INTRODUCTION
This manual provides general information to all UL students who undertake an ERASMUS
placement in a partner university abroad. Host institutions provide guides for incoming
students, usually published on the website. Usually the incoming student guide is not sent
in hard copy format. You are advised to consult the website of the partner university and
read the guide for incoming students. Reports written by students are available for
consultation in the International office (E0030). These reports are also available online at:
http://www.ul.ie/international/en/home/international-admissions/partner-universities/
These are password protected. To download, the username is “student” and the password is
“ULint2011”. If you require the reports to be sent by e-mail, please request this.
In addition, information on partner universities, including module descriptions, brochures
and accommodation information, is maintained in the International Education Division
mini-library. Please also contact UL students who have attended the host university in
previous years or students from that institution who have studied at UL as Erasmus
students. Please contact the International Education Division for former ERASMUS
students’ contact details.
THE LIFE-LONG LEARNING / ERASMUS PROGRAMME
The Life-Long Learning/Erasmus programme was originally established as the
SOCRATES programme in 1987 and supports European cooperation in eight areas, from
primary school to higher education, from new technologies to adult learners. The Higher
Education section of the programme is called ERASMUS, which stands for (EuRopean
Community Action Scheme for the Mobility of University Students). The University of
Limerick has participated in the programme since 1988. UL students may study for one
semester of their degree programme on approved and academically recognized exchanges
in European universities in a wide range of countries such as Spain, France, Germany,
Netherlands, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Italy, Malta, Scotland, Finland, the Czech
Republic and Sweden. UL has the largest outgoing Erasmus programme in Ireland and has
received recognition from the EU for the excellence of the programme by receiving the
accolade “Erasmus Success Story” in 2009 and 2010. Each year, almost 400 UL students
study abroad within the EU and at international partner institutions.
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INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION DIVISION, UNIVERSITY OF LIMERICK
Contact details:
Homepage:
http://www.ul.ie/internationaleducation
Home Institution:
University of Limerick
Fax No:
+353-61-213062
Institutional Code:
IRL LIMERIC01
Address:
International Education Division,
EO-030
University of Limerick,
Limerick
Personnel:
Dr Patricia O’Flaherty, Erasmus Institutional Coordinator
Tel: +353-61-202304
e-mail: patricia.oflaherty@ul.ie
Herveline Roche, Administrator (Outgoing Students)
Tel: +353-61-202353
e-mail: herveline.roche@ul.ie
N.B. Registration at UL
PLEASE REMEMBER TO REGISTER AT UL DURING THE FIRST WEEK OF THE SEMESTER
AND PAY REGISTRATION FEE, EVEN THOUGH YOU ARE AN EXCHANGE STUDENT AT
ANOTHER UNIVERSITY.
ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS
The Erasmus placement is an integrated and compulsory part of the following degrees:
Applied Languages
Economics and Sociology
Education (with Languages)
English and History
European Studies
History, Politics, Sociology and Social Studies (HPSS)
International Business
International Insurance & European Studies
Irish and New Media / Gaeilge agus na Meáin Úra
Joint Honours
Journalism and New Media
Languages, Literature & Film
New Media and English
Politics and International Relations
Psychology
Psychology and Sociology
Voice and Dance
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Students enrolled on the above-mentioned courses must complete an Erasmus placement in
the EU or an academic placement at an international destination in order to graduate.
Students who do not complete the placement may not progress to the following year.
Students on an Erasmus or International placement are required to obtain a
minimum of 24 and a maximum of 30 ECTS credits per semester (unless otherwise
specified by the UL Erasmus Academic Coordinator).
Applied Languages
The normal requirements are 24 ECTS credits. For further details regarding academic
subjects, please contact:
Spain: barrie.wharton@ul.ie
France: eva.sansavior@ul.ie
Germany: michaela.schrage-frueh@ul.ie
BA Education (Languages)
The normal requirement is 24 ECTS credits. One module must be in Pedagogy and one
module in Literature. For further details regarding academic subjects, please contact:
Spain: barrie.wharton@ul.ie
France: eva.sansavior@ul.ie
Germany: michaela.schrage-frueh@ul.ie
European Studies
The normal requirements are 24 ECTS credits. For further details regarding academic
subjects, please contact:
Spain: barrie.wharton@ul.ie
France: eva.sansavior@ul.ie
Germany: michaela.schrage-frueh@ul.ie
HPSS and Economics and Sociology
HPSS and Economics and Sociology students are normally required to take four (4)
courses, totalling 24 ECTS credits. These courses must be approved by the relevant course
director: (HPSS: Dr. Alistair Malcolm, Department of History; Economics & Sociology:
Ms. Rita Buckley, Kemmy Business School).
International Insurance & European Studies
Students are required to study the following 3 subjects that must be assessed via a written
exam,
(1) a language course taken in the local language
(2) a business course that may be delivered in English
(3) a cultural course that may be taken in English
On returning to UL, each student must submit a 3,000-word essay on a risk
management/insurance theme based on the practices of the country they studied in.
The credit for the essay will vary according to any deficit in the courses (1) to (3).
