety of cultural activities to
students. You may want to check out the Botanic Garden, the Musisches Zentrum, dance and
theatre performances, the campus radio, and many more offers.
Relevant links:
• Life on RUB Campus: https://uni.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/campus-life
• Cultural activities organised by AKAFÖ: https://www.akafoe.de/kultur
• Information on activities provided by RUB student representatives (AStA): https://asta-
bochum.de/links/links-sport-kultur-freizeit-mehr/

3. RUB University Sports

Ruhr-Universität Bochum offers a vast variety of university sports courses. Most of the sports
courses are conducted in German, whereas some selected courses are completely in English.
You can also use the university gym “Unifit” (Massenbergstraße 9-13, 44787 Bochum) located
in the city centre near Bochum central station. To have access to the studio, you also must
book your sports card (see step by step guide below).
Relevant links:
• List of RUB University Sports Courses: https://hochschulsport-bochum.ruhr-uni-
bochum.de/en/course-programme-university-sports
• Step by step guide to register for a sports course: https://hochschulsport-bochum.ruhr-
uni-bochum.de/en/registration-university-sports

Student Card & Transportation

1. Ruhr-Universität Student ID Card

33
Upon their arrival at RUB, RePIC students receive their personal RUB student ID card
together with other enrollment documents. The RUB student ID card holds personal
information, such as a photo of the student, student’s name, and matriculation number
(“Matrikelnummer”).
In addition, the student ID card holds a chip enabling it to use it for several service functions,
such as payment at the university cafeterias, borrow books at the library, access to the e-
Campus system, etc.
Please note:
• Among your enrollment documents, there is a letter stating your RUB student ID card
PIN and PUK numbers.
• You can find an instruction on how to set a password for your RUB student ID card on
your enrollment documents; setting a password requires an e-Campus access point at the
Ruhr-Universität main campus.
• The RUB student ID card is not an official identification document recognized by the
German state authorities.

2. Public Transportation Ticket

All regular RUB students receive a so-called Deutschland-Semesterticket for public transport.
The ticket price is already included in the social contribution fee (“Sozialbeitrag”) and available
to all students.
You can use the Deutschland-Semesterticket in
• All regional transport services (buses, subway trains, streetcars, suburban trains)
throughout Germany (except first class) and
• Deutsche Bahn local trains throughout Germany (except for ICE and IC trains as well as
first class)
The Deutschland-Semesterticket is valid from
• 1 October 2024 to 31 March 2025 for the winter semester
• 1 April 2024 to 30 September 2025 for the summer semester.
Please note the information on ticket control below. In the event of exmatriculation, the travel
authorisation ends at the end of the day on which the exmatriculation is valid and the ticket is
blocked. Second and guest students are not entitled to the ticket. Students on leave of absence
are also not entitled to the semester ticket and pay a correspondingly reduced social
contribution.
Access to the German semester ticket: The Deutschland-Semesterticket is available to all RUB
students who are registered for the respective semester ticket exclusively via the RUB access
of RIDE Campus.

RIDE RUB access

34
You enter your login ID and password and can retrieve your personalized ticket, for example
in the event of an inspection. A selected ticket is displayed as a QR code. Further down in the
view, you also have the option of transferring the ticket to your wallet on your smartphone.
During the re-registration period, you may be shown two tickets via RIDE Campus - for the
current semester and the next semester.
Important prerequisite: The semester fee must have been credited to the RUB account by the
deadline and the Registrar's Office must have carried out the re-registration.
Control and ID: Proof of the semester ticket is required for all ticket inspections: The ticket is
valid in conjunction with an official photo ID such as an identity card or passport. You must
call up the ticket in RIDE or present it via the wallet on your smartphone; printouts of the QR
code are not accepted. It is advisable to also carry a certificate of enrollment with you when
traveling outside NRW in case of difficulties during checks.
Further information:
• RUB public transportation ticket: https://studium.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/semester-
ticket
• Map of the railway network of the state of NRW: https://www.mobil.nrw/rvp/
• Map of the VRR ticket area and area codes:
https://www.vrr.de/fileadmin/user_upload/pdf/service/downloads/Weitere_Broschuer
en_und_Tarifinformationen/VRR_Gesamtraum_Allgemein_Januar_2022_960_680.p
df

Services for Students with Special Needs

RUB offers a variety of services for students with disabilities and chronic illnesses to support
them during their studies. The main objectives are barrier-free access to academia (e.g.,
compensation for disadvantages when takin-g exams) and offering advice and assistance when
needed. There is a peer-to-peer mentoring programme in place that matches students (from
undergraduate to PhD level) with health impairments and offers supporting events. Apart
from that, there are several ways in which disabled, and visually impaired students can receive
technical assistance in the form of respective hard and soft ware. On the other hand, RUB
teaching staff is sensitized to all issues of barrier-free teaching and trained in accommodating
students accordingly.
For more information please see:
https://studium.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/de/studieren-mit-beeintraechtigung (German only)
Relevant links:
• RUB Inclusive University: https://uni.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/inclusive-university;
https://www.akafoe.de/inklusion/
• Mobility information for wheelchair users at RUB: https://www.ruhr-uni-
bochum.de/anreise/rollstuhlfahrende_en.html

35
• General information on studying in Germany with a disability offered by the German
Academic Exchange Service (DAAD): https://www.study-in-germany.de/en/plan-your-
stay/studying-with-a-disability_71220.php

Health Insurance & Medical Services

1. Health Insurance
According to German federal law, every student in Germany must have a valid health
insurance. As an official EMJM degree programme, once successfully enrolled, all admitted
RePIC students will have received a health and accident insurance in line with the EACEA
requirements. The procedure for submitting the insurance certificate has changed as of
January 1st, 2022. The notification is sent directly from the insurance company to the
university in digital format. Paper certificates are generally no longer issued.
• Students with statutory health insurance apply for an insurance certificate from their
statutory health insurance company in good time before enrolling. The statutory health
insurance company then reports all the required data digitally to the RUB. Nevertheless,
please upload a scan of your insurance card to the enrollment information portal so that
we can compensate for any delays in the digital registration process.
• Students with private health insurance who wish to remain so during their studies require
a so-called exemption certificate. You can get this from your last german statutory health
insurance fund or from any german statutory health insurance fund (if you have never had
statutory health insurance). A certificate from private insurance alone is not sufficient. In
any case, you must contact a german statutory health insurance company so that they can
certify that you are exempt from the statutory insurance obligation. The statutory health
insurance company sends the required certificate digitally to RUB. Please ensure that you
obtain the required certificate in good time before submitting your application and seek
advice on the formalities from a statutory health insurance company. In addition, please
upload proof of private health insurance (e.g., certificate, card, etc.) to the enrollment
information portal.
• If in doubt (e.g. if you are insured abroad), please contact your health insurance company
or seek advice from a statutory health insurance company in Germany.
If you change your health insurance company during your studies, notify the student
secretariat immediately by submitting a new insurance certificate.
2. Doctors
The EMJM Health and accident insurance scheme comes with specific procedures such as a
health insurance app for consulting a doctor. The specific details and requirements will be
provided in the Welcome Week.
Apart from that, the fastest way to find a local doctor is to search online in a local directory,
such as:
• Gelbe Seiten: https://www.gelbeseiten.de/
• Das Örtliche: https://www.dasoertliche.de/

36
• Jameda: https://www.jameda.de/
In Germany, it is recommended to visit a General Practitioner (“Hausarzt”) first. In more
complex cases, the General Practitioner will then refer you to a specialist.
Please call the General Practitioners office in advance to make an appointment. In moreacute
or severe cases, you will usually receive an appointment the same day. In less urgent cases
(e.g., regular examinations etc.), you may have to wait several days to weeks for an
appointment.
Please note:
• In case of illness, please contact a General Practitioner first.
• Only go to a hospital emergency room if there is an urgent emergency!
• You will be asked to present your European Health Insurance Card at the reception desk.
• If you do not have a European Health Insurance Card, you may be asked to pay the
treatment yourself and ask your health insurance for a refund.
• Consider that health insurance does not cover all available treatments; medical personnel
is obliged to inform you about additional costs for individual health services (“IGeL-
Leistungen”) prior to a treatment.
• Opening Hours vary considerably, but most non-hospital doctors are closed during
weekends and on Wednesday afternoon.
3. Pharmacies
You usually do not receive medicine or other drugs at the doctor’s office. Instead, the doctor
will write a prescription for you, which you then take to a Pharmacy to receive the prescribed
drugs. Some medicine or hygiene articles can be purchase at the pharmacy without
prescription.
If you need medicine at night or during the weekend, you should inquire about the
“Apotheken-Notdienst” (emergency pharmacy service) that indicates, which Pharmacy is
currently open.
4. Emergency Numbers
• In case of emergency, you can call the following number (24/7 availability):
• Police: 110
• Ambulance or Fire Fighters: 112
• Emergency Service at RUB: 0234 32 2333

Financing Your Studies & Finding a Job After Graduation

Financing Your Studies

Securing your financial resources to cover your costs of living while studying at RUB is
certainly important for the successful completion of RePIC. Apart from using your savings or

37
a sponsor’s support, there are other ways to finance your studies in Bochum. Applying for a
scholarship or a grant are possible ways too.
Please check out the following websites for more information:
• Financing information by the RUB International Office: https://international.ruhr-
uni-bochum.de/en/financing-international-degree-seeking-students
• Working while studying: https://international.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/working-
international-student
• Student finance counselling – for questions about financing your studies, for example
through BAFöG or stipends (German only): https://studium.ruhr-uni-
bochum.de/de/studienfinanzierung
General counselling offers at RUB:
• Central Student Advisory Service – for help and support with individual problems before
or during your studies, such as illness, orientation or motivation difficulties or other
psychological problems (German only): https://www.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/zsb/
• Division Student Lifecycle Services (German only): https://einrichtungen.ruhr-uni-
bochum.de/en/devision-student-lifecycle-services
• Coachings, Workshops and Psychological Advice in the Peer Quartier:
https://studium.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/node/705

Finding a Job in Bochum and around after Graduation

RePIC graduates will benefit from the research and practitioner network of RUB’s Department
of Geography. Regular partners are, for example, the Dortmund City Council, the Bochum
City Council, the consulting firm PCG Project Consult GmbH, the Regionalverband Ruhr
(Ruhr Regional Association; RVR), the Research Institute for Regional and Urban
Development (ILS) and the Forschungszentrum Jülich.
RePIC students are also invited to make use of the general offers of the Career Service at RUB
in order to prepare themselves in the best possible way for a smooth transition into their future
career. Here students can receive career guidance, have their applications and resumes
checked and practice job interviews (online and face-to-face) with skilled professionals. There
is also a counselling service offered by the Employment Agency (“Agentur für Arbeit”) directly
at RUB, which can be consulted by all students. Here you are in good hands, for example, if
you need general career advice or if you want to find out about the German job market and
possible vacancies. They also offer a variety of seminars and workshops.
RUB aims to foster the entrepreneurial spirit of its students and academics. Our "Worldfactory
Start-up Center" serves to raise and to nurture the start-up spirit among university members.
The offers of the Start-up Center are also open to RUB students. They are modular in design,
ranging from events for acquiring start-up-relevant skills, to five specialised incubators along
the lines of cutting-edge research, to the university's concrete support schemes for start-up
processes. The Worldfactory Start-up Center also offers the “Entrepreneurship Explorer Ruhr”
(EER), a two-week bootcamp for international start-up enthusiasts with the aim of preparing

38
initial innovative business ideas for implementation on site together with professionals. It
includes excursions to successful start-ups in the region.
Additional links:
• Worldfactory Start-Up Center at RUB: https://www.worldfactory.de/en/
• Website of the Employment Agency’s team at RUB: https://studium.ruhr-uni-
bochum.de/en/node/1017

39
6.2 Studying at UCC in Cork, Ireland

The Town and its Region

UCC is based in Cork City in the County of Cork, which is the southernmost county in the
Republic of Ireland. We have fantastic connections via rail, road, and air. The train station is
only 15 minutes away by bus from main campus (the number 205 will take you straight there)
and we are only a 15-minute drive away from Cork International Airport. You will find there
are so many amenities for you to enjoy here in Cork. You’ll be spoilt for choice with amazing
places to visit in your free time. Discover County Cork in this video.
Cork’s vibrant city centre is right on your doorstep of UCC’s campus and is only a 15-minute
walk or 5-minute cycle away. With a huge selection of bars, pubs, clubs, live music venues,
theatres, cafés, museums, galleries, parks, greenways, and restaurants serving cuisine from all
over the world, there is something for everyone. As Ireland’s foodie capital, you will be spoilt
for choice with the best of local and international produce available in the iconic English
Market which is a covered food market that has been in operation since 1788. Farmers’ markets
are hosted practically every day of the week all over the city, including one on our main campus.
The main shopping thoroughfare, St. Patrick’s Street, is home to numerous national and
international high street brands but you will also find smaller artisan, vintage, and
independent boutiques.
Here’s just a flavour of what you can do: explore the majestic star-shaped Charles Fort in
Kinsale or take a trip along the Wild Atlantic Way (which starts in Kinsale) and explore West
Cork towns such as Clonakilty, Schull, and Baltimore. Experience Atlantic Sea Kayaking, you
can even do night kayaking under the stars in Castlehaven Bay and Lough Hyne and see
luminescent plankton! Or head east to Cobh, which is famous for being the Titanic’s last port
of call in 1912. About an hour away from Cork, you can soak up the scenery around the world-
famous lakes of Killarney and take a tour of the Ring of Kerry.

40
You may also decide to take a day trip to the Viking city of Waterford or visit the impressive
Kilkenny Castle and Parklands. There are loads of options, all right here, on your doorstep.
You can check out the Cork Cultural Scene on
www.WhazOn.com which is a monthly publication
that features information on live music, gigs, festivals
and other cultural events.
WE ARE CORK: www.wearecork.ie
YAY CORK: www.yaycork.ie
PURE CORK: www.purecork.ie

The University

When you begin your journey at UCC you will belong

to a vibrant and diverse community of over 22,000
students from over 100 countries, from all over the
world. You will become part of a global family which
is united by shared experiences, shared values, and shared ambition.
Originally established as Queen’s College Cork in 1845, UCC has a stunning campus with the
River Lee flowing through it. Here, old limestone buildings blend seamlessly with amazing
new modern, award-winning architecture. Our main campus is set on 42 acres of wooded
grounds and yet you can still walk to Cork’s vibrant city centre in just 15 minutes! UCC has
three campuses: Main Campus, Western Campus, and North Mall Campus, which are all
located within a 15-minute walk of each other. In total, our campus covers over 210 acres,
including sports pitches.
UCC’s Green Campus has over 2,500 trees and around 120 different species. If you are a
nature lover, then you will feel right at home in UCC. Our campus was the first university in
the world to be awarded a Green Flag. In fact, the global Green Campus Programme, which is
now active in 21 countries, is a movement that was started by UCC students over 10 years ago.
We take our sustainability very seriously here!
UCC Green Campus Information: https://www.ucc.ie/en/greencampus/

The Department of Geography & the Centre for Architectural Education

The Department of Geography as one of the most popular subjects in the Faculty of Arts
centrally strives to create, preserve, communicate, and interrogate a wide range of geographical
knowledge in geographies of environment, socio-economic and cultural and political
transformations across the earth. The departments research is interdisciplinary focused on
21st century issues such as environment, migration, climate change, economy, food and
cultural identity and their influence on natural habitats, regional development, landscape
experience as well as rural change and urban growth.
The Architecture course in UCC is accredited by the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland
(RIAI). Our unique collaboration with the Cork Institute of Technology (CIT)/Munster
Technological University (MTU) provides a challenging and engaging course. This course is
41
delivered by the Cork Centre for
Architectural Education (CCAE) in new
premises on Douglas Street in Cork. This
new School of Architecture houses state-
of-the-art technology with purpose-built
workshop spaces where you will develop
your skills in creativity, design, and
innovation.
The Centre for Architectural Education
provides students with understanding of
the social, environmental and cultural
implications of design within the built
environment, awareness of the
professional responsibilities of architects
within the building process, reparation of
architects to work in, manage and lead
integrated design teams a basis for subsequent education and professional qualification, and
development of the knowledge and skills for independent study and design and for
postgraduate study and research.

Prior to your arrival: Preparing Your Stay at UCC

Before your arrival, you should carefully read the information for international students given
by UCC. The International Office in UCC provides detailed information and a point of access
for international students before and during their studies – assisting with information around
Visa and Immigration, Fees and Cost of Living, and Accommodation queries.
Information for Visiting EU Students:
https://www.ucc.ie/en/international/studyatucc/visitingeustudents/

Entry Regulations (Visa)

Visa and immigration compliance is compulsory for most international students visiting UCC.
For more detailed information please read the most recent information and updates under the
following link:
https://www.ucc.ie/en/international/studentinfohub/beforeyouarrive/visaandimmigration/

Accommodation

Cork is a compact, friendly, safe and secure city to live in. It’s easy to find your way around and
easy to make friends. In fact, the locals are so friendly that Cork was voted third friendliest city
in the world in 2018 (Source: Condé Nast Traveller). Unlike students in some other university
cities, most UCC students can live within walking distance of each other which really adds to
the sense of community. We know how important it is for you to find the right
accommodation, a place where you can feel safe and at home. There are plenty of options to

42
choose from, most of which are located within walking distance of campus or on a public bus
route, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
There are five student apartment complexes which are managed by UCC, and all are located
within very short walking distances of campus:
• https://www.homelodgers.com/student-accommodation-cork/
• https://www.ucc.ie/en/accommodation/campusaccommodation/
• https://studentpad.ucc.ie/Accommodation
• https://www.ucc.ie/en/build/projects/current/crows-nest/
Contact:
Accommmodation and Community Life
[email protected]
Phone: 353 21 490 3849

Other options:
UCC advises you to contact the private student apartment complexes who offer single semester
accommodation (Hatch, The Spires, Bottleworks) to see if you can access a cancellation or to
be put on one of their waiting lists.
As an alternative, private rentals and digs are also an affordable option for many students. You
will find rooms in private rentals, rooms in shared houses and owner-occupied residences
through UCC Student Pad the UCC Accommodation Search Facebook group to look at
options in student and owner occupied houses. You can apply with your UCC application
number or alternatively you can use this code to register: 124000000. A
ccommodation searches can be challenging and can take time. There will be more rooms
added to UCC Studentpad over the coming weeks so please continue to keep an eye on the site
and set up an alert for when new properties are added. We know of students who have found
short-term accommodation through companies such as Eazycity or Viva Ireland although UCC
does not have an affiliation with these companies so cannot vouch for the quality of the
accommodation.
More options:
DAFT.ie: https://www.daft.ie/for-rent/apartment-abbeyville-model-farm-road-cork-model-
farm-road-co-cork/5705656
UNIACCO: https://uniacco.com
Murray Properties: http://www.murrayproperties.ie/

Welcome and Orientation

UCC’s International Office a series of welcome and orientation programmes for international
students. The two-week Welcome Programme for international students consists of a series of
events within a the week period such as co-information meetings, walking tours of the city

43
centre, cinema nights, table quizzes and trips at the weekend. Students are invited to take part
on any of the events, however it is nor compulsory.
The Orientation Programme is a compulsory event for all international students. In this
Programme, students get introduced into life at UCC through a series of programmes which
should help them to settle in.
For recent information please check paragraph “Orientation and Semester Dates” under this
link: https://www.ucc.ie/en/international/studyatucc/visitingeustudents/

Enrollment Process & Registration at the City

Enrollment Process at UCC

To find out about which steps you need to take in order to enroll at UCC, please visit this
website and study the section on registration information by student type carefully. In case of
questions, you can just contact the responsible staff at the International Office.

Registration at the City of Cork

There is different registration information for international students visiting UCC, mostly
concerning country of origin. For more detailed and updated information please check:
https://www.ucc.ie/en/international/studentinfohub/afteryouarrive/orientationandregistrati
on/

Campus Services & Student Life

Campus Services at UCC

Here at UCC our mission is to facilitate a world-class student experience and to empower and
support you to achieve your goals, every step of the way. The key services of the Student
Experience Office include:
ACCESS AND PARTICIPATION
• Disability Support Service (more information here)
• Mature Student Office
UCC PLUS+
• Student Budgetary Advisor
CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY
• Employability
• Placement
• Advice
SPORT AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
• UCC Clubs

44
STUDENT HEALTH AND WELLBEING
• Chaplaincy
• Peer Support
• Student Counselling & Development: University Student Counselling and Development
provides support for students, staff, and parents during your studies- dealing with matters
such, such as illness, orientation or motivation difficulties or other psychological problems.
Counselling appointments continue to be delivered by phone or online using MS Teams,
and in-person counselling appointments are available.
• Student Health
STUDENT LIFE
• Accommodation and Community Life (including Campus Watch)
• Health and Safety for Student Activities
• Student Societies
• Students’ Union
• UCC 98.3FM and Student Media
STUDENT EXPERIENCE INFORMATION:
www.ucc.ie/en/studentexperience/
In addition, UCC Student IT Services provides a central repository of all services available to
enrolled students. This includes details such as Eduroam Wifi service; Managed Print Service;
Student email service; Software.

