INTERNATIONAL OFFICE

HANDBOOK for EXCHANGE STUDENTS

22000099--22001100

HANDBOOK for EXCHANGE STUDENTS 2009-2010

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. Location ...................................................................................................................4

1.1. Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University.....................................................4 1.2. Rotterdam .....................................................................................................................4 1.3. The Netherlands ............................................................................................................4 1.4. Climate .........................................................................................................................4

2. Arrival ......................................................................................................................5 2.1. Arrival at Schiphol or Rotterdam airport ...........................................................................5 2.2. Obtain some Cash ..........................................................................................................5 2.3. Travel to Rotterdam .......................................................................................................5 2.4. Rotterdam Central Station ..............................................................................................5 2.5. The T-building ...............................................................................................................5 2.6. Accommodation.............................................................................................................5 2.7. Need to store your luggage? ............................................................................................6 2.8. Hostels in Rotterdam......................................................................................................6

3. Visa & Residence Permit ...........................................................................................6 3.1. General information .......................................................................................................6 3.2. The visa: MVV ................................................................................................................7 3.3. The temporary residence permit:.....................................................................................7 3.4. Temporary residence permit and travelling:......................................................................7

4. Your Exchange Programme........................................................................................7 4.1. Buddy System ...............................................................................................................8 4.2. Introduction programme/Integration Trip.........................................................................8 4.3. Official welcome at the university 2009-‘10 .....................................................................8 4.4. Social events .................................................................................................................8 4.5. Excursion Port of Rotterdam ...........................................................................................9 4.6. Academic Calendar 2009-2010 ......................................................................................9

5. Courses at RSM ......................................................................................................10 5.1. Courses & Exams .........................................................................................................10 5.2. Code of Conduct ..........................................................................................................11 5.3. MyEUR........................................................................................................................12 5.4. SIN-Online ..................................................................................................................12 5.5. Blackboard..................................................................................................................12 5.6. OSIRIS-Student ...........................................................................................................12

6. Services & Facilities ...............................................................................................13 6.1. International Office ......................................................................................................13 6.2. Career Services............................................................................................................13 6.3. Language and Training Centre.......................................................................................13 6.4. Study Association STAR ...............................................................................................14 6.6. Sports Centre ..............................................................................................................14 6.7. Campus Facilities ........................................................................................................14 6.8. Student Work Places ....................................................................................................14 6.9. Student Advisers/Counsellors/Psychologists ..................................................................15

7. Public Transport & Bikes.........................................................................................15 7.1. Public transport ...........................................................................................................15 7.2. Train...........................................................................................................................16 7.3. Bike ............................................................................................................................17

8. Health Care ............................................................................................................18 8.1. Medical Insurance........................................................................................................18 8.2. Emergency ..................................................................................................................18 8.3. Family doctor...............................................................................................................18 8.4. Dentist ........................................................................................................................19 8.5. Pharmacy....................................................................................................................19

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8.6. Hospital ......................................................................................................................19 8.7. Area Health Authority ...................................................................................................19 8.8. Physiotherapist............................................................................................................19

9. IT Facilities ............................................................................................................20 9.1. BIT .............................................................................................................................20 9.2. Computer Labs ............................................................................................................20 9.3. Wi-Fi and Laptop Plug-In Points ....................................................................................20 9.4. E-mail .........................................................................................................................21 9.5. Copying.......................................................................................................................21 9.6. Printing.......................................................................................................................21 9.7. Forwarding e-mail ........................................................................................................21

10. Libraries.................................................................................................................21 10.1. University Library .....................................................................................................21 10.2. Business School Library............................................................................................22

11. Miscellaneous.........................................................................................................22 11.1. Cost of Living...........................................................................................................22 11.2. Calling ....................................................................................................................22 11.3. Opening a bank account ...........................................................................................23 11.4. Payments with the Chipknip......................................................................................23 11.5. Free Rotterdam UIT pass for students........................................................................23 11.6. Rotterdampas: lots of discounts! ...............................................................................23

11. Useful Links ...........................................................................................................24 Handbook updated by the International Office: May, 2009 Pictures Rotterdam: Rotterdam Marketing

Dear exchange student,

Welcome! On behalf of the Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University (hereafter: RSM), the International Office warmly welcomes you to the dynamic city of Rotterdam and to our School during the academic year 2009-2010! At RSM we know that studying abroad widens the horizon of every future manager. As a well-networked business school we have alliances with over 100 top schools worldwide. The School participates in the Community of European Management Schools (CEMS) and Partnership in International Management (PIM) networks and maintains bilateral agreements with many other leading business schools worldwide. We accommodate student exchanges within our undergraduate (Bachelor of Science) and post-graduate (Master of Science and MBA) programmes. In order to be of help prior to and during your exchange term in Rotterdam, we have prepared this handbook for you. Please feel free to contact us whenever you have questions or other issues for which we can be of assistance to you. We hope that your time at RSM will be a rewarding and enjoyable experience! Best regards,

The staff of the International Office

Linda de Vries Head International Office Room T5-24 lvries@rsm.nl Tel: +31-(0)10-4081984 Office: Mon,Tue,Thu,Fri

Ligaya Kasmo-Borgonje Programme Manager Bachelor Exchange Room T5-30 lkasmo@rsm.nl Tel: +31-(0)10-4082996 Office: Mon,Tue,Thu,Fri

Marinelle Rozendaal Programme Manager Master Exchange Room T5-30 mrozendaal@rsm.nl Tel: +31-(0)10-4082996 Office: Mon,Wed,Fri

Karin Klapwijk Asst Programme Manager Room T5-26 kklapwijk@rsm.nl Tel: +31-(0)10-4082975 Office: Mon,Tue,Fri

Ellen van Oeffelen Secretary Room T5-26 eoeffelen@rsm.nl Tel: +31-(0)10-4082099 Office: Tue,Wed,Thu,Fri

Ellen Vermeulen Asst Programme Manager Room T5-26 vermeulen@rsm.nl Tel: +31-(0)10-4082398 Office: Mon,Tue,Thu,Fri

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International Office Opening hours Daily from 9.00 to 17.00 hrs Closed between 12.30 and 13.15 hrs Visiting address Rotterdam School of Management Erasmus University Rooms T05-24-26-30 Burg. Oudlaan 50 3062 PA Rotterdam The Netherlands Tel. +31-(0)10-4082099 Fax +31-(0)10-4089024 Internet : www.rsm.nl/international

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1. Location 1.1. Rotterdam School of Management,

Erasmus University

RSM is the number one business school in Holland and is consistently ranked amongst the leading business schools worldwide by publications such as the Financial Times and Business Week. The School has achieved triple accreditation (AMBA, EQUIS, AACSB) and its research institute ERIM is one of the major building blocks of RSM’s reputation in education and research. Moreover, RSM is a proud member of the Partnership in International Management (PIM) and the Community of European Management Schools (CEMS).

