The University of Groningen is the second oldest university in the Netherlands and has built a reputation for excellence. Many talented people have passed through the university during its rich 400-year history, including Nobel Prize winners like Ben Feringa (Chemistry, 2016) and Frits Zernike (Physics, 1953). Some have been pioneers in their respective fields, such as the first female University student and the first female lecturer in the Netherlands, the first Dutch astronaut and the first president of the European Bank. As far back as the 17th century, almost half of the student body was made up of international students from outside of The Netherlands. Today they host over 6,000 international students from over 120 countries, making for a truly culturally enriched exchange experience. The University of Groningen is ranked in the top 100 in the world across numerous rankings such as THE World top 100 (ranked number 80 in 2021).
While its history can be traced back to 300 BC, today Groningen is a vibrant student city with the youngest population in the Netherlands - one in every four people there is a student! That means there's always something to do, with various art and music festivals, theatres, cinemas and performance venues catering to all tastes, whether you prefer to watch or want to join in. The Groninger Museum with its world-renowned contemporary art exhibitions and the 133-year old Stadsschouwburg, one of the oldest and best-looking city theatres in the Netherlands, are must-visits, too. With achingly beautiful architecture, cosy day markets, charming shopping streets and hotspots galore, the quality of life in Groningen is hard to beat. Get your fresh produce, meat and cheese at the "Vismarkt" market in the middle of town or indulge in lunch with fellow students in the Kijk in 't Jatstraat next to their Harmony Building. Shop till you drop in the Zwanestraat - recently voted the best shopping street in the Netherlands - or meet your friends at one of Groningen's many pubs