Student Life at UCC

1. Sport in Our Bones

UCC has a deep and proud history of sporting achievement, and we have ambitious plans for
the future. The importance of sport goes far beyond empowering people with health and
wellbeing – sport teaches life lessons of confidence, teamwork, resilience, respect, ambition,
discipline, integrity which are some of our core values here at UCC.
At UCC we aim to promote participation in sport by all our students and staff, and to support
competitive and high-performance athletes. The UCC community of sport wears its red and
black shirts and jerseys with passion and pride. With heads held high, its tribe of warriors
stands just that little bit taller for the badge of honour it has worn on its chests since 1872: the
Skull and Crossbones.
The Mardyke has been home to UCC sport and club activities since 1911. If you like going to
the gym before or after class, check out this amazing state-of-the-art facility which includes
Fitness and Weight Gyms, Sauna and Steam Rooms, 3 Sports Halls, a 25m Swimming Pool,
2 Squash Courts, a Climbing Wall, Aerobics and Dance Studios, a Rehabilitation Clinic and
the UCC Performance Laboratory. The outdoor grounds consist of a GAA Pitch, rugby and

45
soccer pitch with spectator stand, and water-based synthetic pitch for Hockey and many other
multi-sport uses.
2. Campus Culture
The School of Film, Music and Theatre is the powerhouse of performing arts at UCC and an
international centre of excellence. Our community of students, academics, artist-scholars,
practitioners and researchers work with the contemporary and experimental as well as the
traditional and historical.
www.ucc.ie/en/fmt
There is an active Film Society in UCC, which is solely dedicated to the appreciation and
making of — you guessed it — films! Regular film screenings and workshops give you the
opportunity to explore and expand your creativity and digital fluency graduate attributes.
Check out our students’ films on:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8n5glTHtBpxrW5YsUV7Q6Q
UCC’s Department of Music promotes an annual series of public recitals and concerts as part
of UCC’s cultural service to the community. Known as Fuaim, the Irish word for sound or
noise, you can enjoy weekly lunchtime recitals, for free. Sounds good!
www.ucc.ie/en/fmt/music
The Visual Arts have a vibrant presence on campus, the most visible sign of which is the Lewis
Glucksman Gallery. The Glucksman was named the Best Public Building in 2005 by the Royal
Institute of Architects in Ireland and made the shortlist of 1001 Buildings You Must See Before
You Die: Architectural Masterpieces. It houses four impressive gallery spaces, a riverside
restaurant and shop. As an undergraduate student, you can get involved directly with the work
of the gallery through an internship programme which will stimulate and cultivate your
independent and creative thinking. It has something for everyone but is an absolute must-see
if you are an art-lover.
www.glucksman.org
3. Student Societies
University life is so much more than your academic development and achievements. It’s every
bit as much about your personal and social development, and student societies are the bedrock
of this part of your college experience. As a member of a student society, you will gain lots of
transferable skills including the ability to create, evaluate and communicate knowledge. With
over 100 societies to get involved in outside of your studies, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Societies
are student-run groups that offer opportunities to co-create, to refine your skills, spark new
interests and make lifelong friends. You can check out all of the societies and speak to
members at the Societies Day which usually takes place during Freshers’ Week.
http://societies.ucc.ie/
4. MakerSpace
The MakerSpace at the Hub in UCC is a brand-new collaborative workspace which brings
together creative, collaborative and innovative methods of learning and teaching. It is a place

46
where our students, staff and the wider community can come together to explore, collaborate
and exchange knowledge within and across disciplines. This space will complement existing
MakerSpaces in the Cork area. Here, you will be able to develop and nurture your independent
and creative thinking skills in a connected community setting, through access to materials,
resources, equipment and workshops across a wide range of areas. You will be able to access
lots of resources including software for photo-editing and gamedesign, cameras, jamboards,
whiteboards and equipment for model-making, as well as paper, pencils, and markers.
https://www.ucc.ie/en/skillscentre/maker-space/
5. Student Media
Ireland is famous for being a nation of storytellers and here in UCC, we want to help you to
write your own story but also to capture and share the stories that impact all of our lives. If you
have storytelling in your bones, then there are loads of opportunities in UCC Student Media
for you to put your hand up and get involved.
www.ucc.ie/en/students/activities/media

Student Card & Transportation

1. Student Card
The Student ID Card gives students access to facilities such as the UCC library, examination
venues and some classrooms. Students can collect their Student ID Card from the Student
Records & Examinations office on completion of registration and successful upload of
photograph.
2. Transportation
Cork city mostly relies on a very modern bus system throughout the city and suburbs. Students
are recommended to get a TFI Leap Card, which is a reduced rate travel card. The city’s railway
hub is based at Kent station towards the east end of the city giving access to the national and
county network. There are two local lines serving the county: one for Cobh in east Cork and
one serving Mallow, Charleville and Millstreet in north Cork. For more information on
transportation in Cork, please visit this website.
Cork Airport is the international gateway to the South of Ireland and is uniquely positioned at
the start of the Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland’s Ancient East. It is the country’s second largest
and best-connected international airport with more choice of routes than any other airport
outside of Dublin. To see a full list of destinations that Cork flies to visit:
https://www.corkairport.com/destinations/destinations

3. Services for Students with Special Needs

Our Disability Support Service (DSS) team provides a wide range of supports for students who
have a disability, specific learning difficulty or who enter UCC through the DARE (Disability
Access Route to Education) scheme. By providing tailored supports to meet your individual
needs, our expert DSS team will work with you and will empower you to achieve your full
potential. DSS engages with the full UCC community to promote and deliver a fully inclusive

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learning environment. For advice and information from both staff and students on making the
most of college life check out our Student Toolkit.
The Calm Zone (An Ceantar Ciúin): The Calm Zone is laid out across two levels, and every
facet of the space - including acoustics and accessibility - has been considered to maximise
autism-friendliness and designed to global design guidelines for built environments to be used
by individuals with autism.
Disability Support Service Information: www.ucc.ie/en/dss
UCC Autism & Uni Student Toolkit: https://ucc.autism-uni.org/
Autism Friendly University Initiative: https://www.ucc.ie/en/autismfriendly/

Health Insurance & Medical Services

Health insurance is mandatory for all UCC students. For more detailed and updated informa-
tion please check:
https://www.ucc.ie/en/international/studentinfohub/beforeyouarrive/healthinsurance/

Financing Your Studies & Finding a Job After Graduation

Financing Your Studies

Your time in UCC will be some of the best years of your life. To maximise your student
experience in UCC, you can apply some of our practical advice and good money management
skills. The Student Budgetary Advisor is available to meet with you to discuss available
supports, potential funding sources and practical ways to manage your money. The service also
runs regular information sessions regarding student finances throughout the academic year.
We are including some helpful tips, calculators, and planners for you here and if you have any
questions, then our UCC Budgetary Advisor will be happy to assist you.
Students Financial Supports and Advice: www.ucc.ie/en/studentbudget
Fees Office Information: www.ucc.ie/fees
Scholarship and Prizes: www.ucc.ie/en/scholarships/

Finding a Job in Cork and around after Graduation

To support RePIC graduates in finding a suitable job in which they can apply their skills and
knowledge, the UCC Career Services offers a variety of career guidance offers and establishes
contact between potential employers and motivated graduates.

48
6.3 Studying at EUR in Rotterdam, Netherlands

The Town and its Region

Rotterdam is the second largest city in the Netherlands (700,000 people) and is unlike any
other Dutch city. Thanks to its impressive skyline, Rotterdam is also known as 'Manhattan on
the Maas'. The world port of Rotterdam is the largest port in Europe and is in the top five of
largest ports in the world. Rotterdam is an architectural and cultural metropolis city, a true
melting pot with approximately 175 nationalities; Exotic shops and eateries can be found
everywhere. The city with many faces has a vibrant young urban culture, rich and diverse range
of art and culture, plenty museums, festivals, trendy nightlife, unrivaled selection of (chic)
shops, restaurants, and cafes. Definitely a city for city-lovers, think modern, and urban, not
windmills and canals.
Shop at the Market Hall: Markthal is an explosion of colours and scents. From the moment
you walk through the doors of this enormous, horseshoe-shaped building, all you see are bright
fruits, vegetables, and other foods—both actual items at the numerous food stalls and images
of items on the massive ceiling artwork.
See the Old Harbor: Dating from the 14th century, the Old Harbor (Oude Haven) is one of the
more historic places to visit in Rotterdam and is the city’s oldest harbour. This unique area is
home to an eclectic mix of old and new. In the Old Harbor, you’ll find a small shipyard where
historic ships are renovated (part of the Maritime Museum) as well as a group of regal, old
ships that are actually moored in the harbour. There are also historic merchant houses, which
are some of the oldest surviving buildings in the city. This history is juxtaposed against a lively
group of waterfront cafes, modern architecture, and innovations like the first skyscraper in the
city. It’s a great place to grab a drink or a snack and take in the view.
Visit the Cube Houses: Rotterdam’s unique Cube Houses are recognized around the world for
their striking appearance. Dutch architect Piet Blom designed each cube to be tilted at a 55-
degree angle and perched atop a hexagonally shaped base. Plus, they’re bright yellow, so they

49
more than stand out from the nearby buildings. You can visit the Show-Cube – a fully-
furnished cube house that serves a museum.
See the city from the Euromast: The 185-meter-tall Euromast is Rotterdam’s highest tower.
From its rotating elevator that ascends to the top of the building, you can see brilliant 360-
degree views of some of the city’s most notable landmarks. The observation platform and
restaurant at 96 meters also offer a great view of the city, perhaps paired with a meal or cup of
tea. It’s also possible to abseil or zipline down from the tower during the summer if you’re
looking for something adventurous to do.
Walk along the Erasmus Bridge: The Swan” is the iconic bridge of Rotterdam, connecting the
northern and the southern part of the city. It’s lovely to walk across the bridge because of the
view. At night it’s especially nice as the bridge lights up and so do the houses and offices
around it.
Get on board the SS Rotterdam: Rotterdam is home to one of the most unique
hotels/museums we’ve encountered—the ss Rotterdam. This ship from the Holland America
line was once known as “The Grande Dame” and sailed the oceans for over 40 years until
being permanently docked in the port. She opened as a combined hotel and museum in 2010.
You can visit the ship for events, to dine, or to take one of the many tours available. Possible
stops include the bridge, engine rooms, Captain’s quarters, and the various public spaces of
the ship. Staying overnight in one of its 254 hotel rooms (decorated in 1950s motif, of course)
is also quite an experience—one of the more unusual things to do in Rotterdam.
Check out a food hall: Fenix Food Factory — the most hipster place ever — is housed in an old
port warehouse in Katendrecht. Overall, the place has maintained its rustic charm, but it’s also
been revamped to look trendy and up-and-coming. Cute little fairy lights and a nice outside
space to have a beer and a burger make it the perfect destination for mild summer nights.
Foodhallen Rotterdam - another must-see food court in Rotterdam: The Pakhuis Meesteren,
where it’s located, used to be a storage place for tea, nuts, and other colonial goods. Foodhallen
is a culinary concept where you can come to enjoy food from cuisines from all over the world.
Foodhallen is established by entrepreneurs, embraced by locals, enjoyed by visitors from all
over the world.
Visit Delfshaven: The inner-city harbour of Delfshaven is one of the few areas that survived
the bombing of Rotterdam during World War II. Visiting this neighbourhood treats you to old
Dutch canal houses and a beautiful yacht marina. You can visit antique stores, beer breweries,
small art galleries, and restaurants here! But the most interesting part of this buurt is the
history: it was originally Delft’s harbour before becoming a part of Rotterdam in the 19th
century. The people who lived there survived by fishing for herring and making the famous
Dutch gin Jenever. This neighbourhood is also home to the Pelgrimvaderskerk (Pilgrim
Father’s Church), which dates back to 1417. It was originally a Roman Catholic Church, which
later turned into a Protestant church in 1574. Also, Delvtshaven was the port from where the
Pilgrim Fathers sailed to Southampton in England and then boarded the Mayflower that sailed
to the Americas.
Go and see Het Havenmuseum (The Harbour Museum): The Havenmuseum is located at
Leuvehaven 50 and is right next to the Maritiem Museum. You can see the history of the port

50
of Rotterdam from 1850 onwards all the way to 1970. It is also possible to walk into most of
the ships docked there and discover what they look like from the inside!
Relax at Luchtsingel: If you look at a satellite image of Rotterdam from above, you will be able
to spot a weird, bright yellow line running from Rotterdam North to the centre. That’s
Luchtsingel! The yellow, wooden bridge is right around the corner from the central station,
and you walk around the 390m long wooden pedestrian bridge. On it, you will also find the
DakAkker – a harvestable roof where vegetables, fruits and herbs are grown; the Roof Hofplein
which acts as a small public venue space for events; and the park at Pompenburg where you
can relax when the sun is shining.
Stroll Witte de With Street: Witte de With Street is one of the cool areas. Filled with cafes,
restaurants, art galleries, and shops, there’s always something happening on this street
adjacent to the Museumpark. Pop into the Bazaar restaurant for some hummus, browse for
sleek fashion at Design Studio Armeni, or stop by a thought-provoking exhibit at the
Kunstinstituut Melly.
Purchase a Rotterdam Pass: Buying the Rotterdam Pass lets you do almost 750 free or
discounted things in and around the city. You can go play a game of laser tag or go to one of
the many museums at a discounted price, or even grab some pancakes! The best part is that
it’s valid for a whole year! The year always starts on March 1 until the end of February! You
only pay 60 euros for the pass or 12.50 EUR (!) if you’re a student. You can get this pass at the
central library at Blaak or order it online.

The University

Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR) is a highly ranked, international research university,

based in the dynamic and diverse city of Rotterdam. Founded in 1913, it is currently one of the
biggest universities of the Netherlands with a student population of 29,000 and a research
community of circa 1,400. Scholars and students in seven faculties and two institutions work
on global social challenges in the areas of health, wealth, governance and culture.
As part of a large global network of academic
partnerships, in strategic alliance with Leiden
University and Delft University of Technology
and in a unique collaboration with city and
port, the dynamic city of Rotterdam serves as
our laboratory.
The quality of research at Erasmus University,
named after Rotterdam-born humanist and
theologian Erasmus, is reflected in its
consistent top 100 position in most major
universities’ rankings. On the lively, modern
campus, students, and scholars of more than
100 nationalities are constantly encouraged to
develop their talents and meet their ambition.

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The Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies

IHS was established during the period of Rotterdam's post-WWII reconstruction. As the
international arm of the Bouwcentrum, IHS had the task to communicate the knowledge
gained, through the development of the city and its housing, to government authorities in
developing countries. Sixty years on, times have changed. Worldwide, cities are growing at an
explosive rate. Along with considerable expertise IHS has accumulated during the last half-
century, the institute has built up an international urban management network enabling IHS
to help managers, government officials and policymakers to improve the way cities function
across the globe.
The approach of IHS is based on the cross-fertilization of our main three activities: education,
advisory services and applied research. IHS staff members spend a substantial amount of time
working in the field, and they possess relevant expertise within the context of different
countries they have worked in. IHS urban specialists can create strong links between theory
and practice by simultaneously being involved in different core activities. This way, they
provide support, training and services that are relevant for course participants and clients.
Inputs drawn from the advisory and research activities are also reflected in the classroom,
where course participants benefit from the lecturers' rich knowledge and professional
background.
IHS education, advisory services and research all revolve around 3 main thematic areas:
• Urban Socio-Spatial Development
• Urban Sustainability and Climate Change Resilience
• Urban Economics and Governance
IHS has a team of multi-disciplinary and multi-national staff with expertise varying from
municipal finance to participatory planning, action and strategic planning, housing policies
and finance and environmental planning and management. Our staff mix the rigor of
knowledge transfer with practical expertise acquired through direct involvement in projects
and advisory services throughout the world. IHS is occupied with Rotterdam-based activities
and overseas work. This provides an excellent opportunity for cross-fertilisation and the
development of case studies that can immediately be embedded into course programmes.
IHS is an active member in several international networks and professional discussion groups
like the European Network of Housing Research, the Best Practice Network, the EU sponsored
URBAL Network, NAERUS etc. IHS is also a knowledge partner of IBSA-HS, a trilateral
agreement between India, chaBrazil and South Africa, to promote South-Cooperation and
exchange on several mutually agreed upon areas of interest within the housing sector.
Contact:
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies
Burgemeester Oudlaan 50 Mandeville (T) Building, 14 floor
3062 PA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
Phone: +31 10 408 9825
https://www.ihs.nl/en

52
Prior to your arrival: Preparing Your Stay at EUR

Before departure:

• Make a financial plan; ensure you have sufficient funds to support yourself, apply for grants
and/or scholarships and ensure you have enough cash (in euros) to cover your expenses
for the first couple of days in the Netherlands
• After acceptance to the exchange programme/courses, you'll be requested to upload a
picture for your student ID
• After receiving your university login keys (ERNA details), log on to the university systems
by using the direct link mentioned in the email about this matter
• Make sure your passport is valid for the time that you'll be staying in the Netherlands and
check with the authorities in your home country how many months your passport still
needs to be valid for when you return there
• Prepare the necessary documents for your visa and/or residence permit (if applicable), and
if you need a visa, obtain it before you travel
• Arrange your healthcare (and other) insurance
• Decide how and when to get to Rotterdam
• Book tickets (if applicable)
• Find out more about public transportation in Rotterdam
• Arrange accommodation in Rotterdam, at least for your first few nights
Optional:
• Register for the Orientation programmes (for example: Airport service, language courses,
Ikea service and registration at the City Hall).
• Join a student association, such as ESN-Rotterdam

Upon arrival:

Essential:
• Check your timetable; know where you have your first classes, and make sure your classes
do not overlap.
• Register at City Hall (if you will be living in the Netherlands for more than 4 months).
• Be properly insured (you are by law obliged to be insured in the Netherlands).
• Register yourself at a general practitioner and dentist.
• Get your Student ID card (you will receive this from the exchange coordinator).
• Pick up your residence permit (if applicable, you will receive an email once it is ready).
• Take a tuberculosis check (if applicable).

53
Optional:
• Open a Dutch bank account (City Hall registration is required if you want to proceed with
this step).
• Attend our orientation programmes.
• Buy a bicycle.
• Buy an OV-chipkaart (public transport chip card).
• Buy a mobile phone or Dutch SIM card.
• Become a member of one of the student organisations.
• Buy an Erasmus Sport Pass.
Further information:
International Office: https://www.eur.nl/en/education/practical-
matters/contact/international-office

Entry Regulations (Visa)

Looking to immigrate to the Netherlands (NL) for your studies? Great choice, it’s really nice
here.
You may need to make immigration arrangements to travel into our country. What it is you
need to do (arrange a visa? a residence permit? nothing?)? How much will it cost and how long
does it take? No need to stress, we have all the answers. And by Dutch law, students cannot
apply for a study residence permit themselves, so relax. EUR assists admitted students with
arranging any immigration formalities, either through your faculty or through our central
international office and will reach out to you as soon as your admittance is final.
Visa or Residence Permit?
In principle, your nationality determines the immigration arrangements you need to take
before coming to study at EUR. Remember: you will not have to arrange your immigration on
your own. The EUR International Office will reach out to you as soon as your admittance is
final to get things started.
If you have an EU/EEA passport you can go to:
https://www.eur.nl/en/education/practical-matters/immigration/visa-or-residence-
permit/eu-students-coming-rotterdam
If you have a Non-EU/EEA passport you can go to:
https://www.eur.nl/en/education/practical-matters/immigration/visa-or-residence-
permit/non-eu-students-coming-rotterdam

Accommodation

Students are advised to begin looking for housing at least six months before their stay in
Rotterdam begins. There are reserved accommodation spots for about 25 % of yearly incoming
internationals. We suggest students first apply for EUR reserved housing, and if necessary
54
then try other accommodation providers such as Housing Anywhere, RoomPlaza, Stadswonen
Rotterdam or the private market.
Housing in Rotterdam is difficult to find, but not impossible. Rents in Rotterdam can vary
between 500-750 Euros – plus additional costs (electricity, water, gas, municipal tax) that are
not always included. We remind you to be cautious when looking for housing from abroad. If
you have any doubts concerning your rental agreement, strange fees or the landlord’s
behaviour please reach out to the central International Office.
In the Netherlands student housing is not arranged by the university and it is a student’s own
responsibility. Further information can be found on our Housing for International Students
page.

Welcome and Orientation

At EUR you are welcomed with a variety of orientation events to help you settle and help you
jump start in your new home! You can expect an invitation from your faculty to their
orientation programme. There is also the official introduction week of EUR called Eurekaweek.
Eurekaweek is filled with social and educational events that are meant to introduce you to new
people and places around the university and Rotterdam. Lastly there is also ESN’s Introduction
Days, Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Rotterdam is the largest international student
organisation, aimed to build a strong international community.
Other orientation events include:
• Airport Welcome Service: We also have a welcome stand at the airport, welcoming you with
open arms and to help you find the best way to your new home.
• One Stop Shops: At the One Stop Shops you can do your city hall registration for the city
of Rotterdam, but also meet various of your external partners. Such as AON health
insurance, International Student Identity Card (ISIC), ESN, Student Wellbeing and the
Language and Training Centre.
• EUR Buddy Programme: The EUR Buddy Programme aims to help new students set up
their own social network from the day they arrive in Rotterdam. Your EUR Buddy will help
you to start your (student) life in Rotterdam. You could, for example, get assistance with
finding supermarkets, doctors, registration at the city hall and many other practical
matters. Your EUR Buddy can also help you on a more social level, introducing you to new
people and activities organised all over Rotterdam
• Bicycle Lessons: Getting around town by bike is the cheapest, healthiest, greenest, and
most Dutch means of transport. However, to most internationals cycling is far from second
nature. International Office EUR offers crash-courses cycling to introduce you to the basic
cycling techniques and traffic rules. An experienced teacher guides you through the do’s
and don’ts of cycling during a 1 hour group lesson. The aim is to make you ride away into
Rotterdam all by yourself.
• Ikea Service: Do you need to get some final things for your room? Then join us on the bus
to Ikea! During this 2-hour shopping trip you'll be able to buy some stuff to finish off your
new room.

