The Introductory EA Program

Discover how you can make a bigger difference!

Each semester, we run a 6-week Intro to Effective Altruism Program designed to explore how you can have the greatest positive impact on the world.

In small groups with supportive facilitators, you’ll:

  • Learn practical ideas and tools for making meaningful change.

  • Explore how your career, time, and resources can create a bigger impact.

  • Connect with like-minded people who care about doing good.

Whether you’re new to these ideas or already thinking about making a difference, this program will give you fresh perspectives and help you take action. The program is best suited for those who are relatively new to Effective Altruist ideas and want to learn more. If you are unsure about applying, you can always reach out to us via email: info@eaamsterdam.com.

The program will start at the beginning of January. Sign up deadline is January 3.

How does it work? 

  • The Introductory EA Program is a free program open for anyone to apply. No previous experience or EA-knowledge is required and all study backgrounds are welcome!

  • The time commitment is ~3hrs per week for 6 weeks in total.

    • You’ll have weekly 1.5hr discussions with 4-6 participants and a facilitator.

    • Before attending each session, there is about 1.5hr of reading, videos, and sometimes an exercise.

  • Discussion sessions will be held in person in Amsterdam, primarily around Roeterseiland and Science Park. The exact location and time of the week will be determined based on the preferences of both the facilitator and the participants.

  • Besides the weekly discussions, you can join our socials, events, and make use of other opportunities!

Topics you’ll explore

  • Week 1: Introduction to Effective Altruism. What are the key principles behind ‘doing the most good’?

  • Week 2: Global Health and Development. How much better are the best options to do good?

  • Week 3: Compassion and Rationality. How can we make better decisions?

  • Week 4: Longtermism. Should we focus our efforts on improving the future or the present?

  • Week 5: Existential Risk. How could we ensure the future of humanity?

  • Week 6: Taking action. How can you apply this to your own life?

Apply for the upcoming round!

You can sign up below for the next round of the Introductory EA Program. The program will run for 6 weeks, starting at the week of January 5. The specific time and day of the week will be determined based on the availabilities of participants and facilitators. The sign up deadline is on January 3.

In the mean time, also consider joining our other events. Got any questions? Feel free to contact us.

In case you are not able to make it to this round of the program you could check out EA Virtual Programs! They offer a similar Introductory EA Program, as well as an In-Depth Program, a reading group of the book The Precipice and a careerplanning program. EA Netherlands also offers an introductory program.