International Student Associations - Subsidy Programme

The University of Twente values its international community and recognises the vital role international student associations play in fostering social connection, integration, and a sense of belonging among international students. These associations, however, face unique challenges: they often struggle with funding due to fluctuating student numbers from specific countries or cultures, and they may be unfamiliar with the Dutch administrative and financial systems. Moreover, international students themselves frequently face greater financial burdens—such as higher tuition fees and work permit restrictions—which can limit their ability to participate in social activities.

To address these challenges and support the important work of international associations, the ISA Subsidy has been established. This financial support helps associations remain active and visible within the UT community, contributing to a diverse and inclusive campus environment. It ensures that international students have access to affordable social activities and the opportunity to build the community they need while studying abroad.

Who Can Apply?

International Student Associations that are recognised by the Student Union as UnionParticipants.

What Can Be Funded?

Requests can be made for bank account costs and activities that promote the integration of international students.

1. Bank Account Costs

• Eligible costs:
  • Account opening fees;
  • Monthly maintenance fees.
• Requirements:
  • The bank account must be in the association’s name;
  • Only one request per year is allowed;
  • A maximum of €100 per calendar year.

2. Integration Activities

Subsidy can be granted for specific activities. To be considered for funding, these must:

• Promote integration and interaction of students of all (international) backgrounds;
• Be open to all UT students;
• Increase visibility of international communities;
• Encourage collaboration between associations;
• Support diversity, inclusion, and tolerance;
• Inspire entrepreneurship;
• Have at least 70% non-board participants;
• Take place in the future;
• Be financially accessible to all students.

Not Funded:

• Alcohol;
• Board expenses;
• Travel costs;
• Members-only events;
• Clothing for members;
• Board recruitment events;
• Long-term accommodation;
• Costs for association websites.

Funding details

The maximum total subsidy that can be requested (including bank account costs and activity costs) per calendar year is €1000 per association.

1. Bank Account Costs

The maximum per calendar year for banking account costs is €100.

2. Integration Activities

The amount of funding for an activity depends on the number of participants present at the activity.

Deliverables

1.    Bank account costs:

• Apply using the forms;
• Submit a balanced budget;
• Submit proof of the bank account costs.

2.    Integration activities:

Before the event:

• Apply the request in the forms (at least 1 month before the event);
• Submit a balanced budget and quotes for expenses;
• Register the event in the SU event calendar;
• Ensure visual promotion of the Student Union during the event (promotional materials can be borrowed from the Student Union office).

After the event:

• Submit within 3 months after the event:
  • Photos/videos showing promotional visibility;
  • Final budget (realisation);
  • Number of participants that were at the event.

Application Process

The application for the subsidy will be discussed with the Student Union Board within 4 weeks. After this, you will be informed whether or not the subsidy application has been approved. The subsidy will be paid out after all documents are delivered by the association.

Questions?

If you have any questions about the subsidy, you can contact the World Sector Officer. The contact information can be found here

Continuity regulations

These regulations are written in 2025, they will be evaluated by the portfolioholder Internationalisation and if needed attuned in December 2026.