For any queries regarding your academic subjects, please contact: robert.ford@ul.ie
3
Irish and New Media / Gaeilge agus na Meáin Úra
The normal requirements are 24 ECTS credits. For further details regarding academic
subjects, please contact tadhg.ohifearnain@ul.ie.
Joint Honours
The normal requirements are 24 ECTS credits, i.e. a pass in 4 modules at the host
university. For further details regarding academic subjects, contact the Academic
Coordinator of the specific subject areas.
Journalism
The normal requirements are 30 ECTS credits, i.e. a pass in 5 modules at the host
university. For further details regarding academic subjects, please contact the Academic
Coordinator: tom.felle@ul.ie
Languages, Literature and Film
The normal requirements are 24 ECTS credits, i.e. a pass in 4 modules at the host
university. For further details regarding academic subjects, please contact:
Spain: barrie.wharton@ul.ie
France: eva.sansavior@ul.ie
Germany: michaela.schrage-frueh@ul.ie
------------------All other courses that have an option (non-compulsory students) to go on ERASMUS
require a minimum of 24 ECTS credits and a maximum of 30 ECTS credits; this will be
confirmed by the academic coordinator. Results may count towards the UL QCA and be
graded as UL grades by the Erasmus Academic Coordinator of the degree programme.
Business Studies
Students are required to take 5 subjects per semester, worth 30 ECTS credits. Students
must take at least three business subjects and up to two language/cultural subjects. Please
contact the UL ERASMUS Academic Coordinator once you are enrolled at the host
university for advice on selection of subjects or if there is any deviation regarding the
number of subjects or credits from that listed. The Erasmus Academic Coordinator for the
Kemmy Business School is Dónal Palcic, e-mail: donal.palcic@ul.ie
Product Design
Students should obtain a minimum of 24 ECTS credits. This may vary depending on the
specific university and the projects undertaken during the exchange period. Erasmus grades
are not taken into account for the UL profile, if the Erasmus takes place in Semester 6; the
results are on a pass/fail basis. ECTS credits count towards UL QCA if the exchange takes
place in any other semester. The Erasmus Academic Coordinator is Muireann McMahon, email: muireann.mcmahon@ul.ie
It is advisable to consult the UL ERASMUS Academic Coordinator before going abroad.
NB: The Erasmus placement may not be undertaken if the student is carrying a failed
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grade. Students sitting repeat examinations before departure on ERASMUS must
obtain a pass.
Examinations
You are expected to take the same examinations and assessment as other students at your
host institution. Assessment can take many forms so make sure that you know how and
when each of your modules will be assessed, and plan your studies and revision carefully.
Please be aware that Autumn examinations are scheduled in January in the majority of
European universities.
It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that all examination results from the Erasmus
placement are submitted to IED at UL as soon as possible. Please be aware that a transcript
of results from the host university is the only proof of fulfilment of academic requirements
on completion of the Erasmus placement. Failure to submit results before the
commencement of the year after Erasmus may delay your progression to the following year
or even prevent graduation.
Extension of Erasmus Placement
If you wish to extend the placement from one semester to a full academic year, approval
must be obtained in writing from the UL ERASMUS Academic Coordinator and the UL
Course Director for your degree programme. Authorisation by e-mail is acceptable. The UL
Erasmus Coordinator must also be notified. The extension should be requested before UL
deadline Oct 31st. Certain degree programmes, including HPSS, do not have the option to
extend the placement to a full academic year.
Cancellation of Placement
If you cancel your Erasmus placement after you have been nominated to the host university
there is an administration fee of €75.
Exemption from or Alternative to Erasmus
1. The student seeking an exemption should obtain a copy of the Erasmus Exemption
form or Alternative Placement form from either SAA or IED.
2. The student should inform the Course Director, who may offer advice concerning
application to the Student Status Committee.
3. The student submits the completed form with supporting documentation to Student
Academic Administration for the attention of the Student Status Committee.
Supporting documents may include a medical certificate, a letter from Counselling,
the birth certificate of dependent children, etc.
4. The student attends the Student Status Committee.
5. Signatures on the form by Erasmus Coordinator and Course Director are not a
requirement for the student to attend the Student Status Committee, but support the
student’s case.
6. No applications for exemption will be considered by the SSC unless they have been
submitted to the July meeting prior to the Erasmus semester.
