METU CENG MANUAL

TU Delft - Delft University of Technology

January 10, 2024

Complete guide to studying at TU Delft (Technische Universiteit Delft) as an exchange student from METU Computer Engineering.

University Overview

TU Delft is consistently ranked as one of the top technical universities in Europe and the world. Known for its innovative approach to engineering education and strong industry connections.

Key Facts

  • World Ranking: #3 in Engineering & Technology (QS 2024)
  • Founded: 1842
  • Students: ~27,000 (including ~6,000 international)
  • Language: English (most master’s courses), Dutch
  • Academic Year: September-July (4 periods)

Computer Science Programs

Available Courses for Exchange Students

  • Algorithms and Data Structures
  • Machine Learning
  • Computer Graphics
  • Distributed Systems
  • Software Engineering
  • Computer Networks
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Cybersecurity

Course Structure

  • Credits: European Credit Transfer System (ECTS)
  • Workload: 1 ECTS = 28 hours of work
  • Typical Course: 5 ECTS (equivalent to 6 METU credits)
  • Full Semester: 30 ECTS recommended

Application Process

Requirements

  • GPA: Minimum 3.0/4.0 (recommended 3.5+)
  • Language: TOEFL 90+ or IELTS 6.5+
  • Prerequisites: Relevant coursework for chosen subjects

Timeline

  • November: Submit Erasmus application through METU
  • December: TU Delft receives nominations
  • January: Complete TU Delft online application
  • February: Receive acceptance letter
  • March-April: Apply for housing and visa

Required Documents

  • Transcript with English translation
  • Learning Agreement (course selection)
  • Language proficiency certificate
  • Motivation letter
  • CV/Resume

Living in Delft

Accommodation

  • University Housing: Limited but high quality
  • Private Housing: More expensive but more options
  • Student Housing: Shared apartments popular
  • Cost: €400-700/month depending on type

Living Costs (Monthly)

  • Housing: €400-700
  • Food: €200-300
  • Transportation: €50-100 (bike + public transport)
  • Miscellaneous: €150-250
  • Total: €800-1,350/month

Transportation

  • Bike: Essential! Buy a used bike for €50-150
  • Public Transport: Good train/bus connections
  • Student Discount: 40% off public transport
  • Amsterdam: 1 hour by train

Academic Experience

Teaching Style

  • Interactive: Lots of group work and discussions
  • Practical: Strong emphasis on real-world applications
  • Independent: More self-study expected
  • Research-Oriented: Many courses include research projects

Assessment

  • Continuous Assessment: Multiple assignments throughout
  • Final Exams: Usually 50-70% of final grade
  • Group Projects: Common in most courses
  • Presentations: Regular part of evaluation

Credit Transfer

Most TU Delft courses transfer well to METU:

  • 5 ECTS TU Delft = 6 METU credits
  • Technical electives transfer easily
  • Core courses may require approval

Student Life

International Community

  • ESN Delft: Erasmus Student Network - very active
  • International Student Association: Regular events
  • Buddy System: Local students help newcomers
  • Language Exchange: Dutch-English tandems

Activities

  • Student Associations: 100+ student organizations
  • Sports: Excellent facilities, many clubs
  • Cultural Events: Concerts, festivals, exhibitions
  • Travel: Easy access to rest of Europe

Dutch Culture

  • Direct Communication: Dutch are very straightforward
  • Cycling Culture: Everyone bikes everywhere
  • English Friendly: Most people speak excellent English
  • Work-Life Balance: Strong emphasis on personal time

Tips from METU Students

Academic Tips

  • Course Selection: Don’t overload - Dutch courses are intensive
  • Group Work: Be proactive in international groups
  • Office Hours: Professors are very accessible
  • Study Groups: Form study groups with local students

Practical Tips

  • Housing: Apply early - housing is competitive
  • Banking: Open a Dutch bank account (ING or ABN AMRO)
  • Insurance: EU health insurance card covers basics
  • Weather: Bring rain gear and warm clothes
  • Bike: Learn Dutch traffic rules - safety first!

Cultural Tips

  • Directness: Don’t take direct feedback personally
  • Punctuality: Be on time for everything
  • Social Events: Attend international student events
  • Dutch Language: Learn basics - locals appreciate effort

Contact Information

University Contacts

METU Alumni at TU Delft

  • Connect through METU Alumni Netherlands group
  • LinkedIn: “METU Alumni Netherlands”
  • Regular meetups in Amsterdam/Delft area

Resources

Practical Resources

Based on experiences from METU CENG students who studied at TU Delft 2022-2024. Information updated January 2024.

Questions? Contact previous exchange students through the [METU-TU Delft WhatsApp group] or reach out to Zeynep Kaya who spent Fall 2023 at TU Delft.