1.2. Rotterdam RSM is situated in Rotterdam, one of the most dynamic cities of the Netherlands. We are uniquely located at the Gateway to Europe and can be reached in various ways: by car, boat, train, bus and by air. Rotterdam is only 45 minutes away from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. Inside the city, a network of buses, trams, water taxis and metro maintains excellent connections. The city has a young and international population, as is evident at its cultural offerings, festivals, restaurants, cafes and live music venues. Rotterdam offers a multicultural cuisine

and the people in Rotterdam certainly know about trendy architecture, style and fashion. The skyscrapers adorning the skyline along the river are examples of the best of what modern architecture has to offer, while there is still a historic heart within the city. www.rotterdam.info

Financial Times 2008 meta ranking of European business schools: RSM confirms its position in the top 10 of this ranking, this time in 8th place.

1.3. The Netherlands Discover a whole new life in the progressive, international country that is Holland. Europe’s most densely populated country is a place where English is fluently spoken. It is a country of great artistic and cultural heritage, with a founding history as one of the world’s greatest trading nations. It is also home to more than 160 different nationalities and one of the most international countries in the world. Travel in the Netherlands is made easy by excellent public transport networks that extend into countries like Germany, Belgium, France, Italy and Spain. www.holland.com 1.4. Climate The Netherlands has a typical "marine climate". This leads to frequent cloud movements and yes, lovely changes in lighting for the painters and optimists among you. Be prepared with an umbrella, but also be ready to rush into sunshine when it comes. www.theweathernetwork.com

2. Arrival 2.1. Arrival at Schiphol or Rotterdam airport Most of you will arrive in the Netherlands through Schiphol Airport or Rotterdam' s own airport. When your flight arrives at Schiphol, plan a minimum of 1 hour for disembarking, passport control, luggage and customs. If you have a lot of luggage, there are trolleys available in and around the baggage collection area. At the immigration desk make sure your passport and visa are visible. You may be asked for the purpose of your visit to the Netherlands, also you might have to show proof that you have sufficient financial resources to cover your living costs. For EU citizen’s procedures are somewhat easier, even though it will take more or less the same time before you can leave the airport. www.www.schiphol.nl www.rotterdam-airport.nl 2.2. Obtain some Cash In 2002, the Euro (€) was introduced in the Netherlands (replacing the Dutch guilder) and to 11 EU Member Countries: Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Portugal and Spain. Nowadays, the Euro banknotes and coins are also used by people from Slovenia, Slovakia, Cyprus, Malta, Andorra, Montenegro, Kosovo, San Marino, Monaco, and Vatican City. 2.3. Travel to Rotterdam From Schiphol Airport the most convenient way to travel to Rotterdam is by train. In the same area of the luggage belts there are machines at which you can purchase your train ticket. As soon as you have passed customs, just follow the signs to the railway station. The trains to Rotterdam CS (Central Station) leave every fifteen minutes or half an hour, depending on the time and day you are arriving. The train journey lasts about 45 minutes. In the train, never leave your belongings alone!

If you arrive at Rotterdam Airport you are advised to take a taxi (20 minutes ride for about € 30 to the school. From Rotterdam Airport bus nr. 33 leads to the Rotterdam Central Station, however this takes much more time. www.ns.nl 2.4. Rotterdam Central Station

When you arrive at Rotterdam CS and you want to go straight to the International Office you can make use of a taxi (approx. € 25) or take tram number 7, direction Burgemeester Oudlaan. This tram runs every 10 minutes on weekdays. Get off at the last stop, ‘Burgemeester Oudlaan’, which is the nearest at our building and office. You can purchase a ticket in the bus or tram.

If you feel overwhelmed, confused or simply can't follow our transit instructions, don't hesitate to ask for help at the Information Desk inside the station. The desk personnel are/should be friendly, knowledgeable and speak English. 2.5. The T-building When you get out of the tram you should be able

to see the T-building, a tall and light grey building. At the T-building RSM is located. Left on picture: the T-building For a route description to RSM and maps of Rotterdam and the campus go to www.rsm.nl

→ About RSM → Contact us. 2.6. Accommodation Accommodation for exchange students can be pre-arranged with the housing agency called

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“Stadswonen”. Most rooms are between € 300 and € 600 per month depending on availability and your personnel requirements. On the Short stay Reservation System (SRS) of the Short Stay Department of Stadswonen you can register yourself to apply for a room. If necessary, this department can be contacted by phone at +31-10-8007200 and by email at: shortstay@stadswonen.nl. www.shortstay.nl Due to the current tension in the short stay segment, especially in autumn, we also advise our incoming students to join the group of RSM Exchange Students on Facebook and interact with our outgoing students who are renting out their rooms themselves. www.facebook.com 2.7. Need to store your luggage? Upon arrival it is possible to temporarily store your luggage at RSM before you can move into your accommodation. Please ask Ms. Ellen van Oeffelen or Ms. Ellen Vermeulen at the secretariat of the International Office. You can store and pick up your luggage only during office hours. 2.8. Hostels in Rotterdam

If you cannot move in your room upon arrival (because the contract starting date is later than the day of your arrival for example) you can book a room in the hostel ROOM.

Hostel ROOM, located in a historic and dynamic city area The owners of this hostel will welcome you in Europe's first theme hostel right in the centre of Rotterdam! In the hostel you can see and feel that Rotterdam is a lively city: there are 16 different theme rooms, a vibrant bar, a foyer with TV, magazines, games and a terrace. www.roomrotterdam.nl

Another good and reasonably priced hostel is the Stayokay Rotterdam, located at the heart of the city. You’ll find everything you need there, from a friendly brasserie to a non-smoking lounge where you can take a breath from the bustling city centre. Meet visitors from all over the world in the bar or over a game of pool. www.stayokay.com/rotterdam

3. Visa & Residence Permit 3.1. General information The website www.nuffic.nl/international-students/preparation-stay/preparing-your-stay/ visa-and-permits offers the most relevant information on the Dutch immigration regulations. The website of the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND), www.ind.nl, includes an easy to use tool ‘Residence Wizard’ to check requirements.

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http://www.ind.nl/EN/verblijfwijzer/ 3.2. The visa: MVV All students who needed to apply for the MVV (= visa to enter the Netherlands) will or have been assisted by our International Office prior to arrival. Before coming to the Netherlands, they should have picked up the MVV at the Dutch Embassy or Consulate in their countries. The MVV is a sticker attached to your passport and remains valid for 3 months after the date of issue. This means you have 3 months to travel and stay in the Netherlands within 6 months after picking up your visa. If you have asked for a multiple entry visa (D+C visa), you can travel without any restrictions in the Schengen area during the first 90 days of your stay in the Netherlands. Fees and payment of the visa When the application for your visa has been approved, the university automatically pays the fee of €250 to the IND. After your arrival in Rotterdam you have to report to the Erasmus Student Service Centre (ESSC, CB-07) within (preferably) 3 days. You then have to pay this fee back to the university. Payments can be made in cash, by using a bank card or a credit card (in this case you have to pay 5% more). You will also receive documents for the application of the temporary residence permit. The costs for the temporary residence permit are €188 to be paid when you submit the application. www.eur.nl/english/prospective/exchange_students_and_free_movers/howtoprepare/visa 3.3. The temporary residence permit: How to apply? All non EU/EEA citizens who are staying longer than 3 months will need to apply for a temporary residence permit and must report within (preferably) 3 days of arrival to the Erasmus Student Service Centre (ESSC; room CB-07, open daily from 9.30 to 17.00 hrs). Your name and other personal details will be noted there. This registration replaces the obligation to report to the local Aliens Police. This is no longer necessary or even possible. ESSC will provide you with the application forms. You will also receive a handout about the procedure and about the forms and documents