7. The September SSC will only deal with very exceptional cases.
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UL ERASMUS ACADEMIC COORDINATORS
Subject area
Academic
Coordinator
Office
e-mail address
Telephone
(061)
Economics & Sociology
Rita Buckley
KB3-029
rita.buckley@ul.ie
202624
HPSS
Alistair Malcolm
AM-043
alistair.malcolm@ul.ie
202604
Journalism
Tom Felle
BM-029
tom.felle@ul.ie
202315
Languages (France & Belgium)
Eva Sansavior
LC2-007
eva.sansavior@ul.ie
234858
Languages (Germany & Austria)
Michaela Schrage-Früh
AM-040
michaela.schrage-frueh@ul.ie
202377
Languages (Spain)
Barrie Wharton
MC1-010
barrie.wharton@ul.ie
202365
Lesser known languages
Tadhg Ó hlfearnáin
LC2-005
tadhg.ohifearnain@ul.ie
202797
English Studies
David Coughlan
SG-33
david.coughlan@ul.ie
234680
Politics & International Relations
Neil Robinson
F1-019
neil.robinson@ul.ie
202320
Psychology / Psychology & Sociology
Anca Minescu
E1-034
anca.minescu@ul.ie
234859
Voice and Dance
Oscar Mascarenas
IW2-11
oscar.mascarenas@ul.ie
202990
Architecture
Jan Frohburg
ER3-015
jan.frohburg@ul.ie
213698
Business / Business with Languages
Dónal Palcic
KB3-30
donal.palcic@ul.ie
213710
Chemical & Environmental Sc
Bernadette O’Regan
B3-047
bernadette.oregan@ul.ie
202552
Communications & Info Science
Yvonne Cleary
LC2-012
yvonne.cleary@ul.ie
202466
Computer Science
J.J. Collins
CS1-28
j.j.collins@ul.ie
202409
Computer Systems
Annette McElligott
CS1-10
annette.mcelligott@ul.ie
202724
Digital Media Design
Luigina Ciolfi
ER1-005
luigina.ciolfi@ul.ie
213530
Electronic & Comp Engineering
Reiner Dojen
D3-002
reiner.dojen@ul.ie
213442
Electronic & Comp Engineering
Elfed Lewis/
Ian Grout
D2-032/
C2-044
elfed.lewis@ul.ie/
ian.grout@ul.ie
202968/
202298
International Insurance & European
Studies
Robert Ford
KB2-20
robert.ford@ul.ie
213676
Law
Andrea Ryan
FG-003
andrea.ryan@ul.ie
234190
Materials Science & Technology
Gordon Armstrong
MSG-021
gordon.armstrong@ul.ie
234765
Mathematics & Statistics
Gordon Lessells
B3-038
gordon.lessells@ul.ie
202018
Mechanical & Aeronautical Eng
Hassan Kaghazchi
A1-103
hassan.kaghazchi@ul.ie
202107
Music
Mats Melin
F1-113
mats.melin@ul.ie
202542
Product Design and Technology
Niall Deloughry
PDC-2
niall.deloughry@ul.ie
213111
Public Administration
Chris McInerney
F1-026
chris.g.mcinerney@ul.ie
234800
Sports Science/PE
Ian Kenny
P1-026
ian.kenny@ul.ie
234308
Wood Science/Forestry
Murt Redington
B3-029
murt.redington@ul.ie
202472
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ERASMUS AND YOU
Spending a period of study in a foreign university presents a unique challenge and
opportunity. The key to a positive Erasmus experience lies in preparation, in selecting the
right university, in obtaining all possible information about the subjects available, and,
above all, in ensuring that suitable accommodation is reserved. It is enormously helpful to
contact students from the host university who have studied at UL as Erasmus students, as
they will be able to provide local knowledge quickly, which would otherwise take several
weeks or months to glean. It should be understood that while UL has nominated the student
to the host university and has facilitated a flow of information and communication between
the university and the student, UL has little control over the student’s experience in the host
University. This will depend on the quality of the services provided by the International
Office of the host university and the cultural practices of the country. Some universities
receive huge numbers of Erasmus students from all over Europe and have relatively few
resources to support such a large and diverse student body. The vast majority of UL
students have found participation in the scheme rewarding, despite some occasional
problems either related to accommodation or to homesickness, with some 20% being
‘wildly enthusiastic’ about their experience.
Please remember that while you are abroad you remain registered as a student of the
University of Limerick and the UL Code of Conduct still applies. As we wish to maintain
excellent relations with our partner universities and do not want to prejudice them or
landlords against future generations of Irish students, we regard issues such as non-payment
of rent or utilities as a serious breach of this Code and we will intervene in such instances.
Please be aware that throughout Europe, Irish and English students have an unfortunate
reputation for alcohol abuse. Students can be asked to leave their ERASMUS
placement and become involved in legal issues leading to prosecution for breaches of
the much less tolerant laws regarding alcohol that prevail in other EU countries.
Remember that you represent Ireland and the University of Limerick during your Erasmus
placement and that your behaviour is a reflection of the perception of the Irish abroad.
Good manners and courtesy towards those you meet will reflect well on Ireland and on
students in general!
ERASMUS GRANT
An Erasmus student mobility grant is provided to participating students by the European
Commission. The grant assists students with travel and initial settling-in costs. The
Erasmus grant is not a maintenance grant. Grant levels vary from year to year depending
on the total allocation from the HEA, the number of students availing of the scheme and the
cost of living in the destination country. If you are in receipt of a County Council or
Corporation grant, you may claim the ‘Away from Home’ level of maintenance grant for
the period of study abroad. Please contact your local County Council for further
information. The Erasmus grant does not affect the national grant payment.
