Is Groningen Good for International Students?

The University of Groningen (RUG) is one of the Netherlands' oldest and most respected universities. It's also one of the more internationally accessible. But it's worth understanding what you're actually getting before you apply.

Does Groningen accept a student ID as proof of enrollment?

Yes, the University of Groningen issues an official student card that serves as proof of enrollment for most practical purposes. Public transport discounts, student rates at cultural institutions, and local businesses. For formal administrative purposes (visa applications, bank accounts, housing contracts), the university also provides an enrollment certificate (inschrijvingsbewijs), which you can download through the student portal (Ocasys / Progress).

The student card alone may not be sufficient for immigration-related documents. Always request the official certificate for those.

Is Groningen good for international students?

Yes, with some caveats. Here's an honest breakdown.

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What is Groningen actually like for international students?

Groningen is a small city, about 230,000 people, with a very large student population relative to its size. Around 60,000 students live there. That ratio gives it an unusually young, active atmosphere.

The city is very cyclable, extremely walkable, and considerably cheaper than the major Dutch cities. Rent for a student room ranges from €400 to €700 per month. For a room in Amsterdam or Utrecht, you'd pay significantly more.

The university's ranking has risen steadily. It's in the QS top 100 globally and performs particularly well in medicine, natural sciences, and social sciences. For master's-level research degrees, it's genuinely competitive.

The honest downside: housing is tight, and finding accommodation takes serious effort. The university has limited on-campus housing. Students who don't secure housing well in advance sometimes arrive without a confirmed address, which causes problems with municipal registration (BSN number), which you need for everything from a bank account to a GP.

Can international students from outside the EU study at Groningen?

Yes. Groningen actively recruits non-EU international students for its English-taught programmes. Non-EU students pay a higher tuition rate.

• EU/EEA students: ~€2,530 per year (statutory rate, 2025)
• Non-EU students: typically €10,000 to €20,000 per year depending on programme

Scholarships are available, including the Holland Scholarship (€5,000, non-EU students from outside Europe) and the Groningen University Fund scholarships.

Non-EU students need a student visa (MVV) arranged by the university as a recognised sponsor (IND recognised). The university handles the application process once you're admitted.

Is Groningen safe for international students?

Groningen is one of the safer cities in the Netherlands. It's low on serious crime, the student areas are well-lit and busy, and the cycling culture means most students travel around the city without needing public transport at night. Bike theft is common. Budget for a solid lock.

Conclusion

Groningen is a strong, affordable, internationally accessible university with genuine global reputation (QS top 100). It's good for international students, but housing is the main practical challenge. Start looking for accommodation as soon as you receive your offer letter, not after.

Read Also: Do I Need a Guarantor to Rent a Room?