About the City – The Dutch Secret Every International Student Should Know
If you’re planning to study in Groningen, you’re not just choosing a school, you’re unlocking a lifestyle.
Groningen is a small yet spirited city in the north of the Netherlands. Think student-centric vibes, vibrant town squares, cutting-edge education, and more bikes than people. It’s one of the youngest cities in the country, where over 25% of the population is students. So yeah, you’ll feel right at home.
The city hums with energy. Street performances, museums, festivals, and art galleries blend seamlessly with busy libraries and cozy cafés. It’s stylish without trying. Chill, but full of movement.
Beyond its Dutch charm, Groningen is an emerging academic force in Europe. Home to one of the Netherlands’ oldest and most respected universities, the city puts emphasis on research, innovation, and sustainable living.
And let’s not forget, it’s compact. You can bike across the city in 15 minutes. Quick, green, convenient.
If you’re looking for an affordable, safe, and culturally rich place to live and study, Groningen is where it’s at.
Why Groningen Is a Gateway for International Students
Groningen may not be as famous as Amsterdam or Utrecht, but for international students, it offers something even better, balance.
1. A True Student City
With a student population exceeding 60,000, Groningen lives and breathes academic life. Everything from grocery stores to medical services caters to student life. You’ll never feel like a visitor here.
2. World-Ranked Education Institutions
The University of Groningen, ranked among the top 150 universities globally, delivers excellence in law, science, business, and sustainability. Plus, it’s one of the few Dutch universities offering a wide range of English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programmes.
Additionally, Hanze University of Applied Sciences is well-regarded for its practical, hands-on learning, big in health, tech, arts, and business education.
3. Budget-Friendly European Living
Compared to major Western European cities, Groningen is affordable. Rent is lower, daily expenses are manageable, and students get major discounts. A true win-win.
4. Safe, Sustainable & Super Inclusive
The Netherlands, in general, ranks high on safety. Groningen, even more so. It’s also built for bikes, committed to green energy, and students rave about how diverse and inclusive the university communities are.
5. English-Speaking and Globally Connected
Nearly everyone speaks fluent English. You won’t need Dutch to survive here, though you might just learn to love stroopwafels and gezelligheid along the way.
Top 10 Universities and Colleges in Groningen
Here’s your go-to list to kickstart your academic journey in Groningen:
1. University of Groningen (Rijksuniversiteit Groningen)
A globally ranked research university offering over 180 English-taught programs. Cutting-edge in international law, data science, psychology, business, and environmental studies.
2. Hanze University of Applied Sciences
Practice-oriented with strong links to industries. Offers programs in international business, physiotherapy, graphic design, sensor technology, and renewable energy.
3. Minerva Art Academy (part of Hanze UAS)
One of the best places in the Netherlands for fine art, design, illustration, and animation.
4. Stenden University Hotel School
Though technically part of NHL Stenden, this specialized branch in Leeuwarden offers essential hospitality internships and courses that students in Groningen can access.
5. Tio University of Applied Sciences (Groningen Campus)
Private business school offering accelerated bachelor’s degrees in hotel management, business, and marketing.
6. Alfa-college Groningen
Vocational education with pathways in nursing, ICT, engineering, education, and business management.
7. Noorderpoort College
One of the largest vocational colleges in the northern region. Offers training spanning hospitality, logistics, and health care.
8. NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences
Though based in nearby cities, several collaborative programs and student networks link you back to Groningen’s student ecosystem.
9. International School Groningen
Ideal for younger international students focusing on IB-level education in preparation for university.
10. Rainbow Institute Groningen
A smaller school offering English-language skills and foundation programs, specializing in expat and international student support.
Top 10 Student Accommodation Properties in Groningen
Accommodation in Groningen ranges from stylish studios to busy student blocks. Here are top-rated options to consider:
- The Student Hotel (TSH) Groningen
- SSH – Winschoterdiep
- RUG Housing via SSHN
- Campus Groningen Zernike
- Stadswerf Apartments
- Kornoeljestraat Student Flats
- Friesestraatweg Studios
- Woonstudent Groningen (Prinsenstraat)
- Simplon Jongerenhotel
- Leliestraat International Student Housing
Most of these offer furnished rooms, high-speed internet, communal kitchens, study areas, and bike storage, because yes, owning a bike is a must.
Top 10 Student Areas in Groningen (With Nearby Universities)
Picking the right student area can shape your entire experience. These are the most popular and practical neighborhoods to live in.
1. City Centre (Binnenstad)
- Nearby: University of Groningen faculties
- Housing: TSH, SSH rooftops
Buzzing with historic charm, cafés, bars, and close to everything. Expect higher rent, but unbeatable convenience.
