Innovative, socially and environmentally oriented

Do you prefer to study abroad for a shorter period than a semester or year? Off the beaten track offers you a range of interesting opportunities. How about developing your entrepreneurial skills and intercultural competencies in a virtual exchange? Or joining an interdisciplinary summer program or student conference? You can even enter your student-led initiative in a conference to win prize money. You'll be challenged to expand on innovative solutions, social and environmental orientation, whichever opportunity you choose. All experiences are offered physical, virtual or blended.

Information sessions

The full range of opportunities is listed on this page. You'll also find a short introduction to each programme. We would also like to invite you to join an information session, Q&A, or workshop to help you on your journey.

Choose from these Off the beaten track programmes

The programmes are generally designed to accommodate UvA students for whom studying abroad is otherwise limited. First-generation students, students with financial need or disabilities, and more. Some programs come with scholarship opportunities, and all come with ample opportunity to develop yourself and your international network.

INCiTE summer school

Spend two weeks in Suzhou, China, working on an innovative business solution to an urgent global challenge. All students are welcome to join in July 2021!

NICE online course and summer school

Meet students from all over Europe in this semester-long virtual exchange journey in intercultural competencies and entrepreneurship, culminating in a summer school in July.

RISE Awards

Submit your student-led project and win support in scaling-up your initiative or prize money. For students and alumni!

U21 summer/winter scholarships

Find a summer or winter school of your choice at one of our partner universities, and develop your international competencies.

UNICA Student Conference

Delve into major urban challenges in this part-funded conference organized by students, for students. This year’s theme: “Transforming your University in the post-COVID-19 age”.

AIESEC volunteer programmes

Travel and work as a volunteer with the biggest non-profit student organisation in the world: AIESEC. Experience the endless possibilities in short-term projects, personal coaching, a professional internship or work experience.

Other programmes 

You can also check out these other possibilities for (short term) programmes across the globe.