Would you like to represent the interest of nearly 40.000 students with the university board? Would you like to learn how to debate, lobby and network while making a real difference? Do you have a passion for education, student welfare, sustainability or another important issue? Then we are looking for you!
Apply now for the university council fraction of VUUR. Please note: the deadline to apply is 6 March 2026 at 11:59 p.m.! Submissions after the deadline might not receive a response.
What is VUUR?
VUUR (Verenigde Utrechtse Universitaire Raden) is a progressive student party active in all layers of co-determination (medezeggenschap). With seats in the university council and multiple faculty councils we are an important player in determining the direction of the university. With our widespread network, students participating in the university council, faculty council and education committees (OCs) who to reach out to when fixing problems. This way no board member can circumvent us and we are an important player in the policy of the university. This is the power of VUUR.
Important documents, like the university’s budget, the strategic plan and the remuneration for student boards are put forward to the university council (often abbreviated to U-council or UC) to be voted in. This way we as representatives of co-determination can be a watchdog for the board and their policy and make improvements on it wherever possible.
We also come with our own initiatives, that we propose to the executive board (CvB) of our university. We strive for a university that is more sustainable, diverse and accessible: A university ready for the future! You can read more on our standpoints here.
Who are we looking for?
On our list for the elections of 2026 we would like to see students that actively want to improve the university. Of course, we would also like to see students who are (or want to be) involved in the organisation of Utrecht University. he ideal candidate has the following qualities: (preferred, not a requirement)
- Critical thinking skills;
- Result-oriented with realistic goals;
- Eye for strategy;
- Good communication skills;
- Team player;
- Perseverance;
- Eagerness to learn;
- Passion for working on behalf of students at Utrecht University;
- Previous experience with co-determination;
- Strong organisational skills.
What will you be doing?
As member of the university council of VUUR your activities will involve the following:
- Proposing and defending your own initiatives and defending these;
- Analysing documents and formulating policy recommendations;
- Monitoring the policy of the Executive board and the state of affairs within the university as a whole;
- Maintaining strategic contacts, for example with directors and fellow council members;
- Attending meetings within the university council on various topics;
- Maintaining contact with many stakeholders and supporters (fellow students and VUUR);
- Participating in activities and training courses of VUUR and the council.
Practical issues
- The time investment averages 28 hours per week;
- De formal startdate is 1 September 2026;
- You will receive compensation for your council work, depending on your tuition fees, programme and nationality (NL/EU/non-EU)*, but at least €1,100 per month. Compensation is paid monthly;
- Attendance and involvement during the elections (1 – 3 June) is mandatory;
- The induction period begins in April and can be combined with other activities;
- Additional provisions may be possible in special circumstances..
* See for the expected compensation the web site of Utrecht University.
What do we offer?
We will try our hardest to prepare the selected candidates for the elections and the subsequent council year. Furthermore, we and the faculties offer training courses and workshops, but also social activities! After a year with the VUUR faction, you will know all the ins and outs of Utrecht University and how to make a political difference there. Former VUUR council members from many different sectors indicate that they still use the knowledge they gained from their council work very often in their current activities. VUUR also provided them with a large network. (Former) VUUR council members work (or have worked) at student organisations such as the ISO, the LSVb and LOF, in local or national politics, at ministries, municipalities and political parties.
How can you apply?
Do you recognise yourself in the above and have you become enthusiastic about the activities? Respond now! You can apply till 6 March at the latest, by sending your CV, a cover letter (max 1 A4) and a picture to applications2026@verenigingvuur.nl. Please add as subject to your mail Application University Council. Add in your cover letter at least one policy issue you would like to discuss as a member of the university council. This can be very specific, but also more general. We will give you a confirmation of receiving your mail as soon as possible.
After the deadline you will receive a mail with the rest of the proces and interviews that will be held, for which you might be invited. Submissions after the deadline might not receive a response.
Questions?
If you have any questions after reading this vacancy, we would love to hear from you! You can reach us by mailing to bestuur@verenigingvuur.nl or using Instagram. We will then look who can best answer your question!
