Universiteit Leiden

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Introduction Week

Do you want to get your stay in Leiden off to the best possible start? Then you cannot afford to miss OWL, Leiden University’s introduction week for international students. In addition to having lots of fun, you’ll make new friendships and start getting to know the University and the city.

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 programme using Studielink, 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?

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