Introduction events

You will soon be joining a community of pioneering scholars and world-class researchers here in Groningen. We look forward to supporting you on your path to completing your degree. That is why the university organises a range of introduction events to make you and our other international students feel right at home in Groningen.

Welcoming Ceremony

We would love to welcome you to our Welcoming Ceremony in Groningen on January 28th 2027, 13:30 at Martini Church. Within the 1.5 months leading up to the event, you will be sent an invitation containing information about the venue, schedule, and a registration link.

For the time being you will be able to find a lot of useful information already in our pre-departure guide.

Introduction Week ESN

The ESN Introduction Week is the largest introduction event for new international students in Groningen. It happens twice a year – once in September and once in February, and is organised by the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Groningen. During the ESN Introduction Week, you can take part in numerous culture- and sports-oriented events, large parties and a pub crawl, in addition to fun integration events like the Dutch Language Lessons. With over 850 students attending, you’ll be divided into a group of around 16 new students, which is a great way to make new friends during your stay in Groningen.

Your group will be led by two local Introduction Guides, who will give you the inside scoop on the university, Groningen, and the unique student culture of the city! The Introduction Week is traditionally planned in the first week of the semester. In the first days of your studies, all events are planned in the late afternoon and evening, so you won’t have to miss any important lectures and classes!

The ticket price for the week includes three parties, a band night with live music, a sports and culture day, a movie night, a goodie bag full of discounts & goodies, and an ESN card with which you can attend all ESN events throughout the year.

Visit the ESN Groningen website for more information on the week and on how to register.

Meet the Faculty & Your Fellow Students

Many faculties and degree programmes organise their own introductory programmes for new international students and -guests. During these activities, you will meet the faculty or department and its staff, as well as the students you’ll be studying alongside for the next three years, and you’ll receive further information about modules, procedures, schedules, facilities, and more. Please check with your faculty coordinator or programme coordinator for further details.