55
Enrollment Process & Registration at the City

Enrollment Process at EUR

You are looking to study at the Erasmus University Rotterdam? Perfect! You will find all
relevant information about registration, college tuition fee and more on these pages. Before
you apply make sure to check:
• if you meet the admission requirements
• if the deadline for admission has not passed.
Contact information and information on the deadlines for admission is available on this
website. Would you like to enrol for a post experience master programme? Please follow the
instructions of the post experience master programme in that case.
1. Apply via Studielink: Use Studielink to apply for a master programme with a Dutch previous
education. You need to follow these steps:
- Visit StudielinkOpens external and log in. If you officially live in the Netherlands (you
are registered in a Dutch municipality) you are required to use DigiD to log in to
Studielink. If you do not, or do not yet, live in the Netherlands, then you cannot use
DigiD and you are required to log in with a Studielink username and password. Step by
step plansOpens external are available on the Studielink website.
- Using Studielink for the first time and you have no DigiD? Studielink will ask you to
upload a scanned copy of your passport or ID-card for verification of your personal
details. See Studielink for more information on this procedure: Verification personal
details & StudielinkOpens external. Did you use Studielink before? Please check your
personal details and change your mail address in case this is necessary. The Studielink
Q&AOpens external offers instructions on how to change this.
- Fill out your previous education. You only need to fill out the previous education(s) that
provide entry to the study programme you wish to take.
- After you have filled out your personal details and previous education, submit an
enrollment application via Studielink. Here you state which study programme you wish
to take (choose master programmes). After we have received your application via
Studielink, you will receive an email from Erasmus University mentioning your student
number within two working days. Please note: In case you do NOT receive any emails
from EUR after submitting your application, please check your spam box before you
contact us.
2. ERNA & Photo Upload
- After we have received your enrollment application via Studielink, you will receive a
message from Erasmus University via the email address you have filled out in Studielink
with your ERNA login details. This will give you access to the systems of the EUR.
- You will also receive an email with a personal link and instructions on how to upload
your picture for your student card.

56
 - If you did not receive these emails, please contact us. Are you a former student of EUR?
In that case we will not send you these emails.
3. Admission
- The study programme decides on your admission. Make sure to follow the admission
and application procedure of each study programme you apply for.
4. Payment of tuition fees
- After the decision about your admission has been processed, you will receive an email
via Studielink as of June about your tuition. Pay by digital authorization via studielink
in case you have a bank account from a country in the SEPA area. Which countries are
in the SEPA area can be found hereOpens external. Follow the instructionOpens
external available on the Studielink website.
5. Check the status of your enrollment application regularly
- You are NOT enrolled in case your status in Studielink has not changed from
'Application Submitted' to ''Enrolled"
6. Student card and statement of registration
- You are enrolled once your status in Studielink is changed from 'Application submitted'
to ''Enrolled''. After your status has changed into 'Enrolled' you will have access to your
digital student card and statement of registration in Osiris Student.
Procedural rules for enrollment at EUR: https://www.eur.nl/en/education/practical-
matters/advice-counselling/legal-position/regulations

Registration at the City of Rotterdam

If you will be living in the Netherlands for more than four months, you are obliged to register
at the City Hall in the town in which you are living. Check if the following two points apply to
you:
• Check if your room is a sublet: If your room is a sublet, there is a considerable chance that
you may not use the address to register at City Hall. A formal declaration from the main
occupant and a tenancy agreement signed by the landlord, to prove that you are allowed to
register at the address, are required!
• Check if you need to pick up your Dutch residence permit: Non-EU/EEA students must
ensure to pick up their Dutch residence permit at the IND front office in the Conradstraat
prior to the appointment! It is only possible to collect your residence permit after you
receive a message from International Office EUR that your permit is ready. We advise you
to wait with scheduling an appointment for registration at City Hall until you receive the
residence permit pick-up notification.

Registration on Campus at One Stop Shop:

At the start of every semester, we provide our international students the opportunity to register
at the City Hall during the One Stop Shops on campus. That way, you can arrange all practical

57
matters in one go and don't have to visit the City Hall in the city centre. This applies only for
students that want to register at the City Hall of Rotterdam.
Note that there are two situations in which you have to visit City Hall and cannot be registered
on campus. This is when:
• You live in Rotterdam, but within a postal zone that requires a permit of residence, also
known as HVV. If you want to know whether your live in a street or neighbourhood the
requires additional documents for registration, do the postal code check. Opens external
Moreover, note that since March 2019 a municipal law authorises the municipality to
request a police clearance if you wish to rent in certain streets. To receive clearance, you
don’t need anything in advance. The police will conduct a screening when you register with
HVV at the City Hall. However, check the additional requirements for registering with
HVV.
• You live in a municipality other than Rotterdam, for example Schiedam or Capelle. This is
what you should know about registering in Capelle and Schiedam.

BSN-number & Studielink

After registration, you will receive a letter from City Hall with your BSN-number within four
weeks. This letter will be sent to your Dutch address by postal mail. After registration, you
must also change your postal address in Studielink. Your home address in Studielink will
automatically be updated after your registration at City Hall. Exchange students should notify
their contact person at the faculty about their change in address.

Campus Services & Student Life

Campus Services at EUR

Erasmus University Rotterdam has campuses on four locations, three of which are in
Rotterdam and one in The Hague. On the campuses we study, work, sport, eat and drink. On
campus Woudestein there are also several complexes where students live. EUR strives for an
accessible campus and buildings for all students, staff and visitors.
1. Different locations:
- Campus Woudestein: The hub of Erasmus University Rotterdam is our Woudestein
campus, which is a 15-minute bike ride or 20-minute tram ride away from the city centre.
https://www.eur.nl/en/campus/locations/campus-woudestein
- Erasmus MC is an academic hospital and the medical faculty of Erasmus University
Rotterdam. https://www.eur.nl/en/campus/locations/erasmus-mc
- Erasmus University College (EUC): In the city centre of Rotterdam, nestled between the
market area, the charming Pannekoekstraat, the dazzlingly beautiful Markthal and the
bustling shopping area the Meent, sits a dignified city monument on the Nieuwemarkt
square, housing EUC. https://www.eur.nl/en/campus/locations/erasmus-university-
college

58
 - International Institute of Social Studies (ISS): Situated in The Hague, ISS is an
international graduate school of policy-oriented critical social science. It brings together
students and teachers from the Global South and the North in a European environment.
https://www.eur.nl/en/campus/locations/international-institute-social-studies
- ECE campus: The Erasmus Centre for Entrepreneurship (ECE) is the leading centre for
entrepreneurship in Europe. ECE develops and executes entrepreneurship courses on
Bachelor, Master and MBA level for multiple universities throughout the Netherlands
and thereby awakens entrepreneurial talent at 10.000 students every year. The ECE
campus is situated in Rotterdam. https://www.eur.nl/en/campus/locations/ece-
campus
2. EUR Library: On campus Woudestein you can find the EUR Library. A place where students
and staff can study, work and read. https://www.eur.nl/en/library
3. Studying at EUR: At Campus Woudestein there are several study spaces available for EUR
students. The places to study can be found in the Polak Building, Sanders Building and the
University Library. https://www.eur.nl/en/campus/locations/campus-woudestein/study-
spaces
4. Food, drinks, shops and services: The Erasmus University Rotterdam is a university with
international appeal and a vibrant campus. Of course, that's reflected by its food and
beverage facilities. Whether it's an exotic meal you're after, a working lunch or a quick bite
to eat, Woudestein campus has got it all. In between lectures or during a working day, you
can even get your daily groceries here! The campus houses a range of shops and businesses.
5. Visit our campus online with the Virtual Experience: https://experience.eur.nl/on-
campus?utm_source=USC&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=Experience#introduc
tion

Student Life at EUR

Rotterdam is the second largest city and municipality in the Netherlands. It is in the province
of South Holland, at the mouth of the Nieuwe Maas channel leading into the Rhine–Meuse–
Scheldt delta at the North Sea. Its history goes back to 1270, when a dam was constructed in
the Rotte. A little over 31.000 students are currently studying at EUR. The most students at
Erasmus University Rotterdam studied at the Erasmus School of Economics or the Rotterdam
School of Management. On Woudestein Campus, in the Erasmus MC, at Erasmus University
College and at the International Institute for Social Studies, you will see students from all over
the world. Many of our students come from Europe, but we also see many Asian students
choosing Erasmus University Rotterdam.
Language Courses
The Language & Training Centre (LTC) is the centre of expertise and partner for language
testing, language training and (oral and written) communication skills training The LTC is
part of EUR Education & Student Affairs. Their team currently consists of four dedicated
permanent employees, supported by a group of some 50 excellent and highly experienced
freelance teachers and trainers.

59
More information: https://www.eur.nl/en/education/language-training-centre/about-us
Arts and Culture at EUR
Studium Generale is part of EUR and organises scientific, social, and cultural programmes
throughout the year. The programme consists of lectures, debates, a monthly talk show, a
monthly Open Stage Night, movie nights, cultural and scientific events and a wide range of
workshops, courses and performances.
More information: https://www.eur.nl/en/campus/art-culture/studium-generale
Erasmus Sport
Students and employees of EUR can practice sports and fitness at Erasmus Sport. Erasmus
Sport offers an extensive sports programme all through the academic year, under the
leadership of enthusiastic instructors and trainers. They supervise the individual sportspeople
or train the teams of the sports clubs affiliated with Erasmus Sport.
More information: https://www.eur.nl/en/campus/locations/campus-woudestein/sport
More Student life
When you move to Rotterdam there are certain things you want to know as a new student.
Find out everything you want to know about student life:
• Eurekaweek: The Eurekaweek is the official introduction week of the Erasmus University
Rotterdam (EUR). The Eurekaweek 2022 will take place from 15 until 18 August 2022.
More information: https://www.eur.nl/en/education/study-rotterdam/eurekaweek
• Student Wellbeing Platform: The EUR Student Wellbeing programme aims to help
students grow and thrive during their life here at the university. We are proud of our
students’ diversity and want to support and challenge every student to fully develop talents
and personal growth. Check out what we have to offer, from workshops, events, and
courses, to empathetic ears and personalised professional help. More information:
https://www.eur.nl/en/education/study-rotterdam/student-wellbeing
• Student Organisations: Student organisations are an important part of the student life.
They organise a lot of activities in which you can partake. It is an easy way to meet new
people. More than often friendships for life are formed. More information:
https://www.eur.nl/en/education/study-rotterdam/student-life/student-organisations
• Going out in Rotterdam: this city is very vibrant and has a wide variety of different bars,
clubs and cafes. There is a place to hang out for everyone!

General Counselling Offers at EUR:

• Student counselling: https://www.eur.nl/en/education/practical-matters/advice-

counselling/student-counsellors
• Confidential counsellor: https://www.eur.nl/en/education/practical-matters/advice-
counselling/confidential-counsellor

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• Student psychologist: https://www.eur.nl/en/education/practical-matters/advice-
counselling/student-psychologists

Other useful links:

• EUR Student Charter: https://www.eur.nl/en/education/practical-matters/advice-

counselling/legal-position/students-charter
• EUR Code of Integrity: https://www.eur.nl/en/media/2021-12-code-integrity-eur

Student Card & Transportation

Student Card
Since June 1, 2020 you will no longer receive a physical student card but you will use a Digital
Student ID Card. This card is valid if you have a completed enrollment at Erasmus University.
The digital student card is a complete replacement of the former plastic card and offers the
exact same functionalities. The digital student card also serves as official ID on campus, and it
is therefore mandatory to upload your passport photo when you first register at EUR.
Please note: You cannot use your digital student card as proof of identity for an exam. You can
use your passport, identity card, residence permit or driver's license for this.
If for any reason you still need a plastic card, you can order a card. The card costs 5 Euros. The
processing of your order can take up to 10 working days. The card will be sent to the
correspondence address known to us, i.e., the address you entered in Studielink. If that address
is abroad, the card will not be sent by post, but you can pick it up at the ESSC. In that case you
will be notified when the card is ready.
Check your address details in Osiris Student to make sure that EUR has your current address
and adjust it in Studielink if necessary.
PLEASE NOTE: Cards are only issued for the current academic year. The card cannot be
printed if your registration is not completed. Even if there is a completed registration, but no
passport photo, the card cannot be printed. So, check the status of your registration carefully
in Osiris Student before placing your order!
What can you do with your student ID card?
• Your digital student card is your library card at the university library.
• If you want to use a study place, you must show your digital student card.
• You can be asked for your digital student card when you enter lectures.

Services for Students with Special Needs

EUR believes that it is important that all students can make the best use of their talents. Team
Studying with a Functional Impairment (Team SMF) devotes themselves to achieving this
ambition and are committed to supporting students with a functional impairment. On this
page you can find more information on the functional impairments we are familiar with:

61
https://www.eur.nl/en/education/practical-matters/advice-counselling/studying-functional-
impairment

Health Insurance & Medical Services

Health Insurance

According to Dutch federal law, every student in the Netherlands must have a valid health
insurance. We recommend EU and non-EU students to take out an additional insurance (as a
supplement of their EHIC or other insurance from their home country). We have made a
special deal with Aon Insurance for international students who travel to and stay in The
Netherlands. More information can be found here: https://www.eur.nl/en/education/study-
rotterdam/living-here/insurance

Doctors

For medical assistance, the usual practice in the Netherlands is for a patient to have an initial
consultation with a general practitioner (Dutch: huisarts), before making an appointment with
a specialist in hospital.
We strongly encourage students to register at a GP as soon as possible. Medical help without
referral can lead to unforeseen, high costs and waiting times. Check the website of the Erasmus
Medical Center to find out which GP you can register at, and learn more about the Dutch
referral system.

Pharmacies

Most medications are only available on prescription. You will be given the prescription by your
general practitioner and can collect your medication(s) at a pharmacy (Dutch: apotheek).
Chemists (Dutch: drogist) sell medications that do not require a prescription, such as aspirin
and cough medicine. There is always a pharmacy open, even in the weekend. Every pharmacy
posts a notice in its window showing which pharmacy is open in the evenings and weekends.

Emergency Numbers

In case of emergency, you can call the following number (24/7 availability):
• Police: 112
• Ambulance or Fire Fighters: 112
• Emergency Service at EUR: 0031 10 408 1100
• No urgent Emergency Service at EUR: 0031 10 408 1035

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Financing Your Studies & Finding a Job After Graduation

Financing Your Studies

Securing your financial resources to cover your costs of living while studying at EUR is
certainly important for the successful completion of RePIC.
Apart from using your savings or a sponsor’s support, there are other ways to finance your
studies in Rotterdam. Obtaining a scholarship or grant is not easy and requires some effort,
but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try! We have listed out all scholarships and grants our
students use most.
• Scholarships for EUR students
• Scholarships for students coming to EUR
• Other options for financial aid

Finding a Job in Rotterdam and around after Graduation

The Career Advisors of Erasmus University Rotterdam are happy to help you with all your
questions regarding your preparation for the labour market.
You can contact the Career Advisors with the following questions:
• If you want to have an international career
• If you are considering starting your own business
• If you want help with choosing a master programme
• If you want some tips and advice on your cv and LinkedIn page.
You can also contact the Career Advisors if you want to discover your interests and qualities:
• Find out what you are good at, and which industry suits you best;
• Investigate which type of job matches your energy level (for example if you have a
functional impairment).

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6.4 Studying at KU in Istanbul, Turkey

The Town and its Region

Istanbul is in north-western Turkey in the Marmara Region. It is the largest metropolitan in

Turkey with the largest population (approx. 16 million) and 39 districts. The city is divided into
two sides, the European side in the West and the Asian/Anatolian side in the East. The
watercourse that divides the city is the Bosporus. As a seaport, it is both the closest Asian city
to Europe and the European city to Asia. Istanbul has been one of the most important cities in
world history and continues to be today. Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) provides a
detailed overview of the city’s history, arts & culture, population, security, and current events
on their Instagram account (municipalityist). The website of IMM's Tourism Directorate is a
good starting point to familiarise yourself with this magical place.
Koç University is located in mid-Northwestern Istanbul, in the Sariyer district on the European
Side. The university looks over the Black Sea in the north and the Marmara in the southeast.
Visit KU’s contact webpage for a closer look at the university location, transportation options,
and address info. You can also explore the main campus (Rumelifeneri) and the Sarıyer
District through vocalised presentations created by KU's International Community Services
Office on their website.
As a cosmopolite metropolis, Istanbul is a hub for numerous activities and perspectives due to
its charming atmosphere. From museums to religious places, shopping malls to parks, palaces
to beaches, the city offers countless options.
Istanbul hosts more than 80 museums ranging from archaeological, history museums to
modern and fine art museums, 311 parks, 81 beaches, and 147 shopping malls. One can explore
the Prince's Islands and enjoy the sunset in the Bosphorus on the way back to the center. The
city also hosts a wide range of festivals, concerts, and fairs. In other words, there is always
something to delight in Istanbul.

64
The Tourism Directorate of Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) is a great resource to
learn more about alternatives.

The University

Koç University (KU) was founded in 1993 as a non-profit private university in Istanbul, Turkey.
Since its establishment, KU has become one of the leading universities in Turkey,
distinguished by notable contributions to the elevation of education, knowledge and service
both domestically and beyond.
The principle mission of KU is to cultivate Turkey’s most competent graduates, well-rounded
adults who are internationally qualified; who can think creatively, independently and
objectively; and who are confident leaders. Concurrently, research conducted at KU contributes
to scientific development on an international scale and bolsters technological, economic, and
social development. Koç University consistently strives to advance knowledge through its
efforts and to serve Turkey and humanity as a model of institutional excellence.
As a “Center of Excellence”, KU facilitates the coming together of young students who possess
superior skills with esteemed faculty members who possess superior knowledge and
experience. Through Koç University’s liberal-arts-inspired pedagogy and a plethora of extra-
curricular enrichment opportunities, students acquire the intellectual courage to inquire and
question while developing the character necessary to serve as custodians of democratic values
and freedom. Guided by the highest standards of academic and interpersonal development,
the institution collectively imparts the critical thinking necessary to analyse knowledge, the
creativity to nurture and surpass this knowledge and the curiosity for lifelong learning.
From its curricular programs to the architectural design of its buildings, Koç University’s
student-oriented approach engenders a uniquely nurturing, yet competitive, environment. KU
graduates become leaders in their professions and, true to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s principles,
contribute to the betterment of society. Combining traditional academic paradigms with
innovative programming and successfully attracting top-tier students, faculty members and
research programs, KU aims to “raise the bar” for higher education in Turkey.
You can discover KU
online as well, at any
time, from anywhere.
There are multiple
videos and virtual tours
available on an around
the campus.

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The Graduate School of Social Sciences and Humanities (GSSSH)

The Graduate School of Social Sciences and Humanities (GSSSH) was established in 2003 by
integrating academic fields in the humanities and social sciences. Celebrating its 18th year,
GSSSH currently has an alumni population exceeding 550 and a current student population
over 400 graduates and 33 thesis and non-thesis programs embracing a wide range of
disciplines including Law, Economics, International Relations and Political Science, Design
and Technology, History, Archeology, History of Arts, Sociology, Philosophy and Psychology.
The mission of GSSSH is “To develop leaders to contribute to science and practice in fields of
social sciences by providing competencies and skills necessary to conduct high-quality research
that has the potential to contribute to universal knowledge as well as social policies in Turkey”.
We are proud of our students embracing this mission by keeping the bar ever so high for
themselves. Supporting the career development of our students is our primary responsibility.
We provide financial support for professional training outside KU, invite world-renown
distinguished scholars for seminars and workshops, and encourage exposure to international
scholarly communities through exchange programs, conferences, or research trips.”

Prior to your arrival: Preparing Your Stay at KU

Before arriving in Istanbul, the international students are required to take care of several
essential steps. The International Student Recruitment Directorate (ISRD) and the
International Community Services Office (ICO) are their core point of contact.
The ICO reaches the international students through an informative email regarding their
entries to Turkey to guide them on the visa acquisition process. Not only on the visa matter,
but the office also delivers all the necessary information an international student needs by
providing the appropriate resources.
International students who want to stay in a university dorm unit make their applications
before their arrival under the guidance of ISRD and the Housing Directorate.
Those students are fully responsible for their visa and accommodation applications. More
information can be found on the ICO’s website and its Newcomers’ Guide.

Entry Regulations (Visa)

Those students with Turkish citizenship or Blue Card are not required to seek a visa or
residence permit to Turkey. Entry with a valid passport is recommended, yet valid Turkish IDs
are also accepted.
Depending on nationality and bilateral agreements, there are multiple entry options available
for Turkey. These are:
• Consular visa
• e-Visa
• Visa on arrival
• Passport/ National ID

66
International students are recommended to start the visa process two months before arrival to
be on the safe side.
If the applicant can obtain a tourist visa or use their passport/national ID to enter Turkey as a
tourist, they can do so. It will allow them to travel outside Turkey while waiting on their
residence permit. However, it is very important to mention that since each incoming
international student is required to apply for a residence permit in Turkey, they must travel
with a passport that is valid at least 60 days longer than the duration of the study period. The
Migration Directorate does not accept any other travel document for residence permit
applications.
Those visas obtained from a consulate/ embassy are usually granted as a single entry. Students
in this category must keep this in mind. Turkish visa regulations to each country can be
checked on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Accommodation

Many KU students choose to live on campus and a lot of them stay on campus until they
graduate. Dormitories are located on the University’s main Campus (Rumelifeneri) and West
Campus. Students on both campuses have access to facilities and services such as swimming
pools, sports center, game rooms, dance hall, billiard table, hairdresser, post-office,
supermarket, food halls and parking garage. On-campus accommodation is guaranteed* for
every exchange student who applies for it and pays the fee on time. Undergraduate and
graduate exchange students are assigned to triple bedrooms on West Campus. Students can
also choose to stay off-campus, but they need to make necessary arrangements themselves.
https://dorms.ku.edu.tr/en/

Welcome and Orientation

Orientation week for new exchange students at KU is intended to welcome them to the
university and give them all of the essential information needed to make the most out of their
time during their studies. They also have the chance to meet their mentors and other exchange
students during the week. There are several social events running throughout the week to help
them settle into life at KU and have an enjoyable experience as much as possible. Orientation
starts one week before the classes begin. During orientation, there will be a campus tour and
other activities that will familiarise students with the Koç community. Administrative
processes, such as course registration will also take place during orientation.

