Kleve

North Rhine-Westphalia 1 universities

Many students dreaming of studying in Germany often get drawn to the big cities. Places like Berlin, Munich, and Cologne are usually the first that come to mind. But what if we told you about a city right on the Dutch border, surrounded by lush nature, offering a friendly, international student environment, and with more affordable living costs? That's exactly where Kleve, a charming town in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia (Nordrhein-Westfalen), steps into the spotlight! Located in western Germany, close to the Rhine River, Kleve stands out, especially thanks to Hochschule Rhein-Waal, which gives it a youthful and dynamic vibe. If you're looking for a more personal education experience away from the crowds, and you also want to open the doors to Europe, Kleve might be perfect for you. Let's explore this small but impactful city together!

Quick Facts

City Name: Kleve
State: Nordrhein-Westfalen
Population: ~53.000
Number of Universities in This City: 1 (Public: 1, Private: 0)
Key University: Hochschule Rhein-Waal
Total Number of Programs: 35
Distance to Dutch Border: Very Close (a few km)

Why Kleve? Location and Student-Focused Life

Kleve is strategically and charmingly located just a few kilometers from Germany's border with the Netherlands. This gives you an international living experience and the chance to take day trips to Dutch cities like Arnhem or Nijmegen on weekends. Imagine hopping on your bike and crossing into another country in just half an hour! This is a huge perk if you want to explore Europe while you study in Germany.

The city offers a calm and peaceful atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of big metropolises. This makes it a perfect fit, especially if you want to focus on your studies or are looking for a more personal student experience. One of Hochschule Rhein-Waal's two campuses is in Kleve, and this university shapes the city's young and dynamic character. The university offers many English-taught programs for international students, bringing together young people from all over the world. This turns Kleve into a small but global student hub. You won't feel alone here, because you'll have the chance to meet people from different cultures around every corner.

Hochschule Rhein-Waal: An International Education Hub

Hochschule Rhein-Waal in Kleve is known as a university of applied sciences (Fachhochschule), offering a wide range of programs, especially in engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, and economics. One of the university's most notable features is that it offers many bachelor's and master's degree programs in English. This is a huge opportunity, especially if your German language skills aren't quite there yet. The university stands out with its modern laboratories, student-focused teaching approach, and strong industry connections.

Thanks to its quality education and practical approach, its graduates have a high employment rate. Plus, the career services and internship opportunities offered by the university help students stay in Germany and build their careers after graduation. With events, student clubs, and sports activities organized both on and off campus, you'll have plenty of chances to socialize and meet new people outside of class. Remember, studying in Germany isn't just about academics; it's also about experiencing a new culture and supporting your personal growth. Hochschule Rhein-Waal provides an excellent platform for this.

Estimated Monthly Cost of Living

Rent (shared)

300-450 EUR

WG (Wohngemeinschaft - shared apartment) room or student dorm

Food

200-300 EUR

By cooking at home and grocery shopping

Transportation (Semesterticket)

0 EUR

Included in university fees, no extra cost; valid throughout North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW)

Health Insurance

120-130 EUR

Student health insurance

Other Expenses (entertainment, personal)

100-200 EUR

Social activities, clothing, etc.

Average total 720-1080 EUR / mo

While Kleve has the calm vibe of a typical German town, the university's presence gives it a youthful and lively energy. Getting around the city is super easy and convenient. The cycling culture is especially strong; many students bike to campus or the city center. Since the terrain is mostly flat, cycling is quite enjoyable. Plus, with your Semesterticket (semester transportation pass), you can use regional trains and buses for free throughout the state of North Rhine-Westphalia (Nordrhein-Westfalen). This gives you easy access to larger cities like Düsseldorf, Cologne, and Essen.

In terms of social life, Kleve might not offer the wild nightlife of big cities, but it has charming cafes, bars, and restaurants where students can gather. Student parties and events organized on campus also provide great opportunities to socialize. For nature lovers, Kleve and its surroundings are a paradise. Expansive parks, wooded areas, and walking trails along the Rhine River are perfect for clearing your head between classes or on weekends. And thanks to its proximity to the Netherlands, attending cross-border festivals or events is a popular activity.

Places to Visit and Student Hangouts

Schwanenburg (Swan Castle)

Landmark

This historic castle, a symbol of Kleve, offers panoramic city views and houses the district court. You definitely have to see it!

Forstgarten

Park

Located in the heart of the city, this large and beautiful park is a great place for walks, picnics, or just relaxing.

Museum Kurhaus Kleve

Museum

This museum, featuring exhibitions on modern art and Kleve's history, is ideal for those interested in cultural activities.

Tiergarten Kleve

Park

A small but charming zoo. It's a good escape, especially when you want to de-stress and be close to nature.

Minoritenplatz

Square

One of the city's central squares. You can sit at the surrounding cafes and chat with your friends.

Student Life and Culture

Being a student in Kleve means being part of a more intimate and connected community, away from the rush of bigger cities. Thanks to Hochschule Rhein-Waal's international student body, you'll have the chance to meet friends from all over the world and experience different cultures. Many activities like student parties, movie nights, and international food events are organized on campus and in the city, offering great opportunities to socialize. The proximity to the Netherlands, in particular, allows students to bike or bus to the neighboring country on weekends for a change of scenery. Biking is the primary mode of transport in Kleve; everyone has a bike, and the city is set up for it. Plus, with your Semesterticket, you can travel for free throughout the entire state of North Rhine-Westphalia, easily reaching larger cities like Düsseldorf or Cologne. This gives you a wide range of cultural and social options.

Strong cycling culture; bikes are the main mode of transport.
Free public transport throughout North Rhine-Westphalia (Nordrhein-Westfalen) with your Semesterticket.
Cross-border trips and events thanks to proximity to the Netherlands.
International and friendly student environment.
Small-town tranquility and a strong sense of community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is knowing German essential in Kleve? ▼

No, Hochschule Rhein-Waal offers many bachelor's and master's degree programs in English. However, picking up basic German will be very helpful for daily life and socializing.

Is it hard to find accommodation in Kleve? ▼

While it's easier than in bigger cities, it's generally important to start your accommodation search early in Germany. Options include student dorms (Studentenwerk), shared apartments (WG - Wohngemeinschaft), or private flats. The university's international office can also provide support with this.

How is transportation to bigger cities? ▼

Thanks to your Semesterticket, you can use all regional trains and buses for free within the state of North Rhine-Westphalia (Nordrhein-Westfalen). You can easily reach major cities like Düsseldorf, Cologne, and Duisburg by train.

What are the opportunities for finding part-time jobs in Kleve? ▼

As a student, you're allowed to work a certain number of hours per week. Since Kleve is a smaller city, job opportunities might be more limited compared to larger cities. However, you can find part-time jobs within the university, at local restaurants, cafes, or in the retail sector. The university's career center can help you with this.

Is there a Turkish community in Kleve? ▼

While there isn't a large Turkish community in Kleve, Hochschule Rhein-Waal's international student profile means you'll have plenty of opportunities to meet and connect with students from many different nationalities. Plus, due to its proximity to the Netherlands, accessing Turkish markets or restaurants might be easier.

To get more information about Kleve, explore university programs, or ask anything about the application process, feel free to contact our AlmanyaUni team. We're here to support you on your path to your dreams!