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Welcome to the

University of Groningen
A guide for
International
Students

2016–2017

founded in 1614
Welcome 3 3.5 Food & Drinks 28
INDEX Profile 4 3.6 Computer facilities 29
3.7 The University Library 30
3.8 Career Services advice before, during & after
1 your degree 31
The City and the Country 5 3.9 ACLO Sports Centre 32
1.1 The City of Groningen 6 3.10 University of Groningen Language Centre 33
1.2 The Netherlands or Holland? 7 3.11 Cultural Student Centre Usva 34
1.3 Further reading 9 3.12 GSp – ecumenical students’ fellowship 35
3.13 Other religions 36
3.14 University Museum Groningen 37
2 3.15 Studium Generale 38
Arranging your stay in the Netherlands 10
2.1 Dealing with the authorities 11
2.1.1 Country groups 11 4
2.1.2 What you may need to obtain or do 12 International Student Organizations 39
2.2 Short stay 13 4.1 ESN Groningen 40
2.2.1 Short-stay visa (type C) 13 4.2 AIESEC 42
2.3 Long stay 14 4.3 AEGEE 43
2.3.1 Entry visa (MVV) 14 4.4 SIB-Groningen 44
2.3.2 Residence permit 14 4.5 Faculty-related and other student organizations 45
2.3.3 IND – the Immigration and Naturalisation
Service of the Dutch Government 16
2.3.4 Registration with City Hall 16 5
GroningenLife! 17 Useful information 46
2.4 Short stay and Long stay 18 5.1 Travelling from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
2.4.1 Accommodation 18 to Groningen 47
2.4.2 Registering with the University 19 5.2 OV-chipkaart public transport pass 48
2.4.3 Health insurance 19 5.3 Importing medication 48
2.4.4 Opening a bank account 21 5.4 General practitioners 48
2.4.5 Banking 21 5.5 Dentists 48
5.6 Emergency hospital care 49
5.7 General Emergency Number 112 (Police, Fire,
3 Ambulance) 49
Student Services 23 5.8 Pharmacies and drugstores 49
3.1 University Student Desk 24 5.9 Jobs and work permits 50
3.2 Student Service Centre 25 5.10 Citizen Service Number 51
3.3 International Service Desk 26 5.11 Living expenses 51
3.4 Introductory programmes 27

To skip directly to the page you’re interested in,


simply click on the blue pagenumbers above.

2
Welcome

Dear students and guests,

Thank you for choosing the University of Groningen, one of the


oldest universities in Europe. During the 400 years of our long
tradition of academic excellence we have created a climate for
innovative teaching and research in an international atmosphere,
with room for personal development. The university has extensive
facilities and offers a wide variety of cultural, sporting, and social
activities and programmes, for both Dutch and international
students.

We hope that you will take advantage of the opportunities available


to you as a student of the university of Groningen. This will not only
help you with your own self-development but also build bridges to The staff of the International Service Desk is always there to help
international understanding. Don’t hesitate to become involved! and the university will do its best to make things run smoothly.
Unfortunately regulations constantly change, so please check the
This handbook has been designed to help new international various websites mentioned for the most up-to-date information.
students (exchange, visiting, undergraduate and postgraduate)
settle in Groningen and enjoy studying at the university. I hope that The following sections provide information that will make your stay
you will read this handbook very carefully before your arrival in more productive and enjoyable as well as information about the
Groningen and consult it when you are here and settled in as well. student services and facilities available at the University.
It contains important information about arranging your stay and
useful information about a range of services and opportunities I sincerely hope that from the start you will feel at home at our
that await you at the university. university, and in the historic, lively city of Groningen. I wish you
all a prosperous and academically successful time here.
After an introduction to the University of Groningen and the
Netherlands, this handbook will explain exactly how to arrange Yours sincerely,
your stay in Groningen, which sort of visas you need to apply for,
how to handle the various local regulations and how to organize
your accommodation.

This section is an important aid in helping you complete all the


necessary arrangements before and immediately after your arrival.
This can be time-consuming and difficult, but the handbook will Prof. Elmer Sterken
help you to accomplish everything with as few hitches as possible. Rector Magnificus

INDEX
3
Profile

Since its inception in 1614, the University of Groningen has enjoyed an international
reputation as a dynamic and innovative centre of higher education. The university
today combines impressive modern facilities and a dynamic approach to high-quality
teaching and research with its proud heritage of service and achievement.

Some 30,000 students are currently enrolled in a full range The University of Groningen recognizes that students have
of degree programmes at Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD levels. diverse ambitions and talents. In addition to our regular degree
The University’s breadth of expertise in research and research- programmes, the university Honours College offers talented
led teaching encompasses the humanities and the natural, and motivated students the chance to be challenged even more.
behavioural, physical, health, life, social and technological The university’s various Master’s programmes with a strong
sciences. emphasis on research are regularly associated with Graduate
Schools and are the perfect introduction to related four-year
The student population and staff are drawn from around the PhD programmes. By offering so many different specific courses,
world and have a variety of backgrounds. They are attracted by outstanding students are given the opportunity to intensify
the international reputation of the University and by its commit- their knowledge and broaden their scope.
ment to innovation and excellence in all areas. Every year around
4,000 students from at least 115 countries find their way to
the university of Groningen, where English is the language of
instruction in more than 100 different programmes.

In addition to welcoming a large international student population,


we maintain long-term partnerships with foreign universities
around the world with similar high standards, participating in
international networks and incorporating international themes
in our programmes. The university is cooperating with universities
in several developing countries, thereby contributing to the further
development of academic teaching and research worldwide.

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4
1 The City and the Country

What can you expect


when you are living
in Groningen?
This chapter will give
you more information
about your new home!

INDEX
5
1.1

The City of Groningen

The first document mentioning the city of Groningen dates from


1040. The city therefore has an official history of almost 1,000 years.
Until the late nineteenth century, the city had an open connection to
the sea, as the quay to the north of the city centre still shows.

History everywhere, and it is a priority of the city council’s environmental


The City of Groningen was an important commercial centre during policy to free up the city centre for pedestrians, cyclists and
During the Middle Ages (5th to 15th Centuries) and the warehouses public transport. Another remarkable characteristic of the City of
along the river A are evidence of this. The University of Groningen Groningen is its relatively young population. Every fourth person in
was founded in 1614 as as a place of education for civil and church the city is a student, and over half the population is younger than
administrator; philologists, as well as lawyers and doctors. 35! This has led to a wide range of facilities catering for just about
A former monastery at the heart of the city was donated as the every taste in sport, culture and recreation – at reasonable prices.
university’s main building, the present-day ‘Academiegebouw’ or For further information about the City of Groningen, visit:
Academy Building. toerisme.groningen.nl/english or visit the Tourist Information
Shop (VVV) in the city centre.
Present
Today Groningen, with just over 200,000 inhabitants , is the
economic and cultural capital of the northern Netherlands. The
city boasts several theatres and museums, many art galleries
and bookshops and an excellent range of markets, shops and
restaurants with food from all over the world, whilst retaining a
safe community character. Groningen is a culturally diverse city Tourist
that has hosted many musical and theatrical events, including Information Office
independent productions, alternative music and theatre festivals Grote Markt 29
as well as stadium performances by Tina Turner and the Rolling 9712 HS Groningen
Stones. Groningen is renowned for being the most bicycle-friendly info@vvvgroningen.nl
city in the Netherlands with the suburbs connected to the city by T +31 (0) 50 313 9741
special bicycle routes. Secure bicycle parking facilities are available F +31 (0) 50 311 38 55
http://toerisme.groningen.nl/
en

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6
1.2

Netherlands or Holland?

The official name of the country is ‘the Netherlands’ which means ‘the low countries’
because most of the land is at or below sea level. The Dutch themselves call their
country ‘Holland’ only at of sports events and other informal situations.

Sixty percent of the population lives in the west of the country, in What to wear
the Randstad conurbation, which has a population density of more In the summer months, June to August, there will be some fairly
than 1,000 people per square kilometre. The country’s formal name hot days in Groningen and this will be the chance for you to  wear
is ‘the Netherlands’, meaning ‘the low countries’. ‘Low’ because summer clothes. Evenings can be a great deal cooler so it is a good
much of the land is at or below sea level, and would indeed be under idea to have a lightweight, waterproof jacket handy. Autumn and
water was it not for the unique system of dikes and dams that Spring have temperatures about 5ºC and 20ºC during the day so
prevent the land from flooding. The name ‘Holland’ refers in fact having a cardigan with you is recommended. In winter, although it
to the two western provinces of the country - at present the most rarely gets below freezing and might snow for only a day – a warm
heavily populated area. The Dutch themselves call their country winter coat and woollen sweater are essential as it can get cold
‘Holland’ only in the context of sport and other informal situations, and windy. 
or when they are selling something on the international market,
since this name is more easily adapted into other languages. For Groningen city centre has several large chain stores selling
further explanation about the difference between The Netherlands affordable clothes so you will be able to pick things up after you
and Holland check out this video arrive.

Landscape Housing
Several features of the Dutch landscape are noticeable immediately. The Netherlands is one of the smallest countries in Europe and
To begin with, it is extremely flat and there is water everywhere: with a quarter of the Groningen population being students,
lakes, rivers and canals of many types. We also have several sandy finding accommodation can sometimes take time. The University
beaches and islands to the north of Groningen which make for a of Groningen is based in the city and does not have a campus
perfect day trip.  therefore accommodation is found throughout the city. SSH
is an organisation that has accommodation available for out
Climate international students and guests (see 2.4.1) and we work closely
Northern Europe has a reputation for having cold, wet, changeable with them to improve the service they provide.  In general,
weather and although this is the case for some times of the year international student residences comprise a private study/bedroom,
– the Netherlands has mild winters and cool summers. Dutch with free access to wireless internet and e-mail. You will be sharing
summer days are long (the sun generally rises at 4am and will set a living room, kitchen and bathroom with other international
at 10pm) with the odd very hot days where the temperature is over students giving you the chance to be part of a multicultural
30 degrees. environment. with its own dynamics. 

