Arrival and introduction
Welcome to Windesheim
We’ve got a fun and friendly introduction programme to help you settle in, meet new people, and get to know the campus and your new surroundings. It’s the perfect way to kick off your student life, so make the most of it!
There are different programmes for exchange students and bachelor’s students.
Exchange students
Every semester, lots of exchange students arrive at Windesheim. To help you settle in and navigate everyday life, the Erasmus Student Network (ESN)(opens in new tab) offers a buddy programme.
ESN also organizes fun events throughout the semester. Think introduction activities, city tours, themed nights, and events linked to the elective module 'Introduction to Windesheim'. It's a great way to meet people and make the most of your time in Zwolle!
Once you’ve been accepted to study at Windesheim, you’ll be matched with an ESN buddy. Your buddy will help you feel at home in Zwolle right from the start and guide you through everything Windesheim has to offer, from social events to support services.
As an exchange student, you’ll have the chance to join a variety of fun activities organized by Erasmus Student Network(opens in new tab) (ESN) Zwolle. There’s something happening every month, usually in the evenings or on weekends. Some of the highlights each semester include:
- Introduction Week with several events to welcome you
- Activities to get to know Zwolle
- Sinterklaas celebrations in December (autumn semester)
- Playing Dutch traditional games (spring semester)
- Country presentations
- Multicultural food night
- Trip to the Dutch countryside where you can sample the Dutch culture
- Goodbye party / Throwback night
The activities are subject to change, depending on demand and availability.
Most ESN(opens in new tab) activities are free of charge to Windesheim (exchange) students. Some events will have refreshments included, but you will need to pay for personal items and most of your drinks and food yourself.
Do you have a question? Please email to info@esnzwolle.nl(opens in new tab) or check us on Instagram(opens in new tab).
Bachelor's students
Once you've completed your enrolment, it’s time to prepare for Bruisweek. This is the ultimate introduction for new students! It’s your chance to get to know your programme, meet new people, and discover Zwolle. Key dates:
- Bruis Day: Monday 25 or Tuesday 26 August 2025 (your programme will assign you a date)
- Bruis Festival: Wednesday 3 September 2025, a city-wide celebration to kick off student life
Register for Bruisweek 2025(opens in new tab)
Note: make sure to activate your Windesheim account before you try to register. Learn how to set up your account.
What to expect
- Meet your classmates, mentor, and lecturers
- Explore the city and the Windesheim campus
- Take part in fun social activities designed to help you settle in
- Get a warm welcome into student life in the Netherlands
Costs
Participation in Bruis Day costs €32.40. This includes access to all kinds of Bruis activities on campus, within your programme, and throughout the city.
You’ll also receive tokens for food and drinks at the campus food trucks, and the official Bruis T-shirt.
Location
The introduction takes place on campus, with the afternoon programme happening in the city of Zwolle.
The festival on 3 September will be held in Park de Wezenlanden.
How to get here
The best way to travel to Zwolle from the airport is by train. Please check NS.nl(opens in new tab) for the timetable. If you arrive at the station in Zwolle, you can take a bus to your student room.
To use public transport in the Netherlands, you need an OV-chipcard. (opens in new tab)Check this video(opens in new tab) to learn more about public transport in the Netherlands.
Cycling is the easiest way of getting around. After arrival, we reccommend to buy or rent a (second-hand) bike, for example at Roestug(opens in new tab), based on our campus.