International students pleased with Erasmus University

Erasmus University scores above average when it comes to satisfaction among international students. This is evident from the results of the biennial International Student Barometer. 93 percent of students are satisfied with this university, compared to 90 percent as the European average.

Sports facilities, study advice, the library, studying among other international students, these are aspects that international students value at Erasmus University. 91 percent say they are happy with their life at this university, according to the International Student Barometer (ISB). 9000 students were invited by Erasmus University to take part. 1652 students completed the biennial survey. 95 percent of them say they experience a ‘friendly attitude’ within the university, and 87 percent feel welcome in Rotterdam.

Where Erasmus University scored relatively low in the first ISB surveys (79th out of 84 participating universities and 74th out of 93), this is different this year. The overall satisfaction score in Europe is 90 percent, with Erasmus University above that at 93 percent.

“We’re very encouraged by the high overall satisfaction of our international
students”, says Martine Wierenga, director of the International Office. “Equally positive
is the high satisfaction with our facilities and support services, from orientation, wellbeing, and ESSC to Studium Generale.” Studium Generale achieved a satisfaction score of 98 percent.

No future in Rotterdam

These high scores do not mean that students will stay in Rotterdam after graduating: 15 percent of students want to start their career in the Netherlands. Lack of interest from employers, the high cost of living and the language barrier are given as reasons for leaving the Netherlands. Erasmus University scores noticeably lower on career advice, as do other European educational institutions. Students want more career guidance integrated into the existing curriculum.

The faculties themselves are responsible for the content of education. On MyEur it states that existing workshops and personal guidance from career coaches will be expanded with digital training. “Students clearly want more career guidance from academics, and we know
there is room to strengthen integration between international and Dutch students”, says Wierenga.