INDEX
7
Dutch cuisine: ‘broodje kaas’
Although the Dutch are well known worldwide for their famous
Gouda cheese, nobody actually knows what Dutch cuisine exactly is.
We do not have a tradition of fine cooking which may be because
we never had an elaborate royal court like those of France or China.
In fact, although the traditional Dutch diet is healthy, it is simple
rather than spectacular: a typical Dutch evening meal consists
of large quantities of potatoes and vegetables accompanied by a
relatively small serving of meat or fish. However, as any modern
nation, Dutch cuisine nowadays has evolved and is influenced by
ingredients from all over the world - particularly Indonesia as the
two countries have a strong historical connection. Groningen also
offers an abundance of specialty shops, including Chinese grocers,
Indonesian tokos,  Islamic butchers, and shops selling products
from Turkey and northern Africa. Compared to other European
countries, a hot meal in the Netherlands is usually eaten in the
evening, between 6 and 7 p.m. Since the Dutch are always busy,
breakfast and lunch are usually quick and efficient. In general
you can expect sliced bread with butter or margarine, eaten with
cheese, thinly sliced cold meats, chocolate or jam, a cup of coffee
or tea, a glass of milk, buttermilk or orange juice. The standard
lunch break lasts 30 minute and is taken some time between 12pm
–  1.30pm. many people bring a packed lunch with them from home
consisting of  sliced bread (usually a simple cheese sandwich, a
‘broodje kaas’), with the addition of perhaps cafeteria soup, a salad
or fruit.

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8
1.3

Further reading

Here are a few suggestions for those of you who are interested The following books also contain a great deal of information about
in reading more about the Netherlands and the Dutch. Nuffic, the Dutch, their customs and what they have made of their country:
the Dutch organization for international cooperation in higher
education, has published and contributed to several interesting › How to Survive Holland
books and factsheets, including: By Maartijn de Rooi, Dutch Publishers, 2007
ISBN: 9789076214115
› Living in Holland
This guide published by Nuffic is for international students and › The unDutchables, an Observation of the Netherlands:
researchers who are preparing to come to the Netherlands for a its Culture and its Inhabitants
period of study or work. It includes practical tips for adjusting to By Colin White and Laurie Boucke, Lafayette White Boucke, 2006
life among the Dutch. ISBN: 9781888580327

› The Holland Handbook › The Netherlands in Perspective: the Dutch Way of


This book published by XPat Media provides detailed answers to Organizing a Society and its Setting
the many practical questions that arise when people come to live By William Z. Shetter, Utrecht, 2002
in the Netherlands. Nuffic contributed to this publication. ISBN: 9055172030

› The Low Sky – Understanding the Dutch › Dealing with the Dutch
This book published by Scriptum Publishers deals with the daily By Jacob Vossestein, Amsterdam, 1997
questions foreigners have about the Dutch. It is written by Han ISBN: 9068325574
van der Horst, a historian who works at Nuffic’s Communication
Directorate. › The Embarrassment of Riches: an Interpretation of
Dutch Culture in the Golden Age
› The Dutch Education System By Simon Schama, New York: Knopf, 1987
Diagram of the Dutch education system published by Nuffic. ISBN: 0394510755

› Higher Education in the Netherlands The above titles can be found in most bookshops in Groningen or at
Nuffic Factsheet on higher education in the Netherlands published by the University Central Library (CB), www.rug.nl/library (see 3.6).
P.O. Box 29777 Nuffic.
2502 LT The Hague
T +31 (0)70 426 02 60 For information on how to purchase the above titles, please contact
www.nuffic.nl Nuffic or visit www.nuffic.nl/publication. You can download the
factsheets from www.nuffic.nl/educationsystem

INDEX
9
2 Arranging your stay
in the Netherlands
Don’t panic!
This chapter will
help you with
all the required
arrangements!

INDEX
10
2.1

Dealing with the authorities

This section includes all the important information you need in order to arrange your
stay in Groningen, and it should answer most of your questions. It covers what Dutch
authorities will request from you before and after you arrive in the Netherlands, such
as visa requirements, residence permits and registration at City Hall. It also includes
information on arranging housing and health insurance, registering at the university,
and opening a bank account.

With the help of the two tables on the next page you should be 2.1.1
able to determine the appropriate action for your situation. This is Country groups
followed by a description of the procedure. Once you have deter- Step 1: Determine which country group you come from.
mined at step 1 to which country group you belong, you only need to
read the relevant sections of step 2. Please check carefully what you Countries of group I: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech
may need to arrange before and after your arrival. Also, make sure Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece,
you are reachable by making sure your email inbox is not full and Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania,
checking your spam regularly. Sometimes important emails end up Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia,
in the spambox of your email. Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom

Countries of group IA: Croatia (with work permit)

ountries of group II: Australia, Canada, Japan, Monaco, New


C
Zealand, South Korea, United States, Vatican City

ountries of group III: Albania, Andorra, Antigua, Argentina,


C
Barbuda, Bosnia, Brazil, Brunei, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador,
Guatemala, Honduras, Israel, Macedonia, Malaysia, Mauritius,
Mexico, Moldova, Montenegro, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay,
San Marino, Serbia, Singapore, Taiwan, Uruguay, Venezuela

Countries of group IV: All other countries

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11
2.1.2
What you may need to obtain or do
Step 2: Determine what you may need to obtain or do.

Group Only for Only for Long stay For Short stay and Long stay
Short stay (> 3 months)
(< 3 months)

Short-stay visa
see 2.2.1

Entry visa (MVV)


see 2.3.1

Residence permit
see 2.3.2

City Hall*
see 2.3.4

Accommodation
see 2.4.1

The university
see 2.4.2

Health insurance
see 2.4.3

Bank account
see 2.4.4
I No No No Yes

IA No No Optional
Yes

II No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

III No Yes Yes Yes

IV Yes Yes Yes Yes

Please note: this, as well as all information about regulations, is


subject to change; it is therefore advisable to check the website of
the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) (see 2.3.3).

* if you have a rental housing contract and stay longer than


4 months)

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12
2.2

Short stay

2.2.1
Short-stay visa (type C)
A short-stay visa (type C) is a travel visa which is valid for a
maximum of 90 days from the moment you pick it up from the
Dutch embassy or consulate in your country of residence. With
this visa (sticker in your passport) you can travel freely within
the entire Schengen area (see page 25). If you already have a
residence permit, an entry visa, or a return visa from another
Schengen country, a Dutch short-stay visa is not necessary in
order to visit the Netherlands.

Conditions and procedures for requesting Aliens Police


a short-stay visa The Schengen countries are Rademarkt 12
A short-stay visa is requested for a specific purpose. If you are 9711 CV Groningen
coming to the Netherlands for a study period that is shorter › Austria › Liechtenstein T +31 (0)50 587 55 55
than 3 months you will need to request a short-stay visa with › Belgium › Lithuania
the purpose of ‘studying’. A short-stay visa can be requested › Czech Republic › Luxemburg Opening hours:
from the Dutch embassy or consulate in your home country or › Denmark › Malta Monday to Friday
country of residence. Please note that you must apply in person. › Estonia › The Netherlands 8.30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
It is not possible to have your application submitted by a travel › Finland › Norway
agency or educational organization. › France › Poland
› Germany › Portugal
It can take up to three months for a decision to be reached about › Greece › Slovakia
your request. It is not possible to speed up this procedure. Please › Hungary › Slovenia
contact the Dutch embassy and/or consulate in your home country › Iceland › Spain
to confirm which documents will be requested. See also the › Italy › Sweden
websites: www.minbuza.nl (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) and › Latvia › Switzerland
www.ind.nl (Immigration and Naturalisation Service, see 2.3.3).

› Please note that once you have entered the Netherlands on


a short-stayvisa, it will not be possible to change your status
or to request a residence permit.

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13
2.3

Long stay

2.3.1 not travel within six months your MVV visa will expire. It is not
Entry visa (MVV) possible to extend the validity of your MVV.
An MVV (type D) is an entry visa which allows you to enter the
Netherlands and stay for more than three months. An MVV is Travelling with an MVV
requested for a specific purpose; in your case this would be study. With an MVV visa you can enter the Netherlands directly or
After your arrival the MVV will be replaced by a residence permit transfer through other Schengen countries (see page 25) on your
card. way to the Netherlands. it is still possible to travel within the
Schengen countries during the validity period of your visa. Once
Conditions and procedures for requesting an you have received your residence permit card you are allowed to
MVV (type D) travel a certain amount of days within the Schengen countries
The International Service Desk (ISD, see 3.3) of the University of again (see 2.3.2).
Groningen will request both the MVV visa and residence permit
on your behalf. The ISD is responsible for the MVV for these 2.3.2
applications. It is not possible to apply for an MVV and residence Residence permit
permit yourself. Depending on your programme, either the ISD or A residence permit is a document that states your identity, your
your faculty will contact you through email about a number of nationality and your right to reside in the Netherlands (see 2.1.1).
documents that are needed for your MVV and residence permit A residence permit is issued with a specific purpose in mind; in your
application. case this would be studying. If you are from country group II, III, or
IV and you will be staying in the Netherlands for longer than three
After the ISD has checked whether the application is complete months you must apply for a residence permit.
and all relevant documents are included, they send the application
to the Immigration and Naturalisation Services (IND) (see 2.3.3). If you belong to group IA and you are staying longer than three
months in the Netherlands you can apply for a proof of lawful
Duration residence. For group IA this is not required but may be advisable:
It can take up to 6 weeks for the IND to decide to issue a visa in some cases you may be asked to present proof of your right to
for a (PhD) student. Once the ISD receives notification from the reside in the Netherlands.
IND, they will send you (and your faculty) written confirmation.
The IND will inform the Dutch embassy or consulate in your How to apply for a residence permit
country of residence about the decision. You will need to contact If you are from country group II, III or IV, the ISD will apply for a
the embassy or consulate yourself to ask if they have received residence permit on your behalf. For students from groups III
the approval from the IND and when your visa will be ready. and IV, the ISD will apply for the MVV visa and the residence
An MVV must be picked up from the Dutch embassy or permit simultaneously. For students from country group II, the
consulate within 3 months of a positive decision. After receiving ISD will apply for a residence permit before they arrive. Students
the MVV – it is a sticker in your passport – you have from group II will receive an e-mail from the ISD about the
3 months in which you can travel to the Netherlands. If you do documents required for the residence permit application.

