Open days and introduction

A taste of what life in Groningen has to offer can be experienced in our general orientation:

Welcoming Ceremony

The University organizes an official Welcoming Ceremony for all new international guests at the beginning of both the first and second semester. The programme includes short speeches by the Rector Magnificus and other representatives of the University, as well as an information market, lunch, and workshops about studying in Groningen. Special welcoming packages will be distributed.

All new international students should receive an invitation through their faculty contact person. If for some reason you do not receive such an invitation, please contact the International Service Desk. Attending the ceremony is free of charge.

• The Welcoming Ceremony for the first semester of 2012-2013 will take place on Wednesday 29 August 2012.

> Preliminary programme Welcoming Ceremony [PDF]

> Have a look at a video about the Welcoming Ceremony

Introduction Week ESN

After the Welcoming Ceremony, there will be an additional Introduction Week, organized by Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Groningen. In this week you will be introduced to different kinds of social and cultural aspects of Groningen. The Introduction Week includes cultural events and tours of the city, sports, parties and dinners.

> Visit the ESN Groningen website

KEI-week

In addition to the Welcoming Ceremony and the Introduction week for international students, there is also a general introduction programme for all new students in Groningen, called the KEI-week. In 2012 the KEI-week will take place from 13-17 August. In a KEI-group consisting of twelve to fifteen first year students and two to three senior students you will explore Groningen and you will be introduced to several student activities. During the KEI-week you can visit information markets and get into contact with all the fraternities and student societies. You will have a taste of the cultural and sporting facilities that Groningen has to offer and get to know new people. So the KEI-week is the key (KEI) to your future!

> Visit the KEI-website

Faculty introduction programmes

Many faculties and degree programmes organize their own introductory programme for new international students and guests. During these activities, you will get to know your fellow students, the faculty or department and its staff, and you will receive further information about modules, procedures, schedules, facilities, et cetera. Please check with your faculty coordinator or programme coordinator for further details.

N.B. In addition to the faculty introduction programmes, the faculties advise international students to take part in the Official Welcoming Ceremony and the ESN Introduction Week.