Wittenborg Welcomes More Than 210 New Students for October Intake

19.10.2026

Students From More Than 40 Countries Join Wittenborg’s Apeldoorn and Amsterdam Study Locations

Students from over 40 countries have joined Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences for the October 2026 intake, bringing a diverse mix of cultures, experiences and academic ambitions to the institution's international community.

More than 210 new students have enrolled for the intake, joining programmes in Apeldoorn and Amsterdam.

Reflecting Wittenborg's continuing commitment to internationalisation, the cohort represents countries across Europe, Asia, Africa, North America and South America. Among the largest groups are students from India, Iran, China, Ukraine, South Korea, Vietnam and Türkiye, alongside students from countries including South Africa, Italy, Kazakhstan, Indonesia, Georgia and the United States, among many others.

Diverse academic pathways

Students joining this intake are enrolled across a wide range of bachelor's, master's, pre-master's and foundation programmes, highlighting the breadth of educational opportunities available at Wittenborg.

The largest group of new students has joined bachelor's programmes, particularly the BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration), with specialisations including Business Analytics, Human Resources Management, Logistics and International Trade, Financial Services Management, Artificial Intelligence & Cyber Security and Digital & Social Media.

The intake also includes students pursuing EBA (Bachelor of Entrepreneurial Business Administration) programmes with specialisations in Entrepreneurship & Digital Marketing, Entrepreneurship & FinTech and Entrepreneurship & Small Business, as well as Hospitality Business Administration pathways.

Strong demand for business and technology programmes

At postgraduate level, students have enrolled in MBA (Master of Business Administration) and MSc (Master of Business Management) programmes across a broad range of disciplines.

Popular areas of study include Data Analytics, Finance, International Management, Health and Social Care, Logistics & Trade, Digital Marketing & Communication, Engineering, Applied Artificial Intelligence, Accounting, Cyber Security and Clean Technology Management.

The October intake also welcomes students undertaking preparation and foundation programmes, providing progression opportunities for learners from a variety of educational backgrounds before they continue to bachelor's or master's-level study.

Welcoming students to the Wittenborg community

The October intake started with Wittenborg's Introduction Week, giving students the opportunity to meet classmates, connect with staff and learn more about life and study in the Netherlands.

Welcoming students in Apeldoorn, Karen Penninga, Director of Corporate Governance, acknowledged the challenges many students face when moving abroad for their studies.

"You are a big group, with everyone travelling from far away. It can be overwhelming to arrive in a new city and a new country, but you are all in the same boat," she said.

She encouraged students to seek support when needed and to make the most of opportunities outside the classroom.

"Other students can help you, and so can our teams, including student housing. Explore the city, join clubs, whether that's football, other sports or cultural activities. Focus on your academic studies, but also have fun while achieving your goals."

At the Amsterdam study location, Stephen Orme, Head of Business Development and Operations, encouraged students to embrace their new environment and explore the Netherlands.

"You are here, so really be here. Take everything in and try to learn something new every day. Explore the country and don't just stay around Amsterdam. The Netherlands is a small country and you can get almost everywhere within a couple of hours by train," he said.

"Work hard, play harder and make the most of this year. It's a unique opportunity."

First impressions

Students also shared their enthusiasm about starting their studies and meeting fellow students from around the world.

Baylee McMullin, an IBA (International Business Administration) student from the United States, said her first weeks in the Netherlands had been a positive experience.

"I'm from a smaller town, so it has definitely been an adjustment, but it's been really good, and everyone has been super welcoming," she said. "Apeldoorn is very walkable, and it has been easy to settle in."

She said Wittenborg's international environment was one of the key reasons she chose to study at the institution.

"I chose Wittenborg because it is so international, and I also love the business aspect of the programmes."

MBM (Master of Business Management) student Yagini Ravi from India said Introduction Week had helped her feel at home.

"Introduction Week has been a really good experience. Everyone has been very warm and welcoming, and I'm looking forward to having a great time here," she said.

"I first landed in Amsterdam and spent some time exploring the city. I love the people here. They are very friendly and kind."

For Leonardo Gaetani, a Sport Business Management student from Italy, one of the highlights has been meeting people from different backgrounds.

"There are many nationalities represented here and students of different ages. It is nice to receive guidance from older students and learn from their experiences."

He also praised his new surroundings.

"Apeldoorn is a beautiful city. It is very green and clean, and I especially love the parks here."

As the October block gets underway, Wittenborg looks forward to supporting another diverse cohort of students as they begin the next stage of their academic and professional journeys.