On arrival at the host university, have the Letter of Confirmation signed, stamped and
returned to International Education at the University of Limerick. The Letter of
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Confirmation provides proof of enrolment at the host university. In addition, two copies of
a Grant Contract will be sent to your home address; one copy must be signed and returned
to IED. This contract may be signed by a parent on your behalf. On receipt of both the
Letter of Confirmation and the Grant Contract the grant will be lodged to your bank
account. It is very important to provide accurate bank account details since
inaccuracy will result in unnecessary delay in payment. Give some thought to
economical methods of drawing money from your Irish account while abroad. Your ATM
card can be used in several countries. It is inadvisable to carry too much cash in case of
theft. Paying by VISA or laser in supermarkets may be an economical option, where
available.
Upon receipt of the grant, please sign the Acknowledgement of Receipt of Student Mobility
Grant Form and return to IED. A parent or guardian can sign on your behalf. Failure to
sign this form will result in you being asked to refund the ERASMUS mobility grant.
Upon completion of your stay abroad the HEA also requires that all students complete a
Student Report Form questionnaire which is sent to your home addresses. Copies of any
mislaid forms can be obtained from the International Education Division.
ADDITIONAL FUNDING
Additional funding is available for students with an officially recognized grave disability
and/or exceptional special needs. Applications should be made through IED (information
from the Erasmus Coordinator) and be supported with a medical certificate. Further details
are available from the following website:
http://www.europa.eu.int/comm/education/socrates/specnds.html
Additional funding may also be requested for students from socially disadvantaged
backgrounds. Normally application is made through the Access Office at UL, but requests
may also be made directly through the LLP Erasmus Institutional Coordinator.
LEARNING AGREEMENT
Complete the Learning Agreement with a provisional choice of modules.
Have it signed by the Academic Coordinator, taking the original to be confirmed on arrival.
Provide a copy of the provisional Learning Agreement to IED before departure.
On arrival at the host university, make contact with the Academic Coordinator to discuss
module selection and examination arrangements.
In some universities you may be required to make an appointment with the lecturer for an
individual assessment. If there are changes to the provisional module selection, contact the
UL ERASMUS Academic Coordinator to verify changes. When all subjects have been
finalised and confirmed, have the Learning Agreement signed by the host university and
return it to IED.
Mark changes on the reverse of the form.
You should return this form to UL within two weeks of arrival at the host university.
8
ACCOMMODATION
It is vital to reserve accommodation well in advance of your arrival. Normally, there are
accommodation forms available on the website of the host university. You are advised to
apply for and accept university residential accommodation if it is available. Universities
are not obliged to provide accommodation and they cannot always guarantee
accommodation.
It is the responsibility of the student to follow the procedures for acquiring
accommodation. Students are strongly advised to avail of university accommodation
when available, especially those who are studying at universities in large European cities.
Students should be aware that the standard of available accommodation often falls below
the standard in Ireland. In countries such as France, Italy, Spain and Germany it is often
considered normal for students to share facilities such as kitchens and bathrooms even in on
campus accommodation. University accommodation is allocated on a first come, first
served basis, so it is advisable to apply as soon as the application process opens. The
normal procedure, where university residential accommodation is not available, is to obtain
a list of landlords from the International office of the host university or to follow-up on
advertisements placed at the university by students wishing to share accommodation or by
landlords wishing to let accommodation.
The cost of accommodation in university residences in France is very reasonable, especially
if you apply for APL (Aide Personnalisée au Logement) at the local housing authority.
Please obtain your ‘Carte de Séjour’ (residency permit) as soon as you arrive in order to
apply. French residences are often quite basic and you may need to bring a supply of
cutlery and cooking utensils. It is also a good idea to bring a sleeping bag with you. If you
are in privately rented self-catering accommodation in France, you will be liable for a local
tax (‘taxe d’habitation’) of approximately €30-€40 which should be factored into your
overall budget. For additional information on living in France refer to the following
website: www.edufrance.fr
Students going to Paris are recommended to reserve accommodation at the Centre Culturel
Irlandais, as universities have very few rooms available and private sector accommodation
is limited, particularly for short-term stays.
Every university has an accommodation office; this is the first port of call but please
use common sense in reserving private accommodation. In the past large sums of money
have been paid by students just to get an accommodation list from French and Spanish
estate agents. As you would never do this at home, apply the same logic when abroad and
don’t allow yourself to be deceived. On the other hand, deposits are a serious matter in
most countries and any damage to your room will be deducted from the deposit refund.
Most countries require students to sign a lease which usually expires at the end of a month.
This means that if you vacate the premises before the agreed term you will still be liable for
the rent for the remaining period.
9
GERMAN UNIVERSITIES’ TERM DATES
Universities in Germany begin and finish later than in most other countries. The typical
semester dates are mid October to mid March. You may find it difficult to get confirmation
that your accommodation has been arranged until early October. This applies to other
universities in other countries, where the administration offices are not as well staffed or as
well funded as they might be. Concerned students may contact the UL Erasmus
Coordinator for advice, if this occurs. Students going to Germany may also experience
difficulty because of the overlap in term dates between UL and the German partner. The
ideal solution to this is to opt for a full year placement, with the approval of your Academic
Coordinator and Course Director. Lecturers in Germany will issue certificates at the end of
January, as proof of studies; these include details of attendance, marks for essays and tests,
as well as the Lecturer’s assessment of the student’s academic performance. The issue of
the certificate should be arranged at the beginning of the class.