Enrollment Process & Registration at the City

Enrollment Process at KU

Documents needed for Registering to Master, LL.M and Ph.D. Programmes:

• University Diploma (please kindly bring the original diploma(s) from your
Undergraduate, Masters and Ph.D. studies. Once we make copies, we will give you back
your diplomas)

67
• Transcripts (from all the Universities you have previously attended)
• Copy of Passport or Turkish National ID
• 2 Bio-metric Photographs (3×2 cm) with white background. Your name should be printed
on the backside of each photo. (KU ID can only be issued with photos that have a white
background)
• GRE Score/ ALES scores reports (not required for LL.M. w/Thesis International
students)
• TOEFL, YÖKDİL or YDS scores (If you are a native speaker of English, please ignore this
requirement. IELTS is no longer accepted)
• Tuition Payment Receipt (for tuition-paying students)

Registration at the City of Istanbul

Degree-seeking and exchange students who will study at KU for two semesters are obliged to
register their addresses in a District Civil Registry Office by law. However, exchange students
who will study at KU for a semester are exempt from this regulation.
The address registration can only be made after receiving the residence permit card.
Instructions can be found on the ICO's website.

Residence Permit Acquisition

International students enrolled in an academic programme in Turkey for 3 months or longer

are obliged to acquire a residence permit as per Foreigners’ Protection and Immigration Laws.
To do so, the student must be registered at KU and present in Turkey.
The online residence permit application must be done before the expiration date of a visa
(regular or electronic) or permission to stay without a visa period. Applicants must enter
Turkey with a passport to be able to apply for a residence permit. Those who entered Turkey
with national IDs can not apply for a residence permit.
The International Community Services Office assists students on their residence permit
applications during the orientation week. It should be noted that requesting and collecting
Student Enrollment Certificates as a requirement for a residence permit application is entirely
students' responsibility. Instructions on this process can be found here. It may take up to 2
months for a student to receive their permit card. After receiving the card, they can open a
bank account and register their addresses at the related Civil Registry Office.

Campus Services & Student Life

Campus Services at KU

Koç University’s main campus consists of sixty buildings: academic colleges, administrative
offices, laboratories, library, social and sports facilities, health center, student dormitories and
faculty residences. University’s dormitories have a capacity of 2,689 students. The classrooms
and laboratories are equipped with the latest technological infrastructure and support systems.

68
On-campus conveniences include a grocery store, hairdresser, full-service bank, dry cleaners,
cafeterias, and other dining options.
As a university focused on creating well rounded, confident and competent human beings both
in and out of the classroom, Koç University places tremendous value on providing plenty of
extra-curricular activities for its students, dedicates the necessary resources to ensure that these
opportunities satisfy and enrich the Koç University experience: Swimming Pools; Ice-Skating
Rink; Dining Services; Shuttles; Sport Facilities; Sevgi Gönül Cultural Center (SGKM); Suna
Kıraç Library; Events and Announcements; Campus Safety; Dormitories; ID Card Services;
Campus Facilities and Working Hours. Students can benefit from KURES (Koç University
Guidance and Psychological Services Center), KOLT (Koç University Office of Learning and
Teaching), Career Development Center offices.
KOLT offers several services for students, teaching assistants and faculty members to promote
effective learning. Some of the services for students include academic tutoring, workshops
and conversation circles. KURES accompanies students in their process of coming to know
and realizing themselves and supporting their personal development. It aims at helping
students acquire the knowledge and skills that will help them cope with the academic, social
and personal problems they face throughout this process. The Registrar’s and Student Affairs
Directorate is where all academic procedures concerning students take place, records are kept,
documents are safeguarded, prepared and distributed. To order documents from the
Registrar’s and Student Affairs Directorate, students can visit in person, phone or send an e-
mail.
Relevant Links:
• Sevgi Gönül Cultural Center: https://sgkm.ku.edu.tr/en/
• Sports Facilities: https://mezun.ku.edu.tr/en/sports-facilities/ - :~:text=Our outdoor and
indoor tennis,graduates who want to benefit.
• Suna Kıraç Library: https://library.ku.edu.tr/en/
• KURES (Koç University Guidance and Psychological Services Center):
https://studentguide.ku.edu.tr/en/
• KOLT (Koç University Office of Learning and Teaching): https://kolt.ku.edu.tr/
• Career Development Center: https://career.ku.edu.tr/en/
• Registrar’s and Student Affairs Directorate: https://registrar.ku.edu.tr/en/

Student Life at KU

Located on the hills of Sarıyer, İstanbul, KU is twenty minutes away from the Black Sea
beaches, surrounded by charming villages and natural landscapes, and connected to the city
center through many convenient transportation options. Koç University has seven other
campus locations: West Campus, İstinye Campus, ANAMED (Research Center for Anatolian
Civilizations), VEKAM (Vehbi Koç and Ankara Research Center), Health and Sciences
Campus, KWorks (Entrepreneurship Research Center), AKMED (Suna & İnan Kıraç Research
Center for Mediterranean Civilizations). Koç University’s main campus consists of academic

69
colleges, administrative offices, laboratories, library, social and sports facilities, health center,
student dormitories and faculty residences. The classrooms and laboratories are equipped with
the latest technological infrastructure and support systems.
Besides its active student life (Student Clubs, Sports Center, Art Events) and student support
(KU Office of Learning and Teaching, KOLT), Academic and Life Skills (ALIS), KURES-
Counselling Service, Career Development Center, Office of International Programs, OIP), KU
also provides several Conversation Circles (CCs) in different languages for its community at
no cost. The main office organizing CCs for students is KOLT. Depending on the volunteer
student availability, the office usually offers CCs in English, German, Spanish, Italian. The
second biggest language practicing platform at KU is ICO's Online Turkish Practice Hours
(TPH). Compared to KOLT, TPH welcomes all KU international community and their family
members regardless of their status (academic, administrative staff, researcher, intern). TPH
helps those KU members who are learning Turkish and want to practice their Turkish
conversational skills meet native speakers.
More information about KU language learning and practicing resources:
https://ico.ku.edu.tr/get-involved/learn-practice-turkish/

Student Card & Transportation

Student Card

Students will receive their KU ID card during the orientation week that will allow them to enter
campus, borrow books from the library, and access other student services.

Transportation

Istanbul has one of the best public transportation networks in the world. There are several
options to reach any location for 24 hours. A taxi is also a convenient option compared to large
metropolitans in the world and other cities in Turkey.
To ride all modes of public transportation (except dolmuş/ minibus which accepts only cash),
students will need an İstanbulkart - refill transportation card. İstanbulkart can be purchased at
the airport from İstanbulkart machines (BILETMATIK) and be used in both public
transportation and airport shuttles (HAVAIST). The cost of the card is 13 TRY for 2022.
Students can load around 50-60 TRY into the card.
Discounted student transportation card is available for students in Istanbul. International
students can obtain discounted İstanbulkarts either online or in person. Instructions for
discounted İstanbulkart and transportation means to/from KU Campuses can be found on the
International Community Services Office's website.

Services for Students with Special Needs

1. Diversity, Inclusion and Disabled Student Unit

Diversity, inclusion and disabled student unit is one of the important units as a part of the
dean of students in Koç University. Diversity, inclusion, and disabled student unit enables
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every student who has differences such as religion, gender, language, disability, and cultural
characteristics to participate in equal university life within KU. This unit is responsible for
receiving, reporting, monitoring student applications regarding unequal or discriminatory
practices, attitudes, and situations. In addition, the unit provides coordination with all other
units in the University for the development of solutions for unequal or discriminatory practices
and situations that students may encounter during education.
The unite also provides the necessary information about the objectives of the Office of
diversity, inclusion, and coordination of disabled students to the faculty and administrative
Staff
Equality in access to academic programs,
• Priority in housing needs,
• Equality in getting into university life,
• Providing awareness about disability within the University.

2. Services for Visually Impaired Students

• On the campus, guidance lines were provided to facilitate transportation.

• Elevators in the buildings are within the voice guidance system.
• Support for the JAWS programme that plays “Word” format texts.
• The course materials, the books and other documents needed by the students are scanned
and converted into a ‘word’ format, which can be played by JAWS programme, through
ABBY FINEREADER.
• In case our visually impaired students need a Braille document, we have a “Braille printer.
• A scanning archive of “Word” books is in formation process for our students.
• An archive of “audiobooks”, which are performed by Koç University students and
employees, is composed for our students with their book choices.
• There are around 200 audiobooks in English in our library.
• Peer support is provided to take notes in the courses.
• At the beginning of each semester, the instructions about our visually impaired students
are sent to their instructors, explaining the issues they need to pay attention to.
• At the beginning of each semester and through the semester, our unit organises meetings
with the instructors of our visually impaired students, their needs are identified, and
solutions are produced in line with these needs.
• With request before the exam date, the exam will be held in a separate class and assistant
support will be provided for the student.
• Individual interviews are conducted with students during registration. A suitable room is
allocated to meet the demands and needs of the students.

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• Training and workshops are provided to ensure equality in getting involved in university
life.
• Support is provided for career planning.
• Guidance students are assigned to approach students and to encourage their socialization.

3. Services for Students with Physical Disabilities

• Environmental arrangements are made according to the needs of students with physical
disabilities.
• For our wheelchair users, ramps are made suitably for wheelchair users to the points
deemed necessary, such as dormitory entrances, pavement start, and endpoints.
• Courses and exams are held in accessible classrooms.
• The doors on the campus, which are used by students intensively, have been installed
automatic opening and closing systems.
• The wheelchair lift is now available.
• At the beginning of each semester, the instructions about our physically disabled students
are sent to their instructors, explaining the issues they need to pay attention to.
• Our elevators within the campus are wheelchair accessible.
• Rooms are allocated in dormitory buildings that are closest to the University square and
thought to be the most convenient for entry and exit.
• Students are encouraged to make arrangements for their needs in their room.
• Training and workshops are provided to ensure equality in getting involved in university
life.
• Support is provided for career planning.
• Guidance students are assigned to approach students and to encourage their socialization.

4. Services for Hearing Impaired Students

• Students with hearing impairments can receive audio recordings in the courses with the
permission of the relevant faculty member.
• The sound recordings are decoded by our unit; and turned into text that the student can
read.
• With the permission of the relevant faculty member, it is ensured that materials related to
the subjects to be covered during the course are delivered in advance.
• Support is provided for career planning.
• At the beginning of each semester, the instruction about our hearing-impaired students is
sent to their instructors, explaining the issues they need to pay attention to.

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Health Insurance & Medical Services

Students are required to have health insurance that is valid in Turkey and covers the complete
duration of the specific academic programme or research. Students must share a copy of the
insurance policy in English or Turkish (if obtained in Turkey) with the programme advisor or
department upon arrival.
Health insurance is not only for the students’ own safety, but it is a legal obligation for them
to stay in Turkey. Those students who fail to do so are de-registered from their programs.
Before arrival, students may obtain health insurance from any insurance company that has an
office in Turkey and offers service/coverage in Turkey. If they cannot, they can also obtain
private health insurance upon their arrival. In that case, a Tax ID Number is needed. The ICO's
first recommendation for those who want to purchase health insurance in Turkey is the bank
on the main campus. There, they can obtain Allianz insurance, which covers pandemics. The
ICO recommends students make sure that their policy includes pandemic coverage as well
and has the minimum requirements for the residence permit application.
Based on eligibility, some European students may have Home Country Social Security with
their bilateral agreement with Turkey. In that case, they may simply get approval from the
Turkish Social Security Office after their arrival and use it when necessary.
More information on medical services and health insurance recommendations can be found
on the ICO's website.

Financing Your Studies & Finding a Job after Graduation

Financing Your Studies

Information about the costs of living in Istanbul, studying at KU and scholarship opportunities
for international students are provided by the Student Recruitment Directorate.

Finding a Job in Istanbul and around after Graduation

KU Career Development Center (CDC) services are open to all RePIC students. The main aims
of CDC are
• To provide students the support to identify and decide on career options that are matching
with their interests, skills, abilities, needs and values
• To equip students with career-related knowledge and skills on their journey, and preparing
them for their chosen career paths
• To increase their employability potentials in local and globally renowned employers
• To support them while building a foundation for high-satisfaction careers.
RePIC students can request career advising appointments from CDC. Career advisors are all
fluent in English and experienced to walk students through their job and internship search.
CDC also offers assessments that can help students know themselves and gain clarity on their
career interests. Career advising appointment categories include:

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• Personality/Interest Inventories
• General Career Advising
• Review of Curriculum Vitae, Cover Letter and Statement of Purpose
• Interview Preparation
KUcareerlink is a special service provided by CDC, where students can get appointments from
career advisors, upload CV/Statement of Purpose, view and apply for the published job and
internship announcements, follow national/international school/competition/scholarship
announcements and access to all sources open to Koc University students and alumni. To
make this platform more internationally friendly, CDC has added a filter for job/internship
options to indicate if the local employers are willing to hire an international student. CDC also
regularly checks with the International Admission Office to learn if international students are
able to find their internships through this platform.
There are local legal regulations regarding international students’ internships and job
placements. International Community Services Office manages the related processes.
If the internship is a requirement of the academic programme, KU Human Resources
Department sign up the student for Social Security in Turkey and pay for the premiums for
the duration of the internship. If the internship is not a requirement of the academic
programme, the employer must apply for a work permit on behalf of the intern through the
Turkish Ministry of Labor and obtain a work permit prior to the start of the internship.
For job placements, an employer must sponsor and manage the entire work permit process
with the Ministry of Labor. If the students have a valid residence permit with a length of a
minimum of 6 months into the past or in total with the remaining amount of time, students’
applications can be done within Turkey. Otherwise, students must apply to a Turkish Mission
abroad and wait for the approval.
CDC organises many career events throughout the year to support the professional
development of students and help them meet with potential employers. These events are
organised in various categories including information sessions, professional development
seminars, virtual career fairs, mock interview days, and so forth. These events are organised
both in Turkish and English depending on the employer’s preferences.
CDC also designed an annual event called 101 for My Career Abroad, which is exclusively
created to meet international students’ needs. The event includes practical information on how
to search for jobs & internships in Turkey as well as inspirational talks and networking
sessions with professionals and international alumni. Check out last two years’ events here.
Important links:
CDC Website: https://career.ku.edu.tr/en/
Kucareerlink: https://koc-csm.symplicity.com/students/app/jobs/discover

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6.5 Studying at ULiège in Liège, Belgium

The Town and its Region

Liège is located in the French-speaking part of the country, of which it is the most significant
city. Liège is a child of the river Meuse. Take your time to discover this multi-faceted city and
its many neighbourhoods, which are like so many small villages. On Sunday mornings go and
stroll through the “Batte”, the longest market in Europe, along the river. With the great asset
of a central position, the Province of Liège is close to lots of great places and can rely on easy
access thanks to several means of transport: a fast-train station, an airport, and a dense
motorway network. All over the year, but particularly when the sun is shining, you can enjoy
a variety of walks and hikes. Next to the extended network of ways that are exclusively dedicated
to walkers and cyclists (RAVeL), you can explore over 5,000 km of signposted walks.
Major events are regularly organised in the Province of Liège. In the field of sports competition,
we can pinpoint several famous cycling races such as the start of the Tour de France; motor
races at Spa-Francorchamps, such as the Grand Prix. Many cultural events are also staged,
such as the International Festival of Crime Movie (Film Policier), and several music festivals.
Popular gatherings all punctuate the year, for instance the leisure fair Retrouvailles (with over
300 associations in all fields from sports to politics and from drama to healthcare presenting
their activities) at the end of August, the “Fêtes de Wallonie” mid-September, the funfair in
October (“Foire d’octobre”). Night life is an attraction, with dozens and dozens of cafés and
restaurants, cinemas, concerts and performances that make Liège such a lively city.

The University

The University of Liège is a crossroads for many career paths. More than 25,000 students
study there every day, 23 % of whom are international students. More than 6,000 professors,
lecturers, researchers and administration personnel are committed to teaching, research and
the service of society. 40 bachelor degrees, more than 200 masters, 60 specialized masters

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and 21 MOOCS are part of our catalogue. Enriched by its 200-year-old history and its
community, ULiège will offer you all the tools you need to shape a successful future.
As a complete university, the University of Liège offers 1st, 2nd and 3rd cycle programmes in
all areas of knowledge, hundreds of options, specializations and free online programmes
(trainings) thanks to the development of MOOCS and finally Longlife learning. You can carve
out a unique career path here.

A State-Of-The-Art Infrastructure for the Benefit of Students

The university’s facilities include clinics, world-renowned research centers (Cyclotron, Centre
for Protein Engineering, the Liège Space Centre, GIGA, TERRA…), one of the most beautiful
libraries in Europe and the biggest in Belgium, exceptional overseas equipment (Telescopes in
Chile and Morocco, Oceanographic research station in Corsica, a research station in the Swiss
Alps…). ULiège is developing and promoting multidisciplinary research excellence and its
related teaching.

A Fulfilling Environment

Choosing to study at ULiège involves so much more

than mere education. It also offers you the opportunity
to be curious, to be open to different forms of creation,
to seek critical awareness of new developments in
society, to be open to debate and to others and to focus
on your own well-being. The University's sports club
(ULiège Sports) offers more than 60 sports on the
different campuses. Numerous initiatives are also
managed by 75 student associations.
Choosing ULiège means joining an international
university that is open to the world and located at the heart of Europe. ULiège offers its students
more than 1,600 opportunities to study abroad, it welcomes 850 students in the context of an
exchange programme. Year after year, it proposes more full English or bilingual programmes
as well as many joint degree programmes: 3 bachelor programmes, almost 50 joint masters
and 8 Erasmus Mundus. Holder of the Erasmus+ Charter for the period 2021-2027, it also has
a wealth of more than 60 years of expertise in matters of cooperation and development.

The Department of Geography

The Department of Geography of the University of

Liege is part of the Faculty of Sciences. It offers a
bachelor programme and three master programmes
in the domains of Geomatics, Global Change and
Spatial Planning. The Department has a staff of
eighty people so that it is possible to insure
specialised teaching in the various domains of the
geographical sciences.

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Prior to your arrival: Preparing Your Stay at ULiège

All students are responsible for making their own arrangements to arrive in Liège, as well as
for the travels to the next destinations of the programme. For non-European students, since
visa procedures can be lengthy, it is best to buy a ticket with flexible dates!
Beneficiaries of an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Scholarship will have to hand in their travel
tickets at the International Office after being enrolled.
It is always useful to know a bit about the countries you will go to before arriving, so that you
are aware of the customs and culture. It will help your smooth integration in each country.
Therefore, we advise you to browse through the web / read books about each country.
Some websites with information about Belgium:
https://focusonbelgium.be/en
https://www.expatica.com/be/
https://www.justlanded.com/english/Belgium/Belgium-Guide
https://www.travelsafe-abroad.com/belgium/
Taking part in the welcome activities, attending French classes and, if you can, participating
in social events proposed by the students’ associations can help your understanding of this
culture as well.
The costs of living vary from country to country. Plan your finance ahead of time will allow you
to have a smooth transition from country to country.
Here is an idea of the cost of living in Belgium for international students:
https://housinganywhere.com/Belgium/belgium-student-budget#
https://www.educations.com/study-guides/europe/study-in-belgium/housing-living-costs-
17498

Entry Regulations (Visa)

If you are from a country belonging to the European Union:

There is no need for visa but check that your national identity card (or passport) will be valid
for the whole duration of the programme. Ask for a copy of the European Health Insurance
Card for public healthcare insurance in your country. BEWARE: If your country of origin is
not a member of the Schengen agreements, please check the need for a visa in case of a long
stay for study purpose with the Belgian Embassy in your country. If you need a visa, please
refer to the section below.
If you are a national from a non-European Union country:
• If you have a resident permit delivered by another European Union country during your
first year, valid until the end of the programme:
There is a European directive (called 2016/801) which may allow a student to move to another
EU country without having to apply again for a visa, under certain conditions. If you have (or

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will have, at the latest 30 days before arrival in Belgium) a residence permit delivered by
Germany, valid until end of August Y+1 (= official end of your RePIC Master programme),
then we must notify the immigration office in Brussels at the latest 30 days before your arrival
in Belgium. If you have such a residence card, please send a scanned copy of it (front and back)
to Christine Reynders ([email protected]), together with a scan of your passport
(main page), proof of private healthcare insurance and proof of your financial means of
subsistence (scholarship certificate or other), so that we can comply with the procedure in due
time, and save you the time and expense of having to apply for the Belgian visa.
• If you only hold a visa for your current country of residence, or if your current residence
permit is not valid until the end of the RePIC programme, and
a) You have dual nationality (non-European and European): You may find it attractive to
avoid the visa issue and enter Belgium with your European passport. However, you
must know that with this choice, you may not be able to benefit from the public
healthcare for free at the beginning of your stay, because you won’t have the European
Health Insurance Card, which only European residents have. Public healthcare
registration is compulsory in Belgium, it will then cost you 75 EUR/trimester.
b) Your nationality is from a non-European Union country: You require a Belgian visa for
the whole duration of your stay in Belgium (at least valid until February Y+1): Type D –
Long stay visa for study purpose. Apply for a multiple entries visa, in order to be able to
travel while you will be waiting for the residence permit.
Fees for the immigration office:
Visa applicants have to have to pay a contribution to the Belgian immigration office (i.e., office
des étrangers in French, FOD Binnenlandse Zaken, Dienst Vreemdelingenzaken in Dutch) to
cover administrative costs involved in the processing of a visa application, unless they can
provide a document allowing an exemption, signed by the body that is granting the scholarship.
Applicants with a scholarship granted by the University of Liège (Erasmus Mundus
scholarship, consortium scholarship, or bourse master) will receive the document allowing
this exemption together with the letter of acceptance (“STANDARD FORM THAT ENABLES
THE ALIEN WHO SUBMITS AN APPLICATION FOR A LONG-TERM STAY AS A
STUDENT OR RESEARCHER TO DELIVER PROOF THAT HE IS RECEIVING A
SCHOLARSHIP OR GRANT”).
For visa applicants who have to pay, the proof of payment will have to be submitted along with
the application to the Belgian diplomatic or consular post where you reside. All information
regarding the amount and reference for the payment can be found here:
https://dofi.ibz.be/en/themes/faq/fee
Your situation is the following: “study in a higher education institution that is organised,
recognized or subsidized by the public authorities” (article 58 of the law of 15.12.1980).
At the time of the edition of the vademecum, the corresponding fees are 237 EUR. Check the
website in French for any potential update of the fee at the time of your visa application
https://dofi.ibz.be/fr/themes/faq/redevance

