Radboud University


Image of buildings at Radboud University
Radboud University Nijmegen (RU) is the only full-scale university in the eastern and southern parts of the Netherlands.
Location: Nijmegen, Netherlands
Language of Instruction: English
Program Type: Semester or Academic Year
Open to non-KU Students: No
Fulfills KU Core 4.2: No
Fulfills KU Core 5: No

  • Study in Nijmegen, the oldest city in the Netherlands
  • Take classes in English
  • No foreign language proficiency required
  • Open to all majors

Radboud University Nijmegen (RU) is the only full-scale university in the eastern and southern parts of the Netherlands. It was established in 1923 and used to be called (Catholic) University of Nijmegen or KU until 2004, when it took its current name. Today it is one of the Netherlands' leading academic communities. It enrolls more than 17,000 students. The international dimension of education and research plays an essential part at the university; students are encouraged to spend part of their studies or their practical training period abroad. University facilities include museums, laboratories, various institutes, the university hospital, computer labs and sports centers.

Nijmegen (pronounced nigh-megan) is the oldest city in the Netherlands. In 2005, the city celebrated its 2000th anniversary. Nijmegen is situated close to the German border, on the banks of the river Waal, a branch of the Rhine river. It is also near Eindhoven, Dusseldorf and 70 miles (1.5 hours by train) away from Amsterdam. The 'Valkhof' is the highest point in the city, formerly a castle erected by Charlemagne, it overlooks the river. The typical Dutch polder landscape and rolling hills provide a beautiful panorama. The lively city center now boasts many cultural facilities, monuments, shops, cafes and restaurants, and popular festivals throughout the year.

The Radboud University Nijmegen offers over 250 courses in English for international students, and the number of courses increases every year.  

Students must take at least two courses within the Faculty of Arts on subjects such as: American Studies, Art History, Communication Studies, Anthropology, History, Linguistics, and English Literature.

Additional coursework can also be taken within other Faculties in subjects such as: Economics, Environmental Studies, Geography, Mediterranean Studies, Middle Eastern Studies, Philosophy, Political Science, Sociology, Women's Studies, and Religious Studies.

Steps to Select Courses at Radboud (.pdf) 

Radboud Faculty of Arts Course Catalog  

Radboud Courses Outside of the Faculty of Arts 

Radboud Course Equivalencies (.pdf)

The International Office at Radboud will help to arrange your accommodation; a furnished room with shared kitchen, toilet and shower facilities will rent for approximately up to € 400 per month. Most rooms are located within a few kilometers from the university, and can easily be reached by bus or bicycle.

 

In addition to regular courses, exchange students go through a 2-week orientation program upon arrival as part of the exchange. The orientation is provided by the International Office and the Radboud International Students (RIS). This orientation period is very important for newly arriving students. It is a great way to meet other students, get to know your way around the campus and city, enroll for courses and for the very popular sports classes, etc. The Dutch students of RIS will help students with practical matters such as buying a 2nd-hand bike, opening a bank account, finding the best places to go out and finding the cheapest shops.



The International Office regularly organizes optional excursions for international and exchange students. Examples of excursions are: Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, Maastricht, Delft, Brussels and Leiden. Additionally, see Radboud's Facebook page for International & Exchange students.

SAGE is dedicated to creating international engagement opportunities that meet the needs of all our students and providing resources to support you through the process of studying abroad. Study abroad is achievable for students of all identities including our BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ students, students with disabilities, and students with religious/non-religious viewpoints. Before selecting a program, consider how your identities may impact your experience abroad in unique ways and talk with your Program Coordinator about any program-specific concerns. Students with documented disabilities should discuss any accommodation needs with their Program Coordinator early in the planning process.

Check our Identity Abroad page and resources listed below for information specific to you and other students who may be on your program.

Open to KU students with Sophomore standing by the beginning of the program who have a minimum 2.75 cumulative GPA. There is no language requirement.