10 Reasons to Study in Rotterdam

Are you open to studying abroad? Then you should definitely take the Netherlands and the port city of Rotterdam into your shortlist. If you can visualize a few container ships, flat green meadows with windmills and endless tulip fields, you are in for a surprise. As a home base, Rotterdam is the ideal place to study and embark on an adventure in the Netherlands. But we do not want to give too much away just yet. Here are 10 good reasons why Rotterdam should be at the top of your list.

1. Rotterdam should not be underestimated

Not too big and not too small: with around 650,000 inhabitants, Rotterdam is the second largest city in the Netherlands. If you are not a fan of the 24-hour hustle and bustle and the permanent distraction of a city with millions of inhabitants, but still value architecture, culture and leisure opportunities, the port city of Rotterdam is a good choice. Known as an economic and commercial center, Rotterdam offers you the best internship conditions for your first professional experience and excellent job opportunities in the economy after graduation.

2. Internationality on every corner

Even though Rotterdam itself is not a glittering metropolis like New York or London, you will not miss out on internationalism and contact with people from all over the world. This is due to the city’s history, which has been significantly influenced by seafaring. Rotterdam is still world famous for its port as the gateway to Europe. The port of Rotterdam is the largest in Europe and additionally one of the main seaports in the world. Therefore, other cultures and nations are a part of the city, which also shows in the openness and tolerance of the people living here. And of course, the wide range of studies and excellent conditions attract many students from abroad.

3. Security is a given

Port cities do not have the best reputation per se, although in Rotterdam you really do not have to worry. The security standard is far above average, as it is in the Netherlands in general.

4. The wide range of universities and subjects in Rotterdam

Rotterdam is one of the most sought-after cities for students in the Netherlands. The about 50,000 students are divided among the following universities and colleges:

– Rotterdam University of Applied Science: The University of Applied Science was created by a meld of several universities and higher educational institutions. The 30,000 students are still distributed among the various locations in Rotterdam. These include the Rotterdam Business School (RBS) for Business, the Faculty of Social Work or the Rotterdam Mainport Institute (RMI). Look at all 42 study programs now.

– Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR): If you choose not to study at a University of Applied Sciences in Rotterdam, you have usually landed a spot at the Erasmus University. Students can pursue a bachelor’s degree or master’s program here in, for example, economics, philosophy, psychology, health, history, communication, art or culture. Here are all EUR studies at a glance.

– Other study opportunities can be found, such as, at the Islamic University of Rotterdam or the art college Codarts Rotterdam.

5. The outstanding study conditions in Rotterdam and the Netherlands

Overcrowded lecture halls and large amount of people in the hallways? No way! Universities in the Netherlands have a wonderful reputation: modern and contemporary educational facilities, a great focus on practical experience, free, independent research, and a constant drive for innovation and networking with other universities. All of this is emphasized at universities in the Netherlands. It is not for nothing that places are in extremely high demand. Graduates ultimately have a good chance of quickly gaining a foothold with companies at home and abroad and becoming successful in their personal careers.

6. Simpler admission requirements

Restricted admissions are often very high in many countries due to extremely strict entrance exams or a numerus clausus (NC) that is unattainable for most people. In the Netherlands, however, you have a good chance of being admitted to the program of your choice, even if you are not among the best in your year. You can check the specific requirements on the given page of the individual universities.

7. Study in English

Due to the large number of students coming from abroad, it is hardly surprising that subjects in the Netherlands are often offered in English. With that being said, you do not have to learn Dutch beforehand to fulfill your dream of studying in Rotterdam. However, you should be able to prove your English skills by taking a TOEFL and IELTS test when you apply.

Also, the people in the Netherlands are known for their language skills. Many speak German, Spanish or French in addition to English. Nevertheless, the Dutch are happy if you try to learn their language and acquire some basic knowledge as well.

8. Study with perspective: internship and job

Due to its port, Rotterdam is a strategically important place for several large and international companies. The universities are admirably networked with the local industry and economy – regardless of whether you are looking for an internship or a job. If you want to stay in the Netherlands after your studies, there are plenty of career opportunities here for you to succeed in.

9. The best study conditions at a good price

Unlike in England or the USA, the cost of studying in the Netherlands or Rotterdam is quite reasonable. This also applies to the cost of living and rent. This means that you will be able to enjoy the student life to its full extent. Speaking of renting an apartment: If you are still missing the right accommodation for your desired studies, take a look at the student apartments of MILESTONE Rotterdam.

10. The diversity of the Netherlands within reach

In terms of area, the Netherlands is one of the more manageable countries in Europe. However, the population density is relatively high. For you, this means that there is a lot to discover. Rotterdam is in the west of the BENELUX country and is very centrally located. If you need a change of scenery, you can travel to Amsterdam in just an hour or to Antwerp, Belgium, in 90 minutes. However closer cities such as The Hague and the west coast overlooking the North Sea can be visited if you do not want to travel for a longer distance.

Have you caught Holland fever yes? No surprises there. You may soon be one of the many students in Rotterdam datz. If you are not yet sure what you want to study, you can find all kinds of tips here for choosing the right study program.