Start early – it pays to think about all documents, insurance, accommodation and transport at least 3 months in advance
Find out the real cost of living – housing and food prices vary a lot in Europe – try to make a small budget and make a financial reserve accordingly
Contact the host school – ask about accommodation, orientation days, student card or access to classrooms, library, etc.
Prepare for the culture – follow the social networks of your university, city or local students – you’ll fit in faster
Check your documents – passport, ID, insurance, ISIC, visa if applicable – all should be valid for the duration of your stay
Make sure you have insurance – don’t forget health and liability insurance – often compulsory from the host institution
During the stay
Don’t be afraid to speak up – the language barrier is best broken if you just get involved. No one expects perfect English
Take advantage of what the school has to offer – workshops, concerts, theatre performances, projects with locals – that’s the real magic of Erasmus
Travel smart – there are plenty of cheap and eco-friendly connections across Europe – by train, carpool or bus
Meet local and other Erasmus students – Erasmus friendships often last a lifetime, so don’t hesitate to get involved Erasmus Student Network
Prepare a “Plan B” – have contacts for the host coordinator and the International Office in case something goes wrong
After returning
Keep in touch – your host university will appreciate it if you let them know how you enjoyed your stay
Share your experience – your story may help other students decide to go, share it with faculty coordinators or the JAMU institutional coordinator
Write down what you’ve learned – practical and personal knowledge is useful for your CV or portfolio
Consider another trip – Erasmus is not a one-off thing – you can go again, perhaps for an internship or as part of a bachelor/master/doctoral programme
Bonus
Make copies of all documents and save them online (e.g. in Google Drive)
Learn a few basic phrases in the language of the country you’re visiting – the locals will appreciate it
Don’t forget Green Erasmus – by train, sharing transport or with a smaller backpack, you’ll be doing the planet and yourself a favour
