For many of you, the decision to study abroad and travel to Amsterdam might already have been a huge step. You may face not only a culture shock but also a bit of an academic culture shock.
The Jumpstart programme has been specifically designed to help all new international students with bridging this academic gap.
Through the Jumpstart programme, we aim to:
- Help you bridge the academic gap
- Smooth your transition to VU Amsterdam
- And enable you to connect with your fellow students.
Signing up will be possible from mid-September 2026, so shortly before the start of the programme.
Academic boost
Jumpstart offers opportunities to improve your academic skills through tailor-made workshops such as academic writing in English; academic literature search and plagiarism; and an interactive session focused on group work in a Dutch academic setting.
Socialising
Every academic workshop will be followed by a social or cultural activity to get to know more of VU Amsterdam, your fellow students and Dutch culture. Think of Pizza night, a ‘gezellige’ Dutch evening with pancakes and of course drinks with bitterballen (the best Dutch snack)!