Checklist: are you ready for the new academic year 2026-2027?

Imagine it's the end of August. You've had a great summer: holidays, earning some extra money, streaming when it rained, festivals... Did someone say party? But now, the holiday season is truly over. It's time to get back to work. Your university of applied sciences or university has woken up again and is sending you emails, orientation week has started, and your classes will begin soon. Time for a reality check: am I ready for 2026/2027? We'll give you a helping hand with the checklist below.

Have you arranged your insurance?

Make sure your health insurance is in order. Are you under 18? Then you're often still covered by your parents' insurance. Once you turn 18, you'll need to take out your own basic health insurance. Contents insurance (for your room) and personal liability insurance are also highly recommended. Check! ☑️

Have you applied for or renewed your gym membership?

It's not just your mind that needs training — your body does too. After all, those drinks, pizzas and late-night snacks sometimes need a bit of compensation. And when you stay active, you'll feel better and have more energy for studying (and for parties). Fortunately, many schools, universities and gyms make it easier by offering student discounts on sports memberships. So it's time to renew your membership or sign up for one. Check! ☑️

Have you applied for student finance and benefits?

Your student finance from DUO is pretty much essential for the average student. The same goes for benefits such as healthcare allowance or housing allowance. And if you travel by public transport, the student travel product is indispensable. You can apply for, modify or pause all of these through DUO and/or the Dutch Tax Administration. Also check whether you're eligible for additional support, such as a supplementary grant from DUO. Check! ☑️

See the Dutch Government's study checklist >

Have you ordered your textbooks?

You probably recognise it: putting it off just a little longer. Because: "Those books? I'll buy them later." Or: "I'll wait until I have a bit more money." We get it. But the longer you wait, the greater the chance you'll have to wait longer for your textbooks too. During peak periods, warehouses and delivery services can become busier, which may increase delivery times. So if you want to make sure your books arrive before your classes start, order early. Your lecturers have already prepared your book list, so in most cases you can purchase your entire list with just a few clicks. And if you order two or more Dutch-language textbooks from Studiewinkel.nl, you'll also receive a 5% student discount. Check! ✅

Find your book list now >