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14
Travelling while waiting for your residence permit
› N.B. Students will have to pay the fees for the MVV If you are from country group III or IV you are allowed to travel
(if applicable) and residence permit application themselves. within the Schengen area with a valid MVV. If you are from
The ISD or your faculty will inform you how much this fee is. group IA or II, you may leave the Netherlands and then return
even if you have not yet received your residence permit.

The ISD will arrange for representatives of the Immigration and Make sure you pass enough classes to keep your
Naturalisation Service (IND, see 2.3.3) to hand out all available
residence permit
residence permit cards to students from country groups II, III, According to the Modern Migration Policy, students with a
and IV during the Welcoming Ceremony (see 3.4). residence permit for study will need to obtain at least 50%
NB. It depends on the status of your application whether you will of their yearly ECTS in order to keep their residence permit
be able to collect your residence permit card during the Welcoming for the next study year.
Ceremony.

Once you have collected your residence permit card, you must What does this mean?
register with the personal records Database (BRP) at City Hall (see If you start studying from 1 September onwards, by the end of
2.3.4). During the Welcoming Ceremony, representatives from City the Academic year in August you will need to have gained at least
Hall will be present to register students from country groups II, III 30 ECTS to keep your residence permit card. If you start studying
and IV. Students from EU/EEA countries (group I) will be able to in February, you will need to have at least 15 ECTS by August.
register at City Hall. You will receive information about this For more information and FAQs about Modern Migration Policy
process from the UG via email. These students will receive law, please check our website: www.rug.nl/momi
information about these days from the University Student Desk.

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15
2.3.3
IND Information Line IND – the Immigration and Naturalisation Service
T 088 043 04 30 of the Dutch Government
(€ 0.10 p/m) The Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) is responsible
Monday to Friday, for the implementation of the immigration policy in the
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Netherlands. It is a department of the Ministry of Security and
Justice. The IND assesses all applications submitted on behalf of
From outside the foreign nationals who wish to stay in the Netherlands or who
Netherlands wish to become Dutch nationals.
T +31 88 043 04 30
www.ind.nl
2.3.4
IND Front Office Zwolle Registration with City Hall
Zuiderzeelaan 43–51 Anyone staying in the Netherlands for 4 months or longer must
8017 JV Zwolle register with the personal records Database (BRP) at City Hall.
It is advisable that you register as soon as possible and do not
wait until the four months have passed. Some time after you
registered you will get a Dutch Citizen Service Number (Dutch:
burgerservicenummer, BSN), which you may need for other
purposes as well. Non EU/EEA students can register during the
Welcoming Ceremony.

City Hall
Kreupelstraat 1
9717 HW Groningen
T +31 (0)50 367 70 00
info@groningen.nl

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16
GroningenLife!

Who are the best at telling you what student life in Groningen is like? Exactly, students
themselves! Whether it’s about finding a room, going out, the most exciting sports, becoming
a member of one of the many student associations, what you should put in your agenda, or
where to explore your talent: we’ll explain why Groningen is the place to be.

Visit our online magazine www.groningenlife.com for the latest news, inside stories from
our witty bloggers, our agenda full of awesome upcoming events, and for all the practical
information you need! For many beautiful pictures of the city quickly go to our Instagram
account. Do you sometimes have a hard time capturing your impression of Groningen in
words? What are you waiting for – after all, a single picture is worth at least a thousand
words. If you’re a Twitter fanatic, follow us and be the first to know what’s up in Groningen!
And if you can’t wait for every news article we publish, to find out what the Tips of the Month
are and to be one of the many insiders of GroningenLife!, follow us on Facebook. You of course
don’t want to miss a thing…

We know how to deal with student life. Because... We GroningenLife!

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17
2.4

Short stay and Long stay If you want to arrange your


own housing (which is not
easy!), take a look at these
2.4.1 You will have to take the subsequent steps. sites:
Accommodation 1. You register for accommodation at the SSH. You will receive › Kamernet
In Groningen students live throughout the city and among the information from the university on the right way to register. › Opkamers
locals or ‘Stadjers’ as they call themselves. As such there is no It is not possible to apply for a room before you are accepted › CityApartments.nl
campus or campus accommodation. To help international students at the University.
to find proper housing, the University of Groningen has reserved 2. After acceptance of your registration you can look for a room Facebook groups:
accommodation with the SSH. and decide which room you would like to book. Booking is a fully › Free Housing
automated process through the website. During this process you › Announcements
In the Netherlands the universities have no formal responsibility for will automatically sign the contract of rent. › WSG Student Rooms
student housing. Corporate and private parties provide rooms for 3. After booking, you will have to pay the reservation fee and the Groningen
students. Looking for a room can be a challenging experience. The first and last month of rent within 24 hours. Payment is by means
Netherlands is one of the most densely populated countries in the of Master Card or Visa.
world. This means that housing is scarce, rooms are small, and they Warning
can be more expensive than what you are used to at home. Please note that the period of rent equals the period of your SSH guarantees reliable service.
Should you prefer to search for
education in the first year. If you want to arrive a few days earlier, housing on your own, we urge
SSH please ask the local SSH office by mail whether it is possible to rent you to be aware that there may
be untrustworthy landlords and
SSH is an independent non-profit organization providing student your room a few days earlier.
unreliable room agencies.
housing in several Dutch cities. The University has reserved more We therefore ask you to take note
than 1000 rooms for new international students with the SSH in > SSH website, click on ‘Groningen’ and then on ‘Reserved of the following tips:

order to offer each new international student a furnished room to Accommodations’. In the summer months and at the
beginning of the Academic year
rent for the maximum of one year. SSH exploits various International Student Houses. All there are a lot of students trying
International Student Houses employ student managers to to find accommodation, it is wise
Accommodation varies from single rooms to double rooms and welcome new students and act as care-takers. to start looking for a room early
If you try to find housing on your
studios. Prices for accommodation in the year ’15–’16 are between > read interviews with student managers own, please make sure to do this
€ 268 and € 467 per month, but most rooms will be around through official websites or
companies that you can trace
€ 360. These rents are all inclusive (room, heating, electricity, Alternatives for SSH Do not go to a viewing alone
furniture, internet, et cetera). Please note that you will have to pay Rents and agency costs of both commercial agencies and private (preferably bring a local)
SSH a reservation fee (€ 275) and the first and last month of rent at the landlords can be high. Remain critical, visit the room beforehand Do not pay anything before you
have made clear agreements in
T +31 88 730 42 00 time of your reservation. and always read your contract carefully! There are numerous writing
Monday to Thursday websites which offer private rooms. Best known in the Netherlands Always ask for a payment receipt
8.30 a.m. to 5 p.m. When and how to Apply is kamernet.nl. Also, use social media like Facebook, there are many A rent that is too low for the l
ocation or type of housing as well
Friday 8.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. You can visit the SSH website to take a look at ‘How it works’ groups for people who are searching for a room in Groningen. Start
as unrecognizable pictures of the
and ‘Available housing’. It is very important that you apply for early with your search and let people know that you’re looking location may indicate fraudulent
groningen@sshxl.nl accommodation with SSH as soon as you are accepted at the for a room! If you want to know more about what it’s like to live in practices

www.sshxl.nl University. This will increase the possibility of finding a room that Groningen you can visit the student-to-student platform Housing Avoid identity theft: never send a
copy of your passport to strangers
suits your preferences. anywhere , where you can immediately see what current students If you wish to rent a room out-
have to offer you. side the city center in a building
that has 3 or more residents, you
INDEX should check if the proprietor has
the correct permit.
18
2.4.2 2.4.3
Registering with the University Health insurance
After you have been admitted to the university you will still have The Netherlands has a high standard of medical care. It is very
to complete your registration through Studielink. You can find important to be properly insured. Medical costs can be very
more information about the ‘Application procedure with non- high, especially if they include a stay in a hospital. Students at
Dutch qualifications’ on our website: www.rug.nl/inschrijving. institutes of higher education are not automatically insured for
medical expenses abroad.
After your registration has been completed your student card will
be sent to you by the University Student Desk (see 3.1). This card All international students in the Netherlands must have health
will grant you access to university facilities such as the library and insurance. What kind of health insurance applies to you depends
the sports facilities. Registration will also allow the ICT department on your country of origin, age, duration of stay and whether you
of your faculty to allocate you a computer account with internet have a job in the Netherlands next to your study.
access and a university email account.
The insurance system in the Netherlands underwent a major
The university Student Desk will send your student card to your change on 1 January 2006. The new statutory healthcare insurance
address in Groningen or to your faculty coordinator. If you have in the Netherlands is called the basic or public healthcare insurance
any problems registering, please contact your faculty coordinator policy (basiszorgverzekering). Most people in the Netherlands
or the university Student Desk (see 3.1), or check out the FAQ part are required to take out the basiszorgverzekering. However, inter-
of their website on: www.rug.nl/insandouts national students who do not have a paid job here are exempted
from this requirement and can apply for an EHIC or an international
student insurance at Aon.

send your invoices to Zilveren


EHIC (EU Health Card)
Kruis, with a copy of your EHIC
card

GP office will send bill


Aon
directly to Aon

you pay in cash. Keep the


› Please note that this registration procedure does not apply receipts for possible
A foreign health insurance
to exchange students. For more information, please contact reimbursement from your
your faculty coordinator. insurance company

present insurance card;


Dutch insurance payments will be made by
the insurance company

INDEX
19
What type of healthcare insurance do I need? › Please note that the University of Groningen is not liable
At the Study in Holland website you can find information about for any costs (medical or otherwise) or damage incurred
which type of healthcare insurance you need to take out. by students or international guests.
You can find the information here: www.studyinholland.nl/
practical-matters/insurance/healthcare-insurance
Statutory basic healthcare insurance
Please note that if you take up a part-time job while studying, or All health insurance companies in the Netherlands offer the Dutch
you are a trainee with salary, your stay in the Netherlands will no basic or public healthcare insurance policy (basiszorgverzekering),
longer be regarded as being for study purposes only. If you are in and you are free to choose whichever insurance company you
employment, you must always have statutory basic healthcare prefer.
insurance. Whether or not you pay tax is irrelevant.
The basic healthcare insurance policy does not include liability
insurance, household contents insurance or luggage insurance.
It is possible to apply for additional insurance at Aon:
www.students-insurance.eu We strongly recommend
that you do so.

