Useful information
The University of Groningen has a longstanding tradition receiving international students; in 2011 approximately 13% of all students (29.000) is from abroad. The International Service Desk provides assistance with visa matters and is directly in touch with the Dutch Immigration Services. The Mobility & Scholarship Desk is responsible for managing the administrative side of EMA2 projects, also with respect to scholarship payments and advice on health insurance and housing. Once the students are in Groningen they participate in an official Welcoming Ceremony, organized twice yearly at the start of each semester, for all new international students. At the subsequent “study market” students are offered the possibility to handle all affairs ranging from visa/residence permit, the opening of a bank account, registration with the City Hall, etc. Once fully settled, the Student Service Centre may offer further study support and counselling. http://www.rug.nl/education/international-students/. Since 2010, the University is also home to the Association for Latin American Students that provides an additional social network for new students. It has over 100 members and almost fourfold this number of “fans” on its Facebook page www.facebook.com/alas.groningen.
http://www.rug.nl/education/international-students/getting-started/accommodation
The University has an (independent) language center that offers courses in all major languages. http://www.rug.nl/science-and-society/language-centre/language-courses-and-communication-training/
http://www.rug.nl/education/international-students/financial-matters/living-expenses
http://www.rug.nl/education/international-students/studying-with-disability/
Two monthly mandatory meetings and student office houres every Tuesday and Thursday 140.00-16.00 Both organized by the Mobility and Scholarship Desk
Welcoming Ceremony (end of August, beginning of February) for all international students (degree/non degree)