2. Paddepoel
- Nearby: Zernike Campus (Hanze UAS & RUG Science)
- Housing: Campus Groningen, SSH housing
Quiet, affordable, student-dense. Just a short ride to uni and cycle paths everywhere.
3. Korrewegwijk
- Nearby: RUG Arts Faculty
- Housing: Shared apartments, SSH
Chill vibes and slightly more affordable rents. Great for first-year and exchange students.
4. Oosterpoort
- Nearby: City Centre, Arts and Humanities faculties
- Housing: Stadswerf, SSH options
Culturally alive, full of musicians, creatives, and young professionals. Co-living is common here.
5. Schildersbuurt
- Nearby: Central Campus
- Housing: Leliestraat housing
Student-heavy area. Budget-friendly and bursting with life.
6. Helpman
- Nearby: South-Central, good for older students
- Housing: Shared houses, private studios
Quieter, greener, with larger spaces. Ideal for grad students and those who want peace.
7. Vinkhuizen
- Nearby: Zernike Campus
- Housing: SSH flats, private studios
Affordable and near major supermarkets. Easy biking distance to class.
8. Oranjewijk
- Nearby: Midway between campuses
- Housing: Boutique shared apartments
Scenic, calm, and great housing for groups of 2–4 friends.
9. De Wijert
- Nearby: South Groningen
- Housing: Private modern units
Budget-friendly, quiet, and slightly further out, but offers great cycling routes.
10. Beijum
- Nearby: North of the city
- Housing: Private studios
A bit suburban. Lower rent, safe surroundings, and well-connected with buses and cycling paths.
Cost of Living in Groningen – Be Smart, Spend Less
Wondering what your monthly expenses will look like when you study in Groningen?
Here’s a realistic breakdown:
| Item | Monthly Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Housing (shared or studio) | €400 – €750 |
| Food & Groceries | €150 – €250 |
| Transport (Bike or Bus) | €10 – €40 |
| Phone & Internet | €20 – €35 |
| Health Insurance | €100 – €120 |
| Social Life & Leisure | €100 – €150 |
💰 Estimated Total: €800 – €1,200 per month
Pro tip: Buy a bike, cook at home, and choose a dorm-style housing in SSH to save big.
International students under 30 from the EU often qualify for housing and health insurance subsidies. Always check with your university’s student support team.
Local Transport in Groningen – Student Style
1. Cycling
This isn’t Amsterdam. It’s more rider-friendly. Nearly everyone owns a bike, and it’s the fastest way to get across the city. Bike paths are everywhere. Parking, too.
2. Buses
Operated by Qbuzz, city buses are reliable and run frequently. Grab an OV-chipkaart (public transport card) for easy access and discounts.
3. Trains
Groningen Station connects you across the Netherlands. You can reach Amsterdam in under 2.5 hours. International students often use off-peak discount cards for savings.
4. Walking
The city is cozy. You’ll probably walk more than you expected. Especially in the city center, where everything is within a 10-15 minute stroll.
Summary – Why You Should Study in Groningen
Let’s bring it all together.
To study in Groningen is to choose a university town that’s youthful, creative, bike-friendly, and globally connected. It’s got academic credibility (hello, top 150 university), cultural authenticity, and affordability rolled into one neat little Dutch package.
From cozy cafés to cutting-edge research labs, everything here works with your student lifestyle, not against it. And honestly? You’ll probably fall in love with the city just biking to your lectures.
Whether it’s for three months or three years, Groningen is where your next chapter in education and life should begin.
Top 10 FAQs About Studying in Groningen
1. Is Groningen good for international students?
Yes! Over 25% of the population here is students, and thousands are from abroad. It’s safe, English-speaking, and super welcoming.
2. Is English widely spoken in Groningen?
Absolutely. Most people speak fluent English, and universities offer many English-taught courses.
3. How much does it cost to live in Groningen?
The average monthly cost is around €800–€1,200, depending on lifestyle and housing.
4. What’s the rent like for students?
Expect to pay between €400 and €750 monthly for a student room, depending on location and facilities.
5. Can I work while studying in Groningen?
EU/EEA students can work freely. Non-EU students can work up to 16 hours/week in term or full-time during summer with a permit.
6. What’s the best area to live as a student?
City Centre, Paddepoel, and Schildersbuurt are highly popular for students due to affordability and proximity.
7. Is public transport included in tuition packages?
Not usually. You’ll need to buy a separate OV-chipkaart for buses and trains.
8. Do I need health insurance as a student?
Yes. Basic Dutch health insurance is mandatory unless you’re insured through your home country’s agreement.
9. When should I apply for housing?
As early as possible, 4 to 6 months before your start date is ideal. SSH housing fills up quickly!
10. Why choose Groningen over Amsterdam or Rotterdam?
It’s more student-focused, less expensive, and offers a perfect mix of education, community, and green lifestyle. Plus, you’ll avoid the tourist traps.