Private healthcare insurance


We recommend the private healthcare insurance from Aon,
as they offer the most extensive coverage and you can pay in
monthly installments (approx. € 40 per month).

The insurance policy of Aon also includes liability insurance,


household contents insurance and luggage insurance.
You can apply for this insurance through the Aon website:
www.students-insurance.eu

EU Health Insurance Card


You can get an EU Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from your
insurance company in your own country if you are insured
under a national health service and are going to be staying
abroad. N.B. in this case, the health insurance institution in
your home country decides what constitutes as temporary
stay, and they may handle different criteria than those in the
Netherlands. With the EHIC you will continue to be covered
by the insurance in your home country.

INDEX
20
Zilveren Kruis You do not have to send the invoices to your own insurance 2.4.5
Groep Buitenlands Recht company in your home country. Send the invoices for medical Banking
Postbus 650 treatment in the Netherlands to Zilveren Kruis (a Dutch health
7300 AR Apeldoorn insurance company) with a copy of your EHIC, as well as your Currency
address and bank account number, in order to receive a refund The currency of the Netherlands is the euro, written as €. A euro is
of the costs. divided into one hundred cents. There are coins and banknotes;
each denomination has a different size and colour.
Additional insurance package
The EHIC insurance does not include liability insurance, Foreign exchange
household contents insurance or luggage insurance. At Aon The exchange rate is fixed every day and will be displayed at
www.students-insurance.eu you will be able to take out this every foreign exchange office. All banks offer the same rates, but
additional insurance package. We strongly recommend that you their charges for foreign exchange may vary. The largest foreign
do so. exchange specialist in the Netherlands is GWK www.gwk.nl with
offices located at railway stations, airports, and popular tourist
2.4.4 locations.
Liability Insurance
Apart from a health insurance students also need liability insurance. How to pay
This type of insurance will cover you if you have accidentally caused Four basic payment methods are recognized in the Netherlands:
damage to other people’s property, for instance. cash, PIN, credit card, or bank transfer. Cash payment is the most
common method, although more and more people use PIN. A PIN
N.B. This kind of insurance is also covered by the Aon private card or debit card (pinpas) is connected to your bank account. This
healthcare insurance. Students who take out the Aon private means that you no longer have to sign a paper receipt, but simply
healthcare insurance do not need to take out separate liability enter a four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN), just as you
insurance. would at an ATM machine. Payment by credit card is less common
in smaller shops and supermarkets. However, restaurants, hotels
Most banks offer liability insurances for students who will stay in and department stores generally accept all major credit cards.
the Netherlands for at least one year. Should you stay for a shorter
period, the bank will determine whether you are eligible for their Banking hours
liability insurance together with you. Most major banks are open on Mondays from 1 to 6 p.m. and
Tuesday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. However, this may vary, so
make sure you check your bank’s opening hours.

INDEX
21
Bank account Important: students who bring more than (the equivalent of)
ABN AMRO When you live in the Netherlands for a period over 6 months, you € 10,000 in cash need to declare this at customs. When opening SNS Bank
Grote Markt 22 will need a current Dutch bank account to manage your day-to-day a bank account, the bank will ask for a copy of your declaration Oude Ebbingestraat 66
9712 HV Groningen finances. form. If you do not make a declaration, you run the risk of 9712 HM Groningen
T 0900-00 24 receiving a fine. T 0900-18 50
Non-EU/EER guests of the university will be informed by the ISD
Opening times Opening times
about opening a Dutch bank account.
Monday 13.00–17.00 h Monday 13.00 – 18.00 h
› more information on the site of the Dutch Customs
Tuesday 09.00–17.00 h Tuesday 09.00 – 18.00 h
EU/EER Administration
Wednesday 09.00–17.00 h Wednesday 09.00 – 18.00 h
When you have a EU/EER nationality, you probably already have a
Thursday 09.00–17.00 h Thursday 09.00 – 21.00 h
bank account with an International Bank Account Number (IBAN).
Friday 09.00–17.00 h Friday 09.00 – 18.00 h
The Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) system enables you to make
Saturday Closed Saturday 10.00 – 17.00 h
international financial transfers within the EU/EER countries. If you
Sunday Closed Sunday Closed
do not have an IBAN, you can open a bank account at one of the
banks in the blue boxes on this page.

Opening a bank account


Required documents for opening a bank account are a valid
passport and an address in the Netherlands (i.e. a rental agreement).
ING
Hereplein 51 Please note that it is very important to close your Dutch bank
9711 GDGroningen account when you have finished your studies and/or will leave
T 0900-09 33 the Netherlands.

Opening times
Monday 09.00–19.00 h
Tuesday 09.00–19.00 h
Wednesday 09.00–19.00 h
Thursday 09.00–20.00 h
Friday 09.00– 9.00 h
Saturday 09.30–16.00 h
Sunday Closed

INDEX
22
3 Student Services

This chapter will


help you find your
way through our
University!

INDEX
23
3.1

University Student Desk

The staff of the University Student Desk (USD), which is located in


University Student Desk the Academy Building, can provide you with information and advice
Visiting address: about issues related to studying and other general matters, such
Broerstraat 5 as application www.rug.studielink.nl, registration, student grants,
Academy Building, 1st Floor study delay and the Graduation Fund. You can also get help and
www.rug.nl/usd information regarding your registration matters at the USD.
This includes the annual registration, tuition fees, or requesting a
Opening hours: new student card. For more information and FAQs, please visit:
Monday to Friday, www.rug.nl/insandouts
1 to 4 p.m.
Telephone: +31 (0)50 363
8004, reachable Monday
to Friday from 10 a.m. to
4 p.m.

INDEX
24
3.2

Student Service Centre

The Student Service Centre of the University of Groningen (SSC) and groups. For information about the dates, times and content
Student Service Centre provides an integrated package of study support with the aim of of the courses and workshops, please visit the SSC-website:
Visiting address: helping students with their studies. We can prevent or remove www.rug.nl/ssc.
Uurwerkersgang 10 possible obstacles to your study progress so that you can develop
9712 EJ Groningen fully during your time at university. Our student counselors, You can register for a workshop or course online at www.rug.nl/ssc.
T +31 (0)50 363 80 66 psychologists and trainers offer a wide range of support facilities: Your participation is definitive when you have paid the participation
www.rug.nl/ssc information and advice, individual meetings, short-term therapy fee of € 10 (for workshops) or € 40 (for courses).
and a wide variety of workshops and training courses.
Opening hours: 3.2.3
Monday to Thursday, 3.2.1 Psychological counseling at the Student Service Centre
8:45 to 4:30 p.m. The student counselors at the SSC Studying abroad is generally a joyful experience. However, some-
Friday 8:45 to 1 p.m. Student counselors deal with matters that you may wish to times it can be stressful too! Ranging from finding a nice room, living
address or that must be arranged outside your degree program. on your own in a foreign country, to figuring out the Dutch study
These matters may include questions concerning study choice system. Meanwhile you still have to try to have some fun as well. 
or personal and confidential matters, study delay due to illness You might be able to deal with these kind of issues on your own.
or other circumstances outside your control or questions about But when difficulties begin to affect your studies or personal life to a
legal or financial matters such as admission, student grants, greater extent you might want to talk to someone. And that is what
registration, etc. Student counselors can fulfill a mediating and the psychological counselors of the Student Service Center are there
advisory role for students; you might consult a student counselor for. You can talk to them about anything, from feeling down, anxious
if you consider to file a complaint. of stressed to having social problems or organizing your life. An
appointment can be made at the SSC desk, (050) 363 80 66 or you
Appointments with the student counselors can be made through can visit the SSC at Uurwerkersgang 10 (center of Groningen).
the University Student Desk (see 3.1) in the Academy Building. The counseling sessions are always confidential. This first
appointment is called an initial assessment. In the assessment you
3.2.2 will explore the problems you are dealing with. Usually you will be
The trainers at the SSC offered some follow-up counseling sessions at the SSC. Sometimes,
For international students, studying in Groningen can sometimes if problems are more severe, you are referred to a specialist working
be a hassle. Teaching methods are different, examination modes outside the University of Groningen. The initial assessment session
are different, your friends and family are far away. To overcome is free of charge. If you choose to have follow-up counseling sessions
possible problems and make life a little easier, the trainers at the we ask you to pay a one time contribution of € 40. 
Student Service Centre organize workshops and courses. They offer
both a course and a workshop on Academic Writing Skills and
workshops on Effective Studying, Multiple-Choice Questions and
Study Planning & Time Management. International students from
all faculties of the University can attend these workshops, courses

INDEX
25
3.3

International Service Desk

The staff of the International Service Desk


International Service Desk
(ISD) is specialized in Dutch immigration
Postal address:
University of Groningen law and is responsible for the visa and
P.O. Box 72
residence permit applications of all
9700 AB Groningen
The Netherlands prospective and current international
T +31 (0)50 363 81 81
students, PhD students, guest researchers
Available by telephone
Monday to Friday, and staff
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
of the University of Groningen.
isd@rug.nl
Moreover, the ISD provides practical information about insurance,
Visiting address: medical care, housing, university facilities and matters concerning
International Service Desk everyday life. The ISD is located inside the university’s main
Broerstraat 5 building, the Academy Building. Please feel free to contact or visit
Academy Building, 1st Floor the ISD with any questions regarding the above-mentioned topics.

