Information for new students
Starting university in a different country is a big step. Here you will find information to help you settle in and find your way around. Are you Dutch? Please follow the steps on the Dutch website(opens in new tab).
Enrolment checklist
After applying through Studielink, our Student Administration will email you about completing your application. It is important to finish this process before 1 September. By completing all relevant tasks in the checklist below, you can ensure access to everything you need to begin your studies.
- Complete your application via Studielink(opens in new tab).
- Submit the following documents before 1 September (or 1 June if you need a visa or residence permit):
- Copies of your diploma and grade list
- Evaluation of your diploma or your CV
- Official translation of your diploma
- Language test certificate (if required)
- Tuition fees
You will be notified by the Student Administration in mid-June to pay your tuition fees. The payment method depends on whether your bank account is in the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA)(opens in new tab).
- SEPA account: direct debit via Studielink (in one go or in instalments).
- Non-SEPA account: bank transfer in one go.
Visit the finance page for more details.
- Activate your Windesheim account
- You will receive your student number and instructions to create a password via email. You can activate your account by following the steps described further down this page under 'Setting up your account'.
- Use these to access your course page(opens in new tab) for information about your introduction, timetable, and books. Note: Some information will be added in August.
- Support for students with disabilities
- Inform us in advance you have an (in)visible disability such as dyslexia, fear of failure, a chronic illness or a physical, sensory or psychological impairment.
- Windesheim may invite you for an intake interview conducted by a dean, which will last about an hour. Parents, school supervisors, and/or social workers are welcome to attend. Read more about studying with a disability.
Changed your mind?
If you decide not to study or want to defer until next year, please deregister in Studielink.
Setting up your account
With your username and password, you can log in to your course site(opens in new tab). To do this, you need to set up your account.
- Go to password.windesheim.nl(opens in new tab).
- Click on 'Change the password of your new account'.
- The username is your Windesheim email address: This is your student number, followed by @student.windesheim.nl, for example S123456@student.windesheim.nl. Your student number (S plus 6 numbers) can be found in the confirmation email you received from the student administration about your application.
- Follow the steps provided.
- To access all Windesheim systems, you must provide approval through the Microsoft Authenticator app. There are two ways to set up your phone: via an app (view instructions in pdf(opens in new tab)) or by receiving a setup call.
Please contact the IT Service Desk if you require assistance: +31 884699070(opens in new tab) or servicedesk@windesheim.nl.(opens in new tab)
To learn more about WiFi, timetable setup, and free Office access, please visit All About IT(opens in new tab) (login required).
Help with enrollment
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I haven’t received any information since I applied
Within a few days of registering, you’ll receive two emails from us:
- A questionnaire (this is part of the matching process for full-time programmes)
- A confirmation email from Student Administration
Global Project and Change Management students will receive am extra email from our admissions officer asking you to send documents for the selection process.
Missing an email?
First, check your spam folder and make sure the email address in Studielink is correct. Still nothing? Then contact Student Administration at studentenadministratie@windesheim.nl(opens in new tab).
Depending on when you registered, it might take a little while before you hear from us again. Don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten you!
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Changing address
You can easily update your address or mobile number in Studielink. This can’t be done by phone or email.
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Requesting exemptions
You can request exemptions through your study programme's exam committee by providing the necessary proof. The committee will determine which exemptions and courses apply.
Once you have access, you can submit your request to the exam committee via Sharenet. For further details, please contact the Windesheim Information Centre.
Phone: +31 88 469 9911(opens in new tab)
Email: info@windesheim.nl(opens in new tab)
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Practical information
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Class
- International Business: Your class schedule will be published in the last week of August on the Windesheim Information Portal.
Global Project and Change Management: You’ll receive an email with your class details.
Can't find your name on the list? Please email info@windesheim.nl(opens in new tab).
Want to be in the same class as a friend?
You can talk to your student counsellor about this at the start of your studies in September, or contact your programme in advance. You’ll find the contact details on the Windesheim Information Portal.
Please note: sending a request doesn’t guarantee it will be approved.
- International Business: Your class schedule will be published in the last week of August on the Windesheim Information Portal.
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Class schedule and times
You’ll find your schedule on your course page(opens in new tab) or in the Windesheim App, no later than 31 August. To log in, use your student number and password. You’ll receive these in the confirmation email from Student Administration after applying.
Once logged in, you’ll need to link your class code to your timetable.
Not assigned to a class yet? Please email info@windesheim.nl(opens in new tab).Before the academic year begins, there’s also an introduction period. Your programme will send you more details about this separately.
Class times
A class consists of a 50-minute lecture and a 10-minute break. This is scheduled as 60 minutes. When you actually have classes depends on your personal timetable.
- 08:30 to 09:30
- 09:30 to 10:30
- 10:30 to 11:30
- 11:30 to 12:30
- 12:30 to 13:30
- 13:30 to 14:30
- 14:30 to 15:30
- 15:30 to 16:30
- 16:30 to 17:30
- 17:30 to 18:30
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Books
You can find and order your book list at booksforstudents.nl(opens in new tab). We aim to have all book lists online by July.
Of course, you’re free to buy your books (second-hand or new) from other sources as well.
Tip: Only order the books you’ll need for the first few months!Borrowing books
Books are available at the Media Centre, located behind the main reception. You’ll find a collection of books, magazines, and course materials. Most textbooks have a reference copy available for on-site use.
Online resources
At mediacentrumwindesheim.nl(opens in new tab), you’ll find digital academic resources like e-books and databases, which you can access from home. The site also offers helpful tips and workshops on smart searching, doing research, and citing sources using APA style.