that you have to submit. Information sessions will be held on how to fill out the application forms; dates and locations to be announced. You can submit the complete application package at the ESSC. In the package you will also find documents for the registration in the administration of the municipality, the Gemeentelijke Basis Administratie (GBA). Please take into account that you will not have your passport in possession for a period of 8 days. You will receive a written statement declaring that you delivered your passport for the application of your residence permit and for registration in the GBA. Fees and payment of the temporary residence permit The fee for applying for a residence permit for students travelling into the Netherlands with a MVV (at a cost of € 250) is € 188. For those of you who didn't need a MVV the fee is € 433.

You may pay in cash, by bank card or credit card. Please take into account that tariffs are different when paying by credit card: for students with a MVV € 197,40, for students without a MVV € 451,65. When you register at the ESSC after arrival, you are requested to pay immediately.

www.eur.nl/english/registration/about_registration/residence_permit

3.4. Temporary residence permit and travelling:

You can travel in and out of the Netherlands and through the Schengen area (remember that the UK is not part of this) as long as your temporary residence permit is valid. Once your temporary residence permit is not valid anymore you will have to leave the Netherlands within 28 days. You will not be able to travel within the Schengen area anymore and are expected to go to your home country directly.

4. Your Exchange Programme All exchange students are given a warm welcome at RSM, both by the International

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Office and their ‘buddies’. Students receive a ‘Welcome Package’ with lots of information on the exchange programme, RSM, Rotterdam and other relevant (practical) information to get students settled down as soon as possible after arrival. Prior to the start of each exchange term an (compulsory) introduction programme /integration trip is organised. This is the most appropriate way to get to know your fellow students and Dutch buddies. 4.1. Buddy System Buddy system only for regular Bachelor/Master exchange. Visiting exchange students at RSM are assigned to a buddy. Your buddy will contact you approximately 4 weeks before the start of the programme. A buddy can be of help to you when getting used to your new surrounding. He/she can pick you up at the airport/train station, guide you to your accommodation and help you to find your way on campus and in Rotterdam. In this way there is always someone to turn to during your stay in the Netherlands.

Dutch buddy Pieter (m) with friends Bård (l) and Reynir (r) Within the Master exchange programme, buddies have a special role. These buddies are Dutch MScBA students selected to participate in the International Business Project (cornerstone of Master Exchange Programme) and actively participate in all activities during the exchange programme, including the Integration Trip. This way, they join an exchange at their home school! 4.2. Introduction programme/Integration Trip Upon arrival the International Office provides you with your Welcome Package, which includes relevant information for your stay in Rotterdam, including your Student ID Card. Students in the Bachelor exchange programme ▼ The autumn term starts with 2 compulsory Introduction Days, during which you get to know your fellow students very quickly. We spend the night in a youth hostel. During the whole trip

there is ample opportunity to get to know each other in a relaxed atmosphere! In addition a practical information session on your programme and the RSM will be organised.

The spring programme starts with a compulsory Welcome Day during which you get to know your fellow students in an active way and you will attend a practical information session about your programme and the RSM. For dates/costs of these activities, please

see paragraph 4.3. Detailed information will be sent to you by

email at the end of July (autumn term) and mid December (spring term).

Students in the Master exchange programme ▼ Each Master exchange programme starts with a compulsory 3-day Integration Trip, during which you get to know your fellow students very quickly. This trip is not only important for introduction purposes but also functions as preparation for your participation in the International Business Projects. For this reason, workshops on e.g. trust and confidence, teambuilding exercises and an evening with an international cabaret are part of this trip. During the whole trip there is ample opportunity to get to know each other in a relaxed atmosphere! For the dates/costs of these activities,

please see paragraph 4.6. Detailed information will be sent to you by

email at the end of July (autumn term) and mid December (spring term).

4.3. Official welcome at the university 2009-‘10 On September 15, 2009, at 17.00 hrs; all new international students at the whole university are officially welcomed. Upon arrival, check your email for more information. 4.4. Social events Each term, the International Office or Erasmus Student Network-Rotterdam (ESN-R) organises social events. As a tradition you will join our famous ‘Pub Crawl’ which leads you to the most attractive student pubs in Rotterdam. Details are announced once you have arrived in Rotterdam. The Pub Crawl is not compulsory, but highly recommended if you want to have some fun with all other international students of both our Bachelor and Master Exchange programmes!

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4.5. Excursion Port of Rotterdam

Due to a valuable and longstanding relation of RSM with the Port of Rotterdam Authority, the International Office can offer exchange students a unique full day’s programme (free of costs) to

learn more about the Port of Rotterdam’s fascinating, multi-faceted story.

An interactive multimedia presentation in the Port of Rotterdam’s prominently situated head quarters is followed by a guided coach tour through the vast port area itself. Students get access to the fully automated Europe Container Delta Terminal, which is normally closed to the public. Other excursions to learn about the Dutch culture and business environment are also organised throughout the programmes.

4.6. Academic Calendar 2009-2010 Programme Autumn 2009 Spring 2010 Trimester 1 Trimester 2 Trimester 3 Bachelor exchange Introduction Days & fee August 27, 28;

fee €100 To be announced, Fee t.b.a (approx € 25)

Friday March 26; fee t.b.a. (approx € 25)

Classes consult course schedule

1st year courses: August 31-Nov. 13 2nd year courses: September 07-Nov. 27 3rd year courses: August 31-October 30

1st year courses: November 30-March 05 2nd year courses: January 04-March 12 3rd year courses: January 04-March 12

1st year courses: March 22-June 04 2nd year courses: March 29-June 11 3rd year courses: March 29-June 11

Examinations consult course schedule

1st year courses: November 16-Nov. 27 2nd year courses: November 30-Dec. 11 3rd year courses: November 02-Nov. 06

1st year courses: March 08-March 19 2nd year courses: March 15-March 26 3rd year courses: March 15-March 26

1st year courses: June 07-June 18 2nd year courses: June 14- June 25 3rd year courses: June 14- June 25

