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Taster Day and Student for a Day

Are you exploring your study options and want to find out which programme truly suits you? At Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam), you can experience what it’s like to study at a Dutch university.

Whether you're considering one or several degree programmes, at VU Amsterdam we offer you the opportunity to find out what programme(s) really suit you.  Experience for yourself what it is like to study at a Dutch university by taking part in a Taster Day or a Student-for-a-Day experience. Whether you are considering one, two, or multiple programmes, you will gain a realistic impression of the programme and student life at VU Amsterdam!

Joining an activity it’s the perfect way to make a confident and well-informed study choice. Check the activity overview to see which programmes are currently offering activities and then register via the My Study Choice portal.

Why Join a Taster Day or Student-for-a-Day Experience?

Whether you already know what you want to study or are still unsure, spending a few hours getting to know the programme will help you make the right choice. Not only will you gain insight into what the programme is really like, but you will also get an idea of what it is like to study at VU Amsterdam and whether you feel at home here. The difference between an open day and a Taster Day is that an open day gives you an idea of all the different programmes on offer. During a Taster Day, you delve deeper into one specific programme. 

In short, you get to feel like a real VU student for a day! 

What's more:

  • You will experience what a class is really like
  • You will get an impression of the atmosphere on the VU campus
  • You will delve deeper into your chosen programme
  • You can ask teachers and students all your questions
  • You will discover whether VU Amsterdam and the programme are right for you

After that, you can make your study choice with confidence. 

(Online) Taster Day activities

Get aquainted with your favourite study programme

Register for a Taster Day or Student-for-a-Day activity!

Register for a Taster Day or Student-for-a-Day activity!

Check out the overview of activities and register now for in-depth activities at one of our programmes. Follow a lecture, study group and get a taste of the atmosphere on campus! Following an activity helps you make the right study choice. After registering in the My study choice portal, you will receive a confirmation email.

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What is a Taster Day?

During a Taster Day at VU Amsterdam, you'll join a group of prospective students and take part in a programme that helps you get a feel for the university and the degree.

You will:

  • Attend a sample lecture given by a lecturer.
  • Work on an assignment similar to what you can expect in year one.
  • Ask questions during a live Q&A session with current students and staff.
  • Learn more about the curriculum and student experiences.
  • Explore the campus during a guided tour.

Most Taster Days take place on campus, so you can truly experience what it’s like to study in Amsterdam. Some (especially international) programmes also offer online options, including live or on-demand lectures, group sessions with students, and interactive Q&A sessions.

What is Student for a Day?

Do you prefer a more personal experience? You can also join a current student for part of their day. This Student-for-a-Day activity is more one-on-one or in a small group and gives you a unique behind-the-scenes look at the programme.

You will:

  • Join a student during a lecture.
  • Ask questions about the content, workload and student life.
  • Hear about personal experiences at VU Amsterdam.
  • Get a personal campus tour.

This activity usually takes place on campus, but some (international) programmes also offer online sessions. In that case, the student will provide a virtual tour and share their experiences through an online meeting, allowing plenty of time to answer your questions.

When Do These Activities Take Place and How Do I Sign Up?

The activities are mainly organised in the autumn and spring. Most activities take place on a specific date, but some activities are by appointment. In this case, you coordinate the time of participation with one of our students.  

Check our activities page to see which programmes offer in-depth activities. Then register via the My Study Choice portal. Is the date of an activity inconvenient, or is a programme not currently offering any activities? Many programmes also offer a 'keep me posted' option. This means you will receive an email when the programme adds new activities to the registration form.

Whether you already have a study in mind or are still comparing options, joining a Taster Day or Student-for-a-Day at VU Amsterdam gives you a real taste of university life in the Netherlands.

Exceptions

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Want to know more?

Do you have general questions?

Call +31 (0)20 59 85020 (Mon – Fri: 10:30 – 12:30 and 14:00 – 16:00).

If you have any questions, please contact the Student Desk: studentdesk@vu.nl.

Or send a WhatsApp message to +31 (0)6 82548367.

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