ARRIVAL & ORIENTATION
Students are advised to arrive in the host country during the working day, when offices,
universities, shops, etc. are open for business. The earlier the arrival, the less stressful it is
likely to be, so plan ahead with care. If it not possible to arrive during the day, make sure
that arrival arrangements are in place with your accommodation, etc. Remember to spare
a thought for your parents upon your arrival and phone to confirm that you are safe
and sound.
Universities abroad organize an orientation programme. It is very important to attend, as
this session will provide essential information about the host University and local facilities.
It may also include consultation with an Academic Advisor and enrolment. If the host
university offers a pre-sessional language course, it is advisable to take this. If the course is
certified, the marks will be recognised by UL. There may be a fee for some of these
courses, which you may have to pay yourself. Please check with IED if you are interested
in taking a pre-sessional language course, as there may be extra funding available for the
fees. Erasmus Intensive Language Courses in lesser taught languages are free.
HEALTH & INSURANCE
You must obtain a European Health Insurance Card (formerly known as E111) from your
local health board before departure on Erasmus. The application form may be downloaded
from www.ehic.ie or from your local health board. The European Health Card entitles the
bearer to urgent treatment for accident or unexpected illness. The Card does NOT cover all
medical expenses. Students are strongly advised to take out additional private medical
insurance to cover the period of study abroad. If you have a medical insurance policy (VHI,
Laya, etc.) in Ireland, contact the insurer to ensure that you will be covered while abroad
and bring a copy of your policy or policy number. In some countries you are obliged to take
out additional student insurance and some universities (e.g. Pau) require that you join their
scheme. Read the University requirements on insurance, in case the student is required to
join the University scheme. Please be aware that in recent years, accidents involving
10
injuries such as broken limbs have occurred to students who were underinsured while
abroad. This incurs serious problems for the student, his/her family, UL and the host
University. So please be attentive to this matter.
In Germany, you are required to bring the European Health Insurance Card to the AOK
(local health service), which will give you a certificate. In France, the European Health
Insurance Card entitles the bearer to a partial refund of medical costs. In Finland, all
university towns have health centres; a valid student card entitles you to free treatment with
a small fee for consultations (for details: www.yths.fi). In Denmark, when you register with
the ‘Folkeregister’ (civil registry office) you must fill in a form and choose a medical
practitioner and a medical card (‘sygesikringsbevis’) will be sent out to you within two
weeks (the European Health Insurance Card is also required).
As a registered student of the University of Limerick you will also be covered by the
University of Limerick Students’ Union Personal Accident Policy which covers basic
medical expenses resulting from accidental injury, certain permanent disabilities such as
loss of a limb or loss of an eye, and accidental death. This policy extends to most sporting
activities except hang-gliding. Full details of this insurance cover are available from the
Students’ Union. Please note that this insurance does not cover medical insurance for
illness.
Travel Insurance
The following private insurance offer is provided by a local insurance company, Oaktree
Financial Services.
Type of
Placement
Erasmus /
Study
Abroad
Placement period
Length of Trip
Semester dates vary
depending on country of
destination and partner
university but are typically
of 5 or 9 months duration.
5 months - US/Canada
5 months - Australia/New Zealand
5 month - Europe
5 month - Other
€125
€85
€80
€105
9 month - US/Canada
9 month - Australia/New Zealand
9 month - Europe
9 month - Other
€175
€140
€125
€160
Contact details:
Oaktree Financial Services
Kilmagner, Fermoy, Co Cork
Tel: 1890 876 077
Fax: 1890 876 078
Mobile: +353 87 989 5455
adrian@oaktreefinancial.ie
www.oaktreefinancial.ie
11
Pricing
from
HEALTH AND SAFETY
Personal Safety: Common sense should be exercised in taking part in everyday life in the
destination country. You are advised to remain with a group in certain areas of cities and to
travel or go out in the evening with a group of friends rather than alone. Please also take
care with displaying valuables; it is best to keep wallets, cameras, mobile phones etc hidden
from view. Ask local people or the International office of the host University to provide
information on areas or places which are considered unsafe and avoid these areas or places.
If returning home late at night, it is best to get an identifiable taxi rather than walk.
Crime/Security: Is the area to be visited noted for its high crime statistics (to include
robbery/muggings/terrorist activities? Where possible high crime areas should be avoided.
Passport and money (divided into more than one stash and taken as travellers cheques
where practical) should be kept separately in inside zipped pockets. Only a minimal amount
of cash, sufficient to reach the destination, should be carried. Any incident, however small,
should be reported to the police, the host university and UL International Office as soon as
possible. The emergency number in all EU countries is 112.
