About the Conference

A vibrant European community interested in improving the experience of students as they enter higher education.

What is EFYE?

At the heart of the network is its annual conference, first held in 2006 at Teesside University in the United Kingdom. Since then, the event has rotated through universities across Europe and grown into a well-established forum for sharing research, practice, and experience around first-year student success.

Each year's conference features a diverse programme of workshops, presentations, keynotes, and discussions designed to spark new ideas, practical insights, and long-lasting professional connections.

The EFYE community values openness and inclusivity: while English is the primary language for sessions, delegates from many countries come together to contribute their perspectives and learn from one another. The network also facilitates ongoing conversations through its discussion list, allowing members to continue sharing ideas and resources throughout the year.

EFYE is practice-focused and international in scope, attracting delegates from across Europe and beyond who are eager to develop and implement approaches that improve student transitions, reduce attrition, and strengthen support structures for first-year students.

Learn more about EFYE

EFYE in Numbers

2006
First conference, Teesside University, UK
20+
Years of annual conferences across Europe
30+
Countries represented by delegates
2026
Szeged, Hungary – this year's host

Community Values

  • Openness and inclusivity across educational cultures
  • Practice-focused research and evidence sharing
  • Long-lasting international professional connections
  • Improving student transitions and reducing attrition
  • Year-round knowledge exchange via the EFYE discussion list

See EFYE in Action

Watch highlights from past EFYE conferences and get a feel for the community you'll be joining in Szeged.

EFYE 2026

EFYE 2026 – Szeged, Hungary

Preview of the upcoming conference at the University of Szeged

EFYE 2025

EFYE 2025 – Leuven, Belgium

Highlights from the previous year's conference at KU Leuven