The international (pre-)Master's introduction for Semester 2, starting in February 2025, will take place on 31 January and 1 February. The programme will begin on Friday, 31 January, with the Arrival Day, where you can take care of practical matters. On Saturday, 1 February, the introduction day will be held.
During these days, you will join fellow international students to explore key locations on campus and throughout Amsterdam. The programme is as follows:
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, 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. 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).
10:00 – 17:00
Location: Il Caffé, Uilenstede, Amstelveen
Details:
The Arrival Day is free of charge. Registration for the Arrival Day is not required and you can come by at your convenience, unless (!) you need to register with the municipality of Amstelveen. If you will be living at the Uilenstede campus, you need to register with the municipality of Amstelveen on Arrival Day. You can register by selecting a timeslot via the link provided in the newsletter you’ve received via email.
Date: Friday, 31 January
Time: 11:30 - 17:00
Location: VU Sports Centre, Uilenstede 100 in Amstelveen
Programme:
DUWO key collection
10:00 – 17:00
Location: Il Caffé, Uilenstede, Amstelveen.
For students staying in DUWO accommodation only. We recommend collecting your room key first, dropping off your luggage, and then heading to the Sports Centre to take care of the remaining practical matters.
Arrival Day Market
1:30 – 17:00
Location: Sports Centre Uilenstede, Amstelveen.
• Collect your student card
• Register at the municipality of Amstelveen
• Arrange a health/liability insurance through AON Student Insurance
• Register with a GP (optional)
• Meet ESN VU Amsterdam
• Arrange matters with International Office (student immigration, student accommodation, incoming exchange and Semester in Amsterdam)
International Introduction Day (Saturday 1 February)
Starting your journey in Amsterdam
Moving to Amsterdam for your studies is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. The Introduction Day will help you settle in by introducing you to VU Amsterdam, Dutch culture, and the city itself. You'll also have the chance to socialise and meet fellow international students, ensuring a smooth start to your life in Amsterdam.
Details:
The day kicks off with a welcome presentation and campus tour, followed by your choice of a fun day activity. You can either explore the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam (modern art) or enjoy a canal cruise through the iconic canals of Amsterdam. In the evening, we’ll wrap up with a 2000s-themed party in the city center!
The Introduction Day is free of charge, but registration is required. Check your email for the newsletter, which includes the registration link.
Date: Saturday, 1 February
Time: 10:30 - 22:30
Starting location: Lecture hall IN-0B60 (Initium, VU campus)
Programme:
• 10:00: Walk in
• 10:30: Welcome presentation
Lecture hall IN-0B60 (Initium, VU campus)
• 12:00: Campus Tour
• 13.00- 14.00: free time to have lunch
• From 14:00-16:00h: Day Activities
• From 16:00- 18:00h: Drinks
• 18:00-20:00h: free time to have dinner
• 20:00-23:00: 2000’s party
If you have any questions, please send an e-mail to internationalintroduction@vu.nl.
*Photos may be taken during the Introduction Days for PR purposes. By registering for the programme, you agree to this.