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Introduction week
During the Bruisweken, you’ll get a full introduction to your study programme, fellow students, and the student city of Zwolle. The perfect way to kick off your student life!
What to expect?
A varied programme with introductions at your course, workshops in surprising places, city discovery tours, cosy hangouts, and events. You’ll get to know the city and your fellow students in no time.
- Bruis Days on Monday 25 or Tuesday 26 August 2025
- Your programme will organize an introduction day on one of these dates. You’ll get to know your course, your classmates, and the city of Zwolle. From August onwards, you’ll find more details about your personal programme on your course page(opens in new tab).
- Bruis Festival on Wednesday 3 September 2025
Celebrate the start of your student life in Zwolle together with the whole city in Park de Wezenlanden. Keep an eye on the Bruisweken website(opens in new tab) for updates.
Register for Bruisweek 2025(opens in new tab) More information
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Laptop
Your laptop should meet the requirements set below. Do you already have a (new) laptop? Then chances are it already meets the requirements, so we do not recommended buying a new one. You'll quickly find out at the start of your studies whether your current laptop is suitable.
Specifications
Minimal
Recommended
Power users
Processor
Intel Core i3 /AMD Ryzen 3
Intel Core i5 / AMD Ryzen 5
Intel Core i7-i9 / AMD Ryzen 7 - 9
Graphics
1920*1080
1920*1080
Dedicated video card 1920*1080 or higher
Memory
8 GB
16 GB
16 - 32 GB
Hard drive
256GB SSD
512 GB SSD
> 512 GB SSD
Operating system
Windows 11 / macOS 12 Monterey
Windows 11 / macOS 14 Sonoma
Windows 11 / macOS 14 Sonoma Battery
2 hours
2 hours
4 hours
Wireless
Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)
Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) Image connectors HDMI HDMI HDMI / DisplayPort Operating systems and applications
Windesheim is optimized for Windows, so we cannot guarantee full support for Chromebooks or MacBooks. If you're considering buying one of these devices, we recommend contacting your study programme first. Some applications used during your studies may not be compatible with those systems.
Discounted hardware and software
With your student account, you can access software at a discount or even for free:
- Purchase hardware and software at a discount through Surfspot(opens in new tab). Log in by selecting ‘Windesheim University of Applied Sciences’ and entering your Windesheim username and password.
- You can also use Office apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for free. Download Office through the Office Portal(opens in new tab). Log in with your Windesheim username and password, then click the 'Install Office' button in the top-right corner to start the installation.
If specific software is required for your courses, your instructor will inform you.
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Student card
You will receive your student card by post in August/September, provided you meet the requirements and have arranged your payment.
Don’t worry if you don’t have your student card yet when your studies begin.
You’ll mainly need it for exams and tests, and those won’t take place until later in the year. -
Facilities and Wi-Fi
Getting here
Coming by car or public transport? Check the options.
You can park your bike in several places on campus:- Between buildings E and F
- Next to building D
- Across from building X
- Next to building S (the sports building)
Wi-Fi
You can connect to wireless internet via the eduroam network. Instructions on how to log in can be found on the intranet (login required).
Renting a locker
Most buildings have lockers that can be opened with a personal code. A deposit isn't needed.
Want your own locker? You can rent one in building H or T. The cost is €2.50 per month or €25 per school year (10 months). You can find info on how to reserve a locker on the intranet (login required).
Studentenverenigingen
Duik in het studentenleven, doe mee aan activiteiten en meld je aan bij een studentenvereniging. Bekijk de verenigingen in Zwolle(opens in new tab).
Student associations
Get involved in student life, join events, and become a member of a student association such as the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) or rowing club ZSR Boreas. Check out the student associations.
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Finding a room in the Netherlands
All information about student housing can be found here.
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Student support
Our university should be a place where everyone feels seen, heard, and safe. A place where you can be yourself and develop your talents.
You’ll receive personal guidance from your student counsellor throughout your studies. And if you’re facing issues that might affect your progress, you can turn to the specialists at the Student Support Centre. Their support is available alongside the help you get from your study programme.
Studying with a disability or health condition
Ranging from dyslexia to a physical disability or mental health challenges such as concentration difficulties, performance anxiety, ADHD, autism, or depression.
At Windesheim, we’re committed to helping you succeed in your studies. Since 2016, we’ve been recognised as the best large University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands for supporting students with disabilities.
About a week after you register, you’ll receive an email inviting you to let us know if you have any support needs.
You can also contact a student counsellor at the Student Support Centre directly: +31 88 4 699 100(opens in new tab) or decanaat@windesheim.nl(opens in new tab).
Elite athletes
Yes, we support high-performance athletes, trainers, coaches, esport players and sports officials. You can find more information on our Dutch website(opens in new tab). International students should contact topsport@windesheim.nl(opens in new tab) for conditions.
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I am unsure about my study choice
Choosing a programme that suits you makes studying more enjoyable and motivating. We’re happy to help you make the right choice. The Information Centre will connect you with the right lecturer or staff member. Email info@windesheim.nl(opens in new tab).
Not sure if you’ve made the right choice?
Even with good preparation, you might find the programme isn’t the right fit. That’s okay! You’re definitely not the only one. At Windesheim, you can switch to a different programme within the first 10 weeks if it suits you better.
Still unsure later in the year? There are various options available. In any case, it’s important to talk to your student counsellor and the switch coordinator of your programme.
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