TRAVEL
Most EU countries offer student discounts for rail travel. Carry your international students’
card at all times to make sure you can avail of discounts. In Germany, all cities are served
with an extensive rail network. There are a number of possibilities to travel at a reduced
rate; examples include ‘TwenTicket’ for under 25’s (20% off the regular fare) and the
‘Bahncard’ (50% discount, valid for one year and costs approx €70 for those aged between
18-26). There are also a wide variety of Internet specials (www.bahn.de). In many German
cities (e.g. Regensburg, Oldenburg) the registration fee students pay at the start of the
semester also serves as a pass for local transport for the entire semester. Students should
inquire when registering if this applies where they are studying.
In the Netherlands the train is probably the best means of getting around. If you plan on
travelling a lot it would be advisable to buy a ‘Voordeelurenkaart’, which provides 40%
discount on train tickets. The Voordeelurenkaart is valid for one year and can only be used
after 9h00 on weekdays and all day at weekends. Furthermore, you can even bring a
companion and have him/her avail of the same discount on your card. For any bus, tram or
metro in The Netherlands, buy a multiple-ride ticket ‘strippenkaart’ and use the required
number of ‘strips’ every time you travel. Cards can be obtained from advance sales points
such as railway stations, post offices and newsagents.
In Austria, if you are under 26 years of age you can buy a yearly discount ticket, which
gives you 50% reduction on all ÖBB train rides within Austria. You need to register with
your university before you can get this. In France there are monthly travel cards for travel
in most cities or else get ‘carnets’ (book of tickets) and the SNCF has a range of colourcoded, time-period related discount fares.
12
REGISTRATION WITH AUTHORITIES
There are two elements to this, i.e. registration with your university and registration with
the local/national authorities. Register with the university before you register with the
authorities. Registration process can be both time consuming and frustrating, so make sure
you have all the documents you need and try to remain patient. The questions and
paperwork are necessary to ensure a smooth orientation process and successful completion
of your Erasmus placement. For some insight into what problems you might encounter
there is a folder in the international office containing reports from students from previous
years. Please do take the time to call in and read those from your chosen destination as they
could contain the answer to many of your queries.
For registration with the local authorities in France and Germany refer to the following:
France:
Students who intend to study in France for more than 3 months must visit the ‘préfecture’
(government centre) for their area to obtain a temporary residency permit showing their
student status. The temporary residency permit is valid until the date of completion of your
placement period. You will need the residency permit in order to obtain housing assistance.
For registration with the local authorities, you will need:
- A certified translation of your birth certificate. (You can get it translated and stamped by
Mrs. Marie Hackett, the French Vice-Consul for Limerick, Blackwater, Co Clare, Tel:
343051. Send her your birth certificate, an SAE and €10)
- Your passport
- 3 recent passport photographs
- One stamped addressed envelope
- Any document proving your place of residence in France (a rent receipt or written
certificate from your landlord/lady)
- Your student card
- A guarantee of full financial support for the duration of your studies (e.g. letter from your
parents)
- A copy of your European Health Card (you can get this from your local health board in
Ireland)
- A fiscal stamp to be bought at the préfecture.
Germany:
If you are staying in Germany for longer than 3 months, you are required to attend the local
authority foreign office (‘Ausländeramt’) and register with them. You will also need to
deregister there before leaving the country. Watch out for their office hours as many close
at 12 midday and may be open for only one full day per week. You will need to bring the
following documents with you:
- Your passport
- Two passport photographs
- A letter to show that you can support yourself financially
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-
Proof of medical insurance - you get that by handing in your European Health Card
at the AOK (local health service)
Your student card
Form filled out for the foreign office (obtained there)
France and Germany seem to have the most demanding systems. In other countries, just
bring all your documents (European Health Card, student card, passport, passport photos,
and guarantee of financial support). In Austria, get a registration form ‘Meldezettel’ from
the Residents Registration Office and get the form signed by your landlord. Bring the form
back to the Residents Registration Office with your passport in order to register as a
temporary resident. In some countries, students don’t seem to register at all with the
authorities, especially if they are staying for only one semester. However, you should check
with the International Office of your host university to find out whether you need to register
with the authorities.
Spain:
Following the Spanish Law, all the students of the European Union, Norway, Island,
Liechtenstein or Switzerland who will be studying in Spain more than 3 months should
register with the Central Registry of Foreign Citizens once they are in Spain.
On arriving in Spain, you should register with the Central Registry of Foreign Citizens. To
do so, you must request an appointment through the web site
https://sede.mpt.gob.es/icpplus/citar
Select the option that reads “certificados UE.”
Once your appointment is confirmed, you will be told where, when and what time you must
go to turn in the following documentation (original and photocopy):
- Proof of the appointment
- Valid passport or national ID card (only a copy of the page with your photo)
- Application form EX-18, which can be downloaded at this link:
http://extranjeros.mtin.es/es/ModelosSolicitudes/Mod_solicitudes2/18Certificado_Residencia_comunitaria.pdf
- Receipt of €10.30 fee paid for form 790, code 012
- Proof of registration with the local town hall, if you have it
- Medical insurance that covers medical expenses for the duration of the stay or European
Health Insurance Card.
