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Student Discount Cards International students benefit from several Dutch discount systems. The OV-chipkaart is essential for public transport; a personal card allows travel on trains, trams, and buses with student discounts through subscriptions such as NS Flex or Dal Voordeel. The ISIC (International Student Identity Card) offers global discounts on travel, food, and cultural activities. Many students also purchase a Museumkaart, which grants free or reduced entry to over 400 museums across the Netherlands.

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Student Associations & Clubs Communication Science students can join both academic and social associations. Mercurius, the study association for Communication Science, organizes networking events, guest lectures, and social activities. The University of Amsterdam (UvA) also hosts a variety of international and cultural clubs open to all students. Joining an association helps build a social network, improve language skills, and engage in Dutch student life. You can find a list of many student associations (not study!) here: https://student.uva.nl/en/information/student-associations

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Campus Services The UvA provides comprehensive student services. Libraries across campuses offer study spaces, online databases, and printing facilities. Student Counselling Services support well-being, stress management, and adjustment to university life. Study advisors assist with course planning, exam issues, and study progress. Students are encouraged to schedule consultations early to stay on track academically and personally.

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Academic Calendar & Holidays The academic year runs from September to July, divided into two semesters. Each semester has two teaching periods followed by exams. Major breaks include Christmas (December–January) and Summer (July–August). You can always look up the latest UvA Calendar of UvA website!

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Cultural Norms & Dutch Etiquette Dutch communication is direct and open. Politeness is shown through honesty rather than formality. Punctuality is valued; always arrive on time for appointments or classes. Use first names unless instructed otherwise, and greet with a handshake or verbal greeting. Tolerance and respect for diversity are central Dutch values. Remember to say “dank je wel” (thank you) and “alsjeblieft” (please) in everyday exchanges.

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Sports & Fitness The University Sports Centre (USC) offers affordable memberships for students. Facilities include gyms, swimming pools, and courts for team sports. Group lessons, dance classes, and yoga sessions are also available. The USC offers both short-term and year-long memberships. You can access the website here: https://www.uscsport.nl

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Banks Opening a bank account is one of the first steps for students settling in the Netherlands, as most payments are made by card rather than cash. The main banks in the country are ABN AMRO, ING, Rabobank, SNS Bank, ASN Bank, and Bunq (an online-only bank available in the Netherlands, France, and Germany).

The process to open an account is straightforward and can be done online by booking an appointment. Most banks require the following documents:

• Your BSN (Citizen Service Number)
• A valid form of identification
• Proof of address in the Netherlands
• A residence permit (for non-EU students)

The BSN is a unique identification number used in Dutch government systems. You receive it after registering your address at the municipality, which is a mandatory step for all residents. Once you have your BSN, you can open a bank account and register for essential services. UvA usually collaborates with City of Amsterdam to reserve days for incoming students to register - keep an eye on your UvA inbox and Gemeente website! https://www.amsterdam.nl

Revolut and Tikkie Many students also use digital payment tools to simplify everyday transactions. Revolut is a popular online banking app that allows you to open an account quickly, manage multiple currencies, and make international transfers at low cost. It can be used before or while waiting for a Dutch bank account.

Tikkie is a Dutch payment app widely used among students and locals to split bills or request money. It connects to your Dutch bank account and allows you to send payment links through WhatsApp or other messaging apps. Most Dutch banks, including ING and ABN AMRO, support Tikkie directly.

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Health Insurance Health insurance is mandatory in the Netherlands, but the type you need depends on your situation.

For EU/EEA students, a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is usually sufficient for temporary study periods.

For non-EU/EEA students, you must arrange private health insurance that meets Dutch standards. Common student options include AON, Loonzorg, and Insuretostudy. You can also use an international policy from your home country if it complies with Dutch requirements.

If you start working or take a paid internship, you are required to take out basic Dutch health insurance (basisverzekering), even if you already have private coverage. Failure to do so can result in fines. tudents are advised to compare insurance packages carefully to ensure coverage for both medical and emergency care during their stay.

UvA Doctors are used to treating students with various insurance companies from abroad - check out their website and sign up to smooth out the process if you need to visit a GP: https://www.huisartsenamsterdam.nl/international/

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Where to Learn Dutch

Learning Dutch can make daily life easier and help you connect with local culture. Many universities offer language programs that are free or discounted for students.

At the University of Amsterdam (UvA), Dutch language courses are available through the Institute for Dutch as a Second Language (INTT). https://intt.uva.nl

In addition, online platforms like Duolingo, Babbel, and FutureLearn offer free or low-cost options for self-study. Local municipalities sometimes organize community courses where residents can practice Dutch conversation at minimal cost https://www.amsterdam.nl/en/education/learning-dutch/.