78
If you don’t have to pay because you have an Erasmus Mundus scholarship, we will send you
the document requested to join to your visa file, attesting the exemption of those fees, upon
your request if you need to apply for the Belgian visa.
Fees for the embassy / consulate:
There may be additional fees requested by the embassy/consulate. If this is the case, make
sure to check out whether you are in a condition to be exempt from the payment of these fees
(e.g., because you are part of an Erasmus mundus programme, or via the type of scholarship
you have).
For questions regarding visa and related matters, you should contact as soon as possible the
Belgian Embassy or Consulate in your current country of residence. Every office sets its own
opening hours, has its own way to schedule visa application appointments, and has its own
lead time for visa applications (typically several weeks rather than days). In order to find at
which embassy or consulate you shall introduce your visa application, please check the
following link:
https://diplomatie.belgium.be/en/embassies-and-consulates
In order to receive your visa, you will be required to provide the Belgian Embassy or Consulate
with the following documents, in addition to the proof of payment of the fees to the
immigration office or exemption proof mentioned above, depending on your case:
• A completed and signed visa application form (in duplicate, i.e., two original copies)
• A travel document (i.e., passport) into which a visa can be affixed, and which is valid for
more than 12 months. We recommend you have your passport valid for the whole duration
of your programme, so as not to have to renew it during your master, while you will be
busy studying – make sure you have enough free pages in your passport, as you will need
four visa stamps for the destinations of your programme (which takes a minimum of four
blank pages)
• The letter of acceptance from ULiège
• Proof that you satisfy the conditions for access to higher education (diploma, academic
record, attestation that account is being taken of the application for equivalence or decision
or dispatch of equivalence)
• Proof that you have sufficient means of subsistence (scholarship certificate if you have one):
https://dofi.ibz.be/en/themes/faq/short-stay/sufficient-means-subsistence
• A medical certificate issued by a doctor approved by the embassy, attesting that you are not
carrying any of the diseases which might endanger public health:
https://dofi.ibz.be/en/themes/faq/long-stay/medical-certificate
• If you are aged over 21, a certificate attesting to the lack of any convictions for crimes or
offences under common law.
You must be aware that the documents referred to above only constitute the basic documents
that have to be submitted in every case. Other additional documents may be required by the

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Belgian diplomatic or consular representation, considering the circumstances relating to the
file or to the specific context of your country of origin.
You must provide the Embassy with the original documents + a photocopy of these documents.
The originals will be returned to you. The foreign official documents must be legalised or carry
an apostil, unless an exemption is provided in a treaty. All the relevant information on this
formality is available here:
https://diplomatie.belgium.be/en/legalisation-documents/search-criteria-legalisation
The documents drawn up abroad in a language other than German, French or Dutch are to be
translated in accordance with the original by a sworn translator (NB: Some
Embassies/Consulates accept documents edited or translated into English, check this with
your local Belgian Embassy/Consulate if needed). The translation must be legalised as a
separate document in line with the procedure laid down in the country of origin, and then by
the competent Belgian consulate or Embassy.
Check the following link for more information and any potential update:
French (more frequently updated than the EN version):
https://dofi.ibz.be/fr/themes/ressortissants-dun-pays-tiers/etudes
English: https://dofi.ibz.be/en/themes/third-country-nationals/study
You might have an interview at the Embassy or Consulate. Practice your visa interview. It
should be very simple. You will have 1 or 2 minutes to make your case for the visa, and you
should have thought about certain issues in depth. For example, you should be prepared to
explain what you will study, what you plan to do after your studies, why you want to study in
Europe rather than your home country, why you will return to your home country after
completion of your studies.
Once you have lodged your visa application, you can track its progress by contacting the
consulate, with due regard to the practical arrangements stated on its website. If your
application has been referred to the Immigration Office for a decision, you can follow the
progress of your application here (in French): https://infovisa.ibz.be/InfovisaFr.aspx
The International Office may contact the Embassy/Consulate in order to support your visa
application after your letter of acceptance is sent to you. To do so, please send the email address
of your Belgian Embassy/Consulate in your country of residence + contact details of your
correspondent (name and title) to the International Office: [email protected]
Students are strongly encouraged to check / gather all documents as soon as possible, so that
as soon as they receive the letter of acceptance and other documents from ULiège, they can
lodge their visa application file. Please make sure the visa file is complete to avoid a delay or
having the file sent to the immigration office.
Relevant link:
International Office: https://www.international.uliege.be/cms/c_17657125/en/international

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Accommodation

You are responsible for finding an accommodation. The following ULiège website provides
you with a link to a database of accommodations: www.campus.uliege.be/kot
Check the recommendations in the following link:
https://www.campus.uliege.be/cms/c_9110812/en/se-loger-chez-des-particuliers-futur-
locataire-d-un-kot
Private accommodation:
https://www.luniliege.be/
https://www.xior.be/en/stad/luik/en
https://www.generation-campus.be/en/page/meuse-campus-liege.html
http://www.studentstation.be/?lang=en
https://www.yust.com/liege/
https://www.kotaliege.be/
http://www.chickandkot.be/
http://www.kothouse.be/
http://www.immoweb.be
Other options: https://www.campus.uliege.be/cms/c_9038340/en/in-liege
Non-EU students: If you rent a room by a private owner, check whether your landlord accepts
for you to be domiciled (i.e., administratively and officially registered resident in that place).
This is needed in order to get your residence permit.
Important advice: Ask for a written inventory of the flat/room and existing damage, before you
move in, and before you move out, that you will sign together with the landlord. If it is not
possible to do this in English, make sure you understand enough French not to be mistaken.
It will serve as a proof to get your guaranty deposit back when you leave. It is also
recommended not to pay this deposit in cash to the landlord, nor before arrival (in order to
keep a chance to turn the offer down if the place doesn’t correspond to the published ad). It is
better to go to a bank together with the landlord, and to leave the guaranty deposit on a blocked
bank account bearing both names of the landlord and the tenant.
Options for the first days after your arrival
If you haven’t found an accommodation before your arrival, we suggest you try to book a room
for the first week at the University Residence (see above), until you find an accommodation, or
you may also book a room for the first week in a youth hostel:
L’Auberge de Jeunesse Georges Simenon
Rue Georges Simenon, 2 B – 4020 Liège
Tél. : +32 (0)4/344.56.89
https://lesaubergesdejeunesse.be/en/liege-youth-hostel
[email protected]

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Or in front of the “Guillemins” train station: https://www.yust.com/liege/

Welcome and Orientation

In order to provide you with complete information the International Office, Service of
Information on the Studies with the participation of ESN-ULiège (Erasmus Student Network)
organise some welcome days for exchange students, the week before the start of the classes.
We recommend you participate.
A detailed programme is available here:
https://www.international.uliege.be/cms/c_9148641/en/international-welcome-days-/-
incoming-exchange-student

Enrollment Process & Registration at the City

Enrollment Process at ULiège

All students wishing to attend the University of Liège must enroll with Registration Services
and complete an online form. Even if the student has already been enrolled in RePIC, the
student will be asked to follow the ULiège specific enrollment process, which may vary
according to the student’s nationality . This includes the provision of additional documents,
i.e., a high-school diploma and official statements proving the student’s activities up to five
years prior to registration. These activities can be justified by transcripts of records if the
participant was already a student for that period, an employer’s statement if the student was
working, or if nothing official is available (volunteering, travelling, break…), the student can
fill a declaration of honor in mentioning briefly the activities and the concerned period of time.
You will receive in due time an invitation to proceed. The admission file must be completed
by March 30.
1. International Office
A student worker from the International Office will be the first to welcome you. He/she will
hand you a “Welcome Pack” and give you first-hand information. When you arrive, let him/her
know the name of the programme in which you are. He/she will also guide you through the
registration procedure.
Which documents should you bring?
• Documents given at the registration office (see point 2. below)
• Your passport / ID
• For scholarship holders, the copy of your rental agreement for the semester (or written
confirmation from the owner/university residence if you do not yet have the rental
agreement), boarding passes of your travel to Belgium as well as the related bills. They will
serve as proofs of your stay.
2. Registration at ULiège
Once all the documents requested are uploaded in your admission file online, you will receive
a link to finalize your registration. Please proceed as instructed. You may receive a generic

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request for payment, which is sent automatically to all students registering at ULiège. You
should not pay as your participation costs are covering your tuition fees.
You will receive access codes to your MyULiège portal. You should keep them during the whole
master, as you will need them to update your address and have access to some documents,
such as the registration proof, the Transcript of Records.
3. Registration at the City of Liège
Whether or not you are a citizen from the EU , you are legally required to go to the city hall of
the city in which you reside (e.g., Liège), in order to declare your arrival and either obtain a
residence permit or acknowledge the residence permit delivered in one of the previous EU
countries you have lived in in the context of RePIC. Do so after having found an
accommodation for the duration of your stay, and after being enrolled at ULiège. Non-
Europeans officially need to go at the City Hall within 8 days of arrival in Belgium. If you do
not have all documents mentioned below by that time, you may go with the documents already
in your hand, and they might deliver you a “déclaration d’arrivée”.
Belgian students do not have to do this formality unless they need to be domiciled elsewhere.
Where ?
Administration Centre – Cité administrative
Service de la population – “Accueil des étrangers” Foreign Office – Potiérue, 5- 4000 Liège
Tel. +32 (0)4 221 82 23 - [email protected]
At the entrance of the office, take a ticket “1ère arrivée en Belgique”.
https://www.liege.be/fr/vie-communale/services-communaux/etat-civil-et-
population/service-des-etrangers

When?
The offices are open from Monday to Friday from 8.30 to 12.30 and from 13.30 to 16.30. Ticket
distribution stops 15 minutes before the closing time.
Which documents should you bring?
Students who are citizens of an EU Member State or of the European Economic Area (EEA):
• A valid passport or national identity card
• A certificate of enrollment for your current academic year at ULiège, delivered when you
are enrolled at ULiège (attestation pour l’administration communale), which you can
upload on your MyULiège portal with your access codes (gestion / mes inscriptions / mes
documents / attestation)
• A valid European Health Insurance card (EHIC) from your public health insurance
provider or a proof of private health insurance covering your expenses in Belgium
• An address in Liège. If you don’t have the lease with you at the time, you can just provide
the address.
• 2 recent photographs (passport size, approximately 5 x 3 cm)
• 15 EUR in cash (but bring more, in case fees change)

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The city hall will deliver you a paper document (annexe 8), as a proof that you applied for a
residence permit. In a few weeks’ time, an updated annex 8 corresponding to your residence
permit will be done. If needed, an electronic card with the same information can be made
(carte E).
If, during your stay in Belgium, you wish to travel within Europe, your national ID or passport
(valid during your travel period) will be sufficient.
Other foreign students:
• A valid passport with your visa D
• A certificate of enrollment for your current academic year at ULiège, delivered when you
enroll at the University of Liège (attestation pour l’administration communale)
• A proof of sufficient financial means (scholarship for example)
• An address in Liège. If you don’t have the lease with you at the time, you can just provide
the address.
• 2 recent photographs (passport size)
• 15 EUR in cash (but bring more, to be safe)
• The EHIC from the previous European country in which you studied
The city hall will deliver you a paper document (annexe 15), as a proof that you applied for a
residence permit. The residence permit (called carte A) will be made in some weeks’ time –
count around two months after you have been to the city hall for the first time with all
documents. If you come with a resident permit from a previously visited EU country, you will
receive another document “annexe 33”.
If you are a national from a non-EU country and travel within the Schengen zone* for a short
period during your stay in Belgium, you will need to have your passport with a Belgian visa
MULTIPLE entries, or a “carte A” if your visa for Belgium is SIMPLE entries (the annexe 15 is
not enough). Since it takes several weeks to obtain the “Carte A”, you should ask for a visa
MULTIPLE entries to avoid an issue. Documents have to be valid during your travel period.
All students:
Before editing your resident permit, the City Hall will have to receive the confirmation from a
police officer, who will have checked that you do live at the address you declared (except if you
live in a students’ residence, where there typically is no police check if you have provided the
“attestation de residence” to the foreigner’s office). In order to facilitate the process, it might
be good to go to your local police station, give them your classes schedule and ask for an
example of the paper they leave in your mailbox when they don’t find you home. Knowing your
street and neighborhood, check here the name of your local police station (you can click on the
neighborhoods to find your street):
https://www.policeliege.be/index.php?page=pointsdaccueil
Advice: Make sure that your place is equipped with a mailbox labelled with your name and an
operational doorbell. As a lot of students arrive in September, there is a high number of
requests for police visits and it can take several weeks before the police officer pays you a visit.
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Once the police report is sent to the city hall, you will receive a letter from the city hall inviting
you to come and order your residence permit. A few weeks later, when your residence permit
(carte E or carte A) is ready, you will receive a letter from the City Hall, containing codes,
inviting you to retrieve and activate your card there. Please note that the letter could be
mistaken for an advertisement!
Non-EU students:
When you go and collect your permit, you may ask for a “certificat de résidence” if it is needed
afterwards for another visa procedure.
https://www.liege.be/fr/vie-communale/services-communaux/etat-civil-et-
population/domicile/demarches/certificat-de-residence

Campus Services & Student Life

Campus Services at ULiège

University Restaurants
The two university restaurants at the Sart Tilman campus provide a self-service system (Agora
restaurant and Veterinary Medicine restaurant) with hot meals, cold dishes, salads and desserts
from 11.30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Prices range from 4 EUR to 7 EUR, including a drink. A local menu
is also proposed once a week in both self-service restaurants. +32 4 366 32 95
Cafeterias have hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches, soups, and some simple dishes. You
will also find salads in jars and a pizza corner with homemade pizzas and hamburgers. The
cafeterias have limited opening times during examination periods and breaks.
www.campus.uliege.be/restaurants

Student Life at ULiège

1. Student’s associations
The objectives of the “Fédération des étudiants” (Fédé) are to represent and inform students,
and to defend their interests, to offer services, and to provide support in the students’ academic
life. It supports various cultural initiatives, socially involved projects and entertainment
activities. Along the same lines the Fédé also supports students’ associations that apply about
interesting initiatives they have developed. Each faculty also has several students’ associations.
Ask fellow students or the Fédé:
Maison de la Fédé (+32 4 366 31 99 – [email protected] – www.fede-uliege.be
2. ESN-ULiège
Erasmus Student Network (ESN) is an international network of students’ associations in over
40 countries in Europe. The ESN-ULiège is a dynamic team consisting of some students from
the various faculties of the University of Liège.
This association makes it possible for Erasmus students to fit into local life through cultural
and festive events organised all through the city. It also offers Erasmus students the possibility
to go and visit several cities in Belgium and Europe and for very special rates.
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[email protected] – www.esnuliege.be
3. Students’ Radio
“48 FM” has promoted a student radio in the heart of the city. This radio station is broadcasted
on 105.0 wavelength and on the web. It involves a team of over 100 announcers, journalists,
technicians and administrative staff and produces over 50 weekly programmes.
4. Sport and cultural activities
ULiège Sports offers more than 60 different sports with “students’ fees”, etc. Most activities
are organised in the sports centre of Sart Tilman (not far from the university hospital).
ULiège Sports
Building B2b, Quartier Village 2 Rue de l’Aunaie, 22
4000 Liège - Sart Tilman +32 4 366 39 34
[email protected] – https://www.sports.uliege.be/cms/c_11118724/fr/sports
5. Cultural activities
The University constantly has some fascinating events on offer! Festivals, concerts, exhibitions,
films, encounters with artists or writers, theatre performances, improv shows, photo
workshops, lectures, scientific activities, social discussions… Culture is for everyone! You may
also become a member of the University Choir, its two Chamber Orchestras, its Theatre,
improve groups, create your radio show, improve your photo skills...
Discover the University’s museums: the Aquarium, the House of Science, the Plant World
Observatory, the Open-Air Museum, the Wittert Museum (art collection), the Hexapoda
Insectarium.
Enjoy also the special rates, permanent or occasional, and our invitations for the cultural events
that we negotiate with external partners for students at the University of Liège: theaters, opera,
cinema, circus, dance… Discover all offers on the website my.culture.uliege.be and in the
Tuesday morning “Agenda ULiège” newsletter. You can benefit from a very special rate for
“Grignoux” cinemas (Le Churchill, Le Sauvenière, Le Parc) thanks to free cinema passport
provided by the Erasmus Office, by the Fédé or at the info center ULiège-Opéra. Preferential
rates are also available for the University Theatre, the Theatre of Liège, etc. Note also that The
Opéra of Liège offers a very low youth rate, and the museums of Liège are free for students
under 26 years old.
Several invitations to attend cultural events will be sent by the International Office – Erasmus
throughout the semester. For a small part of the actual price, you will attend opera’s, theatre
plays, orchestra concerts etc.
[email protected] – www.campus.uliege.be/culture

General Counselling Offers at ULiège:

Student Quality of Life Department (including Psychological support, Academic Orientation

Service, etc.): https://www.uliege.be/cms/c_9231296/en/student-quality-of-life-department
Seervice Guidance Étude Team (personalised remote support): www.uliege.be/guidance

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Student Card & Transportation

BUS: TEC (Transports En Commun) is the name of the local bus company. It offers an
extended and modern network.
Bus lines 48 and 58 take you from downtown to Sart Tilman and around the various buildings
on the campus. The journey from the city center to the campus (according to traffic) takes
about 35-45 minutes with a 48 bus and 20-30 minutes with the 58 line.
At the TEC offices, you can buy:
• Ticket: 2.60 EUR (on the bus) 2.10 EUR (via MOBIB card)
• MOBIB card: 5 EUR
• 8 journeys card: 9.20 EUR (via MOBIB card and 9.50 EUR without MOBIB card)
• Seasons tickets (via MOBIBcard): 37.10 EUR/month and 323 EUR/year. For students
under 25, the rate is 16.10 EUR/month, 66 EUR/6 months and 132 EUR/year

Services for Students with Special Needs

Are you a student with a temporary or permanent disability (sensory or motor impairment,
disabling illness, accident, psychological or learning difficulties, etc.)? A service is especially
dedicated to your needs.
+32 4 366 53 61
[email protected]
https://www.enseignement.uliege.be/cms/c_9122731/en/en-situation-de-handicap.

Health Insurance & Medical Services

Being registered at a public health insurance is compulsory in Belgium. Students holding a

private health insurance either through the consortium (e.g., Erasmus Mundus scholarship
holders) or by their own means still have to register to the Belgian public health care upon
arrival. All European students have to ask for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to
their public health care provider in their country of origin (if EU resident)/residence (if non-
EU) prior to departure, and make sure they stay affiliated in their country of origin during the
whole master programme. The European Health Insurance Card will be needed to be covered
by the public health care insurance for free in Belgium. Check the validity period of your card.
How to apply? https://ec.europa.eu/social/main.jsp?catId=563&langId=en
Nationals from non-EU countries who are currently legally residing in the EU and are covered
by a state social security scheme are normally also eligible for a EHIC and can apply for this
card to their national health insurance provider (of the current country of residence).
Through their registration at the University of Liège, all university students get civil liability
and physical insurance coverage for any accident related to their university activities, at home
and abroad. More information and update:

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https://my.student.uliege.be/cms/c_11184402/en/mystudent-assurances-couvrant-les-
etudiants
Third-party liability may be necessary for a rental.
If you wish to see a doctor check www.ordomedic.be or call 1307 and ask for a General
Practitioner (“médecin généraliste”).
After 7 p.m. and over the weekends or holidays, a doctor on duty can be called at any time and
without prior appointment (call 100).
Students who live in Liège can go to the medical house (Maison de Garde Médicale), from
Friday 7 p.m. to Monday 8 a.m. (from 9 p.m., make a phone call to make an appointment):
Quai Van Beneden, 25 4020 Liège - +32 4 341 33 33
Any student registered at the ULiège and with a Belgian Health Mutual Insurance
(“mutualité”) is entitled to a ULiège rate with specialists (except dentists and plastic surgery)
and emergency at “Centre Hospitalier Universitaire” of Sart Tilman.
You have to show your ULiège student card when you register at the main desk of the hospital
then, the fee you will have paid will be repaid by your insurance (mutuelle) in Belgium. This
does not apply to such medical acts as blood samples, scan tests, etc.

