A stay abroad through Erasmus+ offers students the exceptional opportunity to gain international experience, grow personally, and explore the impressive diversity of Europe. Some countries are considered true hidden gems. TUM students share their stories and demonstrate why a semester abroad there is so unique. Get inspired and apply starting December 1 for one or two semesters at the university of your choice!
In the 2024/25 academic year, nearly 100 TUM students opted for a semester abroad at partner universities beyond the traditionally most popular destinations in Southern and Northern European. Countries like Poland, Slovenia, and Croatia offer exciting and unique new perspectives and are becoming more and more attractive to students.
The increased visibility of these countries’ universities in the European higher education landscape play a significant role. Students particularly value the practical academic experiences and the opportunity to explore cultural highlights and enjoy the stunningly diverse landscapes.
Erasmus+ in Croatia: Experiencing cultural diversity and new perspectives
An Erasmus+ stay at a Croatian partner university offers students the chance to experience Croatia's integration into Europe firsthand and to explore the region's full diversity. The countries are small, the distances short. Ideal conditions for students to easily travel to neighboring countries during their stay and get to know their cultural characteristics.
Ana Salom Rodicio from the TUM School of Engineering spent the summer semester 2024 at the University of Rijeka. She reports on her shared travel experiences with other Erasmus+ participants: “We were able to travel from country to country by car without any problems. There were discounts for students at many museums, castles and other cultural sites. My stay abroad helped me to improve my intercultural skills. I learned a lot about the people and culture of Southern and Southeast Europe."
Studying in Slovenia: Academic excellence and practice-oriented education at the University of Ljubljana
Slovenia offers an outstanding academic environment, with the University of Ljubljana ranking among the best in the region. Alexander Lanz, who spent the winter semester 2023/24 there on an Erasmus+ stay, highlights: “The university offers top-tier courses in classical business administration as well as soft-skills training. There’s something for everyone to match their academic background.” He adds: “The courses involve a lot of practical work during lectures and less rote memorization. This approach fosters essential skills such as teamwork, presentation techniques, conducting interviews, and report writing.”
Jan Wittke, who recently completed his Master's degree in Civil, Environmental and Geo Engineering at TUM, was also impressed by his semester abroad at the University of Ljubljana: “The courses are small and practice-oriented. In environmental engineering, the university offers fascinating courses, as Slovenia is rich in natural resources and waterways.”
Exploring Poland: An exchange destination full of surprises and opportunities
Poland surprises and amazes more and more students with its versatility. Dominik Bühner, a student at the TUM School of Management, spent the summer semester 2024 at Politechnika Gdańska in Gdansk and is full of enthusiam about his experiences.
“Poland is far more exciting and dynamic than many might initially assume, and it completely won me over. I was particularly surprised to form genuine friendships with Polish students in addition to bonds with other Erasmus exchange students. The incredible landscapes – from a beautiful coastline and picturesque cities to serene lakes and Europe’s smallest mountain ranges – make Poland truly special.”
Memories from Ana, Dominik, and Jan
Everything is better together: Ana with fellow students in Rijeka. Image: Ana Salom-Rodicio / TUM
Every week, she took part in yoga sessions by the sea offered by a group of Italian students. Image: Ana Salom Rodicio
And participated in the Rijeka Run. Image: Ana Salom Rodicio / TUM
She went on several trips with her fellow students, including one to Italy. Image: Ana Salom-Rodicio / TUM
Social evenings in Rijeka. Image: Ana Salom-Rodicio / TUM
The heart of Gdansk's old town: Langgasse, Polish: Ulica Długa, is the main street in the Rechtstadt district. Image: Dominik Bühner / TUM
Dominik's room in the shared flat in the Rechtstadt was in close proximity to the river Mottlau (Motława). Image: Dominik Bühner / TUM
In Beer Street (Ulica Piwna) in Gdansk's Old Town, you can find stores as well as numerous cafés and bars. Image: Dominik Bühner / TUM
100Cznia is a vibrant cultural space in Gdańsk, open from May to the end of September, offering numerous bars, diverse dining options, and a varied program of art and music. Image: Dominik Bühner / TUM
The site is a complex of interconnected recycled shipping containers and historic shipyard halls. Image: Dominik Bühner / TUM
Lake Bled is a must-see during a visit to Slovenia. Image: Jan Wittke / TUM
Also worth a short trip: the coastal town of Piran is about one and a half students away from Ljubljana. Image: Jan Wittke / TUM
"Enriching lives, opening minds": Small countries also offer us truly unforgettable experiences
The experiences of Ana, Dominik, Alexander, and Jan highlight how international exchange provides invaluable insights into cultural diversity and academic excellence. From historic cities with stunning architecture to hands-on study programs – smaller countries are increasingly becoming hotspots for Erasmus students, offering them unforgettable and enriching experiences.
Whether you choose one of these “insider hot spots” or another country in the upcoming application round, one thing is certain: true to the Erasmus+ motto “Enriching lives, opening minds”, a semester abroad will broaden your horizons and provide you with new, enriching experiences. Take advantage of this opportunity to grow both academically and personally.
Apply now for the next Erasmus+ stays!
From December 1 to January 15, 2025, you can apply for stays abroad in winter 2025/26 and summer 2026. All information can be found on our Erasmus website.
Please note: If your school or subject area has set a different deadline in consultation with the TUM Global & Alumni Office, please submit your application by this deadline.