Are you joining us in Nijmegen this summer? Then come prepared! On this page, you find everything you need to prepare before your Summer School starts: from a pre-departure checklist & packlist, to information about renting a bicycle and setting up your Radboud University account.
If you are joining us in the Netherlands, you need to make some arrangements. On this page, you find everything you need in order to prepare for your Summer School course.
Have you...
Completed your registration by paying the course fee?
- Received confirmation that the course will follow through?
Arranged your visa (if applicable)?
- Arranged travel and liability insurance?
- Arranged medical insurance?
Booked accommodation and made all necessary pre-payments?
- Checked whether your country imposes any restrictions on the amount of money you can travel with?
- Checked whether your credit/debit card is activated to be used within Europe?
- Arranged to bring any medication required as well as a doctor’s letter of explanation (in English)?
- Activated your Brightspace Account?
Have you packed the following items?
- A valid passport (or a valid ID card for EU citizens)
- Travel tickets
- Proof of insurance (travel insurance, medical insurance, etc.)
- Bank card (debit and credit)
- 220 V converter
- Radboud Account username and password
- Summer clothes and something warm because the weather differs from day to day in the Netherlands
- A raincoat or umbrella (may come in handy as well)
- Laptop (if this is required for your course)
Radboud University Account
As a participant of the Radboud Summer School you will receive a Radboud University account. Approximately two weeks before your course starts, you will receive two emails from our ICT department with instructions on how to activate this account. Please read the emails carefully and make sure to follow all the steps. Once activated, you can use your account to:
- access course documents on our e-learning environment (Brightspace);
- access the wireless network while you are on our campus in Nijmegen;
- access the library on our campus, please note that the digital files cannot be accessed.
Make sure you remember your account, E-number and password.
Brightspace
Our course leaders use Brightspace to share teaching materials and source references, including PowerPoint presentations, background information, hyperlinks to external websites, and more. You will gain access to Brightspace about two weeks before the course begins, allowing you to review the course materials. If you do not have access by then, please email radboudsummerschool [at] ru.nl.
Wi-Fi access on campus: Eduroam
Eduroam is the wireless network used at Radboud University. All employees and students at institutes connected to Eduroam can use this wireless network.
Public transport in the Netherlands is reliable, efficient, and widely used. Trains and buses run frequently and connect cities throughout the country, making it easy to travel to Nijmegen from nearby towns and cities.
If you choose to stay outside Nijmegen, you can easily reach the city by train. From Nijmegen Central Station, Radboud University is only about a 10-minute bus ride away. Buses run regularly throughout the hour and stop at several locations on campus.
Find more information about travelling by public transport in the Netherlands below.
Dutch trains (NS)Public transport journey planner (9292)
How to buy a train ticket at Schiphol Airport
Want to see how you can buy a train ticket at Schiphol Airport and check in and out of the train? We have created a video to show you how.
How to reduce your carbon footprint while travelling
Are you curious how you can reduces your carbon footprint while traveling? Calculate your carbon footprint and find out more about making your travels more sustainable.
The easiest and fastest way to transport yourself in the Netherlands is by bike. The campus is only a 15 minute bicycle ride away from the city centre. You will find cycle lanes all along the road. These can be recognized by their distinct pink-ish colour.
Renting a bicycle
Want to ride like a local? We recommend renting your bike at 024fietsen. They offer bikes for the best price. We recommend you reserve your bike beforehand. Pick up times are flexible.
How to ride your bike & traffic rules
Do you want to learn more about how to ride a bike and the Dutch traffic rules? Radboud University has created an explanation video with the must-knows.
Good to know! The average living expenses are approx. €150 to €250 a week, but the amount you spend will depend on your lifestyle. More information about living in the Netherlands and daily living expenses can be found on below.
About the Netherlands
The Netherlands has an international character. Since the 17th century, major Dutch cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam and even Groningen have been international trading hubs, resulting in a melting pot of many nationalities. This international character means the Dutch are generally tolerant and open about different cultures and believes. You are free to voice your opinion and speak your mind. People are not very easily offended, but expect them to also be direct with you! This directness, not intended to be offensive, is something you may have to get used to.
Interested in learning more about the Netherlands? Click on the link below.
The Dutch way of teaching
The Dutch teaching style is interactive and student-centered. You are free to ask questions and be critical of what lecturers or fellow students say. And speaking up is encouraged. Want to learn more about the Dutch way of teaching? Click on the link below.