Opening hours: Follow us on Facebook and/or Twitter!


Monday to Friday,
www.facebook.com/InternationalServiceDesk
2 to 4 p.m.
www.twitter.com/ISD_UnivGron

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26
3.4

Introductory programmes

Welcoming Ceremony Faculty programmes Welcoming Ceremony and Central Introduction Week
Thursday Many faculties and degree programmes organize their own The University organizes an official Welcoming Ceremony for all
27 August 2015 introductory programme for new international students and new international guests at the beginning of the first and second
Thursday guests. During these activities, you will get to know your fellow semester. The Welcoming Ceremony for the first semester
28 January 2016 students, the faculty or department and its staff, and you will of 2015-2016 will be on Wednesday 26 August 2015 and 27 August
receive further information about modules, procedures, schedules, 2015. For the second semester the ceremony will take place on
N.B. All above- facilities, et cetera. Please check with your faculty coordinator Thursday 28 January 2016. The programme includes short speeches
mentioned dates are or programme coordinator for further details. In addition to the by the Mayor, the Rector Magnificus and other representatives of the
subject to change. faculty programmes, the faculties advise international students university, as well as an information market, lunch and workshops
to take part in the official Welcoming Ceremony and the Central about Dutch culture and education.
Introduction Week organized by the International Service Desk and
ESN Groningen, respectively. After the Official Welcoming Ceremony, there will be an additional
Central Introduction Week, organized by ESN Groningen. This
introduction week includes cultural events and tours of the city,
sports, parties and dinners. For further information and registration,
please check the ESN Groningen website www.esn-groningen.nl
or contact the International Service Desk (see 3.3).

INDEX
27
3.5

Food & Drinks

Are you in desperate need of a coffee or looking for a place to spend your lunch break?
Visit the Food & Drinks restaurants, take aways and coffee bars in the university
buildings! We take care of the University’s catering and are always there to boost your
talent. We serve hot and cold meals and sell all types of coffee possible. Please check
www.rug.nl/foodanddrinks for up to date opening times and more information.

What to expect as an international student? menu and you can even ask our cooks to prepare you a vegan dish!
As a foreign student, the Dutch cuisine might not completely be Do you have specific dietary requirements due to your beliefs, your
in line with your food culture. Therefore, we are trying to adapt to religion or an allergy? Do not hesitate to ask our employees and
international students as much as possible. For instance, we are they will help you find something that meets your wishes!
serving more and more hot meals at lunch time and you can always
order a vegetarian dish. There’s a great range of lunch options in Vending machines
most restaurants, where you can choose from hot and cold dishes There are food and drink vending machines and coffee machines
like salads, curry or pasta. If you feel like eating vegan or if you are in every Univesrity building, including those that do not have a
allergic to certain products, please don’t hesitate to ask one of our restaurant. Products on sale include packaged biscuits and cakes, Contact
employees and they’ll make sure to find you a suitable solution. confectionary and bottled soft drinks, water and juices. Do you have a request or a
complaint? Please send an
What do we offer? Where can you find us? e-mail to fb@rug.nl
In restaurants you will find a fresh salad bar, a wide variety of bread City center: Academy Building (main building), Harmonie Building
rolls, hot lunch dishes, homemade soups, hot and cold snacks, (Faculties of Humanities and Law), University Library and the Connect with us on Facebook
smoothies and juices, coffee and tea products, soft drinks, dairy Heymans Building (Faculty of Behavioural and Social Sciences). (/RUGFoodDrinks), where we
products and confectionary. Hot meals are served dinnertime at the Zernike: ACLO (Sports Bar), Kapteynborg, Bernoulliborg, Smitsborg, share discounts and special
Academia (city centre) and Kapteynborg (Zernike Campus) restau- Zernikeborg, Duisenberg (Micaffè), Centre for Information menus daily.
rants. At our take aways you’ll mainly find quick snacks, bread rolls Technology (Linnaeusborg), Centre for Advanced Radiation We are also on Twitter:
and drinks ranging from coffee and tea to dairy products and soft Technology. @RUGFoodDrinks.
drinks. Our coffee bars focus on excellent tea and coffee products. Looking for up to date
You’ll also find muffins, cakes and cookies as well as other drinks For more information on all the locations, go to opening times or further
and snacks. www.rug.nl/science-and-society/facility-services/catering/ information on the Food &
food-and-drinks/locaties/ Drinks department?
Dietary information
You will find vegetarian products in all our restaurants, take aways Check
and coffee bars. There is always a vegetarian option on the dinner www.rug.nl/foodanddrinks

INDEX
28
3.6

Computer facilities

The Donald Smits Center for Information Technology (CIT) provides many computer
Desks on location
facilities for the university community. For example, the CIT manages the university’s
Zernike
computer network, RUGnet, and provides computer courses. Most courses are taught Mercator 5415.0052

in Dutch, but some courses are also taught in English. For more information, please City centre
Harmonie building 
contact your faculty contact person.
1312.101

You can also contact the


Internet access CIT Service Desk central Service Desk by
While studying at the University of Groningen you will have a If you have questions about computer facilities please check out phone.
university computer account and an e-mail address. This will the website: www.rug.nl/servicedesk
be provided to you by your faculty at registration and it gives
you access to the internet and other educational services of the The CIT Service Desks are located throughout the city and the
university. You can use the computer rooms in your faculty building Zernike Science park: CIT Service Desk
and the main University Library in the city centre without making T +31 (0)50 363 32 32
reservations.
The CIT service Desk is
If you have not received information about your computer account reachable from Monday to
and e-mail address, please contact your faculty or programme Friday, 8.30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
coordinator. The University of Groningen also offers its students Follow the CIT servicedesk
the possibility of wireless access to the internet inside the buildings on twitter for important
of the university. updates about
developments and
maintenance:
@CITservicedesk

INDEX
29
3.7

The University Library

The University of Groningen Library consists of the University Library


University Library
(Universiteitsbibliotheek, UB) and 3 faculty libraries. The combined libraries
(Universiteitsbibliotheek, UB)
Broerstraat 4 contain a total of three million books and periodicals, of which more than
9712 CP Groningen
two million are located in the central UB. Documents can be easily located
Service Desk:
T +31 (0)50 363 50 20 using the online Catalogue which can be consulted via the Library Portal:
Library Portal:
www.rug.nl/library
www.rug.nl/library
Questions:
www.rug.nl/science-and-
society/library/support/ The UB has a number of reading rooms with open access to the
vragen/ core collections for each discipline. These rooms are an excellent
place to study, with 1,800 study places in total. For those who
The University Library prefer more privacy, there are a number of closed carrels and
on Facebook: smaller rooms. Another important facility is the Digital
www.facebook.com/ Workstations. Spread over two floors, visitors will find more than
universityofgroningenlibrary two hundred workstations for consulting catalogues, online
and on databases and journals. Students have access to all the online
Twitter: @Bibliothecaris library facilities. For instance, the full-text content of more than
30,000 electronic journals and 500,000 ebooks is available, not
Opening hours: only from within the library, but also from your own workstation
Monday to Friday: and even from home.
8.30 a.m. till midnight;
Saturdays and Sundays: You can borrow books with the student card that you will
10 a.m. – 10 p.m. receive from your faculty after registration. To log in to the library
network, a user name and password are needed. This information
N.B. Opening hours may will be provided by your faculty or can be obtained from the faculty
vary during exam and IT Helpdesk.
vacation periods.
Download our library app
for the latest information!

INDEX
30
3.8

Career Services before,


during & after your degree

The University of Groningen wants to offer its prospective students,


students and alumni the best possible facilities to prepare and
develop their careers. Within the framework of Career Services,
various activities are organized to help you make choices – and
study choices in particular – and prepare you for the job market.
In order to achieve this, Career Services is working actively with
faculties, study associations, alumni organizations and other
providers in the field of Career Services.

Study and careers advice in the University Library


Career Services is located in the University Library, on the 1st floor.
This is where various activities for students are organized. You
can visit us during open office hours between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Monday to Friday. We check your CV for free. Seminars about Social
Media or Looking for Work around the Globe are provided and
workshops about the perfect CV and cover letter can be attended.

More information
Visit our website www.rug.nl/careerservices for more informa-
tion or if you have any questions about the services, please contact
Career Services via next@rug.nl.

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31
3.9

ACLO Sports Centre

ACLO Groningen, the place where 19.000 students from the University of Groningen and
the Hanze University of Applied sciences Groningen enjoy sports 15 hours a day, almost every
day of the year. The ACLO Sports Centre at Zernike and the new location in the City Centre are
the places where you can join a wide variety of sports in a fun setting.

