Embarking on your studies abroad is more than a change of location – it’s the start of an exciting chapter filled with opportunities, challenges, and personal growth. As you prepare to join Kaunas University of Technology (KTU), a little planning can go a long way in turning your transition into a rewarding experience.
From figuring out the best way to reach Kaunas, choosing between student dorms and private rentals, to understanding the local climate and culture, moving to a new country comes with plenty of questions. You’ll find many answers right here, and for everything else, KTU’s International Studies Office is ready to support you every step of the way.
Choose the right accommodation
Those valuing their privacy or willing to live elsewhere can opt for private accommodation. There are many websites offering accommodation in Kaunas. Also, you may check groups on social media (search term: butu nuoma Kaune) for options. The rent might cost from €150 to €500, depending on the size and other qualities of the accommodation chosen, and you will need to pay the bills (electricity, water, heating, etc.) on top. Keep in mind that the heating season in Lithuania runs from October to April, and this will affect the price of your bills.
Although Kaunas is a fairly inexpensive place to live, don’t take our word for it; check this out with our students – chat with Student Ambassadors.
Investigate the travelling to and around Kaunas options
For travelling around the city, download the Ziogas app, which will help you to plan and pay for your trips.
“Within a 10-minute walk, you can find yourself in a beautiful park. If you feel more adventurous, you can get on a bus and in 20 minutes you will be in nature. When you call your friends, you can say: Let’s meet at X place in 30 minutes. It takes a maximum of half an hour to go anywhere in the city,” says Eylul Guleryuz from Turkey, studying MSc Artificial Intelligence in Computer Science at KTU.
Kaunas, one of the best cities for students according to global ranking, has it all – cultural life with museums, festivals and concerts, parks and greenery, and historical heritage. For nature lovers, there are several forest parks, exceptional walking grounds, such as Santaka (Eng. confluence) or Nemunas Island Park, and riverside bicycle roads. In summer, you can even go to the beach – there is a choice of them too!
“For those who feel connected with nature, Kaunas is the right place. When I feel down, I go for a walk to Ąžuolynas Park. When I need a quiet and peaceful moment, I like going by the lake to listen to the calmness of water and the sounds of birds singing,” says Busra Bilaloglu from Turkey, who has just graduated with a degree in International Business.
Get acquainted with local weather and culture
You can start with the official websites for overseas travellers, investors and students, or check out an official Lithuania gateway, Lithuania co-create. The majority of Lithuanians will speak English or Russian; however, knowing a few Lithuanian words and phrases might help greatly in the beginning. When you are at the university, enrol in classes for learning Lithuanian. Life will feel different once you understand the locals.
According to KTU alumna Wendy Giovanna Andino Villalta from Honduras, Lithuanians, who typically are reserved and shy around strangers, open up when they hear their native tongue.
“When you try to speak Lithuanian (even if it’s broken), the locals appreciate the effort. It has been hard, but my Lithuanian skills have gotten better. Now, I can communicate with locals at the supermarket, or in stores,” says Giovanna, to whom learning languages is one of her hobbies.
Weather alert! There are four seasons in Lithuania, in autumn-winter, it rains and snows often, and although summers tend to be warm and sunny, the colder season might feel a bit dark and damp. Our winters might feel rather cold for someone coming from a warmer climate. However, we suggest bringing only essential warm clothes. There are plenty of shopping centres in Kaunas, where you will find all the necessary things for your stay here.
Prepare to make the most of your studies
Although “Extracurricular activities” is one of the last parts of your résumé, don’t underestimate its importance. Most employers get major information about the applicant’s hobbies and personality from this section of their CV. In some cases, the last part of your résumé can determine whether you will be accepted for a new job, especially, if you do not have enough relevant work experience.
Beyond their main studies, both Sofiia and Illia joined talent development programmes at KTU. “International students shouldn’t let their doubts keep them from their passion,” says Sofiia.
Meet your peers beforehand
In Lithuania, the school year starts on September 1st. However, make sure to arrive at least a week before the semester starts, not to miss the Welcome Week, which is a great way to get to know your university, and your new home town and make new friends. This year’s Welcome Week is scheduled for 25–30 August.
Last but not least – don’t overstress about arriving at Kaunas – our mentors, trained by Erasmus Student Network KTU and KTU Students’ Union, will not only meet you but also show you around the city.
Talk to others who have been there. Check out the KTU Ambassadors – among them, you may find your fellow countryman who is also a KTU student. The Ambassadors are a friendly group of international KTU students dedicated to helping their peers adjust to the new environment.
Always remember, the University is not a building, but people who are there to make you feel welcome and happy.
Are you ready to come? Have you checked that you have everything needed for smooth travel? Great! Looking forward to greeting you at KTU.
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