Financing Your Studies & Finding a Job after Graduation

The Career Center at ULiège is a site designed to help you with all things careers, giving you
access to:
• Internship and job opportunities
• Company profiles
• Job videos
• Events
• Resources and guidance articles
• Live video chats with recruiters
How to profit from the Career Center as a (soon to be) RePIC graduate:
1. Sign up using the email address provided by your university: Your uni email address will
give you access to your Career Center, which will help you start your professional career.
2. Customise your profile, define your search criteria and upload your CV: Upload your photo
and your CV and customise your personal info and preferences so that you can apply to
jobs with just one click. Thanks to your completed profile, you will be able to apply straight
away for offers both on the website and on the mobile app. To use the mobile app, download
JobTeaser from the App store or Google Play.
3. Discover and explore the companies you want to target – get updates on their events,
internship and job offers and news
Each company has its own profile on the Career Center on which you’ll find everything you
need to know about its recruitment process, values, job roles and, of course, job opportunities!

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6.6 Studying at UOulu in Oulu, Finland

The Town and its Region

A youthful student city, Oulu is of comfortable size, it has tranquil surroundings and a
Scandinavian ambience. Living in Oulu means easy access to both high technology and wild
nature. Museums, architecture, cinemas, clubs, festivals, concerts, theatres, libraries – the arts
and culture of Oulu have many venues. Polar Bear Pitching, Oulu Music Video Festival and
Air Guitar World Championships are just a few examples of the creatively innovative northern
attitude.
In Oulu, you have the opportunity to live in a safe and active environment. Already 120
different nationalities call Oulu their home. The Oulu region is the fastest growing region in
Finland. Collaboration between the University of Oulu, the city, research institutes, and
businesses has been remarkably productive. For many companies, Oulu has been a favourable
environment for their R&D, and the region has played a vital role in Finland’s technological
lead.
Oulu in a nutshell:
• 65°01 N, 25°48 E
• Founded in 1605 by King Carl IX of Sweden
• Largest city in the North of Finland today
• Population of 200,000
• Youngest population in Finland
• 28,000 higher education students
• Located on the shore of the Bay of Bothnia, along the Oulu River
• The Winter Cycling Capital of the World
Find out more: The City of Oulu

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Oulu’s four seasons allow for a wide range of outdoor activities. The nature is always at your
fingertips. Skiing and jogging tracks are never far away, and the bicycle network is vast - the
city has more than 600 km of roads for bicycle traffic. No wonder biking is the favourite mode
of transport for Oulu people!
If you're not an outdoor enthusiast, the city of Oulu offers also many indoor activities and
sports facilities to choose from. The city has also a rich cultural life. Our numerous theatres,
museums, and exhibitions offer an abundance of events throughout the year. There are
musical events ranging from classical concerts to rock festivals and club gigs.
Living in Oulu is easy. You are never far away from anywhere. We have a “20-minute-rule”
meaning that no matter where you are coming from and where you are going to, you’ll get
there in max. 20 minutes!
Exploring Oulu and beyond: https://visitoulu.fi/en/

The University

The University of Oulu is an international science university where we create knowhow for the
future and produce new information to build a more sustainable, healthy and intelligent world.
Founded in 1958, UOulu is one of the largest universities in Finland and one of the
northernmost multidisciplinary universities in the world, with eight faculties, over 14,000
students, and nearly 3,000 employees.
We educate competent experts capable of creating successful, lifelong careers in the dynamic
work market. Our degree programmes are inspiring and student-centred, and they encourage
each student to achieve their full academic potential. This has created a culture where anything
is possible. As a fact, many innovations that have changed the world have their roots in Oulu.
The main campus in Linnanmaa is home to Faculty of Education, Faculty of Humanities,
Faculty of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Science, Oulu
Business School and Faculty of Technology, including Oulu school of Architecture.
Linnanmaa campus is known for its colourful architecture. The Oulu University of Applied
Sciences operates also at the Linnanmaa campus.
Practical info on the campuses and instructions how to arrive:
https://www.oulu.fi/en/university/campuses

RePIC Faculties and Fields

Being a truly multidisciplinary programme, RePIC is hosted by three faculties and respectful
fields: Architecture (Oulu school of Architecture / Faculty of Technology), Geography (Faculty
of Science) and Economics (Martti Ahtisaari Institute/ Oulu Business School).
Oulu School of Architecture strength is in the research and teaching of integrative design and
participatory planning methodologies and solutions in the context of the “Changing Northern
Built Environment”. Urban planning is examined in a digitalizing operating environment
from the perspectives of innovation, inclusive growth strategies, health promotion and climate

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change mitigation. The unit’s staff has a strong
experience of inter- and transdisciplinary research
in real-world case studies and interventions.
The Geography Research Unit is a highly
acknowledged academic community that consist
high international profile researchers and
professors, research groups and vivid teaching
programs. Research themes cover topics in regional
geography, regional development and policy,
physical geography, tourism research,
geoinformatics and political geography.
Martti Ahtisaari Institute is a research and
education unit within Oulu Business School. The
unit aims to create new knowledge on responsible
business and global economy. Their research
targets include responsible, digital and data-
intensive businesses, changing value creation, capture and sharing ecosystems and the
emerging real-time access economy. The institute carries out executive education
programmes, as well as entrepreneurship and responsible business education at Oulu
Business School. They also arrange events that provide a forum for discussions and a platform
for new insights into the development of the economy and business life.

Prior to your arrival: Preparing Your Stay at UOulu

Before starting their studies at UOulu, all students are required to carry out preparations for
their stay. Students are expected to proactively inform themselves concerning the necessary
preparations and regulations in their individual case. Most importantly, students need to
organise accommodation and apply for visa (non-EU international students only) for the whole
duration of their stay. Please note that students are fully responsible to find accommodation
and organise the visa / residence permits. The visa application process and finding an
accommodation can take some time. Students are advised to start both processes as soon as
possible.

Entry Regulations (Visa)

1. European students: If you are a citizen of an EU member state, a Nordic country,

Liechtenstein or Switzerland, you don't need to apply for a Residence Permit. However, you
need to apply for a Right of Residence if you are staying in Finland for over three interrupted
months. You can do the registration in Oulu after arrival. More instructions for EU Citizens.
2. Students coming from outside Europe: If you are a citizen from somewhere else than listed
above, you need a Residence Permit. See instructions for applying below. You should start
the Resident Permit application process right after receiving your acceptance letter for your
exchange period; the process can take a while. More instructions on applying for a
Residence Permit.

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Accommodation

RePIC students can apply for the housing from the local student housing organization PSOAS.
They offer affordable student housing located right next to Linnanmaa campus. Students are
housed in shared apartments with private bedrooms. More information on PSOAS homepage.
Make sure that you apply for housing as soon as possible. Also note, that once you sign your
tenancy agreement, it is binding. Tenancy agreements are made for full terms only. Early
terminations are possible only in force majeure cases.
In all housing related matters please contact PSOAS directly at [email protected]

Other housing providers and more information

If you do not receive housing through PSOAS please have a look at these options. Some of
these offer several options while others are small, individual locations.
Many Finnish students leave Oulu for a semester or two to go abroad themselves and sublet
their flats/rooms - usually furnished. Here are some links to advertising sites.
• Asuntoyhtymä
• Oulun Sivakka Oy
• Forenom
• Lumo: Rental apartments in Oulu
• M2-Kodit
• Kodisto.fi - different types of apartments for rent
• Osnakodit - Rental agency for young people (18-29 years).
• To find or sublet an apartment, a facebook group administered by Humans of Oulu
team.
• Housing close to the Kontinkangas campus (i.e., Faculty of Medicine): Medikiinteistöt
Oy, contact them for an English application.
• OVV Asuntopalvelut, contact: [email protected]
If you are not able to find housing before arriving to Oulu, with short term housing, it might
be easier to look for a room after you have already arrived in Oulu. You can look for short term
housing, for example, through Airbnb or similar.

Welcome and Orientation

Our Orientation Day programme is especially designed to help new incoming students to settle
in and start their studies at the University of Oulu. Programme includes important matters
such as university practices, student services and permits. Faculties will also organise separate
study info sessions to their students. We strongly recommend that all incoming students
participate in the Orientation.
Further information:

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Orientation for Exchange Students: https://www.oulu.fi/en/for-students/new-students-
welcome-university-oulu/new-exchange-students/orientation-exchange-students
International Mobility Services: [email protected]

Enrollment Process & Registration at the City

Enrollment Process at UOulu

If you have completed your qualification in a country other than Finland, you can find
instructions on how to apply at UOulu on this page: https://www.oulu.fi/en/apply/applying-
non-finnish-qualification
If you have completed your earlier education in Finland, you can find information on how to
apply here: https://www.oulu.fi/en/apply/how-apply/eligibility
Coming to UOulu as an exchange student: https://www.oulu.fi/en/for-students/incoming-
student-exchange
Admissions Contact: https://www.oulu.fi/en/apply/admissions-contact

Obtaining a Finnish Personal Identity Code

All international students regardless of nationality are required to obtain a Finnish Personal
Identity Code once they have arrived in Finland. The identity number is applied in person at
the Local Register Office and it is free of charge. After you have received your Finnish Personal
Identity code, you must forward it to your faculty's Academic Affairs Service Team.
Students outside EU/EEA/EFTA countries should apply for the Personal Identity Code along
with their Residence Permit. If you haven't received your Finnish Personal Identity Code in
your Residence Permit, you will have to apply for it after arriving in Finland (see below).
EU and EEA citizens and citizens from EFTA Countries will apply for the Personal Identity
Code after they arrive in Finland. The application for the code is done at the Digital and
Population Data Services Agency.
To register your personal data in the Finnish Population Information System, you must visit
the Digital and Population Data Services Agency in person. This happens by completing the
following steps:
1. Complete the form titled “The registration information of a foreigner”, preferably before
the visit. Fill in the attachments if necessary.
2. Make an appointment with the International Registrations Service at
https://secure.vihta.com/public-ng/dvv/#/home
3. Please bring the following documents with you:
• Your valid passport or EU citizen's official identity card with a photograph
• your residence permit card or some other proof that you have entered Finland legally
• a certificate of registration of the right of residence of an EU citizen

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 • proof of your work or studies in Finland (for example, an employment contract or a
certificate of student status)
• if necessary, the original, legalised and translated certificates of family relations and
other official documents containing information that you would like the Digital and
Population Data Services Agency to record in the Population Information System.
Remember to check if the certificates must be legalised and/or translated.
More information about applying will be offered during Orientation.
Find out more about the Finnish Personal Identity Code

Campus Services & Student Life

Campus Services at UOulu

UOulu offers many services to support your studies. You can obtain guidance and support at
the different stages and situations of your study path, for example, for planning the studies,
the progress of the studies and time management, writing the thesis, internship, and when
transferring to the working life.
Printing, IT devices and facilities
Secure printing is available on all university campuses in Oulu. The laptop borrowing is
possible for students of the university and it is free of charge. The maximum loan period is
four hours, and you can borrow laptops even three times in a day.
https://www.oulu.fi/en/for-students/supporting-your-studies/printing-it-devices-and-
facilities
Campus ICT support service for students: [email protected]

Tuudo Mobile App

Tuudo is a mobile app for students. Tuudo has the most important information for students
from received credits and course registration to restaurant menus, library card, campus maps,
your location and bus timetables. It also offers information on upcoming and ongoing courses
and exams. Tuudo offers up-to-date information on your studies and by using Tuudo you can
search and find other students to tutor you with your studies, or tutor others yourself.
https://www.oulu.fi/en/for-students/supporting-your-studies/it-services-students/tuudo-
mobile-app

Library

Oulu University Library is a scientific library whose task is to provide library and information
services for the researchers, teachers and students of UOulu and the Oulu University of
Applied Sciences (Oamk).
https://www.oulu.fi/en/university/library

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Tellus Innovation Arena

Tellus Innovation Arena is an open innovation space located at the heart of Linnanmaa campus
area. It’s built for learning, collaboration and events for all open-minded explorers from inside
and outside of the university. Meet people, develop ideas and present projects – it makes all
the difference
https://www.oulu.fi/en/cooperation/tellus

Tutor Teaching

All students have a personal tutor teacher appointed by the faculty. Tutor teacher's task is to
guide and advice you, in particular, in the early stages of studying.
https://www.oulu.fi/en/for-students/supporting-your-studies/tutor-teaching

Study Psychologists

The Study Psychologists offer special guidance and counselling in questions related to
learning, studying, life management and well-being.
https://www.oulu.fi/en/for-students/supporting-your-studies/study-psychologists

Academic Affairs Service Teams

Academic Affairs Service Teams are responsible for all study related questions and advising in
their own field of study.
https://www.oulu.fi/en/students/contact-information-students/academic-affairs-service-
teams

Student Life at UOulu

Student Union and the Student Associations

The Student Union of the University of Oulu (OYY) monitors the students’ interests at the
university, offers various services and arranges events. OYY supports the activity of many
clubs, hobby, subject and interest groups. These societies organise various activities that
support studying, and they also arrange free time activity and parties. Societies offer you
possibilities to meet new people and find like-minded students, start a new hobby, and help
you to get the sense of belonging in the university community.
Follow OYY on social media:
Facebook: OYY
Instagram: @oyystudentunion
Twitter: @OYYtwiittaa
#OYYfi #OYYeah #OYYharraste
More information on student associations: https://www.oulu.fi/en/for-students/student-
wellbeing-and-everyday-life/student-associations

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The Student Union of the University of Oulu (OYY): https://www.oyy.fi/?lang=en

University Sports

University Sports of Oulu offer academic sport services and other welfare services for students
and staff of universities in Oulu. The programme includes around 90 different disciplines or
services. There are three sports coordinators in charge of the programme and a large group of
instructors and cooperating partners who make sure things run smoothly. There are activities
ranging from ballet to climbing and yoga, from kayaking to cross-country skiing. Feel free to
pick the one that is closest to your body and soul!
More information from OKKL websites: https://unimoveoulu.fi/?lang=en-gb&langmenu=1

General Counselling Offers and Support Resources:

• Self-learning materials, webinars and workshops supporting study techniques, time

management, well-being etc.: https://www.oulu.fi/en/for-students/supporting-your-
studies/study-skills-and-competences
• Information for the new international degree and exchange students:
https://www.oulu.fi/en/for-students/new-students-welcome-university-oulu

Student Card & Transportation

All students in Finland undertaking a Bachelor or Master’s degree (excluding MBA), and who
have registered their attendance at the University are members of the Student Union in their
University.
The student union membership provides students services and benefits, including a student
card. The easiest and most affordable way to get access to student discounts is by downloading
a digital student card. By downloading Pivo or Tuudo from your app store you’ll have access to
all the benefits of the plastic student card in digital form.

Public Transport in Oulu Region

If you are a 17–24-year-old student, buy a youth 30-day season ticket and / or an adult value
ticket for your chosen travel zones. You do not need to present a student certificate or fill in a
student ticket application; your ID is enough to buy a ticket. You can also buy the ticket at the
Waltti online shop.
If you are a student aged 25 or older and meet the more detailed eligibility criteria, you can buy
a 30-day season ticket at youth ticket price. With the ticket, you can travel indefinitely in the
travel zones of your choice.
Buy your first season ticket of the school year from Oulu10 Service Point. Bring a carefully
completed student ticket application with you. You must prove your eligibility for receiving the
discount every year in August / September with a certificate issued by your school (e.g., student
card) at the Oulu10 Service Point. When purchasing a season ticket, you must prove your
identity (passport, driving license or ID card).

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You can top up your ticket in Oulu10 Service Point, at the Waltti online shop, on the buses and
in the R-kioskis selling Waltti tickets.
More information: https://www.ouka.fi/oulu/public-transport/for-students
With your student card, you can also get a student discount on train tickets for long-distance
traffic and VR’s commuter traffic.
More information: https://www.vr.fi/en/discounts-on-train-tickets/student-discount

Services for Students with Special Needs

UOulu offers many services to support your studies, one of the goals is to paths for everyone.
Accessibility in Studies refers to the ways in which physical, psychological and social
environments are designed to ensure that everyone can interact with others on an equal basis
despite their individual characteristic.
From the perspective of general mobility, the Linnanmaa campus area at the University of
Oulu functions very well. Furthermore, accessibility has been enhanced by various special
arrangements (see Campus Maps and Campus Navigator ).
In certain circumstances a student may apply for individual arrangements for study
attainments and evaluation. These circumstances may be, among others, hearing, visual or
other sensory impairment, dyslexia, panic disorder, or ADHD.

Health Insurance & Medical Services

All students are required to have a valid health and accident insurance that covers possible
accidents and health problems also during your travel to and from Finland. The University of
Oulu does not cover medical costs for students.
The insurance should cover at least the following:
• Health care costs for an illness or accident including hospitalization due to COVID-19
pandemic
• Personal property
• Repatriation and medical evacuation
• Civil liability

European Health Insurance Card

If you are a citizen of an EU/EEA/EFTA country, you are eligible to apply for a European
Health Insurance Card (EHIC) which gives you access to medically necessary, state-provided
healthcare under the same conditions as people insured in that country. Students from EU
countries must bring their European Health Card with them. Note that the European Health
Insurance Card is not valid during your travels to and from Finland or during any excursions
to a third country.
• More about EHIC here: https://ec.europa.eu/social/main.jsp?catId=559&langId=en

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• For further information on applying for the card, please contact the social insurance office
in your home country
An additional health insurance is also highly recommended to EU/EEA/EFTA citizens as the
Finnish national medical insurance does not cover, for example, severe injuries and the costs
of possible repatriation.

Students coming from outside of EU

If you are a non-EU/EEA/EFTA national, a health insurance policy is to be taken when

applying for a Residence Permit. More information: https://migri.fi/en/insurance
Do not forget to take an insurance that covers all of these during both your stay in Finland and
your travels to and from Finland. For eventual leisure time excursions and trips, it is advisable
to make sure that the insurance is valid also in Finland’s neighbouring countries.

Health care

If you are studying for a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree or for a Licentiate of Medicine or
Dentistry at UOulu, you are entitled to use the Finnish Student Health Service's (FSHS)
general, oral and mental health services. The local unit in Oulu is located in the Linnanmaa
campus area. University students who are entitled to use the services of the Finnish Student
Health Service (FSHS) have been required since January 2021 to pay a student healthcare fee
to Kela for each academic term. It is paid to Kela once per term (spring and autumn), i.e.,
twice a year. More information about the student healthcare fee and payment instructions on
Kela's homepage.
If you are an exchange student from another country, you are not pursuing a degree in a
Finnish higher education institution and are thus not eligible for student health services. EU
citizens can use the public healthcare services. Students from other countries must have
private health insurance.
Further information
• Medical treatment in international situations (Kela)
• City of Oulu Public Social and Health Services
• Emergency situations
• Nyyti ry - Learn Life Skills – website provides you with information, tips and tools which
can help you enhance your own wellbeing.

Financing Your Studies & Finding a Job after Graduation

Financing Your Studies

Securing your financial resources to cover your costs of living while studying at the UOulu is
certainly important for the successful completion of RePIC.

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Finding a Job in Oulu and around after Graduation

In today’s competitive global market, you need more than a strong academic qualification to
achieve your potential as a graduate. That’s why we give you countless opportunities to make
the most of Oulu as an undergraduate student, to boost your employability and set yourself up
for throughout your life.
Our career guidance services help you if you,
• Need help with questions relating to job seeking
• Need information about the labour market situation
• Need information about the integration of graduating students into working life
• Help with how to find thesis and traineeship placement opportunities
More info on Study Guidance:
https://www.oulu.fi/en/for-students/supporting-your-studies/career-counselling-and-
employability-services
More info on Career Centre:
https://www.oulu.fi/en/students/working-life/career-centre

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6.7 Studying at UniZG in Zagreb, Croatia

The Town and its Region

The City of Zagreb, capital of Croatia, is the cultural, scientific, economic, political and
administrative centre of the Republic of Croatia. With a population of nearly one million,
Zagreb is home to almost a quarter of the entire population of Croatia. Over the centuries, the
city was inhabited by people coming from all over Europe; and, in recent years, by people
coming from different parts of Croatia, ensuring a rich cultural life. Zagreb is a safe city whose
doors are always open.
Zagreb began as two settlements perched on neighboring hills, Gradec (today the Upper Town)
and Kaptol. From this high ground, the city spread south into the valley known as Lower Town,
across the river Sava. Both parts of the city are connected today by numerous roads and
pedestrian paths from which one stands out in particular – the Zagreb funicular. This is the
world’s shortest cable railway used for public transport, and it has been connecting the Upper
and Lower Towns since 1890.
Zagreb is a green city with pleasant weather. More than three quarters of the city consists of
green areas – forests, fields, meadows, parks and natural areas. We are especially proud of our
forested Mount Medvednica, which today has the status of a protected natural park, and of our
river Sava, Maksimir park and of other natural areas.
Zagreb is a city of culture. Its theatres, museums, galleries and art collections are recording an
increasing number of visitors. Amongst all the entertainment and cultural events held in the
city every year, we are especially proud of the Advent in Zagreb project, which turns our city
into a winter wonderland again and again. It won the award for best Christmas Market in
Europe in 2016, 2017 and 2018.
We love to say that Zagreb is a city built on a human scale. The map shows Zagreb rooted well
inland, but the Mediterranean breeze is never too away, especially in the way the city lives.
Zagreb people love spending time outdoors, in the city’s streets, we are crazy about drinking
coffee and there are around 4,500 cafés and restaurants in Zagreb, which makes a ratio of one
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café to every 175 people. More than 70,000 students enrolled in our institutions of higher
education contribute to the city’s vibrancy.
More information on the City of Zagreb and its history, culture, arts, events, gastronomy and
other attractions can be found on the official website of the Zagreb Tourist Board.

