The previous edition of the newsletter carried an article dedicated to the study progress norm for non-EU students, in combination with taking large modules of 30 or more ECTS credits. The subject of the study progress norm in combination with a year’s membership of a board was subsequently discussed during a meeting of the international student advisory board. As a result, it was decided to dedicate a brief article to the subject in this newsletter.

It is very important for non-EU students to meet the study progress norm in order to retain their right to a residence permit in the context of their study programme. The Code of Conduct states that non-EU students should be kept informed about this norm. At the same time, a year’s membership of a board can be very valuable for students in terms of their personal development. However, membership of a board may be a severe impediment to the ability of a student to meet the study progress norm. This could influence non-EU students in deciding whether or not to be a member of a board. It has emerged from discussions with student advisory councils that some people are unaware of important information regarding the study progress norm in combination with a year’s membership of a board.

The Code of Conduct states that in the case of any non-EU student who does not meet the study progress norm, their educational institution will assess whether or not there are personal circumstances as meant in Article 7.51 of the Higher Education and Scientific Research Act and Article 2.1 of the Higher Education and Scientific Research Act Implementation Decree. Article 7.51 paragraph 2 under a of the Higher Education and Research Act describes membership of the board of a student organisation or study programme as a personal circumstance. This means that the Immigration and Naturalisation Service need not be notified in the case of students who do not meet the study progress norm as a result of their membership of a board. If this information is made readily available to non-EU students, they will be better able to make an informed decision on whether or not to seek a year’s membership of a board.

Students who are considering membership of a board are advised to contact their study advisor or student counsellor beforehand. They will be able to advise on the available options and requirements for ensuring that a year’s membership of a board is regarded as a justifiable circumstance.