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Where to Buy a Bike (and Bike Repair Tips)

Cycling is the most common way to get around in the Netherlands, and having a reliable bike is essential. Students can buy new or secondhand bikes from shops such as Fietsenwinkel.nl,Swapfiets, or Bike4U. Many secondhand options are also available on Marktplaats or through Facebook groups like “Buy/Sell Bikes Amsterdam.”

At REC garages, you can find places to fix your bike.

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Phone Plans & SIM Cards

To stay connected, students can choose between prepaid or monthly SIM plans. Major providers include KPN, VodafoneZiggo, T-Mobile, and Lebara.

• Prepaid SIMs are flexible and can be purchased at supermarkets or convenience stores.
• Monthly plans are cheaper for long-term stays but require a Dutch bank account and address.

You can order SIM cards online or buy them at stores like MediaMarkt or Albert Heijn. Most plans include generous data packages and EU-wide roaming.

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Useful Apps

A few apps will make your daily life in the Netherlands easier:

• 9292 – Real-time travel planner for trains, trams, buses, and metros.
• Tikkie – Split bills and request payments easily between friends.
• Marktplaats – Dutch marketplace app for buying and selling secondhand items.
• Buienradar – Reliable weather app that shows live rain forecasts.

All apps are available in English and can be downloaded for free.

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Public Transport

The Dutch public transport system is reliable and extensive. You can travel across the country using trains, trams, buses, and metros with an OV-chipkaart. Load credit on your card or link it to a subscription like NS Flex for discounts on train travel.

The 9292 and NS apps show routes, prices, and delays. Always check in and out with your card at each journey stage. Keep in mind that fines apply for missing check-ins or insufficient balance.

If you want to purchase monthly subscription, you can make use of “star system” or GVB Flex products. https://www.gvb.nl/GVB-flex https://www.gvb.nl/en/travel-products/season-tickets/randstad-noord-zone

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Basic Dutch Phrases

Learning a few key phrases can make interactions smoother:

• Hallo / Hoi – Hello / Hi
• Dank je wel – Thank you
• Alsjeblieft – Please / Here you go
• Spreekt u Engels? – Do you speak English?
• Hoe gaat het? – How are you?
• Tot ziens – Goodbye
• Ik ben student aan de Universiteit van Amsterdam – I am a student at the University of Amsterdam

Dutch people appreciate when internationals make an effort, even if most speak English fluently.

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Where to Grocery Shop

The main supermarkets in the Netherlands are Albert Heijn, Jumbo, Lidl, and Aldi. For lower prices, Lidl and Aldi are good options.

Stores have Bonuskaarts and apps to access weekly discounts. Some supermarkets also offer koopzegels (saving stamps) that can be redeemed for cash bonuses once your booklet is filled.

For sustainable shopping, the Too Good To Go app helps reduce food waste by selling unsold items from restaurants and stores at reduced prices. Open markets are also ideal for affordable fresh produce.

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Annual Events in Amsterdam

Amsterdam hosts many events throughout the year that attract both locals and students. In April, the city celebrates **King’s Day (Koningsdag)**with street markets, music, and orange-themed festivities. Pride Amsterdam in August fills the canals with parades and live performances celebrating diversity. Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) in October is one of the world’s largest electronic music festivals. Other major events include Museumnacht (Museum Night) in November and Sinterklaas arrival celebrations in late November.

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Student-Friendly Bars & Nightlife

Amsterdam’s nightlife is diverse and vibrant, with many affordable options for students.

Kriterion – A cinema, café, and bar run by students, known for its relaxed atmosphere and low prices.

Coco’s Outback – Popular among international students for themed nights and drink deals.

Bar Bukowski – Trendy and casual, located near Oosterpark, great for both coffee and cocktails.

Café Brecht – Cozy bar inspired by Berlin cafés, ideal for relaxed evenings and small gatherings.

Many student associations also host pub quizzes, karaoke nights, and themed parties across the city.

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Affordable Places to Eat

Amsterdam has many budget-friendly spots that are perfect for students.

The Locals – Serves fresh breakfast and lunch dishes with good coffee.

Bakers & Roasters – A New Zealand–Brazilian café famous for brunch and friendly service.

Fabel Friet – Known for its high-quality Dutch fries served with homemade sauces.

The Pancake Club – Offers both traditional Dutch pancakes and modern brunch options.

Many restaurants offer student discounts during weekdays, especially in De Pijp and Oost.

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