The University

The University of Zagreb (1669) is the oldest and biggest university in South-Eastern Europe.
As a comprehensive public Central European university, University of Zagreb offers education
and research and in all scientific fields (arts, biomedicine, biotechnology, engineering,
humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences) and a broad spectrum of courses at all study
levels, from undergraduate to postgraduate. With 31 Faculties and 3 Art Academies it is the
flagship educational institution in the country.
List of the UniZG Constituent Units
Practical Information:
• Address: Trg Republike Hrvatske 14, 10 000 Zagreb
• Homepage: http://www.unizg.hr/homepage/about-university
• E-mail: [email protected]

RePIC Faculties and Fields

The Faculty of Architecture

The Faculty of Architecture is the oldest institution of higher education in Croatia combining
instruction and research in the fields of architecture and urban design. It has celebrated 100
years of continuous architectural education in 2019. It has 860 students, over 100 teaching
staff, four departments and 18 sections. Its departments are the Department of Architectural
Design, Department of Urban and Physical Planning, Department of Architectural Technology
and Building Science and Department of History and Theory of Architecture.
The faculty offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral study programs. The undergraduate
Bachelor level study programme lasts for 6 semesters, the graduate level Master study
programme lasts for 4 semesters, and the doctoral study programme lasts for 6 semesters, all
in the field of architecture and urban planning. The undergraduate programme is based on a
balance of lectures and studios. The primary objective of the programme is to prepare students
for professional careers in highly complex and demanding fields of contemporary architecture
and urban planning and to assist them in developing a high level of excellence and intelligence
required by young professionals these days. The faculty nourishes the scope and tradition of
engineering knowledge and skills complemented by artistic principles and reflection as
inherent features of the architectural design process. Students are directed towards a realistic,
problem-solving approach but within a broader cultural and social framework. Students are
offered a balance of theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed by numerous and varied
disciplines and are permanently encouraged to develop their intellect and creativity. They are
introduced to basic principles and methods of scientific research and stimulated to learn

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through their own creative efforts in architectural design and urban planning. Most regular
and elective courses are offered in English as well. Research is based on integral understanding
of inventive and pragmatic demands that constitute architectural and urban planning issues.
The approach to project development is based on comprehensive analyses of functional,
technical, programmatic and contextual aspects of architectural typologies and different scales
of urban planning to respond to society’s needs. Research is directed towards a realistic,
problem-solving approach within a broader cultural and social framework. Research studies
include history of art and architecture, contemporary architectural theories, sustainability
matters, means of architectural representation and recent investigations in architectural and
urban design.
Practical information:
• Address: Fra Andrije Kačića Miošića street 26, City of Zagreb, postal code: 10000.
• Phone No.: +385 1 4639 222
• Web: https://www.arhitekt.hr/en/

The Faculty of Law

Founded in 1776, the Faculty of Law is one of the oldest institutions of the University of
Zagreb. Being the largest law faculty in Croatia, the Faculty is leader of law education in the
whole country. At the Faculty there are in total 240 employees, of which 167 professional and
73 administrative staff. It has in place over 120 Erasmus agreements with universities from
and outside the EU and offers 80 courses in English language, which makes the faculty
popular exchange destination among incoming students.
The organisational structure of the Faculty consists of the following 28 Departments:
Chair of General History of Law and State, Chair of Roman Law, Chair of General Theory of
Law and State, Chair of Economics, Chair of Sociology, Chair of Constitutional Law, Chair of
Criminal Law, Chair of European Public Law, Chair of Criminal Procedural Law, Chair of Civil
Law, Chair of Family Law, Chair of Legal Informatics, Chair of Civil Procedural Law, Chair of
International Law, Chair of Financial
Law and Financial Science, Chair of
Administrative Science, Chair of
Administrative Law, Chair of Private
International Law, Chair of
Commercial Law and Company Law,
Chair of Maritime Law and General
Transport Law, Chair of Labour and
Social Security Law, Chair of
Psychology, Chair of Social Work
Sphere, Chair of Social Policy, Chair
of Gerontology, Chair of Theory and
Methods of Social Work, Chair of
Foreign Languages

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In addition, there are 2 study centres: Social Work Study Centre and the Study Centre of Public
Administration and Public Finance as well as 6 Institutes: Institute of International and
Comparative Law, Institute of Administrative and Political Sciences, Institute of Criminal Law
Sciences, Criminology and Victimology, Institute of Commercial Law and the Law of
International Trade, Economics and Finance, Institute of Civil Law Sciences and Family
Law and the Institute of Legal History and Roman Law.
The Faculty offers the following programs:
• Integrated university level undergraduate and graduate study programme in Law: 5 years,
300 ECTS, degree: mag.iur.
• Postgraduate specialist study programs in law: 2 years, 120 ECTS
• Postgraduate doctoral study programs in Legal science: 3 years, 180 ECTS
• Undergraduate study programme in Social Work: 4 years
• Graduate study programme in social work
• Postgraduate specialist study programs in Social Work
• Postgraduate doctoral study programme in Legal sciences
• Undergraduate study of Public Administration: 3 years
• specialist graduate study programme of Public Administration: 2 years
• Undergraduate Tax study: 3 years
At the Faculty there are programs for legal practice education where the most important role
has the legal Clinic within the Faculty of Law which opened its doors in October 2010. Also,
many students are participating with their mentors at Moot Court Competitions (Moot Court
Croatia; Price Media Law Moot Court; Willem C. Vis Arbitration Moot; Philip C. Jessup
International Law Moot Court Competition; European Law Moot Court; Central and Eastern
European Law Moot Court; ICC Moot Court Competition
We are very proud that the Faculty of Law is the coordinator on the university level for UNIC
project headed by the Dean of the Faculty, prof.dr.sc. Ivan Koprić.
Practical information:
• Address: Trg Republike Hrvatske 14, postal code: 10000.
• Phone No.: +385 1 4564391
• W-mail: [email protected]
• Web: www.pravo.unizg.hr

Prior to your arrival: Preparing Your Stay at UniZG

Before starting their studies at UniZG, all students are required to carry out preparations for
their stay. Students are expected to proactively inform themselves concerning the necessary
preparations and regulations in their individual case. Most importantly, students need to
organise accommodation and apply for visa (non-EU international students only) for the whole
duration of their stay. Please note that students are fully responsible to find accommodation &
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organise the visa/residence permits. The visa application process and finding an
accommodation can take some time. Students are advised to start both processes as soon as
possible.

Entry Regulations (Visa)

• EU/EEA citizens can enter Croatia with just a valid ID card (or passport) and then need to
register at the Central police station if staying for more than 3 months to regulate the
residence permit.
• Citizens of the USA, Australia, Canada, etc. (for full list visit here) can enter Croatia with a
valid passport and then apply for the residence permit in Zagreb. Check with the Croatian
embassy in your country of residence which documentation you will need for your
application in Zagreb and make sure you take it along when coming to Zagreb.
• NON-EU/EEA citizens coming from a country that has a visa-regime with the Republic
Croatia need to apply for a visa via the Croatian embassy in their home country before
departing for Croatia.
The list of countries whose nationals need a visa to enter Croatia can be found at the pages of
the Croatian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Visas CANNOT be applied for or extended in Croatia. Please contact the Croatian embassy in
your country of residence for more information. You will receive an acceptance letter that
covers some of the documentation needed for your visa application as soon as your complete
application has been approved by the faculty/academy of the UniZG that will host you. The list
of required documents can be found here.

Accommodation

Prior to arrival, international exchange students can choose between two housing options:
living in student residence hall or private accommodation.
1. Student Residences
Exchange students coming to Zagreb may choose between organised accommodation in 3
student halls. Students that decide to take accommodation in student halls of residence need
to apply it. The housing request form is a part of the general online application form for
exchange students. As the number of beds available for exchange students is limited, vacancies
will be determined on the "first-come, first-served" principle so Applying for accommodation
in student halls does not guarantee success.
Due to the limited number of vacancies, only oversees students and students from countries
with a visa regime with Croatia will be guaranteed accommodation in student hall of residence.
Students may choose between three (3) halls of residence - please click the link to access more
information (brochure):
• STUDENT HALL OF RESIDENCE "DR. ANTE STARČEVIĆ"
• STUDENT HALL OF RESIDENCE "CVJETNO NASELJE"

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• STUDENT HALL OF RESIDENCE "STJEPAN RADIĆ"
Please check the updated deadlines to apply for student accommodation.
2. Finding Accommodation on the Private Housing Market
As an alternative to the student residences, it is recommended to explore the housing
opportunities offered on the private housing market. Rents vary greatly according to location,
room size, facility etc. Overhead expenses are sometimes included in the price, and sometimes
are paid by the consumer. Before choosing a flat, you might need to spend some time in a
hostel. Therefore, we suggest youth hostels. In addition, it is highly recommended to get in
touch on social media with other current or former UniZG students to exchange
recommendations or even organise a room swap.

Welcome and Orientation

To make it easier for new international students to start their studies, the UniZG International
Office organises joint orientation days for new students before the beginning of each semester.
Usually, welcome weeks are held one week before the start of the semester. During these days,
important formalities for the start of studies are taken care of and counseling opportunities
are offered. The welcome week incorporates diverse activities, such as guided tours through
the historic-cultural city center of Zagreb, as well as academic lectures at the University on the
topics of Croatian culture and heritage and the Croatian education system.
In addition, welcome days are also organised on faculty levels. Information about studying will
also be provided in individual counselling sessions. Experience has shown that many students
are more likely to ask questions in this environment than in larger group meetings.

Enrollment Process & Registration at the City

Enrollment Process at UniZG

To study at UniZG, you as an exchange student must enroll in the correct form and in due
time.
Nomination Procedure (Erasmus+ KA103/KA131 and bilateral student exchange):
• Home university nominates students for winter semester/academic year 2022/23 via
Google form (click on the link). Nomination form will be open on March 1, 2022.
Recommended nomination deadline is May 1, 2022. Please do not send nominations via
email. For specific questions (not explained on the website) about the nomination or
application process, please contact [email protected].
• Partner Universities are kindly requested to respect the NOMINATION DEADLINES
which are as follows:
- May 1st for the 1st / winter semester / academic year
- November 1st for the 2nd / summer semester
• Your home university has to nominate you for your student exchange period and now you
need to apply. Before applying, please make sure that you have been nominated by your

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 home University and that you have previously received an email from UniZG with the
instructions on how to apply!
Application:
• Nominated students need to submit their application in our online application portal
(MoveON). Please apply here: Online application (text is the link) for the 1st (Winter)
Semester 2022/23 or the full academic year 22/23 will be open from March 1 until May 15,
2022.The application portal is only intended for students who wish to apply for a study
mobility exchange. Traineeships are arranged directly with the faculty/academy.
• All applicants are kindly requested to respect the APPLICATION DEADLINES which are
as follows:
- May 15th for the 1st / winter semester / academic year
- November 10th for the 2nd / summer semester
Required documents which you need to enclose to your application form are:
• CV (Croatian or English)
• The Learning Agreement (signed by the student and home institution, preferably checked
by host faculty/academy). Obligatory before submitting: Students can only choose courses
that are available at the faculty/academy.
• Grade Transcript
• Certificate of Enrolment
• Nomination Letter (if applicable - a formal nomination letter is not necessary for Erasmus+
KA103/KA131, upload of scanned nomination email sent by your university is OK)
• Copy of the ID card (both sides) / Passport (first page with the photo and personal data)
• Proof of English knowledge if you are following courses in English – B2 level (all kinds of
certificate, from different language schools are accepted).
All the documents need to be in English. Please bear in mind that the online application
through our website is mandatory and that any nominee who does not apply online will
automatically be rejected.

Registration at the Tax Administration Office: Personal Identification Number

According to Croatian law, every person who resides/works/studies in Croatia must obtain
Personal Identification Number/PIN number (in Croatian OIB). The PIN number is issued by
the Tax Administration in a process which can take a while (usually 2-3 weeks). In order to
request your PIN before your arrival, you will need to do it online by filling the Application for
the Determination and Assignment of the Personal dentification Number form and the
scanned copy of your Passport or Identity Card. Some of the faculties within the UniZG help
students by requesting the PIN numbers instead of students so students should check first
with host faculties if that is possible.
For more information, please look at the Ministry of Finance Tax Administration.

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Campus Services & Student Life

Campus Services at UniZG

ISVU (Information System of Higher Education Institutions) is a network-oriented modular

information system and offer students different services: online exam application, online exam
notification or obtaining certificates outside the working hours of student office.
For registration AAI@EduHr is used and it provides simple, safe and reliable use of all
resources of the AAI@EduHr system by using a unique electronic identity supplied to users
by their host institution.
1. Student restaurants & Cafeterias
Meals, cafe, refreshments, and cakes at affordable prices are served in student restaurants and
cafeterias run by the UniZG Student Centre. Services and offerings may vary in over 20
restaurants at various locations in the city, usually within Faculties of the University. The
biggest student restaurant is located in the Student Centre Savska 25. Every student must have
a student identity card (“iksica”) in order to get meals at a reduced price. Before leaving the
restaurant, a student must show his/her “iksica” to a cashier and pay for the meal. The Croatian
Ministry of Science, Education and Sports allows a weekly subsidy to the following categories
of exchange students (BA & MA level): Erasmus, CEEPUS, scholars of the Croatian national
Agency for mobility and programmes of EU. All other categories of exchange students pay the
full price of a meal.
2. University Library
The National and University Library in Zagreb (Croatian: Nacionalna i sveučilišna knjižnica –
NSK) is the Republic of Croatia’s central hub of learning. The library contains texts from
throughout the rich history of the Croatian written word. It is a special place for many students
and citizens, offering the perfect atmosphere for reading and research. After changing
addresses several times since the beginning of the 17th century, in 1995 this academic
institution finally moved into its present home: a modern building built to meet its needs. The
library is constantly collecting new material, making it the national reference institution for
the preservation of Croatian and international writing on culture, science, and education. It is
student friendly library, popular for reading and learning.
For more information: https://nsk.hr/en/
In addition, there are also faculty libraries on each Faculty within the University where
students can lend books, copy, and print and usually use computers.

Student Life at UniZG

Being the biggest University in Croatia, UniZG offers students a wide variety of non-curricular
activities alongside their studies. Students at UniZG can choose diverse cultural programs,
language courses, sports activities, students organisations and many more.
For getting the better picture of what student life looks like in Zagreb, check our promotional
video for international students.

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1. Language Courses: Learn Croatian
You can get a lot more of your stay in Croatia if you know a little of the local language and the
social codes. After all, Croatian is the language of the environment in which you are going to
live and study and will be an important part of your life in Croatia. Even if your courses are in
a foreign language, you should have at least the basic knowledge of Croatian for everyday use
and administrative needs.
Where to learn Croatian? Croaticum – Centre for Croatian as a Second and Foreign Language
is the oldest and largest institution engaged in teaching, research and description of Croatian
as a second and foreign language. It is part of the UniZG Department of Croatian Language
and Literature at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences. Croaticum offers different
types of programmes: Semester Course of the Croatian Language and Culture, One-Month
Course of the Croatian Language and Culture, Croaticum Summer, Autumn and Winter
School of the Croatian Language and Culture, Specialised Intensive Course of the Croatian
Language and Culture, Online A1 course, Individual lessons in Croatian language and culture.
For more information, feel free to contact the Centre:
University of Zagreb
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Department of Croatian Language and Literature
Croaticum – Centre for Croatian as a Second and Foreign Language
Ivana Lučića 3, HR - 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Web: https://croaticum.ffzg.unizg.hr/
Phone: +385 (1) 4092-068
e-mail: [email protected]
2. ESN Zagreb Activities
ESN Zagreb is a student organization which helps international students during their stay in
Zagreb. They organise all kinds of different activities and programmes and the first one
international students should know about is The Buddy Programme. The Buddy Programme
aims to connect international students with one of the local students and volunteers who will
help them get around Zagreb, be their tour guide or best friend during their stay.
If you wish to sign up for the Buddy Programme, you may do so through PAPAYA and join
social media platforms with fellow Erasmus students that are already on their exchange in
Zagreb or are soon arriving just to Zagreb.
3. UniZG Sport Services
All international students that want to take part in sports activities can do so by joining regular
sports courses that are obligatory for regular students at the University in the first four
semesters. The types of sport and activities range from aerobics to yoga, from fitness to ball
sports and outdoor exercises. Contact the sports’ teacher at the Faculty / Academy and start
keeping yourself fit!

General Counselling Offers at UniZG:

• Staff mobility support: http://www.unizg.hr/homepage/international-exchange/staff-

mobility/

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• International Degree Seeking Students information:
http://www.unizg.hr/homepage/study-at-the-university-of-zagreb/international-degree-
seeking-students/
• Exchange Students Supporting Services: http://www.unizg.hr/homepage/international-
exchange/exchange-students/student-services/
• Office for Students with Disabilities: http://www.unizg.hr/homepage/international-
exchange/exchange-students/student-services/office-for-students-with-disabilities
• International Relations Office: http://www.unizg.hr/homepage/international-
exchange/exchange-students/student-services/international-relations-office/
• Academic Advisers (contacts) at Faculties/Academies:
http://www.unizg.hr/homepage/international-exchange/exchange-students/student-
services/academic-advisers-contacts-at-facultiesacademies/
• Housing: http://www.unizg.hr/homepage/international-exchange/exchange-
students/student-services/housing/
• ICT Services & Facilities: http://www.unizg.hr/homepage/international-
exchange/exchange-students/student-services/ict-services-facilities
• Student Restaurants and Cafeterias:http://www.unizg.hr/homepage/international-
exchange/exchange-students/student-services/student-restaurants-and-cafeterias/
• University Sports Services: http://www.unizg.hr/homepage/international-
exchange/exchange-students/student-services/university-sports-services/
• Student’s Health & Well-Being: http://www.unizg.hr/homepage/international-
exchange/exchange-students/student-services/students-health-and-well-being/
• Student Organizations: http://www.unizg.hr/homepage/international-
exchange/exchange-students/student-services/student-organizations/
• Student Counselling and Support Centre: http://www.unizg.hr/homepage/international-
exchange/exchange-students/student-services/student-counselling-and-support-services/

Student Card & Transportation

1. UniZG Student ID Card

Upon their arrival, exchange students receive their personal UniZG student ID card which we
call "X-Card" (in Croatian "iksica"), together with other enrollment documents. The UniZG
student ID card holds personal information, such as a photo of the student, student’s name
and matriculation number.
The student ID card holds a chip enabling it to use it for several service functions, such as
payment at the university cafeterias, borrow books at the library, get some discounts etc.
Please note:
• The student card is issued by the faculty/academy where students enroll.

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• The UniZG student ID card is not an official identification document recognized by the
Croatian state authorities.
2. Public Transportation
There are three ways of public transportation – trams, buses and city railway. They operate all
day (every few minutes) and night (every hour). Tickets can be bought on board (6 kn) or at
newsstands (4 kn). Make sure that you validate your ticket once you board: a non-validated
ticket is as good as no ticket at all! Monthly or annual tickets can also be bought in ZET (Zagreb
Electric Tram) offices at a reduced price (www.zet.hr). For a monthly/annual ticket you will
need to fill in a ZET-form, stamp it at the faculty/academy you work or are affiliated to. Then
you will need to go to the central office of the Zagreb Electric Trams in Ozaljska 105, HR-
10000 Zagreb – end tram station called LJUBLJANICA. There you will purchase a pass (30
kn, approx. 4 EUR + photo) and every month you will buy a ticket for 360 kn, approx. 48 EUR.
This monthly ticket enables you to use all buses and trams in the area of the city of Zagreb.

Services for Students with Special Needs

The Office for Students with Disabilities is a university reference centre that offers support to
students with disabilities with the aim of providing equal opportunities and improving the
quality of their education. The Office is intended for all students who, due to an illness or
disability, experience difficulties in conducting everyday academic activities (students with
visual or hearing impairments, motor disabilities, chronic illnesses, mental disorders and
illness, specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia, dysgraphia and ADHD and other health
issues and impairments that might affect the course of their education).
Important roles at the Office are played by:
• Coordinators for students with disabilities – teachers appointed at each of the University’s
constituent units (faculties/academies): contact-persons that students can turn to in
relation to their right to have courses or exams adjusted to their needs, and for any other
issues related to students with disabilities.
• Coordination for students with disabilities – student representatives appointed at each of
the University’s constituent units, who are tasked with presenting needs, proposing
activities and evaluating actions that have been implemented.
For more information, feel free to contact the Office on the following address:
• Address: Office for Students with Disabilities University of Zagreb, SN „Stjepan Radić“,
Jarunska 2, Building number 12, ground floor
• E-mail: [email protected]
• Phone: +385 1 456 44 05; +385 99 4593 578

Health Insurance & Medical Services

Health Insurance

All exchange students must have health insurance during their stay in Croatia.

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• All EU/EAA students need to bring their European health insurance card to Croatia as it
will be valid.
• All non-EU/EAA exchange students are required to take out a travel medical insurance that
is valid during the entire period spent in Croatia. The ensured cover must be at least 30.000
EUR and include repatriation for medical reasons, urgent medical care and/or emergency
treatment in a hospital. Student will need to submit a proof of medical insurance upon
arrival to Zagreb, Croatia when applying for the first temporary permit.
• Students coming from Bosnia and Hercegovina, Montenegro and Serbia that have health
insurance with their national health insurance provider in the home country may take out
a proof of health insurance from the home country and exchange it for insurance policy
from the Croatian national health insurance provider, so-called “bolesnički list”.
Upon arrival to Zagreb students will report to the Croatian Health Insurance Fund (Hrvatski
zavod za zdrastveno osiguranje – HZZO) and submit a proof of health insurance from the
home country insurance provider at the address: Branimirova 37, Odjel za međunarodnu
suradnju / Department for international cooperation. The HZZO will issue a document that
enables exchange students to use the health services within the Croatian health system. The
document is issued without additional charges.

