Universiteit Leiden

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Introduction weeks

Do you want to get your stay in Leiden or The Hague off to the best-possible start? If so, you cannot afford to miss Leiden University’s introduction weeks for international students. In addition to having lots of fun, you’ll make new friends and start getting to know the University and the city.

Joining a programme based in Leiden?

Join the Summer or Winter OWL!

What is OWL?

OWL (Orientation Week Leiden), is Leiden University’s introduction week for international students, including visiting exchange students. In an event-packed five-day programme, OWL has been specially designed for students who are new to the city and the University. In five days of fun, music, culture, sightseeing, sports and games, newcomers get to learn about Dutch people and culture. And to help them get to know Leiden a bit better, the events take place at various locations around the city. It’s an unforgettable start to studying at Leiden University.

Why should you participate in OWL?

If you want to get your study off to a flying start, OWL is a must, because:

  • You’ll meet many new people and make lots of new friends.
  • Enthusiastic mentors will soon have you feeling at home in Leiden.
  • You’ll get a good first impression of your faculty and study programme.
  • All the student associations will open their doors to you.
  • It’s an action-packed programme with fantastic parties.
  • Ioanna Solomidou (student English Literature): 'Most of my friends here I met during the OWL introduction week. I've met Dutch, Greek and international students from different programs.'
  • Lenard Johannsen (student Data Science and Artificial Intelligence): 'One of the best experiences I had was during OWL (Orientation Week Leiden). It’s something I highly recommend for all new international students. Besides making friends, you’ll get a comprehensive introduction to the study program, social events, student associations, and of course, the city of Leiden.'

When is OWL?

OWL takes place before the beginning of the academic year. If you’ve registered to follow a study programme, you will automatically receive an email inviting you to register for OWL.

Winter OWL

The Winter OWL (Orientation Week Leiden) is Leiden University’s introduction week for students joining us at the start of the spring semester. It is intened for international degree and exchange students, who will study in Leiden or The Hague. 

This event-packed four-day programme features fun, music, culture, sightseeing, sports and games. It is intended for people who are new to Leiden, The Hague and the university and you can also learn about the Dutch people and culture. Events take place in Leiden (3 days) and The Hague (1 day) at various locations around the city. It’s an unforgettable start to your studies at Leiden University. 

Want to know more about OWL?

Do you have any questions, or would you like more information?

How do I sign up for the OWL?

  • Accept your offer of admission to a degree, exchange or study abroad programme based in Leiden. Or a programme in The Hague starting in February.
    Joining a programme in The Hague in September? You can instead join the HOP.
  • Once OWL registration opens, you will receive an email inviting you to sign up.
  • Haven't yet received your invitation? Check whether registrations are open on the OWL website. If registrations are open, get in touch (contact details above). 

Joining a programme based in The Hague?

Join the HOP

Note: The HOP is only for students starting in The Hague in September. Are you starting in February? Instead, you can join the Winter OWL.

What is The HOP?

The HOP –The Hague Orientation Programme – is an international introduction week for Leiden University students studying at Campus The Hague. Join us on your new journey in the city of peace and justice! During a five-day, festive and varied programme you’ll be able to get to know your new home and the student life that awaits you.

Why should you participate in The HOP?

The HOP is the perfect way to kick off your student life in The Hague because:

  • You’ll meet many new people and make lots of new friends.
  • Enthusiastic mentors will soon have you feeling at home in The Hague.
  • You’ll get acquainted with your study programme, the University and all the student initiatives.
  • Together with your fellow students, you’ll be introduced to the city’s nightlife.
  • It’s a varied programme with fantastic parties and great days on the beach.

When is The HOP?

The HOP takes place before the beginning of the academic year. If you’ve registered to follow a programme, you will automatically receive an email inviting you to register for this introduction week.

Want to know more about The HOP?

Do you have any questions or would you like more information?

How do I sign up for the HOP?

  • Accept your offer of admission to a degree, exchange or study abroad programme based in The Hague and starting in September.
    Joining a programme in February? You can instead join the Winter OWL.
  • Once HOP registration opens, you will receive an email inviting you to sign up.
  • Haven't yet received your invitation? Check whether registrations are open on the HOP website. If registrations are open, get in touch (contact details above). 
  • OWL is Leiden University’s introduction week for international students.
  • HOP is the introduction week for students studying in The Hague (starting in September).
  • Both are action-packed programmes.
  • You’ll meet many new people and make lots of new friends.
  • You’ll get acquainted with your study programme, the University and all the student initiatives.
  • Enthusiastic mentors will soon have you feeling at home in Leiden.
  • ...and in The Hague.

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