If you study at the University of Groningen, you can buy an ACLO › Internal competitions – when you don’t want to join a sports
Card for only €59,95 which will be valid one academic year. This is club you can play several sports in a competition at the ACLO.
only € 4,99 a month! An additional fee of only €65,- a year grants The ACLO organizes for example a futsal, soccer and beach
access to over 600 m2 of fitness space. If you stay less than six volleyball competition.
months, you can get a special International Student Card for only ›  Sports clubs – there are 49 clubs associated with the ACLO.
€ 44,95, this card will be valid from the 1st of September till the They offer a variety of different sports, all with student-priced
1st of February. Please ask your faculty or institution for a proof of membership fees.
enrollment and bring it to the ACLO Sports Centre at Zernike to ›  Fitness – An additional fee of only €65,- a year grants unlimited
ACLO Sport Centre become an ACLO member. access to over 600 m2 of fitness space.
Blauwborgje 16
9747 AC Groningen ›  Open hours – these hours are accessible to everyone with an Registration
(Zernike complex) ACLO Card. During open hours you are coached by instructors To get an ACLO Sports Card you can go to the information desk
and you get the opportunity to exercise at your own level. of the ACLO Sports Centre. Do not forget to bring your student card
Extra location ACLO from Examples of open hours are swimming, body fit, spinning, (see 2.4.2) and proof of enrollment of your faculty or institution.
September 2015 basketball, aerobics, climbing, indoor soccer, and many more! A As soon as you have paid for the ACLO Card you can participate in
Stationsplein 7 schedule of the open hours is available on our website. all the sports the ACLO offers. Don’t forget always to bring your
9726 AE Groningen › Courses – Explore new sports during one of the many courses. student card when you go play sports at the ACLO facilities, because
These courses run for a five or ten week period. The courses are your student card is also used to get access to the ACLO facilities!
Reservations and offered at beginners’ level, unless stated otherwise. Courses the
information: ACLO offers are for example: bootcamp outdoor, golf, kickboxing, For more information, visit the website of the ACLO:
T +31 (0)50 363 80 63 skiing and pole dance! www.aclosport.nl/en
info@aclosport.nl › Free reservations – if you want to play tennis, squash, football,
www.aclosport.nl beach volleyball or something else with your friends, make a
reservation on the website or at your phone.
Facebook:
www.facebook.com/
ACLOsport

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32
3.10

University of Groningen Language Centre

The University of Groningen Language Centre provides language courses, language


tests and intercultural training for students and staff (and others).

General Language Courses are reported in terms of the internationally recognized Common
The Language Centre offers language courses at various levels in European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The LCET
a variety of languages, including Dutch for non-native speakers, is recognized by the University of Groningen and by its partner uni-
English, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, versities. Before applying for the Language Centre English Test, you
Portuguese and Russian. should always check with the university or organization concerned
whether they will accept our test as proof of your level of English.
Free Dutch courses It can be very useful for international Dutch: C-test This test is geared towards Dutch native-speaker
University of Groningen students and staff to have a basic students with a foreign secondary school diploma, who did not take
knowledge of Dutch. Therefore, international students (excluding Dutch as an exam subject in secondary school, and who want to
exchange students) and staff of the University of Groningen are follow a Dutch-taught degree programme in the Netherlands.
being offered free beginner’s Dutch courses ( up to CEFR-level B1 ) When passed, a certificate will be issued stating that your Dutch University of Groningen
by the Board of the University of Groningen. You can take the free is sufficient to successfully follow a degree programme at a Language Centre
course at the Language Centre during (or prior to) your studies. Dutch university or university of applied sciences. Oude Kijk in ’t Jatstraat 26
Dutch language courses at different levels are offered almost every Other language tests The Language Centre also offers tests 9712 EK Groningen
month. for students who need a proof of their French, German, Italian, T +31 (0)50 363 58 02
English courses The Language Centre offers various courses for Portuguese, Russian and Spanish language levels. languagecentre@rug.nl
students to improve their English language skills. You can have your www.rug.nl/languagecentre
level tested during our open office hours. Based on a short con- Intercultural Effectiveness
versation, you will receive advice about the starting level and the The Language Centre of the University of Groningen offers several
intensity of your course. courses to help you develop your intercultural competence –
Academic skills For students wishing to excel in their studies whether you want help adapting specifically to the Dutch culture,
and enhance their academic skills in English and/or Dutch, the (or another culture you need to be work with) or you want to learn
Language Centre offers a variety of academic writing and pre- how to manage the diversity in your project groups better, you are
sentation courses. For initial self-study, please visit our academic welcome at the Language Centre to develop the various aspects of
skills portal: www.rug.nl/science-and-society/language-centre/ intercultural competence necessary for intercultural effectiveness. 
academic-communication-skills/
More information and Registration
Language Tests Please visit the Language Centre website for more information
English: LCET Students and staff who need proof of their English about the range of courses. You can register online for a course
language level can be tested at the Language Centre. The Language using the link in the relevant course schedule on the website, or at
Centre English Test (LCET) is an academic test, covering all four the Secretary’s Office at the Language Centre, open on weekdays
language skills: speaking, writing, listening and reading. Results from 12 noon to 4 p.m.; 12 noon to 8 p.m. on Thursdays.

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33
3.11

Cultural Student Centre Usva

Usva is the cultural centre of the University of Groningen. Usva houses in the city center
at Munnekeholm 10. There they organize courses in eight disciplines: visual arts, body &
mind, dance, film and photography, graphic design & fashion, music, theatre and word.
It is also the place where students come together to stage their own plays in the theatre,
where they can display their own art in the gallery, where they can have a drink in the
Usva café and where they can visit or organize different events like a Film Festival (Flicks)
or a singer-songwriter contest (Nootuitgang).

A lot of students volunteer at Usva to help realize these events. Most courses are 10 weeks long and take place in the Usva building.
Usva also functions as the umbrella organization for all the other www.usva.nl you’ll find more information about all the courses
cultural student organizations in Groningen. These organisations Usva offers, prices, dates and more in depth information per course.
come to Usva for rehearsal space, to make use of the theatre or Here you’ll also find links to the websites of the other cultural
for advice or financial support. Usva thinks it’s important to organizations and an agenda with all the Usva events in it.
collaborate and they gladly support cultural initiatives from  
students in Groningen. We hope to welcome you soon at Usva!
 
Usva courses are open to everyone, but students get a discount.
Most courses are offered in English. You can enroll for courses
online via the Usva website. You need a student number to enroll.
If you can’t pay online with your bank account, it is possible to pay Cultural Student
with cash or via PIN at the Usva desk on workdays between Centre Usva
09:00 and 17:00. There are three course trimesters per academic Munnekeholm 10
year: 9711 JA Groningen
T +31 (0)50 363 46 70
1st trimester: start September 21 2015 F +31 (0)50 363 22 09
2nd trimester: start December 7 2015 usva@rug.nl
3d trimester: start March 7 2016 www.usva.nl

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34
3.12

GSp – ecumenical students’ fellowship

The Groningen Students’ Platform is a place where the religious interests of students are
meaningfully related to contemporary developments in society and the world of science and
scholarship as well as to their personal life and history. You can meet other students and
talk about what interests you, your view of the world or have a drink and talk about sense
and nonsense, spirituality, life and much more.

The GSp programme of activities runs twice a year, at the end of › Every third Sunday: Evensong in the Nieuwe Kerk, Nieuwe
September and the end of January. Activities range from discussion Kerkhof 1, Groningen at 5 pm. GSp
groups to one-day excursions, Open House evenings (with guest Kraneweg 33
speakers), creative workshops and Bible study groups. To see our › Every fourth Sunday: Prayer inspired by the Taizé community 9718 JE Groningen
program, check www.gspweb.nl. We have a special page with (France) and the Iona Community (Scotland), in the Martinikerk, T +31 (0)50 312 99 26
activities in English, but you are always welcome to join our Martinikerkhof 3, Groningen at 5 pm. info@gspweb.nl
evenings. www.gspweb.nl
› Activities of HOST-IFES take place in the SKLO/GSp building
› Dinner every Tuesday and Wednesday at 6.30 p.m. costing only almost every Friday evening www.hostgroningen.nl
€ 3,00. Please let us know before noon on the day in question if
you would like to join us.

› GSp Movie theatre at 8 p.m. on Thursday, twice a month.


Free admission, most films are in English.

› GSp Open bar: every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evening.

› Students who wish to have a private, confidential talk with one


of the chaplains can arrange this through the GSp secretaries
or call the numbers of the chaplains which you can find on the
GSp website.

› Church services (in English): Every second and fourth Sunday


of the month an Anglican church service is held at Witte de
Withstraat, 2, Groningen, at 10:30 am.

INDEX
35
3.13

Other Religions

Roman Catholic St. Augustine Student Parish Islamic Centre Groningen


Pastor drs. R.R.B.M Wagenaar (Islamitisch Centrum Groningen)
Radesingel 4 Park Selwerd 1
9711 EJ Groningen 9741 PJ Groningen
T +31 (0)50 312 42 15 www.moskeegroningen.com
Holy Mass (in english) every saturday at 5 pm
For Bible study and other activities: Vineyard International Church
www.rkstudentengroningen.nl Locatie: Gomarus
Vondelpad 2
International Christian Church Groningen 9721 LX Groningen,
(Christelijk Centrum Groningen) T +31 (0)592 54 34 50
Johan de Wittstraat 2 groningen.vineyard@gmail.com
9716 CG Groningen www.vineyardgroningen.com
T +31 (0)50 577 77 57
www.ccg.nu

Roman Catholic St. Martinus Parish


Pastor drs. R.R.B.M Wagenaar
Radesingel 4
9711 EJ Groningen
T +31 (0)50 312 42 15
secretariaat@stmartinusparochie.nl
www.stmartinusparochie.nl

Jewish Community Groningen


(Nederlands-Israëlitische Gemeente Groningen)
P.O. Box 4187
9701 ED Groningen
www.nig-groningen.nl

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36
3.14

University Museum Groningen

Housed in the former university Library in the city centre, the


University Museum University Museum is the perfect place to discover the rich and
Oude Kijk in ’t Jatstraat 7a varied past of the university and its students. The museum has an
T +31 (0)50 363 55 62/50 83 extensive collection of objects such as old models, scientific
universiteitsmuseum@rug.nl instruments and much more, ranging from anatomy to geology,
www.rug.nl/museum ethnology and zoology. Besides the permanent displays, visitors to
the museum can also enjoy special exhibitions highlighting specific
Opening hours: topics.
Tuesday to Sunday,
1 p.m. to 5 p.m. (Open on Are you curious to know more about your University’s history?
public holidays) Visit the University Museum and check out the current
exhibitions via their website. Entrance is free.