Doctors

Make sure to have a valid health insurance during your study period in Zagreb. If you have an
EU citizenship, you should have a European Health Insurance Card. You may also have an
international health insurance scheme, in which case you will need to pay for the examination
when you visit a doctor and afterwards you can be refunded from your insurance company for
the medical costs that incurred. Detailed information is to be found on the website of the
Croatian Health Insurance Fund.
In case you have health issues, please contact the following address:
MULTIDISCIPLINARY COUNSELING SERVICE
School of Medicine Centre for Health Activity
Šalata Street 4 (ground floor-left)
10 000 Zagreb
Phone (01/4590297)
E-mail: [email protected]

Emergency Numbers

In case of emergency, you can call the following number (24/7 availability):
• In emergencies for which an ambulance is needed dial 112!
• 112 is the emergency number for fire, ambulance, and police. You will be asked to explain
what has happened, where it has happened and from which number you are calling.
• Emergency Medical Assistance Institute: If it is a weekend / holiday, you should go to the
EMERGENCY MEDICAL ASSISTANCE INSTITUTE located in Heinzlova 88. This

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 hospital receives accident victims and patients with sudden, serious illnesses 24-hours a
day.

Financing Your Studies & Finding a Job After Graduation

Financing Your Studies

Securing your financial resources to cover your costs of living while studying at UniZG is of
certainly important for the successful completion of RePIC. Apart from using your savings,
there are other ways to finance your studies in Zagreb, so we highly recommend checking on
offered scholarships and grants, including contacting national embassies in Croatia to check
if there is any possibility.
Estimated monthly living expenses:
Student living expenses will vary according to individual needs and the ability to budget and
manage finances. In particular, if you want to travel a lot and take full advantage of the available
cultural and social opportunities, expenses will be higher. The estimates below are therefore
only a very general guide.
Food 135 EUR/month
Rented room and Utilities (water, electricity, heating, phone) 200 EUR/month
Transportation 15 EUR/month
Books 55 EUR/month
Miscellaneous 108 EUR/month
TOTAL approx. 520EUR/month
This is only a rough estimate, and students may spend more or less than these amounts.

Finding a Job in Zagreb and around after Graduation

UniZG strongly supports the work of its Career Service in order to prepare students in the best
possible way for a smooth transition onto their future career. The university is increasingly
working to connect the academic community with the labour market, where alumni network
plays a major role. Career Days is very popular event among students that provide workshops
on curriculum development, preparation for interview, organise short presentations with
employers. According to the same principle, faculties are organizing the same event on the
faculty level.
“Career Speed Dating” is a specific format in which circular short interviews of students with
potential employers are organised, with aim of either hiring students or acquiring their first
experiences in job talks.

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6.8 Studying at UDeusto in Bilbao, Spain

The Town and its Region

Bilbao is the industrial and financial capital of the Basque Country. It was founded by Don
Diego López de Haro on 15 June 1300. Bilbao is a city of contrasts. It changes from the green
of its parks to the grey of its buildings, from the narrow streets of the Old Town to the wide
avenues, from the classicism of the Fine Arts Museum to the innovative style of the
contemporary art of the Guggenheim Museum, from the popular atmosphere to the evening
performances in the Arriaga Theatre and in the Congress and Concert Hall. Bilbao is a
cosmopolitan city, open to Europe. Despite its industrial character, the lively rhythm of the city
and the warm-hearted welcome of its inhabitants make it a place where students find they feel
quickly integrated.
At present, business, leisure, and culture are seen as symbols of the new city. The estuary,
which in times past was the commercial and industrial axis of the city, is now seen as the
cultural artery. The construction of the Guggenheim Museum of Bilbao in the old port area,
across the river from the university, has served to revitalise the city, thus motivating an
important influx of tourists both on a national, as well as an international scale. The
Euskalduna Congress and Concert Hall, which is built in the shape of a ship, is faithful to the
memory of the old shipbuilding site upon which it stands. The beauty of the landscape and
natural surroundings makes the Basque Country an ideal environment for excursions and
travelling, both along the coast and inland.
The Palacio de Congresos y de la Música Euskalduna, the new Iberdrola tower by Cesar Pelli and
the new facilities of the Bilbao Exhibition Centre (in the nearby town of Barakaldo) are
exponents of another important type of tourism, commercial and business, which have
characterised Bilbao's international flair.
Bilbao is 20 minutes by metro from Ereaga beach and 30 from Arrietara, Arabiribil and
Sopelana beach. By metro, you can even reach the fishing village of Plentzia. On the other
hand, the beauty of the landscape and nature makes the Basque Country a suitable

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environment for excursions and trips both along the coast and inland. There are, throughout
the year, cultural and artistic offerings that range from rock caves and artistic monuments to
art galleries, theatrical and musical performances, summer courses, etc.
As an expression of Basque culture and its spirit, we must not forget the manifestations of
traditional culture such as pilgrimages and popular festivals, Basque sports, traditional
folklore, etc. It is worth highlighting Bilbao's Big Week (Aste Nagusia), which is celebrated for
nine days starting on August 15. It is essential to also make a special mention of the gastronomy
of the Basque Country, famous for establishing a culinary school. The excellent food and native
drinks such as Txakoli are in themselves a very special attraction.

The University

The University of Deusto (UDeusto) was inaugurated in 1886. The concerns and cultural
interest of the Basque Country in having their own university, as well as the interest of the
Jesuits in establishing higher studies in some part of the Spanish State coincided in its
conception. Bilbao, a seaport and commercial city which was undergoing considerable
industrial growth during that era, was chosen as the ideal location. The central headquarters
of the University of Deusto is located on the opposite side of the estuary, facing the
Guggenheim Museum. In 1916, the "Universidad Comercial de Deusto" received a group of
students who would be the first graduates in Economic Sciences in Spain, 25 years before this
degree was officially recognised.
In 1963, the Institute of University and Technical Studies of Gipuzkoa in San Sebastian was
formed by the integration of three already-existing entities. This institute, years later, would
form a part of the University of Deusto. Therefore, the University has two campuses, in the
two coastal capitals of the Basque Country: Bilbao and San Sebastian.

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Beyond individual projects and research which is coordinated from chairs such as Law and the
Human Genome, Leisure and Disabilities, there is a clear option for the social topics of
interdependency, distribution of resources, migration, human rights, development, poverty
and environment, ethics and society at the university. Studies on cultural identity (individual
and collective), and European integration processes are being carried out by various
international research groups.
The University of Deusto is striving for internationalisation, without excluding other regions,
and demonstrates a clear commitment to Europe and Latin America, having signed
agreements with more than 200 universities. Approximately 1,300 students and 50 professors
take part in mobility programmes. The faculties, institutes and schools are also involved in
intensive programmes, European modules and joint curricular designs at various levels, as
they participate in cross-border activities, integrated languages, ODL and Leonardo
programmes.

The Faculty of Social and Human Sciences

The Faculty of Social and Human Sciences was officially founded in 2009, established through
the merger of 17 academic centres:
• Faculty of Arts (Bilbao)
• Philosophy Department at the Faculty of Philosophy and Education (Bilbao)
• Faculty of Political Science and Sociology (Bilbao)
• Faculty of Humanities (San Sebastian)
• School of Social Work (Bilbao)
• School of Social Work (San Sebastian)
• School of Tourism (Bilbao)
• School of Tourism (San Sebastian)
• School of Executive Secretarial Studies (Bilbao)
• Euskal Irakaslegoa
• Language Centre
• International Centre for Spanish
• The Pedro Arrupe Institute of Human Rights
• Institute of Leisure Studies
• Institute of Basque Studies
• Institute of European Studies
• Centre for Applied Ethics
In 2009, the experience of all these centres became merged in a new project, the Faculty of
Social and Human Sciences. Acknowledging and feeling this entire legacy as its own, the
Faculty of Social and Human Sciences was born to take advantage of synergies and address
the new challenges faced by universities: the construction of the European higher education
area, learning and teaching innovation embodied in "UD’s Education Model”, a culture of
quality, organisational innovation, the continuation of the internationalisation process,
research excellence and a renewed impetus to knowledge generation and transfer.

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UDeusto provides society with a scientific analysis of the transformations of our time and a
project geared towards the all-embracing education of individuals committed to social justice.
Within this framework, the Faculty of Social and Human Sciences focuses on the differing
impact of change processes on individuals, their lives, and cultures. Likewise, it is particularly
committed to Basque society and culture. Our projects are critically developed with the aim of
serving justice based on the principles of internationalisation, interdisciplinarity and
interculturality.
The Faculty of Social and Human Sciences is currently UDeusto’s largest faculty, both in terms
of staff numbers and courses offered as well as number of students. Based on two campuses,
one in Bilbao and the other in San Sebastian, this faculty features UDeusto’s largest range of
scientific disciplines and academic centres. At present, the Faculty of Social and Human
Sciences conducts approximately 30 % of UDeusto’s total academic activity.
The Faculty has its own internal structures, which operate with a significant degree of
autonomy, including five departments with their respective departmental areas, which are in
charge of teaching, mainly at an undergraduate level, and research related to the subject areas
in question:
• Communication Department (San
Sebastian campus)
• Humanities and International
Relations Department (Bilbao campus)
• Modern Languages and Basque Studies
Department (Bilbao campus)
• Social Work and Sociology Department:
Social Work (Bilbao and San Sebastian
campus)
• Tourism Department (Bilbao and San
Sebastian campus)

Prior to your arrival: Preparing Your Stay at UDeusto

Get to know each other

Once you set up your OpenDeusto account, you will be able to access the online platform (here)
for you to interact with each other prior to your arrival. If you have not set up your OpenDeusto
account and if you are eligible to do so, please do it through id.deusto.es.

Airport Arrival Information

Loiu airport is about a 15-minute drive from the University and has a bus service. The A3247
bus route will get you in town for approximately 3 EUR. Taxis are located just outside the
terminal, facing the arrivals level, and the price to downtown Bilbao is approximately around
24-29 EUR. The airport in Santander is also one hour from Bilbao. More information here.

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How to get to the campus

The central location of our campus in Bilbao will allow you to choose how to get to the
University. There are several bridges that connect the University with the centre of Bilbao if
you want to walk, but the University has several car parks both on campus and in Plaza
Euskadi, located about 5 minutes from the University. You will also find metro or tram stops
just a few minutes from campus. Locate the campus here.
Buddy Programme
The UDeusto Buddy Programme gives the opportunity to their students to interact between
local and international students. Through this programme students will be able to meet people
from Bilbao, get their support and foster mutual contribution. This way, you will make the best
of your university experience; your university experience will grow as well as your global skills
and background. More information here.

Climate

The Basque Country has an oceanic type of climate, humid on the coast and continental in
land. The temperatures are mild throughout the year, with more frequent rain, during spring
and autumn. The average temperature is 20 °C in summer and 8 °C in winter. For beach goers,
the average water temperature ranges from 9 °C to 13 °C in the winter months and 19 °C to 22
°C during the summer.

Basque Language (Euskara)

Learning just a few basic Basque phrases – or individual words – can even take your trip from
ona (good), to ezinhobea (great)! Basque is one of the oldest European languages still in use
and that is why language historians have found it difficult to pinpoint where it came from. You
should try out a few of these Basque phrases and words during your stay in Bilbao:
• Kaixo - hello
• Agur - goodbye
• Eskerrik asko - thank you
• Ez horregatik - you’re welcome
• Barkatu - excuse me
• On egin - enjoy your meal
• Topa - cheers!
• Zer moduz? - How are you?
• Oso ondo - very good
• Bai/Ez - yes/no

Entry Regulations (Visa)

If you are not an EU citizen, and you do not have a residence permit, valid for your entire stay
in Spain, from another EU country, you will need to apply for a Study Visa. The application is
submitted personally at the Spanish Embassy close to your home, or in the EU country where

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you reside. Visas can only be requested in the country of which the person is a national of or
in the country in which the person has legal residence.
More information on Migratory Procedures for foreign students:
https://www.deusto.es/en/home/international/international-students/physical-mobility

Accommodation

The Student Services office offers accommodation and orientation services, information on
student activities, advice and guidance on university related issues and a number of other
services. More information
Click here to find out how to apply for accommodation.

Deusto Hall of Residence

Colegio Mayor Deusto is a residence hall of the Jesuit Order, open both to UDeusto students
and to University of the Basque Country students. the Residence Hall aspiration is to guide
students in the spirit of responsibility by creating study habits, while they are at the University.
The School also provides additional training through the active participation of students in the
centre.
Further information:
Colegio Mayor Deusto- Deusto Ikastetxe Nagusia
Camino Ugasko 7 - 48014 Bilbao
Tlf.: 944 759 200.
Fax: 94 476 29 56
[email protected]
www.colegiomayor.deusto.es

Rates and terms for international students

1. Accommodation and Mode of Payment:

Payment includes:
• Accommodation: Individual room (en-suite bathroom, Internet connection, telephone and
piped music); a complete set of bed linen and towels; use of common rooms (TV, music,
study, fine arts, cafeteria, games room, etc,) and the use of sports facilities (football field,
basketball court, five-a-side football, squash court) and gym (weightlifting room, gym room
and multifunctional training). There is also a laundry available for residents.
• Full board: All meals are self-service: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
For one-month stays or longer: Seven-day, full-board accommodation, from Monday to Sunday
the price is 38.48 EUR/day (plus 10 % VAT), only applicable to individual rooms. This rate
requires continuous stay without interruption, except for specified holiday periods, where
payment will include the last and first working days of Hall operation. In exceptional
circumstances, the Residence Hall reserves the right to change fees.

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Price for less than one-month stay (plus 10% VAT):
• Bed + Breakfast (B&B): Single room: 43.49 EUR / Double room: EUR65,25
• Half Board (H. B.): Single room: 46.76 EUR / Double room: 69.94 EUR (includes
Breakfast + Dinner. No lunch)
• Full Board (F. B.): Single room: 51.11 EUR / Double room: 80.86 EUR
Price per person and day for a single room. In the case of double rooms, the fee is per room

Shared Flat and Homestay Accommodation

This service is free for UDeusto students and only UDeusto students are eligible. The
University looks to foster this type of living arrangements and follow up on the level of
satisfaction.
Minimum stay:
• Full Year: from the end of August/beginning of September till June.
• 1st Academic Semester: from the end of August/beginning of September till January.
• 2nd Academic Semester: from February till June
Deadline for submitting housing applications:
• 1st semester: May 15 for exchange students, June 15 for University of Deusto official
students
• 2nd Semester: November 15 for exchange students and for University of Deusto official
students.
Further information:
Avda. de las Universidades 24
48007 - Bilbao
944 139 337
[email protected]

Municipal Housing – Solidarity Youth

• The Bilbao Municipal Housing Programme for Youth Solidarity offers low rent flats (for
10 people) in the neighbourhoods of Otxarkoaga and Bilbao La Vieja for students enrolled
in a postgraduate degree programme at the University of Deusto in return for involvement
in community social activities (4 hours a week).
• Length of stay: A complete academic year.
• Deadline for submission of applications: September 10
Further information:
Avda. de las Universidades 24
48007 - Bilbao
944 139 337

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[email protected]

Other accommodation choices

Find below some general links about accommodation in Bilbao, which can be directly booked
by you:

Solidary Accommodation

KUVU: Programa de Convivencia

Bizikideak: apoyo mutuo entre jóvenes migrantes y jóvenes universitarios

Residences:

Atalaia Claret
Bidealde
María Inmaculada Bilbao Residence
Micampus Residence
Miguel de Unamuno Residence Hall
Nuestra Señora del Rosario Residence
RESA Blas de Otero Residence
RESA San Mamés Residence
Santísima Trinidad Residence

Youth Hostels, Hostels and Guesthouses:

All Iron Hostel

Bilbao Akelarre Hostel
Bilbao Central Hostel
Bilbao Hostel
BBK Bilbao Good Hostel
Ganbara Hostel
Moon Hostel Bio
Pil Pil Hostel
Poshtel Bilbao

Flats and Apartments:

Atxuri Apartments
airbnb Bilbao
Badi Marketplace
Edificio Santiago Apartments
Erasmusu Bilbao
Habitaccion
Holidu
Hometogo
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Mendialai
Spotahome
Uniplaces
Wimdu

Welcome and Orientation

We want students to enjoy their time at UDeusto and help them achieve all the goals they have
set for this period of their life. The University offers students several resources through the
Student Support and Guidance Service for this purpose.
Studying at university can be a very satisfactory and stimulating experience. Students will have
the opportunity to learn about many things they are interested in; make new friends; know
other points of view; have new experiences and set new personal and career goals that will
shape your future.
However, adapting to the university environment may also present challenges such as forming
part of new groups, learning to handle the workload, fulfilling the demands of each subject or
developing good study habits.
Students’ personal motivation and effort will be key to adapting and achieving the best possible
results. And the Student Guidance and Support Service will offer them different resources that
will help them to make the most of their time at the University.

What is the Student Guidance and Support Service?

A resource for students which aims to help achieve the best possible academic results and
boost the student´s development as a person and future professional.
Services available to students:
• A tutor who will assist you throughout your university years.
• Face to face workshops and online resources that can help you to make the most of your
time and adapt your habits to student life.
• Psychopedagogical and psychological services, staffed by professionals who are equipped
to help you overcome any academic or personal difficulties.

Who makes up the University Guidance Service?

The service is formed by a team of psychologists and teachers whose aim is to provide
resources for Bachelor's and postgraduate students who have queries, make the most of their
university stay, promoting both their personal and professional development.
The Student Support and Guidance Service also offers a Psychology Service that is open to
students who encounter learning difficulties or simply think that “something’s not going well”
and do not know how to solve it.
Students can contact the Psychology Service, for instance, if they have a fear of public speaking
that keeps them from fully participating in class, if they become overly anxious during exams

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or presentations, if they have problems concentrating or tend to procrastinate and leave their
assignments until the last minute or have problems in relationships with their classmates, etc.
For more information or to make an appointment with a member of the Student Support and
Guidance Service, contact us at:
• [email protected] (Bilbao Campus)
• [email protected] (San Sebastian Campus)
This service is free of charge and any information you share with us will be treated with the
utmost confidentiality. For more complex situations that are affecting your personal life, such
as constant anxiety, depression, bereavement, panic attacks, internal conflicts, etc.; you can
arrange an appointment at DeustoPsych (the University’s psychology consultation service).

Enrolment Process & Registration at the City

Enrollment Process at UDeusto

This process depends on how the international student accesses the University of Deusto
(exchange, free mover, international student…). In any case, both the International Relations
Office and our General Secretariat will assist students with all enrollment procedures.

Registration at the City of Bilbao

Registration at the city is highly recommended. The International Relations Office, through its
Welcoming Service will provide international students with practical information about this
issue upon their arrival.

Campus Services & Student Life

Campus Services at UDeusto

Library, Bookshop, Cafeteria and Restaurants, Sports facilities and University Services.

Library - CRAI

It houses close to one million volumes and offers a thousand places for individual
researchers/students, as well as multiple seminar rooms for teamwork and group debate. The
building has 10 floors and is furnished with the following facilities: reading rooms, collections,
a mediatech archive, a café, a car park and the latest technological equipment.
Monday-Friday: 8.15 a.m. to 9.30 p.m.
Saturdays and July and August: 8-15 a.m. to 2.45 p.m.

DeustuSare

DeustuSare is a blog for students to offer or demand services such as childcare, private
language lessons, eldercare, disabled people support or exchanges. For further information,
please contact [email protected]

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Student Life at UDeusto

Student Services
• Accommodation and Welcome Service: The Accommodation and Welcome Service will
also support students with any legal procedure and guide them through the visa application
process, if needed, as well as help you arrange private insurance for your stay.
• Social Action and inclusion: This Service assists students who have social, family, or
personal issues that may affect their studies. The objective of this service is to improve
students’ quality of life at this Institution through special attention to those who have
specific problems, special needs or are in situations of disadvantage.
• Health Care: The service’s main purpose is the promotion of health, focusing on
prevention, care and attention of the UDeusto students. You will find advice, campaigns
and health programs, pharmacy, and nursing consultation.

Student Card & Transportation

UD Student Card

All UDeusto students have a Student Card. It is used to

• Identify yourself when needed (General Secretariat, exams…)
• Access the parking and some laboratories
• Access CRAI - Library (book loans, computer loans, book working rooms…)
• Access DeustoFit Gym
• Access the parking in Plaza Euskadi
• Discounts in restaurants, museums, cinema …

Services for Students with Special Needs

The Social Action and Inclusion Service assists students who have social, family, or personal
issues that may affect their studies. The objective of this service is to improve students’ quality
of life at this Institution through special attention to those who have specific problems, special
needs or are in situations of disadvantage.

Health Insurance & Medical Services

Health Matters

European citizens holding a European Health Insurance Card can use public health care
facilities and benefit from the services offered at no additional cost. However, all students,
European and on-European citizens, should have arranged a private insurance policy according
to the indications provided in the Welcome Letter and we suggest that you get in touch with
the Insurance Company so that you know how to go about seeking medical assistance.

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Financing Your Studies & Finding a Job After Graduation

Financing Your Studies

Cost of Living

The expected budget for your first month in Spain is approx. 1,060 EUR. This would include:
• First month’s rent: 350 EUR
• Rent deposit (returned at the end): 350 EUR
• Mobile phone SIM card (optional): 20 EUR
• Monthly transportation pass (optional): 30 EUR
• Internet service (optional): 60 EUR
• Supermarket food: 250 EUR
More information: https://www.deusto.es/en/home/study/scholarships-grants

Finding a Job in Bilbao and around after Graduation

Deusto Alumni has collaboration agreements and programmes with several entities to
promote internships here and in other countries. In some cases, these first experiences mean
direct access to the first job.
Campus Bilbao
Deusto Alumni Avda. de las Universidades 2448007 Bilba
944 139 351
[email protected]
Campus San Sebastián
Deusto Alumni Camino de Mundaiz 5020012 San Sebastián
943 326 202
[email protected]

Careers advice

Deusto Alumni offers final year students a number of programmes to assist them in finding a
job and attain their professional development goals.

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