KEI-week 2024: Your Ultimate Introduction to Student Life in Groningen
Next week will be an important and festive week for any upcoming student (MBO/ HBO or University) to start for the adventure of a lifetime? They will join thousands of fellow students at KEI-week 2024, the ultimate introduction to student life in Groningen! It seems that the applications of MBO students is a bit behind, according to the latest news.
However, from August 12-16, 2024, aspirant students will experience an unforgettable KEI-week filled with exciting events, new friendships, and endless possibilities.
What is KEI-week?
KEI-week is the annual introduction week for all new students in Groningen. It's their chance to explore the city, meet fellow students, and dive headfirst into the vibrant student culture. With a packed schedule of activities, any student quickly feels at home in Groningen!

Why would the new students Attend KEI-week 2024?
- Make friends before classes start
- Explore Groningen with experienced student guides
- Learn about student organizations and activities
- Get practical information about studying and living in Groningen
- Experience the best parties and events of the year
Highlights of KEI-week 2024
- The Grand Opening: Kick off the week with a spectacular party on the Grote Markt
- Informatiemarkt: Discover student organizations, sports clubs, and more
- KEI-Parade: Watch the city come alive with a lively student parade
- Night of the Songs: Join Europe's largest karaoke event
- Open Air Festival: Enjoy live music and sustainable activities at the Suikerterrein
- Eindfeest: Wrap up the week with an epic closing party
The full program of KEI-week 2024
Every year, thousands of students are eager to start their student life. To make a flying start and to get to know and explore the student city of Groningen, there is the KEI-week. In 2024, this fantastic week starts on Monday, August 12th and runs until August 16th. With about 12 to 15 other first-year students, who will explore Groningen under the guidance of a few experienced senior students.
Monday, August 12
Day Registration
10:00 - 17:00 Broerplein
On Monday, August 12th, KEI-week kicks off with Day Registration. At the Academiegebouw, the students can finalize their registration for KEI-week and receive the first important items you'll use throughout the week, such as the KEI bag and wristband.
Information Market
10:00 - 17:00 Vismarkt
At the Information Market, the students can get to know almost all the (student) organizations that the city of Groningen has to offer. Sports, cultural, and student associations, as well as political organizations and companies. There's something for everyone!
International Welcome
12:00 - 16:00 Academiegebouw
The International Welcome is the welcome moment for all international KEI participants. Here, they receive an introduction to the Netherlands, Groningen, and of course, KEI-week.
Sit & See
11:00 - 16:00 Vismarkt
Three beautiful convertible buses will drive through the city to show the most beautiful spots in Groningen. On these sightseeing tours, a few enthusiastic senior students will be on the buses to tell about all the fun ins and outs of the city.
City Walk
13:00 - 17:00 Broerstraat 5
Discover lively Groningen with the GroningenLife city walk! Walk past the impressive Martinitoren and through the cozy city center. This walk showcases the highlights of Groningen, including historic buildings, fun bars, and trendy spots. Forget boring history lessons; here it's all about the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Meet The KEI Leaders
17:00 - 20:00
This is the first moment the new student will meet the KEI group and KEI leaders. Together, they will first have a bite to eat, and then you can head to The Grand Opening to kick off the week in style!
The Grand Opening
20:00 - 01:00 Grote Markt
During The Grand Opening, KEI-week is spectacularly kicked off with a big party! On the big stage, performances will take place and the students will be welcomed by famous Groningers and the Daily Board of Stichting KEI that organized this week. From this moment on, KEI-week is officially on!

Tuesday, August 13
Eat & Greet
12:00 - 14:00 Throughout the city
The Eat & Greet is the moment to visit one of the many associations that make up Groningen's student life and grab a bite to eat. Everyone is opening their doors; from student associations to cultural organizations and from politics to sports. After lunch, stick around for a tour!
Time to Talk: Better Together
14:00 - 17:00 Forum Groningen
This event focuses on 'togetherness' and gives tips for a great start the studies. Through various talk shows and speakers on different aspects of student life, any student will be as well-prepared as possible for the upcoming student years.
KEI Parade
20:00 - 21:30 Route through the city center
During the KEI Parade, the city center will be turned upside down! During this parade, student associations and organizations will march noisily and joyfully through the streets.
Night of the Songs
21:00 - 01:00 Grote Markt


