If you're considering HZ, Zeeland may be a part of the Netherlands you don't know yet. Located in the south-west of the country, it's where you will study, live and spend much of your student life. HZ's campuses are located in Vlissingen and Middelburg, close to the coast. Get to know the cities, surroundings and everyday life in the region you could soon call home.
What is it like to live in Zeeland?
Zeeland offers a different student experience from the Netherlands' biggest cities. Vlissingen and Middelburg are smaller cities, with the coast, beaches and nature always nearby. Life here happens on a more compact scale. You study, live and spend your free time in a region where the sea is never far away, while still being able to explore other parts of the Netherlands and nearby Belgium.
Vlissingen
A coastal city by the sea
Vlissingen is located directly on the coast and is home to HZ's main campus. The beach, boulevard and city centre are all close by, giving you a study environment that's closely connected to the sea.
Middelburg
Study in a historic city
Middelburg is the capital of Zeeland and known for its historic city centre. HZ also has a campus here, offering a different setting while still being part of the same HZ community.
Life by the coast
One thing you will quickly notice about Zeeland is the water. The region consists of islands and peninsulas, with beaches, dunes and the sea close by. For students, the coast isn't just somewhere to visit on holiday. It can become part of everyday life: going to the beach after class, walking or cycling along the coast or spending time outside with friends.
What can I do in Zeeland?
- Beach & coast
Head to the beach after class, walk along Vlissingen's boulevard or explore Zeeland's coastline with friends. - Sports & outdoors
Explore Zeeland by bike or take to the water. With cycling routes, beaches and plenty of opportunities for water sports, there are many ways to spend time outdoors. - Cities & culture
Explore historic cities and towns, visit a museum or event, or meet friends at one of the cafés and restaurants in Vlissingen and Middelburg. - Explore the region
There's more to discover beyond Vlissingen and Middelburg. Visit Zeeland's towns, beaches and nature areas or explore places such as the Delta Works and Veerse Meer.
What is student life like in Zeeland?
Zeeland is not a big-city student destination, and that can be an important part of deciding whether HZ is right for you. Vlissingen and Middelburg are smaller cities, so student life here happens on a more compact scale. But studying in a smaller city doesn't mean being on your own. At HZ, you will become part of an international student community, with opportunities to meet other students through your programme, student activities and HZ Community. HZ Community brings students together through sports, cultural activities, events, workshops and trips, giving you different ways to get involved alongside your studies. Whether life in Zeeland suits you depends on what you're looking for from your study abroad experience.
See Zeeland through a student's eyes
Hear from students who made Zeeland their new home. Discover what surprised them, how they met new people and what they enjoy about studying and living here.
"It’s a chill and relaxing region, so every time I go out, I feel safe and secure. You have most of your needs close by, and there is beautiful nature to explore"Read the full story
Come and experience Zeeland yourself
Ask someone who lives here
Want to know what students really do at weekends, how easy it is to meet people or what surprised them about living in Zeeland? Ask a current international HZ student.
Chat with a student