Practical matters

Discover the process from orientation to being a student for Creative Technology and Mechanical Engineering at VU Amsterdam and the UT.

From orientation to being a student

Are you considering applying for the Bachelor's program in Creative Technology (CreaTe) or Mechanical Engineering (ME) at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) or the University of Twente (UT) in Enschede? Or are you simply curious about the entire journey – from exploration to student life?

Here, you'll find all the essential information and practical steps to guide you, from selecting the right program and submitting your application to experiencing introduction week and navigating your first year. This way, you'll know exactly what to expect!

1. Orientation

Open days
Want to see if the CreaTe or ME Bachelor's degrees are right for you? Start by attending the open days at VU Amsterdam and the UT. You’ll get a great feel for the programs, the atmosphere and the campus.

Taster days and 'Student for a day'
Want an even better idea of what it’s like to be a student? Sign up for a taster day or 'Student for a day' at VU Amsterdam, or a taster day or 'Student for a day' at the UT, to experience a real study day. Attend lectures, meet students and find out whether the program suits you.

Study choice consultations
Still unsure or have questions? Schedule a study choice consultation with an advisor. Together, you can discuss your interests, doubts, and options to help you make an informed decision.

2. Application

How do you apply?
No matter which location you choose, you’ll apply via Studielink at the University of Twente. This is because your degree will be awarded by the UT, even if you study in Amsterdam.

Start your application in Studielink by searching for the University of Twente program. If you plan to study in Amsterdam, select the “Bachelor Amsterdam (VU-UT)” option. Complete your application by uploading all the necessary documents to Osiris.

Application deadlines
The deadline for applications is 1 May 2025. Be sure to submit your full application, including all required documents in Osiris, by this date. This deadline applies to all students, no matter their previous education.

3. Matching

To make sure you’re choosing the right program, there’s a mandatory matching process. This helps determine if the program is a good fit for you.

4. Location, travel and accommodation

Studying in Amsterdam and Enschede
If you choose to study in Amsterdam, you’ll spend most of your time there. However, you will need to travel to Enschede regularly for practicals, lectures, and exams, typically a few days each month. Be sure to check if you qualify for a student travel card cover travel costs. International students should consider additional travel expenses.

Accommodation in Enschede
Since you’ll be in Enschede regularly, it’s helpful to arrange accommodation there during your stay. You can find more information about accommodation here:

Living in Amsterdam
If you want to live in Amsterdam, you can search for a room through Studentenwoningweb. When you register, you’ll indicate that you’ll be studying at VU Amsterdam. Please note that you must be able to show that you’ll study primarily in Amsterdam when applying for accommodation.

5. Introduction week and student associations

Introduction week
Your student life kicks off as your studies begin! The introduction week lasts six days, with three days in Amsterdam and three days in Enschede. This is your chance to get to know both cities, your program and both universities.

Student associations
For student associations, there are options for both program. For Creative Technology, the student association in Enschede is S.A. Proto, and if you study in Amsterdam, you can join Kliché. For Mechanical Engineering, the association in Enschede is W.S.G. Isaac Newton, while in Amsterdam you can become a member of the student association M.E.S.A. 's Gravesande.

6. During your studies

Discounted textbooks
As a member of S.A. Proto, Creative Technology students get a discount on textbooks. You can also benefit from this discount if you’re studying in Amsterdam. For Mechanical Engineering, you’ll receive a textbook discount during the introduction period through W.S.G. Isaac Newton.

Notebook requirements
Both programs require a notebook with high graphics performance and a powerful processor. You can either bring your own laptop or purchase a new one through the University of Twente’s annual notebook project.

7. Looking ahead

Specialisations and internships
During your studies, you can choose a minor or specialisation that aligns with your ambitions. It’s also important to actively seek internships and graduation projects to expand your practical experience.

After your studies
Once you’ve completed your bachelor’s, you may consider continuing on to a master’s program. Start networking early through internships and career events, and stay engaged with the alumni network to further strengthen your professional connections.

Regardless of whether you study in Amsterdam or Enschede, you’ll always receive your degree from the University of Twente.