Re-Examinations consult course schedule

1st and 3rd year courses: July 19 – July 30 2nd year courses: June 28 – July 16

Farewell Drink To be announced To be announced To be announced Semester 1 Semester 2 Master exchange IntegrationTrip & fee August 26 – 28 (€ 130) January 20 – 22 (€ 130) Classes (first half) August 31 – October 16 January 25 – March 19 Examinations October 19 – 24 March 22 – 27 Classes (second half) October 26 – December 11 March 29 – May 21 Examinations December 14 – 19 May 25 – 29 Re-Examinations January 4 – 16 July 19 – August 6 Farewell Party To be announced To be announced CEMS exchange Welcome Event August 21 January 27 – 29 (€ t.b.a.) Blocked Seminar & fee August 23 – 28 (€200) --- Classes (first half) August 31 – October 19 Feb 1 – March 19 Examinations October 19 – 24 March 22 – 27 Classes (second half) October 26 – December 11 March 29 – May 21 Examinations December 14 – 19 May 25 – 29 Re-Examinations January 4 – 16 July 19 – August 6 Farewell Party Dec May University closed on Christmas break Dec 24 – Jan 3 --- Good Friday --- Apr 2

Easter --- Apr 5 Queen’s Day --- Apr 30 Liberation Day --- May 5 Ascension Day --- May 13 Whit Monday --- May 24

5. Courses at RSM 5.1. Courses & Exams Workload

At RSM, 20 ECTS is the regular fulltime workload for a period of 14 weeks. Please be aware that if you exceed this number of ECTS, the workload is very demanding and gives you less room to travel or enjoy your student life. Bachelor exchange students are required to have a minimum workload of 15 ECTS per trimester, to be taken at RSM.

Master exchange students are required to have a minimum workload of 20 ECTS per semester, to be taken at RSM.

Enrolment courses

You do not have to enrol yourself for the RSM courses. After having received your course preferences, the Programme Managers will register you for the courses. You are, however, responsible for any enrolment for workshops within a course. Exchange students who would like to change or drop courses, should contact their programme manager. Restrictions may apply.

Books & Literature

We recommend that you buy all the necessary books and readers at the beginning of the programme in order not to run the risk that these are sold out. During the welcome session you will be informed where you can buy the books and/or readers. Student association STAR regularly holds book sales at the beginning of the semesters/trimesters, where members can get discounts. You can become of a member of STAR (see Chapter 8.4).

Registration exams

Bachelor exchange students need to register for the written exams for all courses. You

can do this through Osiris-Student at www.myeur.nl. Master exchange students do not have to register for the written exams!

Useful information! Please visit the website www.eur.nl/english/ea for all information on:

… and more!

Grading Scale In the Dutch grading system, grades from 1.0 up to 10.0 are used, with 1 being the worst and 10 being the best. In general, grades with one decimal are issued; the lowest passing grade is a 5.5. When rounding off these grades, grades with a 0.4 or lower will be rounded off, and grades with a 0.5 will be rounded up. Students in our exchange programmes receive their transcripts reflecting grades with one decimal.

Dutch grade Description 10 Excellent

9 Very good 8 Good

7 More than sufficient 6 Sufficient

5 Insufficient 4 Strongly insufficient

3 Very strongly insufficient 2 Bad

1 Very bad

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A grade of 5.4 or lower means that you failed the course, a grade of 5.5 or higher means you passed the course.

Re-examinations

In case you unintentionally fail a written exam, there is always the opportunity to participate in the regular re-sits organised at RSM. Please inform yourself on the dates of the re-examinations already at the beginning of your study here at RSM!

If you can not make it to come to Rotterdam on the day of your re-sit, you might (highly exceptional) have the chance to make the re-examination at your home university, on the strict condition that: 1) Your reason for your absence is

approved of by the Examination Board of RSM (a valid reason could e.g. be that you were in the hospital)

2) The re-sit can be arranged at exactly the same day and exactly the same time as in Rotterdam; AND

3) Your home university is willing and able to coordinate and supervise you re-sit

It is not possible to arrange special assignments or take home exams with the lecturers, neither to take a (re-) examination at an earlier or later stage.

On the grounds of the Teaching and Examination Regulations, the Examination Board may, in very exceptional cases, permit an extra opportunity to take an examination, for example in the event of severe personal circumstances. In such a case, a written request has to be submitted to the Examination Board. Being in your home country is not considered a valid reason. Bachelor exchange students, see www.rsm.nl/home/students/bachelors/bsciba/examination_board.

Master exchange students, see www.rsm.nl/home/students/masters/examination_board.

Final results The final grades will be available on Osiris-Student.

Transcript

The International Office will issue the transcripts of grades and send them over to

your home university’s coordinator as soon as all your final grades have been received. Your coordinator is responsible for forwarding the original transcript to you. The transcript shows your grades rounded off to 1 decimal. In case the lecturer decides to submit your grades already rounded off without decimals, we will use this grade on your list of grades.

Conversion of grades

The conversion of your RSM grades obtained is the responsibility of your home university.

5.2. Code of Conduct RSM hosts a huge number of students in its various programmes. It is important for our School and student community to have a code of conduct describing the core values and main rules of behavior. See the brochure in your Welcome Package. The International Office is honored to maintain intensive relations with both national and international companies. We are pleased that both companies and students can work together in an academic environment. To avoid any miscommunication on behavior during classes, skill seminars, International Business Projects or any other events, please see our own rules of conduct. However, for you as future managers in companies, we assume that these rules are superfluous. Always arrive in time. Leaving earlier from classes without notice

beforehand is not tolerated. Food, drinks and chewing gum are

forbidden in classrooms. Wearing caps or sunglasses during classes

is impolite.

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No laptops, unless instructed. Switch off mobile phones. A dangle or sleepy posture does not show

off your professionalism. A list of attendance is for those present in the

classroom, not for those absent. There is a dress code for most events and company

activities. 5.3. MyEUR

MyEUR is the portal to the primary information system on education of Erasmus University Rotterdam. The portal offers students and staff, wherever they are in the world, access to facilities like web-mail, Osiris, Blackboard, SIN-Online and the University Library. To log in on MyEUR you need an Erna username and password. Your Erna username exists of five or six numbers followed by three or two letters respectively, always followed with @eur.nl. 5.4. SIN-Online

SIN-Online is the portal to all the relevant information you need: course information, course materials, course timetables, grades, announcements, reservations and so on. SIN-Online is based on the channel subscription system: each course has its own channel. Through these channels, Programme Management can provide information specified to your needs. The information is available through the My Page web page in SIN-Online. In addition there are also other channels that could be of interest to you: for example the Bachelor channel and the Master channel. In addition there are a lot of case-groups, exam review sessions, etcetera that require registration via SIN-Online.

5.5. Blackboard Blackboard is the universities Virtual Learning environment. Within this system the interaction between faculty and students take place. The interaction can range from short announcements, lecture slides and articles through discussion on a divers array of topics. Unless otherwise stated the material published on Blackboard is part of the literature for exams, etcetera. Instructors assume that you check Blackboard on a regular basis, we advise you to do so as well; it can save you a lot of time.

5.6. OSIRIS-Student Osiris-Student is the university official exam registration system. You should use it to register for exams, to check your exam results and study progress.

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6. Services & Facilities 6.1. International Office Mail/fax Mail and faxes for your attention can be

picked up at the International Office, room T5-26. Please always ask the sender to use the correct postal address which is: Rotterdam School of Management, EUR, International Office, T5-26, Burg. Oudlaan 50, 3062 PA, Rotterdam, NL. The International Office’ fax number is +31-10-4089024.