- Proof of having the economic means to subsist in Spain (if you have been awarded with a
grant, you can submit this certificate)
- University admission letter
On the day of the appointment, you will receive a certificate which will bear your personal
data and N.I.E. (foreign national ID number), which you can use for the administrative
formalities that you have to attend to in Spain.
Denmark:
EU nationals need a residence permit if their stay exceeds three months. The permit must
be obtained upon arrival in Denmark.
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HOW TO DEAL WITH CULTURE SHOCK
All University of Limerick ERASMUS students are advised to read the information
available on this website on culture shock www.pacific.edu/culture to ensure you are
prepared for what lies ahead of you on arrival in a country that has a different culture to
Ireland. Please remember you are a guest in that country and acknowledge their customs
and practices instead of expecting them to accept what would be deemed normal in Ireland.
Culture shock is a condition caused by the stress of adjusting to the new foods, customs,
language, people, and activities of a foreign culture. For some people this can process can
feel overwhelming, but there are many simple steps to deal with it. It is therefore important
to be aware of the symptoms.
A person with culture shock may experience some of the following:
-
Irritability
Headaches or stomach aches
Excessive concern with health
Easily tired
Loneliness
Hopelessness
Distrust of hosts
Withdrawal from people and activities
Painful homesickness
Lowered work performance
Confusion
Anger
Anxiety/suspicion/rejection
The following suggestions can help you to minimize the symptoms of culture shock:



Observe Local Customs and ask yourself what situations confuse or irritate you the
most in the new country. Are you misunderstanding the host people’s treatment of
you? Try to find more information about the culture. Behaviour which seems rude
to you may not be intended as rude, as customs are often different in other cultures.
When situations do not seem to make any sense, remember the host may be
following social rules unknown to you. Do not be afraid to ask questions about
social customs. If you are uncomfortable or irritated by a situation, find ways to
understand and minimise this. Is the situation necessary? If not you may be able to
minimise your involvement or avoid the situation altogether.
What do you miss most which is enjoyable here at home? Look for ways to meet
these desires or replace them with something new. For example: If you miss your
Kerrygold, go to a large store and find some.
Develop friendships with Irish students, with local and other international students.
At times friendships with culturally different people will seem hard to maintain.
That is why it is important also to have co-nationals with whom you can spend time.
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






This helps you to cope more effectively when interacting cross-culturally.
Remember that isolation causes more adjustment problems. Talk to a host
national with whom you feel at ease, someone you can ask about things when you
feel uncomfortable. Ask the person, who might be a friendly tutor or secretary, if
they would be willing to act as a ‘cultural interpreter’.
Talk to co-nationals about your stress and ask them how they have dealt with it.
Maybe they have similar feelings and concerns. Explain your worries to them.
Remember there may be many cultural activities and social clubs in your college
you might want to join.
Read more about cross-cultural communication. Don’t be afraid to ask people
questions if you do not understand something. Ask questions when you are unsure,
just to make sure your meaning is the same as the meaning of the other person, for
example, ‘As I understand it, you are saying…is that correct?’
Continue improving your language skills. Often, language is a big barrier to people
understanding each other clearly, and continually improving your language always
helps.
Exercise and a nourishing diet also help to reduce stress. It is important that you eat
properly as a student and achieve a healthy balance between work, leisure and rest.
Sometimes it is difficult to understand the local sense of humour and references to
local things. Although it can be difficult, try to keep your sense of humour. Allow
yourself to see the humour in misunderstandings and embarrassments. Laughter is
very therapeutic. Also, always explain that you do not understand a joke/the
conversation. Friends will always be willing to help out.
Talk with someone at the international student office/health clinic/tutors/halls of
residence porter, anyone approachable and friendly, about the stress you are
experiencing. The university/institution wants you to have a successful stay and to
reach your goals.
If you consider dropping classes or withdrawing from Erasmus, please see a
member of staff in the International Office immediately. Students do feel
discouraged, but the staff at the host university will try to help you find a solution.
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This manual is intended as a guide to University of Limerick students preparing for the
ERASMUS study placement. Given our experience, we have attempted to cover a wide
variety of areas and situations to make the booklet as helpful as possible. Do not hesitate to
contact us at any stage during your ERASMUS placement if you are experiencing any
problems or if you have any queries, no matter how small.
Meanwhile we wish you an enjoyable study-abroad experience and trust that you will come
back to UL confident in the knowledge that you have made the most of the academic and
cultural opportunities afforded to you by the ERASMUS programme.
Best of luck,
Dr. Patricia O’Flaherty
Herveline Roche
____________________
patricia.oflaherty@ul.ie
_____________________
herveline.roche@ul.ie
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FORMS TO BE RETURNED TO THE INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION DIVISION
1.
BANK DETAILS
To be completed by student for lodgement of grant to student’s bank account;
this form is included with the information pack from University of Limerick. At
present, it is not possible to transfer funds to an account outside Ireland.
2.
STUDENT LEARNING AGREEMENT
To be completed before taking up ERASMUS placement; this form is included
in UL information pack. Signed original is returned once modules are approved
and you are enrolled by host university.
3.
