Erasmus Play: international student housing / Erasmus in Luxembourg

Are you planning your Erasmus in Luxembourg? In this article, we tell you the most important things you need to know about this destination, such as the best cities to study in, the basic options and requirements for international students, what to do during the exchange, information about the different accommodation alternatives you can choose from and the best Universities in the country. Let’s do this!

Popular Erasmus Cities in Luxembourg

Several cities are ideal as an Erasmus destination in Luxembourg. The capital, also called Luxembourg, is a combination of history and modernity, with its imposing old town, fortresses and vibrant cultural scene. Another gem is Esch-sur-Alzette, a dynamic and artistic city noted for its multicultural atmosphere. Its green spaces and cultural events make it an attractive destination for those seeking to balance academic and social life. For its part, Dudelange, with its industrial charm and eclectic mix of tradition and modernity, offers Erasmus students a unique experience, where history merges with contemporary life.

Study in Luxembourg: a guide for international students

Basic requirements for international students in Luxembourg

  • Some of the documents required to apply for an exchange in Luxembourg institutions are a transcript of the most recent academic transcript (in French or English, or with a certified translation) and the signed Learning Agreement.
  • If you come from an EU member country, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland, you don’t have to apply for a visa or authorization for the exchange. However, if your stay is going to be longer than 90 days, you do have to declare your arrival within the first 8 days and fill out a registration certificate within the first 30 days. All this can be done at the administration of the commune where you are going to reside.
  • If your country of origin isn’t contemplated above, you may need a type D visa to enter (those who need it for Schengen countries) and you also have to get a temporary stay authorization (Autorisation de séjour temporaire - AST). Upon arrival in Luxembourg, you have to declare your arrival within the first 3 days in the country at the administration of the commune of your residence, undergo a medical checkup and apply for a residence permit at the Immigration Directorate of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.
  • You must have health insurance to cover the entire period of your stay in Luxembourg. If you have a European Health Insurance Card you can use it. If you don’t have one, you can either take out private health insurance (most recommended) or pay for the Luxembourg national health insurance upon arrival at the University.
  • You will also need to provide proof that you have sufficient funds to cover your entire stay in the country. This can be through a bank account, a guarantor, a scholarship, or a combination of any of them.

Why study in Luxembourg?

A very good reason to choose this country as an Erasmus destination is the language. It has three official languages: Luxembourgish, French and German. Thanks to this, you’ll be able to gain fluency in the language in which you have classes and in the one that’s most spoken in the area of the country where you’ll be living.

The location of the Grand Duchy in Europe is one of its advantages. It shares borders with Belgium, Germany and France, therefore you can easily travel to those countries, and also to other nearby countries such as the Netherlands and Switzerland.

In Luxembourg, you’re going to have the chance to delve into its rich culture through its great monuments and buildings, its smaller, more rural villages, and the lush nature that can be found in all its corners.

Best things to do in Luxembourg as a student

It may be a small country, but it has a lot of things to do in its different regions! Here are the most interesting things to visit in each part of the country:

The capital, Luxembourg City, is the financial and political epicentre of the country. The city is characterized by its old town, surrounded by imposing fortifications that bear witness to its military history. Outside the old town, the district of Kirchberg houses European institutions and features modern architecture, creating a fascinating contrast with the historic part.

Known as "Little Switzerland", the Müllerthal region is famous for its breathtaking scenery with rock formations, gorges, and lush forests. It’s a paradise for hiking and nature lovers, offering a peaceful and scenic getaway for those who want it.

The region of the Moselle Valley, crossed by the Moselle River, is known for its vineyards that produce high-quality local wines. Here, picturesque villages set along the river, such as Remich and Grevenmacher, offer the opportunity to taste wines, explore wine culture and enjoy charming riverside landscapes.

To the north of the country, the Ardennes offer a more wooded and hilly landscape. This region is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and exploring medieval castles. Echternach, Luxembourg's oldest town, is located in this area and is known for its historic beauty and proximity to Lake Echternach.

Best Universities in Luxembourg