If you need to send a fax to your home university or for International Business Project purposes, you can ask the secretariat of the International Office to give you a coversheet. Together with your fax, the secretariat will fax your documents. At the end of your stay at RSM you will be asked to pay for the fax messages you have sent (only in case of IBP). As a receipt will be provided, you can easily claim this amount of money at your IBP company.

Phone In case you need to be accessible by phone

(for urgent matters), you can always leave behind our International Office telephone numbers which are +31-10-4082099 for the secretariat, +31-10-4082996 for the Programme Managers and +31-10-4081984 for the Head of the International Office,

If you need to call your home university, please always ask the secretariat if you can make use of the phone in room T5-68.

Visitors When company representatives related to

your International Business Projects are coming to meet you at the RSM, please ask Ellen van Oeffelen (at least one week in advance!) to book a meeting room for you. Furthermore coffee/tea can be ordered at our secretary's office if you do so in time as well. In exceptional cases also lunches can be served.

Please inform the representatives to park their car in the garage of the T-building. Parking tickets can be asked for at the secretariat so that this representative can leave the parking without paying.

6.2. Career Services

RSM and Career Services are dedicated to acting as a bridge between business, students and academia. Career Services provides a broad range of services, most of them internship and future career related. This office is also responsible for the acquisition of the International Business Projects, offered as course to regular Master exchange students. Exchange students are always welcome to contact them through careerservices@rsm.nl or in room T5-36. www.rsm.nl/home/students/bachelors/bsciba/career_services www.rsm.nl/home/students/masters/career_services

Witte de Withstraat 6.3. Language and Training Centre

The Language and Training Centre offers language courses at beginners, intermediate and advanced level in English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, Russian and Dutch. It also offers special courses for PhD students and junior researchers. Courses are respectively offered in the beginning of September, January and March. The Intensive Dutch Course is offered in August and January. This course takes place during the day and focuses on grammar, vocabulary and conversation. In addition to language courses the Language and Training Centre also offers trainings to improve students’ skills, such as Academic Writing for Bachelor and Master students,

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speed-reading, Mind-mapping & Memory, Thesis presentation and Presentation Skills. www.eur.nl/ltc 6.4. Study Association STAR

STAR, RSM’s study association, is an essential part of life at the university, and popular with many students. With more than 5,500 members, it is the largest study association in The Netherlands and with more than 1,000 overseas members, it is truly international.

STAR brings together the entire student body – graduate and undergraduate, pre- and post-experience, offering you a broad variety of ways to become active.

The Master programmes have their own study association within STAR and organise events in their specific disciplines. One other strong point of STAR is its exceptionally close relations with the corporate world. STAR regularly invites leaders in international business and politics to meet our students through events like the Management Week, Business Week and Career Days. For exchange students membership is possible at a reduced price, check their website! Membership allows you to purchase books with a discount during the Book Sale! www.rsmstar.nl 6.5. ESN Rotterdam www.esn-rotterdam.nl Erasmus Student Network Rotterdam (ESN-Rotterdam) is the student organization for all international students studying at the Erasmus University. During your exchange period in Rotterdam, they strive to contribute to an unforgettable experience and therefore organise a wide range of social activities and a weekly international drink during which you meet lots of other international students. Check their website and in specific their calendar for more information. www.esn-rotterdam.nl

6.6. Sports Centre

The University’s Sports Centre exist of two sports halls, five squash courts, a fitness gym and six open-air tennis courts. Students can choose from a wide range of sports, including

boxing, fitness, volleyball and football, and also take courses in tennis or squash. In addition, they can learn to dive and play golf at a reduced price. To make use of the facilities and participate in

courses, you can get your sports card for €34 at the entrance of the S-building for the exchange period (max 6 months) only. For fitness you will

have to pay an extra €23. During September all sports facilities are free! www.erasmussport.nl 6.7. Campus Facilities

The university offers a variety of on-campus facilities and services such as banking, a hairdresser, catering, a prayer room for Muslims, and a bookshop. Extracurricular activities related to politics, culture and business are organised by study organisations. See also the website: www.eur.nl/english/campus_facilities/at_th e_campus 6.8. Student Work Places Close to RSM’s T-building, the “G-building” is equipped with pc rooms with printing facilities, breakout rooms/meeting studios, Hotspots and plug-ins for your laptop. The G-building opens at 8.30 and closes at 17.00 hours. Reservations for breakout rooms can be made at the desk on G1-39, by telephone (010-4082484), or by mail (studiezalen@ict.eur.nl). If you want to reserve a room by mail, please mention the date for which you want the room, the number of persons, and the time (from-until). The pc-rooms can be found on the ground and first floor. These floors are equipped with wireless internet and/or plug-in points for your laptops. All desktop PCs have the standard office applications (MS-Office), access to the University Library and to the internet, including web-mail. To use a PC you don’t have to log in, but logging in is necessary for the use of certain library services or the internet (for instance Blackboard or SIN Online). The meeting studios (or breakout rooms) are situated on the ground floor, first and third floor. On the ground floor you can also find a silence area to study. In another area, machines

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for coffee, soft drinks and snacks are located and students can also bring their laptops to work in groups or study.

www.eur.nl/english/erna/information/erna_information/students_workplaces 6.9. Student

Advisers/Counsellors/Psychologists Student Advisers at RSM You may want to contact one of the student advisors from RSM for information, advice and/or guidance. The student advisors are familiar with all study aspects. Students with personal circumstances such as illness, handicap, etc. may also turn to the student advisers for personal advice and guidance. www.rsm.nl/home/studyadvice/bacheloriba www.rsm.nl/home/studyadvice/master Student Counsellors at EUR Student Counsellors offer advice and assistance on personal, practical and study matters. They organise confidential interviews and help students find solutions. If necessary, they can refer to other persons or agencies that may be in a better position to help or solve the problems. You can also contact a counsellor if you have complaints about improper treatment

by university staff members. Before contacting a counsellor, you should first try to resolve the problem with the staff member or department in question. www.eur.nl/english/essc/advice_counselling/professional/counsellors Student Psychologists at EUR The aim of the student psychologists is to offer help to students in solving problems which impede effective studying. Studying is susceptible to inside and outside disturbances. The purpose of a first, exploratory discussion with one of the psychologists is to clarify complaints or problems. Consideration is given to the link between the problems and the study. This first discussion is sometimes all the student needs. However, in some cases, further counselling is required. This may be an individual or group therapy. If the student psychologists are unable to provide the required assistance, they will refer the student to other organisations. www.eur.nl/english/essc/advice_counselling/professional/psychologists

7. Public Transport & Bikes The Netherlands have a comprehensive and efficient public transport system. Major cities can easily be reached by train, but a good network of local buses and intercity coaches is available as well. The ‘Openbaar Vervoer Reisinformatie’ (Public Transport Information) gives information on routes, timetables and fares on telephone number 0900-9292 (€ 0, 70 per minute). 7.1. Public transport For more information about travelling in Rotterdam by metro, tram or bus we would like to refer you to the website www.ret.nl.

