Image
Image
Body
Everyone around you talks about going on exchange but you just need to know where to start from. Preparing your Erasmus exchange application might be overwhelming: researching universities, understanding application requirements, and assessing financial support are some of the issues that may worry you and make this step stressful, if not prevent you from taking it at all.
Small steps you can take
- If you are not aware of an Erasmus+ info session, start by surfing the internationalisation page of your Higher Education Institute’s website. You can find there all the information about the application deadline and how to receive support for preparing your application, receiving support for your Learning Agreement, and information about health care services etc.
- Wherever you want to go, keep in mind the language requirements of the university you are applying for. Although there are some exceptions, most universities only offer courses in the countries’ native languages. Check if they offer courses in English. If not, see what it is the language proficiency level required and enrol on a language course at your home university! The University-led language support centre or your university itself might offer the course you need!
- Check the Erasmus+ Grant Simulator that allows you to estimate your Erasmus+ Grant, based on your mobility type, duration and location. On the same Erasmus Generation Portal, you can check the average cost of living of any country part of the Erasmus mobility programme. This might help you in taking your decision!
- Every student is responsible for finding accommodation. While some host universities offer accommodation for Erasmus students and send the necessary registration forms, in other cases you need to start looking for options. Consider that in big cities such as Dublin, Madrid, Paris and London, finding a good and affordable place to stay is not easy. ask your IRO if the university offers accommodation on their campuses or other student facilities. Although you usually share the room with one or more people, these options are cheaper. Please consider that, in some cases, the student dorms are far from the city centre. Bear in mind connections and distance. Do not forget to ask your IRO if they have a list of verified landlords/ladies or if they rely on another local association/organisation for this service. Alternatively, contact a local agency (they will ask for a fee though) or check some accommodation platforms, such as HousingAnywhere, Uniplaces, ErasmusU, or Spotahome (with an ESNcard you can get 25% off the reservation fee when booking your accommodation). There are also many Facebook groups for rentals, but the scam odds might be higher without a verification mechanism! If you go for this option search, ask for pictures, and do not send money in advance to block the room before visiting the place. Last but not least, have a look at this resource centre by the Home project. It explains what are quality labels and why they are important for international students, tips and tricks on how to safely secure one’s accommodation and how to handle potential issues arising with the property.
Competencies
Self awareness and efficacy
Analytical thinking
Flexibility
Take the initiative
Learn more about the competences by visiting the Competence inventory.