University of Groningen

The University of Groningen, founded in 1614, is one of the oldest universities in the Netherlands and a leading research institution in the country’s north. It has built a strong reputation for attracting international students, offering one of the widest ranges of English-taught programmes among Dutch universities.

Why students choose the University of Groningen

• Broad range of English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programmes across nearly all faculties.
• Long-standing member of several European research university networks.
• Strong student city atmosphere, with Groningen known for its large student population relative to its size.
• Well-regarded faculties in sciences, law, economics, and the humanities.
• A compact, bicycle-friendly campus city that is easy for international students to settle into.

Campus and location

The university’s faculties are concentrated in and around the city of Groningen, a historic centre in the northern Netherlands known for its lively student culture.

What students say

Students often speak highly of Groningen’s atmosphere, describing it as a lively, affordable, and genuinely student-focused city that’s easy to feel at home in given its large student population. A recurring theme is appreciation for the strong sense of community among the international student body. Some reviews mention that university administration and support processes can feel bureaucratic or slow to navigate, which is a common frustration alongside otherwise positive academic experiences.

Official website: https://www.rug.nl

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