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To travel by bus, metro or tram in the Netherlands you need to be in possession of a valid ticket. There are 2 types of tickets to use on the public transport: 1) Strip ticket

The strip ticket, or in Dutch ‘strippenkaart’, is a multiple ticket long-shaped card with “strips”, which you have to stamp when you use public transport. Note: since January 2009, you cannot use the strippenkaart in the metro anymore. The cheapest way is to buy a 15- or 45- strip ticket (respectively € 7,30 and € 21,60) at the train, metro or bus station, tourist information

(VVV) office, or tobacco/news shop. Your strip ticket must be validated at the beginning of your journey. This is done by stamping one of the numbered strips. You either do this yourself, in one of the yellow machines on conductorless trams or ask the driver or conductor to do it. Rotterdam is divided into several zones. Which strip is stamped depends upon the number of zones you will be travelling through. You need to count one strip for boarding, and one for each zone you will travel through. Stamping a strip "cancels" it plus the blank strips behind it. For example, for a journey in one zone skip two strips, for a journey in two zones skip three strips, and so on. From the Rotterdam Central Station to the University is 2 zones; so stamp on the third empty strip.

2) OV-chipkaart

Since January 2009 all trains, trams, buses and metros in the Netherlands use one digital

transport pass called an 'OV-Chipkaart'. The pass is embedded with a digital chip that can be loaded with money directly from your bank account, in some cases automatically, or paid for by cash, depending on the sort of card. The OV-chipkaart can be bought at most metro stations. The price is € 7,50. The best type of OV-chipkaart is the ‘anonymous’ one. Advantages: other people can travel with your card, you can upload at any time (minimum € 4, maximum € 30), you don’t need to worry about the number of zones, since this type of ticket calculates the fee for the journey itself by holding the card in front of a laser beam at the bus/tram or gates (metro) at both the start and end of your journey. If you forget the latter, the journey will cost you more than it is worth. To give you an example of the costs, a trip from Rotterdam Central Station to Kralingse Zoom (metro station nearest to Erasmus University) costs you € 1,14. www.ret.nl. 7.2. Train National In general Dutch trains are comfortable, clean, timely, and frequent. Travelling by train is easy once you are used to read the big yellow train schedules and the platform signs. If you think you will travel a lot by train in the Netherlands, you might consider buying the “Off-Peak Discount Pass” (‘Voordeelurenkaart’). This pass costs €55 per year but will give you a reduction of 40% on train tickets (travelling from 9.00 hrs on weekdays and in weekends).

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Up to 4 people can travel with reduction on one pass. For more information and where to buy this card please go to the train information desk at a railway station or visit www.ns.nl. This website also gives information on other (discount) tickets such as the Day Travel Ticket, the Weekend Return Ticket, the Summer Trip Ticket, monthly and other travel tickets.

www.ns.nl International From the Netherlands trains run directly to Germany, Belgium, France, and Switzerland, and indirectly all over Europe. CityNightLine is an overnight train to Switzerland and Southern Germany. InterCity Berlin travels from Amsterdam to Berlin, with a stop in Hanover, three times per day. The Thalys travels from Amsterdam to Paris, with several stops in The Netherlands and Belgium. ICE International travels from Amsterdam to Cologne, Frankfurt and Basel. The Benelux Train travels from Amsterdam to Brussels, with several stops in the Netherlands and Belgium. The Eurostar travels from Brussels to London through the Chunnel. www.nsinternationaal.nl. 7.3. Bike If you really want to join the Dutch way of life, and get around quickly and easily, buy yourself a (second-hand) bike.

Second-hand bikes cost between €75 and €150. You can find them at second-hand bike shops and at the bike parking facilities near railway stations. They will also be advertised in the small ads in local newspapers under ‘Rijwielen’, on the notice board at supermarkets or anywhere students congregate. In addition to the bike, buy a solid bicycle lock!

Men’s bike (“herenfiets”)

Women’s bike (“damesfiets”) Warning! Never buy a bicycle on the street, since these bikes are usually stolen. You will be violating the Dutch law if you do so. There are many good places to buy a new or second-hand bicycle in Rotterdam, one of them is Megabike, Burgemeester Van Walsumweg 2, 3011 MZ Rotterdam, telephone (010)-4253412.

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8. Health Care Dutch law requires that everyone who is living in the Netherlands is covered by a health insurance. It is of main importance for you to be properly insured, since medical costs can be very high (especially when you need specialised help). Dutch health insurance usually covers the costs of hospital and medical treatment, medicines, visits to family doctors and specialists. Once medical insurance has been arranged, one can make use of the Dutch health care system. Medical care is of high quality in The Netherlands. 8.1. Medical Insurance Foreign students are not automatically insured in the Netherlands. If your current insurance provides full cover for medical costs including abroad, you should bring a statement (in English) which explains the cover of your insurance. Before arriving in the Netherlands, make sure you arrange your insurances (health, liability) yourself. A proper insurance covering illness, accidents and liability is also required for obtaining a residence permit. Arranging Medical Insurance in the Netherlands Erasmus University Rotterdam recommends the medical insurances offered by Aon. Aon offers the “Insurance Certificate for

Students” (ICS) with global coverage for €1.27 a day. The exact conditions of the insurance can be found on the websitewww.students-insurance.eu. Prior to arrival in the Netherlands you can already arrange the medical insurance yourself through this website. You receive your insurance certificate and the general conditions within a few days by mail on your (temporary) address in Rotterdam or elsewhere. During your stay in Rotterdam Erasmus University in cooperation with Aon offers you medical care a the Campus Woudestein Medical Practice. To make use of the services of the medical practice you need to register on-line: www.erasmusmedicalservices.nl For questions: info@erasmusmedicalservices.nl Address: Fascinatio Boulevard 1122, 2909 VA Capelle aan den Ijssel, Tel. 010-2540501 After any consultation the invoice will directly be sent to Aon.

Bringing local insurance policy - EU students It is also possible to bring your own insurance policy to the Netherlands. If you do so, bring your EU Health Insurance Card. Upon arrival in the Netherlands you need to send a copy of this policy, including your temporary address, to the Dutch insurance company: Agis Zorgverzekeringen, PO Box 4200, 3800 EE Amersfoort. After any consultation at a doctor or hospital, the invoice will directly be sent to Agis Zorgverzekeringen. More information on: http://europa.eu.int/comm/employment_social/healthcard/index_en.htm 8.2. Emergency First Aid In case of an emergency you can get help 24 hours a day at the EHBO (“First Aid”) or SEH (“Spoedeisende Hulp”) post at any hospital. Emergency Ambulance, fire brigade and police in serious

life-threatening situations, “In case every second counts…”:

(European) Emergency telephone number:

112 No emergency, but police needed? Call 0900-8844. 8.3. Family doctor In first instance the family doctor (“huisarts”) takes care of medical questions or help. For lesser illnesses, the family doctor holds office hours, but only by appointment. Most family doctors speak English, but it is important to check if they participate in your insurance company. For more specialised expertise these doctors can send patients to specialists, dentists, eye doctors etc. by referral. Appointments for the following recommended doctors should be made in advance; cash payments only. Drs. Janssen & Janssen Prinses Julianalaan 84 3062 DL Rotterdam (North) Tel. (010)-4527878 Gezondheidscentrum Afrikaanderwijk Maashaven O.Z. 155-157 3072 HS Rotterdam (South) Tel. (010)-4854111

