A Blog about Education Abroad

Tag: The Netherlands

  • Jaco at VU Amsterdam

    Jaco at VU Amsterdam

    Pre-departure :

    Jaco Piek - Jaco Piek_Picture 5

    The application procedure for an exchange to Vrije Universiteit (VU) Amsterdam is made up of two parts. First, you apply via the usual route, through the PGIO at Stellenbosch University. If you do indeed get nominated to go to VU, you then have to complete an online application procedure that VU facilitates. This is mostly a formality and a means to apply for and finalize your visa, accommodation and academic arrangements through them. They are especially helpful with your visa (i.e. residence permit) and accommodation applications. In addition to your online application, your learning agreement (LA) needs to be finalised. That is, you choose subjects that you would like to do and submit it to them. The academic staff at VU then evaluates your LA to determine whether you meet the prerequisites for the courses you choose. They shall communicate this process to you upon acceptance of your nomination.

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  • Izak at TU Delft, the Netherlands

    Izak at TU Delft, the Netherlands

    Pre-departure: 

    My exchange is different from most exchange programs with regard to the fact that it is only 3 months long. The subjects at TU Delft are taken in 3 month periods as opposed to the 6 months (semester) at Stellenbosch University. Due to this system, it was possible for me to do a 3 month exchange. This is very convenient since I will be able to do the exchange without losing too much valuable time required for working on my master’s thesis. (more…)

  • Kristen at Leiden University

    Pre-departure:

    Your European adventure is going to require a lot of planning and administration – deadlines are important. First and foremost, when choosing your subjects, look to see which campus your classes will take place. Leiden University is divided between Den Haag and Leiden. Majority of students I met had no idea that Leiden was made up of two campuses before arriving here. Where your classes take place will affect where you choose to live. I would recommend living in Leiden, unless your classes are in Den Haag, as Leiden is more student centered. Travelling between Den Haag and Leiden can become a pricey endeavor especially if you are commuting almost every day. If this is the case, I strongly recommend that you consider opening a Dutch bank account as this allows you to obtain a personalized OV chip card that offers a range of benefits including discounts.

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