Buddy Program

UPDATE: Sign-ups for the Fall 2026 Semester are now OPEN!
Sign-up now through the Papaya App (Apple Store or Google Play) or click here.

Matching will be done in August before the Fall 2026 semester starts so sign up now!

ESN Amsterdam organises a Buddy Program every semester for all new incoming international/exchange students.

Make sure to add your Phone Number to your Papaya Account. Matching will be done before the Spring 2026 semester starts!

Welcome to the ESN Amsterdam Buddy Program!

Moving to a new city can feel overwhelming, but the ESN Amsterdam Buddy Program is here to make the transition smoother and more exciting! Our goal is to support the social and cultural integration of new international students and exchange students while building meaningful connections with local buddies.

Click here to download the ESN Amsterdam Buddy Program Guide!

For New International Students and Exchange Students

Looking to navigate life in Amsterdam like a pro? Your Local Buddy is here to:

Answer your questions and help you settle in.
Show you around the city, from finding the supermarket to exploring hidden gems.
Introduce you to ESN events, cultural nights, and parties to connect with others.
Be a friendly face to share experiences and make lasting memories.

For Local Buddies

Be the reason someone’s time in Amsterdam becomes unforgettable! As a Local Buddy, you will:

Help new international students and exchange students feel at home by guiding them and answering their questions.
Join fun events and social activities together.
Learn about different cultures while sharing your own.
Make a positive impact while having a lot of fun!
Check out the bottom of the page for a manual!

Exclusive Benefits for Local Buddies

Becoming a Local Buddy comes with exclusive benefits just for you!

Big discount on the ESN Card (includes discounts on Ryanair, FlixBus & more!)
Free entry to select ESN events & parties
Exclusive access to Buddy-only programs & activities

Why Join?

Whether you’re an international student or a local buddy, the Buddy Program is your chance to:

Build meaningful friendships and connect with people from around the world.
Experience the best of Amsterdam together—through city tours, cultural events, and social activities.
Gain a unique perspective by sharing cultures and learning from one another.
Have fun while enhancing your personal and professional growth, with recognition for your participation.

How It Works

Download and Sign up via the Papaya ESN app, where we’ll pair you with the perfect match based on shared interests. Download it on the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store. You can also sign up through the website. Make sure you add your Mobile Phone number to your profile, this way you and your buddy can contact each other. If you have any questions about how Papaya works check out our ESN Papaya signup guide
Dive into the experience—attend events, explore the city, and enjoy your journey together!

What If There Is An Issue?

If your Buddy isn’t responding, you feel your match isn’t the right fit or if there are any problems you need help with, please let us know. We will do our best to help you and, if possible, find you a new Buddy if needed. We can guarantee that we will do everything we can to support you with any issues or problems you encounter, and that everything will be handled confidentially.

Please note: The Buddy Program is very popular. We try our best to Match and accommodate everyone but unfortunately this is not always possible.

Become a Local Buddy

Get a Local Buddy

Any Dutch local student or international student who has lived in Amsterdam for a while is welcome to become a local buddy! You don’t need to know Dutch to become a Local Buddy. The aim of this program is to help international students easily transit and integrate into their new lives in Amsterdam. Most international students who come to study in Amsterdam do not know much about the city except for the typical tourist stereotypes.

As a local buddy, you could help international students buy their very first bike, share your knowledge regarding university life or take them to discover the hidden treasures of Amsterdam. What type of buddy you want to be is completely up to you. You could meet up for coffee or drinks, have dinners or go for a stroll around town with your buddies. Who knows, you might get a good friendship out of the experience! So if this sounds interesting to you then don’t forget to sign up.

If you have more questions check out the ESN Buddy Program Manual or contact us!

Welcome, are you an incoming student, who’s looking for someone to answer your questions concerning university, housing or buying your (first) bike? Or would you like someone to take you to that one cute coffee house, or recommend you the best club in town? Join our Buddy Program and meet a local student who can show you around Amsterdam!

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