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See also paragraph 8.6 for the special medical care arrangement with Aon (no cash payments in advance). 8.4. Dentist Appointments for the following recommended dentists should be made in advance; cash payments only. Consultation hours: between 10.00-17.00 hrs. J. Uys Voorschoterlaan 130-A 3062 KV Rotterdam (North) Tel. (010)-4130859 Tandarts Collectief Strevelsweg 121-B 3073 DX Rotterdam (South) Tel: (010)-4859206 8.5. Pharmacy Most medicines are only available on prescription. You will receive the prescription from the family doctor and collect your medicine(s) at a pharmacy (“apotheek”). The chemists (“drogist”) sell medicines such as aspirin and cough medicine, which require no prescription. There is always a pharmacy open, also at weekends. Every pharmacy posts a notice which shows which one is open during the weekend and evenings. 8.6. Hospital The main hospitals in Rotterdam are:

Erasmus MC University Medical Centre ‘s Gravendijkwal 230 Tel. (010)-7040704

St. Franciscus Gasthuis, Kleiweg 500, Tel.

(010)-4616161 IJsselland Ziekenhuis, Prins Constantijnweg

2, Tel. (010)-258 5000 Havenziekenhuis, Haringvliet 2, Tel. (010)-

4043300 Medical Centre Rijnmond-Zuid (MCRZ),

Groene Hilledijk 315, Tel. (010)-2911911

8.7. Area Health Authority The Area Health Authority (GGD) for Rotterdam and its surroundings aims at supporting the health of the population. The GGD has both a preventive and caring mandate. Most vaccinations can be obtained at the GGD (for instance vaccinations for people who plan to go to the tropics). Foreigners who come to The Netherlands do not usually have to be vaccinated at the GGD. However, people coming from high-risk areas (in non-western countries) are advised to have a test for tuberculosis at the GGD. Address: GGD, Schiedamsedijk 95, 3011 EN Rotterdam, tel. (010)-4339933. 8.8. Physiotherapist Mr. Dimitri Motz is the physiotherapist on the university’s Woudestein campus, and is located in the sports building. Students can contact him for an appointment for a consultation on telephone number (010)–4081874 or 06–54763441. www.fysiotherapiewoudestein.nl

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View on the Euromast

9. IT Facilities The T-Building, in which RSM is accommodated, offers a wireless network in many areas, this way students with lap tops can work easily. In addition, the University’s computer rooms offer a total of 300 workstations. Upon arrival each student receives an email account and login data, which can be accessed from home using the ERNA (Erasmus Remote Network Access) account. ERNA can also be used as a provider to access the Internet. Print facilities are available from each workstation using a print credit, which can be bought at the Student Helpdesk at the 3rd floor. The staff members at the helpdesk are there to answer all your questions about the software and computer facilities in the building. 9.1. BIT BIT, Business Information Technology, offers a lot of useful information about the computer facilities at the website www.rsm.nl/bitofhelp. BIT has laser printers and ‘express stations’ available, located near the Helpdesk. The computers can be

used for quick jobs like printing and emailing. The Helpdesk is located on the 3rd floor, phone: (010)-4082024, email: Helpdesk@rsm.nl. Opening hours are 08.30-17.00 hrs on weekdays. 9.2. Computer Labs

Our School has computer labs on the 3rd floor with Pentium PC's and several plug-in points for laptops available to students.

The PC-Lab computers have Pentium processors, 64Mb, 15" monitor. Available software includes: MS Word 2000/Excel, 2000/Power Point, 2000/Access 2000/Frontpage 2000, SPSS 10, Winzip, Euroglot (electronic dictionary) and EndNote (annotation database). You can log in on any computer with your ERNA-mail username and your ERNA password. On weekdays the rooms are open from 8:30 until 21:00 hours and on Saturday from 9:00 until 17:00 hours. On Sunday the building is closed. During the summer period (until the end of August) the computer rooms will close at 17.00 hrs on weekdays, and are closed on Saturdays. Please be aware that at ‘busy times’ the computer rooms might be fully booked, for which we apologise in advance. 9.3. Wi-Fi and Laptop Plug-In Points Wireless access is available on campus via Wi-Fi hotspots. These hotspots enable you, by using your ERNA login, to access the internet without the usage of a network cable. For an overview of available Hotspots on campus go to: www.erna.nl/mobileaccess_new/base_mul/base.php?language=uk. There are several permanent connections to the EURnet in the University Library. These plug-in points provide Internet connection and printing facilities to be used with a notebook and network card and can be found throughout the whole building. You need to register your Ethernet card at the Helpdesk first, before you can log on to the network. More information on Wireless/plug-in access on:

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www.erna.nl/mobileaccess_new/mobileaccess_uk.html. 9.4. E-mail

You will be provided with a computer account at RSM (see for more details the information in your Welcoming Package). The use of email is free of charge. As soon as your Student-ID card is available you will be provided with your email address as well as instructions on how to use it. 9.5. Copying Copy cards can be bought at the University Library or at the Copy shop Cendris in the H- and

L-buildings on the ground floor for € 2,60 (55 copies). The library of RSM, called ‘BIC’ and located on the 4th floor of the T-building, sells copy cards for

€ 5,-, worth 100 copies, only usable in the BIC itself. 9.6. Printing Before you can use a printer, you have to activate a key card at the helpdesk. Any key card will do, as long as there is a magnetic strip on the back (for instance: your AirMiles or Library card). Send a print job to the printer first BEFORE you go to the helpdesk to have a card activated. When you want to print, just send the printer a print job. Choose any of the printers and slide your key card through the terminal, choose your print job on the touch screen and the printer will print your document(s). You can purchase (you can only pay by PIN or “Chipknip”) print quota at the BIT Helpdesk: 75

Prints for € 5, 170 Prints for € 10, 260 Prints

for € 15, and 350 Prints for € 20.

Computer wall in T-building

9.7. Forwarding e-mail To forward your email, go to webmail.rsm.nl. When you are not at school go to https://. Type your username and password. Click on “options”, a new window opens. Click on “Mailbox Management”, click on “yes” to forward your email and type the address where you want your email to be forwarded to. Click on “Save” to save your configuration and click on “Close” to exit.

