Pre-Academic Training
3 - 14 August 2026
Congratulations, you have made the excellent decision to study at Maastricht University (UM). Here you will get to experience a brand new way of learning and studying, not to mention living and speaking. Immersing yourself in new experiences can be the most exciting aspect of moving to a new city, however, we also know that at the beginning this might be a little challenging. This is exactly why we have created the Pre-Academic Training (PAT) programme. This comprehensive training programme will help you to make a smoother transition into your academic career in Maastricht.
Programme information
We will start the programme with a mandatory introduction day on Monday 3 August 2026, which will give you an opportunity to get to know each other before the training begins. You will also receive all kinds of practical information on the day and you will be introduced to the charming city of Maastricht. The Pre-Academic Training itself will run from Tuesday 4 August 2026 until Friday 14 August 2026.
Important: You are required to follow all courses within the programme; individual course selection is not permitted. The programme is offered as a single, all-inclusive package, and participation in all components is mandatory in order to maintain the academic quality of the programme.
English Skills - Academic Writing and Presentations - for bachelor students
Bachelor students will focus on general academic English and the essential building blocks of academic writing. You will practise structuring short academic texts, applying clear and coherent paragraphing, and developing your vocabulary for academic communication. Attention is also given to grammar support and the language needed for tutorials and written coursework.
English Skills - Academic Writing and Presentations - for master students
Master students will work at a more advanced level, concentrating on the conventions of academic writing within graduate studies. This includes developing well-supported arguments, integrating sources appropriately, enhancing academic style and precision and strengthening coherence in longer written assignments.
Academic Skills course
This course introduces you to the key skills needed for a successful start at university. The sessions focus on orientation to university, effective study strategies, critical thinking, information and digital literacy, and teamwork and communication in an academic context. Through short assignments and practical activities, you learn how to approach academic tasks with confidence and how to navigate the expectations of university-level learning.
Workshop Intercultural Competence/Communication
This discussion-based workshop explores how to handle intercultural situations and what defines intercultural competence. You will reflect on the role of culture in daily life and engage in practical discussions on how to enhance your intercultural communication skills.
Dutch Language and Culture workshop
During this two-hour workshop, you get a taste of the Dutch language (Social Dutch) and explore the cultural habits and everyday expressions that shape life in the Netherlands. Expect a mix of practical language tips, interactive activities and cultural insights that you can apply right away.
What's more
Three fun leisure activities scheduled:
- Wednesday evening 5 August
- Saturday 8 August
Tuesday evening 11 August
