Buildings spread out through the city seems to be a product of having older universities. The oldest Dutch universities have that too, whereas newer universities tend to have most buildings concentrated on a campus. I know of only one that has on-site dorms (TU Twente), but most do have affordable student housing in the vicinity (though never enough for all students). There's usually a cheap, student-oriented sport center connected to the university.
University restaurants (also called "mensa" here) are pretty cheap, but quality is mediocre. Better cook your own dinner.
University restaurants (also called "mensa" here) are pretty cheap, but quality is mediocre. Better cook your own dinner.