Aurora

The Aurora network brings together European universities to help students and staff to gain the skills and perspectives needed to tackle real-world challenges as social entrepreneurs and innovators.

Founded in 2016, Aurora is made up of nine leading research-focused universities across the EU, all dedicated to making a positive impact on society and staying connected with local communities.

In 2020, Aurora's collaboration took a big step forward with the launch of the Aurora European Universities Alliance, approved by the European Commission. This opened up even more opportunities for joint activities and engagement. If you’re interested in learning more or getting involved, feel free to reach out to Institutional Coordinator Esmee Paques.

Curious about the opportunities we offer? Check below to see which ones are currently open for applications!

Aurora courses

Aurora organises all sorts of courses for students from member universities

Check out the course catalogue

Interested in the Aurora network?

Learn more about what we do

Visit the website

Courses and opportunities for students

The Aurora network offers students valuable international opportunities across Europe. Through exchange programmes, research collaborations, and social impact projects students can study abroad, tackle global challenges, and contribute to sustainable development. With Aurora, students can expand their academic, professional, and personal horizons while building a network.

Are you a VU student and do you want to follow an Aurora course abroad at one of our partner universities? Please have a look on this webpage for more information and instructions on how to apply.

Opportunities and training for staff

The Aurora network provides researchers and staff with unique collaboration opportunities across European universities. Through joint research on societal challenges, innovative teaching practices, and shared resources, members can tackle pressing issues like sustainability and social impact.

We also offer workshops, funding support, and networking events, fostering professional growth and international connections. By joining activities from the Aurora network, you can contribute to a community dedicated to inclusive, impactful education and research.

You may have heard of us, but you might not be sure exactly what we do. The exciting news is that you can also be part of Aurora—whether you’re a student, teacher, or researcher!

There are various opportunities to get involved: you can connect with people from around the world, exchange ideas, and learn together. Or, if you prefer, you might want to check out one of our digital courses. In this video, we’ll explain how you can get involved.

Explore the Aurora Course Catalogue

13 Feb 2025

VU Amsterdam at Aurora peacebuilding conference

People sitting in a stairs with a laptop and a notebook

07 Feb 2025

Aurora opens its second Call for Incentive Research Collaboration

21 Oct 2024

Three VU-projects selected after first Aurora call for research projects

20 Sep 2024

Looking back: Aurora Research and Innovation conference

28 Jun 2024

European universities alliances unite to create joint community

News overview

Aurora: a name you often hear within VU Amsterdam. But what exactly happens within this European network? And who ensures everything runs smoothly?

VU EduNews sat down with Ramon Puras, Secretary General of Aurora, for a behind-the-scenes look, his views on higher education, and what inspires him.

Read the interview