Follow the University on facebook and twitter:

www.facebook.com/universiteitsmuseumgroningen

@univmuseum

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37
3.15

Studium Generale

Studium Generale Groningen (SGG) is a collaboration between


Studium Generale the University of Groningen and the Hanze University of Applied
Groningen Sciences Groningen. We organize lectures, debates and an
Oude Boteringestraat 13 ocassional film night in the domains of science, culture and society.
Postbus 1260 The varied programme is intended for a wide audience of students,
9701 BG Groningen lecturers and other interested parties from within the city and
(050) 363 54 63 province of Groningen. For more information on all our activities
www.sggroningen.nl go to our website: www.sggroningen.nl

/studiumgeneralegroningen

/SGGroningen

INDEX
38
4 International Student
Organizations
Student life is
much more than just
studying, this chapter
will help you set up
your social life!

INDEX
39
4.1

ESN Groningen

ESN Groningen, Erasmus Student Network Groningen, is the student organization for
all international students in the city of Groningen, as well as for Dutch students interested
in studying abroad. It is part of a broader network of almost 500 European ESN sections
which take care of international students in their respective cities. In addition, ESN
Groningen works closely together with the University of Groningen

The main objective of ESN Groningen is to support international Information about all the activities will be published on Facebook
ESN Groningen students during their stay in Groningen. This includes finding them www.facebook.com/groningen.esn and more information about
Pelsterstraat 23 a Dutch mentor student who can assist with practical matters and ESN Groningen can be found on www.esn-groningen.nl.
9711 KH Groningen will help foreign students in getting to know the city of Groningen,
T +31 (0)50 363 71 76 student facilities and student life. ESN Groningen also organizes an If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at
info@esn-groningen.nl introduction week at the beginning of each semester, in which the info@esn-groningen.nl, call us, or come by at our office. Our
www.esn-groningen.nl newly arrived students are introduced to all aspects of student life office is also the place where you can sign up for our activities.
in Groningen. The introduction week is the perfect opportunity to It is located at Pelsterstraat 23.
Office hours: meet other international students.
Monday to Friday, 1 p.m.
to 4 p.m. During your stay in Groningen, ESN Groningen will organize various
Thursday, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. activities to make you feel at home, to enjoy your time to the fullest
and to show you more of the Netherlands. These activities include
a weekly social drink at the hang-out of ESN, theme parties, pub
quizzes, integration activities like ice-skating, sports activities,
international dinners, hitch hike weekends, and much more.
In addition, ESN organizes every month a different excursion to
interesting places in the Netherlands such as a trip to Amsterdam
and a sailing weekend.

INDEX
40
ESN Groningen

Marlieke de Vries

Marlieke de Vries Since I was a child I am interested in countries and cultures from all over
the world. Made enthusiastic by the stories and pictures of my mom about her travels and the
years she lived in Niger, I could not wait to go abroad myself. I have always wanted to go to
Latin America and in 2013 my dream came true. I went on exchange to Bogotá, Colombia to
study at the Pontificia Universidad Javeriana. I had an amazing time and since I know what
it is like to be in a new country on your own, I decided that I wanted to give other students
the opportunity to also experience a great time abroad. That is why I applied to become the
President of ESN Groningen. Being the President gives me a lot of responsibilities but it is
also very rewarding to see the happy faces of international students when they talk about ESN
Groningen and how the organization helped them to have the time of their lives in Groningen.

Hearing all the good stories from internationals about ESN, I am convinced that ESN really
adds something to your stay in Groningen. We will keep you busy with a whole range of
different cultural, social, and professional activities from the moment you arrive until the
moment you leave. We start the semester with the great ESN Introduction Week, which is the
perfect opportunity to get to know the city and to meet new friends from all over the world.
ESN Groningen is an organization that is open to all international students. So join us and
we will make sure that you won’t be bored during your time in Groningen!

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41
4.2

AIESEC

AIESEC is an international student organization active in over 124 countries and


it has over 100.000 members. It was founded in 1948 and has grown into the largest
student organization in the world.

The goal of AIESEC is to challenge students to develop themselves


AIESEC Groningen on professional and cultural levels. To realize this, AIESEC
Pelsterstraat 23, first floor focuses on personal development and increasing intercultural
9711 KH Groningen understanding amongst students. We do this with our internship
T +31(0) 50 3637927 programmes, parttime and fulltime board functions and by offering
groningen@aiesec.nl a link between students and the job market with our Make a Move
www.aiesec.nl/ events.
groningenOffice
For international students studying at the University of Groningen,
Office hours: AIESEC offers two types of internships. Through the Global Citizen
In the University Library (UB), programme, you get the chance to work in a project abroad for
first floor room 123 (NEXT 6-8 weeks, to challenge and develop yourself, expand your
office) intercultural skills and experience a new culture. The programme
Tuesday, 3 to 5 p.m.. has three main themes, Go teach, Be an entrepreneur and Make
Thursday, 3 to 5 p.m. aware. Our Global internship programmes give you the opportunity
to go on a professional internship overseas where you can work at
a company or NGO for 6 months or longer.

International students can also apply for a parttime (15–20 hours


per week) or fulltime board year at AIESEC Groningen.

Would you like to receive more information about AIESEC and our
activities? Please send us an e-mail, visit our website or facebook
page or come by during our open office hours.

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42
4.3

AEGEE

AEGEE-Groningen is a student association that combines fun with content on a


European level and achieves this by being part of the largest student organization in
Europe, AEGEE. Our student organization is active in more than 40 countries
and over 200 student cities and has more than 13,000 members. This enables
AEGEE-Groningen to organize various intercultural activities during the whole year.

AEGEE offers a great way to travel and meet other internationally Apart from the Summer Universities, AEGEE-Groningen also
AEGEE-Groningen oriented students. Every summer AEGEE-members go abroad for organizes symposia, debating sessions, hitchhiking competitions,
pinnetje) Pelsterstraat 23 a ‘Summer University’ programme. Approximately 2000 students congresses and exchanges, which give the opportunity to discuss
(second floor) from all over Europe participate in the programme, coming specific issues with students from across Europe. Social meetings
9711 KH Groningen together in groups of 30, to learn more about the organizing city/ are free for everyone and take place every Wednesday from 10 p.m.
T +31 (0)50 363 56 34 country while having a good time and getting to know each other. onwards in Café Ome Ko, Poelestraat 27, Groningen.
board@aegee-groningen.nl The local organizers give you inside information of their city and its
www.aegee-groningen.nl surroundings, because they know their local hotspots the best. For more information please contact the AEGEE office or visit our
www.summeruniversity.nl The Summer Universities mix serious activities with fun elements website.
at a local level, such as salsa dancing, boxing, ice-skating and
Opening hours: European nights at which you can try drinks and snacks from all
Monday to Thursday, over Europe. As all participating students are accommodated on
1 p.m. to 5 p.m. campus or with AEGEE members, the Summer University fee is only
about € 70 a week, including lodgings, meals, excursions and the
social programme. It is a fantastic way to discover Europe in an
affordable way and gives you the opportunity to encounter a real
cultural exchange while building up a network of European friends.

INDEX
43
4.4

SIB-Groningen: the Dutch United Nations


Students Association (DUNSA)

SIB-Groningen, also known as DUNSA (Dutch United Nations Students Association) is


a student association that focuses on international relations. This results in weekly
activities with a wide range of topics. SIB gives its members the chance to meet politicians
and other important actors in the international arena on a regular basis. Besides all
these activities, SIB also organizes parties, excursions, holiday trips, hitchhiking
contests and more!

Activities usually take place on Monday, 8 p.m. at Hereweg 1 in


SIB-Groningen Groningen. Recent speakers have included a former Prime Minister
St. Walburgstraat 22A Jan Peter Balkenende, the Commander of the Royal Netherlands
9712 HX Groningen Navy Mr. Borsboom, Paul Rusesabagina, a hero during the Rwandan
T (050) 363 46 74 Genocide, and several members of the European Parliament.
F (050) 363 46 77 After the weekly activity, our members always have drinks together.
info@sib-groningen.nl Furthermore, there are many ways to become active within the
www.sib-groningen.nl student association.

Students who are interested can become members and perhaps


help plan future activities. For more information, please do not
hesitate to contact SIB.

INDEX
44
4.5

Faculty-related and other student organizations

At the University of Groningen, almost every major department Groningen Indian Students Association
has its own student organization, designed not only for socializing Association for Indian students of the University of Groningen
but also for providing information and broadening students’ and Hanze University of Applied Sciences Groningen.
horizons in their field of study. Some student organizations www.gisa-rug.nl
are more oriented to foreign students than others, but most
organizations offer a number of activities (in English) which GUTSA (Groningen University Turkish Student
are open to foreign students. Please check with your faculty Organization)
or programme coordinator for information about the student http://gutsagroningen.blogspot.nl/
organization(s) in your Major.
HOST-Groningen
There are also many non-faculty or subject-related associations Hospitality for Overseas Students, Groningen. An organization that
for international students at the University of Groningen. Their provides useful information and fun activities for foreign students
activities range from providing useful information and fun activities and other international newcomers.
to organizing international congresses and conferences. For more www.hostgroningen.nl
information please visit their websites below:
PPI Indonesian Students Association
Organization for Indonesian students at the University of
African Student Community (ASC) Groningen.
www.rug.nl/research/globalisation-studies-groningen/asc/ ppigroningen.nl

ALAS: Association for Latin American Students Vietnamese Students Association in Groningen
Groningen http://sinhviengroningen.wordpress.com/
www.alas-groningen.org/

Chinese Students Association Groningen More student organizations:


Association of Chinese Students and Scholars at the University www.rug.nl/education/find-out-more/
of Groningen. extracurricular-activities-associations/
www.acssg.nl international-student-associations

INDEX
45
5 Useful information

Want to get a
part time job?
Need medicine?
This chapter
covers additional
important info!

INDEX
46
5

5.1 Travelling from Amsterdam Airport


Schiphol to Groningen
The underground train station is located near Schiphol Plaza at
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. It is within several minutes walking
distance of the luggage claim. The Dutch railway system is run by
Nederlandse Spoorwegen and abbreviated to NS. You will recognize
it by its yellow and blue colours. Look out for the yellow illuminated
signs that direct you ‘To the trains’ (Dutch: Naar de treinen).