10. Libraries 10.1. University Library

The University Library is one of the finest of its kind in the Netherlands, and provides access to a wide range of information including Economics and Management, Medicine and Health Care, Law, Culture and Society. As well as an extensive collection of documentary information, the library offers students, lecturers and researchers several information literacy study facilities and courses. The UL is open to all; a student card or library card is required to borrow publications. There are 450 study places. Students may borrow books from the library free of charge. Address: B-building of Woudestein campus tel.: (010)-4081201 (info desk) e-mail: info@ubib.eur.nl Opening hours Reading Rooms: - Monday – Friday 8.00-22.30 hrs - Saturday 9.00–17.00 hrs Opening hours Information/Circulation Desk: - Monday 10.30–16.45 hrs - Tues- and Wednesday 9.00-19.00 hrs - Thurs- and Friday 9.00-16.45 hrs

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�www.eur.nl/ub/english 10.2. Business School Library In addition to the University Library, RSM Erasmus University has its own institute library (called ‘BIC’) where students can find a huge collection of monographs with the emphasis on management, organisational science, management science and marketing. It also holds research reports from European business schools, staff publications, company documentation, reference books and periodicals. Students also have access to a number of databases. These enable them to keep up with the most recent developments in their fields of interest. Students may borrow books from the library free of charge. Address: Room T4-50 tel.: (010)–4081903 e-mail: BIC@rsm.nl Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 9.00-17.00 hrs Lending Facility Information BIC Lending period = 3 weeks After the period the book can be renewed if

it has not been reserved by another user. Reference books, journals, magazines,

annual reports and final essays cannot be borrowed.

A reminder will be sent if a book is not returned by the due date. If necessary followed by a 2nd and 3rd reminder, and finally a bill. After the first reminder the library card will be blocked. The reminders are charged at the following rates: 1st recall

€ 0, 50, 2nd recall € 2, 50, 3rd recall € 5,00. Replacement costs: min. € 80,00.

You are responsible at all times for the proper receipt of post addressed to you, whether these are letters, postcards or electronic post. Not receiving post due to change of address, staying at another address, overfull e-mail in-box etc. is not a valid reason for the library to write off the debts incurred. The sending of reminders is a service of the library. You remain personally responsible for returning the books on time.

www.rsm.nl/bic

11. Miscellaneous 11.1. Cost of Living To have a reasonable living standard in the Netherlands, students should have an income of approximately € 750 per month. Below is a rough estimate of the total expenses when participating in the exchange programme for a

period of 4 months. Tuition fee exempted

Visa/Residence Permit (if applicable)

€ 0 – € 433

Accommodation € 1,400 – € 2,300

Medical Insurance € 140

Books and Readers € 200

Subtotal €1,740 – € 3,073

Food and Drinks € 500

Pocket Money € 500

University sports card € 37

Traveling (public transport/ holiday/sightseeing)

€ 400

Total € 3,177 – € 4,510

To be able to make a few comparisons, here are some examples of prices in the Netherlands: Milk: € 0.60 per liter Bread: € 1.20 per kilo Coca-Cola: € 1.20 per 1.5 liter Rice: € 0.85 per kilo Cup of coffee/tea in a café: € 1.50 Cheese sandwich: € 2.00 Big Mac: € 2.95 Dinner in a typical student restaurant: € 10 Cinema ticket: € 7.50 Text message on mobile phone from € 0.07 Do you need to convert the Euro in your local currency? Check out the Currency Converter at www.xe.com. 11.2. Calling From abroad you can direct-dial destinations in the Netherlands by dialing the international number 00, followed by the country number 31, and then the area number without the first digit (in case of Rotterdam 10). When calling from a local telephone number in Rotterdam (010-area) to a destination out of the 010-area, always dial the area number including the first digit, followed by the phone number. Within the

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010-area you don’t need to dial the area number, just the telephone number will do. From a mobile phone you always need to dial the area code. You can find the online Telephone Guide (persons and companies) at the abovementioned website. www.detelefoongids.nl 11.3. Opening a bank account At the time of printing this handbook, the university is working with the ABN-AMRO and ING bank on offering facilities to open a bank account for students staying less than 6 months in the Netherlands. Upon your arrival you will receive details in your Welcome Package how to open a bank account. 11.4. Payments with the Chipknip A so-called Chipknip is necessary for most payments at the university (printing facilities and restaurants). This card can also be used for paying small amounts at almost every shop or making calls at public pay phones operated by KPN or Telfort, at Dutch railways stations, etc. For everyone without a Dutch bank/giro account, and therefore without a Chipknip, there is the Prepaid Chipknip. The Prepaid Chipknip is an electronic purse containing a predetermined amount of credit. When the denominated credit balance has been spent, the empty card cannot be revalued again. Prepaid Chipknips are available in four standard

denominations: €5, €10, €20 and €50. To cover the costs of the card itself, the outlet that sells the Prepaid Chipknip may withhold part of this amount (the ‘card fee’). This amount varies depending on the denomination and the sales outlet. The card fee is printed on the back of the Prepaid Chipknip under the pictograms at the right. You can buy Prepaid Chipknips at numerous sales outlets. If a Chipknip is the only accepted method of payment at a particular point of sale, there will usually be a sales outlet nearby. Simply inquire where it is. At www.chipknip.nl you can find a list of selling points. 11.5. Free Rotterdam UIT pass for students Being a student in Rotterdam is a good place to be. Whether you like hip-hop or dance, or you prefer going to the movies or browsing the

galleries along the Witte de Withstraat, you can let yourself go 24/7 in Rotterdam. Really nice are all those festivals and exhibitions, but if you are flat broke, it is all quite irrelevant. So, apply for the Student Pass (Studenten Uitpas) free of charge. With this pass students get discounts all year round in 29 Rotterdam theatres, stages, cinemas, museums, festivals and clubs. www.studentenuitpas.nl

11.6. Rotterdampas: lots of discounts! There’s always plenty to do in our port city: enjoying a night out, seeing a film or paintballing. But what if you could do all this for less or even for nothing? You can – with the Rotterdam Pass! The price for the standard Rotterdam Pass is ¤55, but as a full-time student you can get it for just ¤10. You can buy the Pass at the Rotterdam Pass

Shop (Rotterdampaswinkel) in the Central

Library (Centrale Bibliotheek) on Hoogstraat. Remember to take a passport-size photograph, your student ID-card and valid ID. The Rotterdam Pass is strictly personal and can only be purchased once a year. www.rotterdampas.nl

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11. Useful Links On the Netherlands The Netherlands Board of Tourism: www.holland.com Study in the Netherlands: www.nuffic.nl/international-students Lonely Planet: www.lonelyplanet.com/worldguide/netherlands Netherlands organisation for cooperation in international education: www.nuffic.nl Schiphol Airport: www.schiphol.nl Dutch Railways: www.ns.nl International Student Travel Confederation: www.isic.nl Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Netherlands and http://wikitravel.org/en/Netherlands On Rotterdam Tourist Information: www.rotterdam.info/uk Public Transport Rotterdam: www.ret.nl Free Student Pass: www.studentenuitpas.nl (See chapter11) On the Erasmus University Rotterdam Website Erasmus University: www.eur.nl Erasmus Culture: www.eur.nl/sgec On RSM & Exchange Programmes RSM: www.rsm.nl University’s info for exchange students: www.eur.nl/english/prospective MyEUR: http://myEUR.nl SIN-Online: http://rsm.sin-online.nl Partnership in International Management: www.pimnetwork.org Community of European Management Schools: www.cems.org

NOTES

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Map of the university campus ‘Woudestein’

http:/www.eur.nl/english/addresses/guide/maps/map_woudestein/

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