ESN Disputen
Are you ready to dive into one of the most exciting aspects of Dutch student culture? Welcome to the world of Disputen: small, tight-knit groups within a student association that stick together over the years, spend time together, and share a strong group identity.
If you’ve ever wanted to be part of something more personal and lasting than a committee or a WhatsApp group, then a Dispuut might just be what you were looking for!
A Dispuut is a small, self-organised group of ESN members who meet regularly, build their own unique traditions, and shape their own group identity — inspired by Dutch student culture, but open to both international and Dutch students. Some groups are built around shared hobbies, interests, or just good vibes. Weekly dinners, borrels, themed events, trips, or even matching merch are all part of the experience — but each Dispuut is free to decide what they want to do.
You can start your own with a few motivated friends or join an existing one during one of the recruitment rounds in September or February. Disputen are selective — each group chooses new members based on shared interests and fit — and are open to all ESNcard holders. They function as multi-year communities, offering a more personal and flexible way to stay involved with ESN, even after doing a committee or joining the Introduction Weeks.
In short, a Dispuut within ESN Groningen is a small community that enjoys spending time together. It’s fun, flexible, and completely your own. You define it, but you also carry it forward.
Curious? Find out more about how to join or start a Dispuut and what life in a Dispuut looks like in the English or Dutch edition of our Disputen Manual!
If you have any questions about the ESN Disputen, you can always email us at integration@esn-groningen.nl.
Since the ESN Disputen are a new programme, there might not be any existing Disputen yet. However, you can always start your own: find out how in the Disputen Manual and submit your proposal via the Google Form.
Disputen Manual ENG: Here!
Disputen Manual NL: Here!