It is important that you purchase a (single) train ticket to Groningen


before you board the train. Passengers travelling without a valid
ticket will be fined. There are two ways of purchasing a ticket: at the
ticket office where you can purchase a ticket from a railway officer
in person, and at the yellow and blue ticket-vending machines that
you will find in the luggage claim hall and by every entrance to the
train terminal. You can purchase tickets from the machines only by
using a debit or credit card with the Maestro logo. Some machines
also accept creditcards, look for the logo of your credit card on the
ticketmachine display to see if it is accepted. You can buy either
a first-class ticket (approximately € 41) or a second-class ticket There is a direct train from Schiphol Airport to Groningen Central
(approximately € 25). Station. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes.
Information about train departures and arrivals in English can be
found on the following website: www.ns.nl/en (Click on ‘English’).
Here you can also find a demonstration of the touchscreen ticket-
vending machine and practice buying a ticket.

After your arrival in Groningen, it is advisable to take a taxi to


your accommodation. You can find taxis at the front of Groningen
Central Station.

› Pay close attention to your belongings during your trip to


Groningen. Laptops, mobile phones and small bags are
often stolen. Transportation facilities, such as bus terminals
and railroad stations, trains and the metro are popular
hunting grounds for pickpockets.

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47
5

5.2 OV-chipkaart public transport pass You can sign up with HZ Zernike which is a general practitioner’s.
The OV-chipkaart is the new means of payment for the public
transport system in the Netherlands. This smart card is the same Should you suddenly need to consult a GP at night or at the
size as a bank card and contains an invisible chip. The OV-chipkaart weekend, you should call the Central GP office. In most cases, After-hours GP service
can be loaded with credit in euros at train and bus stations, post they will ask you to come to the central ‘After hours GP Service’ (Centrale Doktersdienst)
offices and supermarkets. The OV-chipkaart can then be used to (Doktersdienst Groningen). In some cases, GPs will make house Damsterdiep 191c
travel anywhere within the Netherlands; it can also be loaded with calls, but these consultations are more expensive. 9713 EC Groningen
a travel product such as a single or season ticket. You can choose T 0900 92 29 (€ 0.10 p/m)
between a personal, anonymous and disposable card. For more
information on the OV-chipkaart, see www.ov-chipkaart.nl (in › More detailed information on health matters is provided
Dutch and English). in the Health Guide, which you will receive upon your
arrival at your International student house. You can also
ask the International Service Desk (see 3.3) or your faculty
for a copy.

5.5 Dentists
Center for Dentistry
5.3 Importing medication Non-EU/EEA citizens and Oral Care
HZ Zernike (located at Visitors should be aware that not all medication may be brought If you belong to country group II, III or IV (see 2.1) you will have to (Centrum voor
the Zernike Campus) into the Netherlands. Some medication may not be recognized as pay your dentist bills yourself (often in cash) unless your insurance Tandheelkunde en
Blauwborgje 5 such and may even be classified as drugs. Most common medica- policy has a special clause relating to dental care. AON insurance Mondverzorging, abbr. CTM)
9747 AC Groningen tion can be bought in the Netherlands. For other medication, your (see 2.4.3) does not cover dental costs unless there is an emergency. Antonius Deusinglaan 1
T 050 363 3111 doctor will issue a prescription to take to a pharmacy. In order to be eligible for a refund you must be able to prove an 9713 AV Groningen
You can sign up online for emergency situation existed by supplying proof in the form T +31 (0)50 363 75 05 (hours
HZ Zernike: www.hzzernike.nl of a declaration from your dentist or GP. listed below)
5.4 General practitioners F +31 (0)50 363 26 96
If you have a medical problem, you can consult a general practi- EU/EEA citizens CTM@umcg.nl
tioner (GP): a family doctor (Dutch: huisarts). GPs can be visited If you belong to country group I or IA and are insured in your own
during consulting hours, after making an appointment online or country under a national health service that also covers dental Available by phone on
by telephone. If treatment by a specialist is needed the GP will costs your treatment will be refunded according to the terms and Monday to Thursday: 8 a.m.
give you a referral letter. Please note that it is not customary for a conditions of your own insurance (see 2.4.3). to 12 p.m. and 1 to 7 p.m.
patient to make an appointment with a specialist immediately. The Friday: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
specialist will send a report to the GP, who keeps complete medical
records for each individual in his or her practice. The same is true
for test results. Remember to make a photocopy of the referral
letter for your medical insurance company.

INDEX
48
5

Emergency services are either free or covered by your insurance,


University Medical Center unless you have called them unnecessarily. In the event of a genuine
Groningen (UMCG) emergency, call 112 and help will arrive within minutes.
(Universitair Medisch
Centrum Groningen) For police assistance in non-emergency situations you can call
Hanzeplein 1 0800-8844. There is also an e-mail address specifically for the
9713 GZ Groningen police assigned to student matters: studentencontactfunctionaris@
T +31 (0)50 361 61 61 groningen.politie.nl
www.umcg.nl

5.8 Pharmacies and drugstores


If the GP or a specialist gives you a prescription for medicine, you Pharmacy Hanzeplein
must take it to a pharmacy (apotheek). A drugstore (drogist) only (Apotheek Hanzeplein)
sells basic patent remedies and toiletries. Each area of the city has Hanzeplein 122
5.6 Emergency hospital care at least one pharmacy. Pharmacies observe regular office hours, but 9713 GW Groningen
Martini Hospital Every hospital provides first-line care in the event of an accident the central pharmacy opposite the main entrance of the University T +31 (0)50 311 50 20
(Martini Ziekenhuis) or emergency. At the hospital, look for the entrance marked EHBO Medical Center Groningen (UMCG) is open 24 hours a day. (during office hours)
Van Swietenplein 1 or Eerste Hulp (First Aid). The first time you go to a hospital to see F +31 (0)50 311 50 21
9728 NX Groningen a specialist or to have tests or emergency treatment, remember to From 8 p.m. and at weekend,
T+31 (0)50 525 52 45 take your insurance papers with you. Tell the staff at the reception › Remember to take your insurance papers with you please call:
www.martiniziekenhuis.nl desk that you are a new patient. The hospital will then register whenever you visit a GP, dentist, hospital or pharmacy. T 0900 111 50 20
your details and give you a plastic card (ponsplaatje), which you (€ 0.20 p/m)
must show each time you attend the hospital. Groningen has two info@hanzeplein.nl
hospitals: www.hanzeplein.nl

5.7 General emergency number: 112 (Police,


Fire, Ambulance)
The national emergency telephone number is 112. You should
only call this number if you require urgent assistance. Explain the
problem briefly to the operator, who will put you through to the
police, fire brigade or ambulance service. Tip: write the number on
a sticker and put it on your telephone.

› The emergency number should be used only if the situation


is so urgent that you require an immediate response.

INDEX
49
5

5.9 Jobs and work permits


Most jobs are advertised through employment agencies
(uitzendbureaus), of which there are many in and around the city
center. However bear in mind that job openings are extremely
limited and a reasonable knowledge of Dutch is required for
most jobs.

If you are a student from country group I you are allowed to work
unlimited hours during your stay in the Netherlands and you do not
need a work permit.

Students from country groups IA, II, III and IV cannot work without a
work permit. With a work permit they are allowed to work up to ten
hours a week throughout the year, OR up to 40 hours per week for
seasonal work in June, July and August.

If you need a work permit (tewerkstellingsvergunning, abbr. TWV)


you should ask your (future) employer to apply for one. Please keep
in mind that it can be very difficult for an employer to obtain a work
permit for you.

If you have a job, an international student insurance or EHIC will


not suffice anymore. You will need to take out a Basic Healthcare
Insurance.

INDEX
50
5

5.10 Citizen Service Number What do things cost in Groningen?


Tax Office The Citizen Service Number (burgerservicenummer, abbr. BSN) is
(Belastingdienst) a personal identification number which is recorded for every Basic products (on average)
Kempkensberg 12 taxpayer in a database of the Tax and Customs Administration.
9722 TB Groningen The Citizen Service Number is an entirely arbitrary number that Budget supermarket (Lidl, Aldi)
T 0800 05 43 does not contain any information on the person to whom › milk (1l) € 0.49
www.belastingdienst.nl it has been assigned. › coffee (250 gr.) € 1.39
› bread € 1.20
Opening hours: In order to apply for a Dutch Citizen Service Number you need to › rice (400 gr) € 0.69
Monday to Thursday, have a valid residence permit (see 2.3.2) and a work permit (see › fresh vegetables (mix, 400 gr.) € 1.69
8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 5.10). Please make sure to bring your valid passport, work permit › Chicken (1 kg) € 5.00
Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and residence permit to the Tax and Customs Administration when
you apply. High-quality supermarket (Albert Heijn)
› milk (1L) € 0.90
› coffee (250 gr) € 1.50
5.11 Living expenses › bread € 2.09
› rice (400 gr) € 0.86
Cost of living › fresh vegetables (mix. 400 gr) € 2.00
Here is a small indication of the cost of some basic items on a › chicken (1kg) € 7.00
student budget.
Cost of food in restaurants
› Glass of coca cola, other soft drinks € 2.00
Euros › Juice € 2.50
› Pizza € 7–15 (varies, many pizzerias have student discounts)
Housing 300–500 per month
› Main course € 10–15; starter: € 6–8; dessert € 5–7 (however,
Food 200 per month many restaurants have student discounts)
› Beer € 2.50; wine € 3.50
Spending money 75 per month

Insurance 35–55 per month

Language courses 100–450 per course

Security deposit Approximately 1 month rent

Bicycle 45–110 (good quality


second-hand)

INDEX
51
universityofgroningen

prospectivestudentsuniversityofgroningen

univgroningen

universityofgroningen

universityGroningen

univgroningen

Disclaimer All information published in this guide


is subject to change. No legal rights may be
derived from this brochure. While the University
of Groningen makes every endeavor to ensure
the accuracy of the information presented in
this guide, it cannot be held liable for any errors
or inaccuracies you may find.

INDEX
52

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