Once you’ve been selected for an exchange by AUC, UvA or VU, the AUC International Office will invite you to several information sessions. You will meet other AUC students going abroad, and receive a step-by-step overview of what to do before departure.

During these sessions, you will:

• Meet the other AUC students going on exchange
• Receive details on steps leading up to your departure
• Learn about important deadlines
• Get information on:
  • Course pre-approval and academic recognition
  • Housing/subletting options
  • Funding
  • Other practical matters

You’ll also have the chance to ask questions.

(only for students going through VU or UvA exchange programmes)

If you have been selected through the VU Exchange Programme or a UvA Global Exchange partner, you will also be invited to attend additional information sessions organised by the respective International Office.

These sessions are separate from AUC's and will cover programme-specific requirements and might include additional practical information.

Studying abroad often comes with additional costs for travel, housing, and daily life. Although you usually cannot apply for scholarships and grants until you have been officially accepted by your host university, it’s useful to explore funding options early. Even if you expect to have sufficient funds, looking into grants can be worthwhile: some are very specific and not very competitive (for example, scholarships for students with Frisian roots).

Studying abroad usually means you will enter your host country as an exchange student rather than as a tourist. This often requires a student visa, and the process can be complex and time-consuming. 

Before you leave for your exchange, make sure your insurance and health arrangements are in order. The Insurance and Health page below outlines what you need to check, which types of insurance are essential, and where to find information about vaccinations and medical support.

Housing options for exchange students vary by host university. Depending on the institution, you may have one of the following options:

• On-campus housing
  Some universities offer housing on campus, and at certain institutions this is mandatory for exchange students. For some destinations, you must indicate your preference during the application process. In most cases, once you accept on-campus accommodation, it cannot be cancelled, and you will be required to sign a contract for the full semester.

• University housing office support
  Some universities offer assistance through a housing office to help you find off-campus accommodation. This support may include guidance or listings, but does not always guarantee housing.

• Private sector housing
  In some cases, you will need to arrange accommodation independently. Availability and costs vary by destination and are usually outlined in the university factsheet. If you have not secured housing before the semester starts, you may need to arrive earlier (around two weeks) and stay in temporary accommodation until you find a permanent place. This option offers more flexibility in location and living arrangements.

We recommend speaking with students who have previously studied at your host university to learn more about housing options, costs, and practical experiences.

Due to the collaboration between DUWO and AUC, a room is guaranteed for all AUC students. In return, all AUC students are required to live in the dorms for the duration of their studies. Holding a DUWO rental contract is a condition of AUC enrolment. Students must cancel their contract and move out only upon graduation or if they leave AUC before graduating.

AUC students can seek permission to sublet their room during a temporary absence, such as an exchange semester. Under the AUC–DUWO agreement, subletting is only allowed for subtenants who meet strict criteria. AUC maintains a list of approved subtenant groups, categories, and institutions.

Once you’ve been officially accepted as an exchange student, there are a few final steps before you depart.

Re-enrol at AUC 
Even while abroad, you must remain a fully enrolled AUC student and continue paying tuition. It is of vital importance to arrange your re-enrolment at the start of summer, 

Book your travel
You should only book your flight or train after unconditional acceptance. Check your host university’s arrival dates and orientation schedule—some universities even offer weekday airport pick-up. If you want to book early, consider flexible tickets or cancellation insurance to reduce risk. Many students also plan trips before or after their exchange, but make sure these don’t conflict with visa applications or your remaining courses at AUC.

Bring essential documents
Make sure to carry all important documents in your hand luggage, so you have them on hand at the airport or in case of lost luggage:

• Passport + copy of ID page
• Host university acceptance packet
• Driver’s license (and international translation if needed)
• Bank and credit cards (keep separate)
• Insurance papers
• Contact list: bank, insurance, housing office, embassy, DUO, AUC international office
• Optional: transcripts & course manuals (useful for add-drop or higher-level courses)

Authorize someone at home
Before leaving, give a trusted person copies of your important documents and, if needed, authorize them for tasks like bank access. Scanning and saving documents in your email is also a good backup.