Orientation days new students 2026

Please note: On this page you will find all the information about the orientation days for our English-taught programmes (Bachelor’s or Master’s in Linguistics and Literary Studies). If you are a student in one of our Dutch-taught programmes, please refer to the Dutch version of this page.

As a new student at VUB, you’ll kick off the academic year during the Orientation Days. The programme includes plenty of useful information sessions, as well as fun, social activities. You’ll receive important information to help you get off to a flying start and get a good idea of what to expect as a brand-new VUB student. And, of course, you’ll get to know the campus facilities, your fellow students and your study programme!

Are the Orientation Days relevant for you?

The Orientation Days are intended for all new students in the Bachelor or Master in Linguistics and Literary Studies.
Even if you have previously studied at VUB, but are new to this specific study programme, we would like to welcome you to the orientation days as detailed below.
 

What can you expect?

You are expected on campus on Wednesday, September 16th and Friday, September 18th. Please check your class schedule to find out where and when you need to be.
International students are also expected on campus on Thursday, September 17th for a specific International Student Welcome. See below for further details.

1. Orientation Day - Wednesday, September 16th

Faculty Welcome Linguistics and Literary Studies
During the faculty welcome session, you’ll find out everything you need to know to ensure a smooth start at VUB. You’ll receive information about the faculty’s structure, the ECTS system and study progress, and the services available to help you with a wide range of queries. You’ll also meet your dean and the study path counsellors, who will be there to support you over the coming years.

Programme Welcome
During the programme welcome, the group will split into separate sessions for the bachelor and master students respectively, so we can take a closer look at everything specific to your study programme. You’ll find out how your study programme is structured, what course materials you’ll need, which lesson group you are in, and what’s expected of you during the academic year. You’ll also receive practical tips from your programme team and find out important contact information, as well as a chance to meet a few of your professors!

Campus Tour
Building D? Aula Q? And where was it again that you could have lunch, study, do sports or have a drink?  
No worries, experienced VUB students will guide you through you new campus and show you the way; personal tips and favourites included!

Ready, Set, Go! 
In smaller groups, you’ll explore what to expect as a student at VUB:

• What skills do you need to get off to a good start?  
• What challenges might you face at university – and how can you deal with them?  
• What can you do when things get challenging? 
   

Welcome Drinks
Raise a glass with your fellow students, professors and the student organisations. To a succesful start of your academic year, cheers! 

2. MUBA & MUMA Practical Welcome Day - Friday, September 18th

Being part of an internationally-oriented study programme comes with extra challenges. During a series of practical info sessions, we will guide provide you with the necessary toolset to get off to a flying start. Please note that this day is also mandatory, alongside the Orientation Day on Wednesday as detailed above.

Students in the Bachelor's programme in Linguistics and Literary Studies ('MUBA') are expected to attend the following sessions:

• Technology bootcamp: VUB Tools & Technology
  This mandatory crash course covers the most important software required to successfully complete your time at MUBA. 
• Workshop: multicultural teams
  This mandatory session will equip you with the skills to thrive in our multicultural programme!  
• Bystander training 
  This mandatory training ensures that all students feel safe on campus, and are able to react in case of an emergency. 

• Social activity
  Meet your classmates and professors during this social activity!  
   

Students in the Master's programme in Linguistics and Literary Studies ('MUMA') are expected to attend the following sessions:

• Bystander training 
  This mandatory training ensures that all students feel safe on campus, and are able to react in case of an emergency. 
• Course selection afternoon
  Drop by with all your questions regarding your course selection!
• Workshop: multicultural teams & digital tools
  This mandatory session will equip you with the skills to thrive in our multicultural programme, as well as a crash course focusing on the digital tools VUB offers.

• Social activity
  Meet your classmates and professors during this social activity!  

Please refer to your class schedule to find the practical details of your orientation sessions.

Please be sure to check the schedule again as the start of the academic year approaches in case of any changes.