Introduction activities for Semester in Amsterdam students

Introduction programme

• Arrival Day: Friday, 31 January

  Arrival Day is the perfect opportunity to take care of important practical matters quickly and efficiently. Whether it's registering at the municipality (Amstelveen only), arranging your health or liability insurance, opening a bank account, or getting answers to your questions from the International Office (student immigration, student accommodation, the incoming exchange and Semester in Amsterdam teams). You can also pick up your student card during this time.

  Additionally, the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) will be on hand to introduce you to their activities for international students, while NT2 will provide information on Dutch language courses available to you.

  DUWO key collection:

  For students with a rental contract through DUWO, this is also the day to collect your keys. The exact time & location for key collection will be announced later. DUWO will contact students directly with further details—make sure to check your email for instructions. (please do not forget to check your spam folder).

  Details:

  The Arrival Day is free of charge, and no prior registration is required.

  Date: Friday 31 January
  Time: 11:30 - 17:00
  Location: VU Sports Centre, Uilenstede 100 in Amstelveen

• International Introduction Day: Saturday, 1 February

  Starting your journey in Amsterdam
  Moving to Amsterdam for your studies is an exciting adventure, but we know it can also feel overwhelming. The Introduction Day is designed to introduce you to VU Amsterdam, Dutch (academic) culture, and the city of Amsterdam. Beyond offering practical information and advice, there will be opportunities for socializing and getting to know your fellow international students. The Introduction Day ensures a smooth start and prepares you for life in Amsterdam.

  Details:

  This day will include an informative presentation titled ‘How to make it at VU’, a VU campus tour, a cultural city activity, and a social evening event. For more details and to register, be sure to check this page and your email for newsletters in the coming months (please do not forget to check your spam folder). The introduction day is free of charge.

• Mandatory Introduction Presentation: Thursday, 6 February 2025

  Catch up on everything you need to know during our introductory presentation on campus. Join us to learn about important practical matters, academic expectations, and essential insights about studying at VU Amsterdam. Learn about all available resources and get ready to dive into the vibrant experience of student life abroad.

  🗓️ Date: Thursday, 6 February 2025

  🕒 Time: TBA

  📍 Location: TBA (VU Campus)

• Amsterdam Introduction Day: Discover Amsterdam Noord: Saturday, 8 February 2025

  Each semester, we organize a special introduction day just for Semester in Amsterdam students. This year, we have planned a day full of events in one of the most unique parts of the city, the north of Amsterdam. 

  This day will begin with lunch at one of the most popular restaurants in Amsterdam, the trendy beachside restaurant Pllek, followed by either an interactive tour of the street and graffiti museum or the museum of new media art, Nxt. Afterward, we will head to the Amsterdam Lookout Tower to see a beautiful, sweeping 360 view of the city followed by dinner at the cultural oasis, Tolhuistuin. We can't wait to see you all there!

  Please check back in the coming months for more details.