MOBILITY CONTRACT (FINANCIAL AGREEMENT)
This form is sent to home address after the beginning of ERASMUS placement,
can be signed by a parent on behalf of student and returned to IED, UL.
4.
LETTER OF CONFIRMATION FOR GRANT (Proof of enrolment)
To be signed and stamped by host university following arrival; to be returned to
IED; this form is included in UL information pack. This is the first process for
receiving your grant. Failure to return this will result in delay in payment of
grant.
5.
INDIVIDUAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF STUDENT MOBILITY
GRANT FORM
This form is sent to home address after receipt of ERASMUS grant; it can be
signed by a parent on behalf of student. It acts as a receipt and the original
must be returned by UL to the HEA, as proof of payment of grant.
6.
ERASMUS STUDENT REPORT FORM
This form is sent along with individual acknowledgement of student mobility
grant form to home address and must be completed following completion of
ERASMUS placement. The questionnaire is a requirement of the EU.
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IRISH EMBASSIES IN EU COUNTRIES
Austria
Embassy of Ireland and Permanent Mission of Ireland
to the International Organisations in Vienna
Rotenturmstraße 16-18
5th Floor
1010 Vienna
Telephone: + 43 1 7154246
Fax: + 43 1 7136004
Website: www.embassyofireland.at
Belgium
Embassy of Ireland
Chaussee d'Etterbeek / Etterbeekse Steenweg 180
(5th Floor)
Bruxelles 1040 Brussel
Telephone: +32-2-282 3400
Fax: +32-2-282 3396
Website: www.embassyofireland.be
Czech Republic
Embassy of Ireland
Velvyslanectvi Irska
Trziste 13
118 00 Praha
Czech Republic
Telephone: +420-257-530-061
Fax: +420-257-531-387
Website: www.embassyofireland.cz
Denmark
Embassy of Ireland
Ostbanegade 21
2100 Copenhagen
Telephone: +45 35 47 32 00
Fax: +45-35-43-18-58
Website: www.embassyofireland.dk
Finland
Embassy of Ireland
Erottajankatu 7 A
00130 Helsinki
Postal Address:
PL 33
19
00131 Helsinki
Telephone: +358-9-68-24-240
Fax: +358-9-682-4240
Website: www.embassyofireland.fi
France
Embassy of Ireland
12 Avenue Foch
75116 Paris
Telephone: 00 331 4417 6700
Fax: 00 331 4417 6750
Website: www.embassyofireland.fr
Germany
Embassy of Ireland
Jägerstraße 51
D-10117 Berlin
Telephone: +49 30 220 720
Fax: +49 30 220 72299
Website: www.embassyofireland.de
Hungary
Embassy of Ireland
Bank Center
Szabadság tér
1054 Budapest
Telephone: +36-1-301-4960
Fax: +36-1-302-9599
Website: www.embassyofireland.hu
Italy
Embassy of Ireland
Villa Spada
Via Giacomo Medici
1-00153 Rome
Telephone: +39 06 585 2381
Fax: +39 06 585 3336
Website: www.embassyofireland.it
Malta
Embassy of Ireland
Whitehall Mansions
Ta' Xbiex Seafront
Ta' Xbiex XBX 1026
Telephone: 00356 21 334 744
Fax: 00356 21 334 755
Website: www.embassyofireland.org.mt
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The Netherlands
Embassy of Ireland
Scheveningseweg 112 2584AE
The Hague Netherlands
Telephone: 0031 (0)70 363 0993
Fax: 0031 (0)70 361 7604
Website: www.embassyofireland.nl
Norway
Embassy of Ireland
Haakon VIIs gate 1
0244 Oslo
Telephone: + 47.2201 7200
Fax: + 47.2201 7201
Website: www.embassyofireland.no
Poland
Embassy of Ireland
ul. Mysia 5 6th Floor
00-496 Warsaw
Telephone: +48-22-849-6633
Fax: +48-22-849-8431
Website: www.embassyofireland.pl
Portugal
Embassy of Ireland
Avenida da Liberdade No 200, 4th Floor
1250-147 Lisbon
Telephone: +351-21-330-8200
Fax: +351-21-397-7363
Website: www.embassyofireland.pt
Romania
Embassy of Ireland
50 - 52 Buzesti St
Floor 3 Sector 1
Bucharest 011015
Romania
Telephone: 00 40 21 3102131/141
Fax: 00 40 21 311 2285
Website: www.embassyofireland.ro
Spain
Embassy of Ireland
Ireland House
21
Paseo de la Castellana 46-4
28046 Madrid
Telephone: +34 91 436 4093
Fax: +34 91 435 1677
Website: www.embassyofireland.es
Turkey
Embassy of Ireland
Ugur Mumcu Caddesi No.88
MNG Binasi
B Blok Kat 3
Gaziosmanpasa
Ankara 06700
Telephone: +90-312-459 1000
Fax: +90-312-459 1022
Website: www.embassyofireland.org.tr
United Kingdom
Embassy of Ireland
17 Grosvenor Place
London SW1X 7HR
Telephone: +44-20-7235-2171
Fax: +44-20-7589-8450
Website: www.embassyofireland.co.uk
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