To be eligible for admission to any Bachelor’s programme at Leiden University, you must hold a diploma that is equivalent to the Dutch pre-university diploma (VWO). The Admissions Office provides a list of commonly accepted non-Dutch diplomas that generally meet this requirement.

Please note, specific diploma requirements apply for science programmes.

For admission to Leiden University’s Master’s programmes, the following academic requirements must be met:

A Bachelor's degree (BA or BSc) or an equivalent qualification is required for all Master’s programmes.

When applying for admission, the following documents are generally required. Note that if your diploma grants you automatic admission, you may not need to submit additional documents.

1. Academic Records:

• Upload digital copies of all academic transcripts and diplomas from secondary and higher education (completed and ongoing).
• If the documents are not in English, Dutch, German, or French, provide official translations.
• If your studies are ongoing, provide transcripts to date and indicate your expected graduation date.
• International Baccalaureate (IB), European Baccalaureate (EB), and US High School students should submit relevant exam results or indicate upcoming exams.

2. Language Proficiency (if applicable):

• You may apply before receiving your English test results, but final admission depends on achieving a sufficient score. Upload your results as soon as available.
• For Dutch-taught programmes, provide proof of Dutch language proficiency if you do not have Dutch prior education.

3. Additional Documents:

• Motivation Letter: A personal statement (700-1,500 words) explaining why you want to join the programme and why Leiden University is your choice.
• Letters of Recommendation: Some programmes may require these.
• CV and Alternative Assessments: For applicants (e.g., refugees) without verifiable documentation, submit a detailed CV explaining your educational background.

Check programme-specific information for any further document requirements.

1. Apply via Studielink
Start your application on Studielink (from 1 October). Submit your passport/ID and wait for confirmation and login details for Leiden’s online portal (uSis).

2. Complete Online Application (uSis)
Finalize your application by uploading required documents and paying the €100 fee (if applicable). Exemptions from the fee may apply, such as for Dutch pre-university diploma holders.

3. Submit Documents & Application Fee
Upload academic records and complete your profile in uSis. Check for additional requirements like letters of motivation or recommendation.

4. Track Application Status
Check your status online. Leiden University will inform you of their decision within 4-6 weeks.

5. Confirm Attendance
If admitted, confirm attendance in uSis. If a visa is needed, confirm early to meet visa deadlines.

6. Student Registration
After admission, finalize your registration, arrange tuition payment, and, if international, prepare for your stay (housing, visa, insurance).

1. Starting in September:

- With visa/residence permit: Apply by 1 April.

- Without visa/residence permit: Apply by 15 May.

Starting in February:

- With visa/residence permit: Apply by 15 October.

- Without visa/residence permit: Apply by 15 November.

Important Notes

1. Always check individual programme deadlines, as they may vary.

2. Apply early! Complete your two-part application (Studielink and uSis) before the deadlines to avoid delays.

3. Housing Deadlines

Accommodation is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. Apply for both admission and housing early to increase your chances.

4. Scholarship Deadlines

Scholarship deadlines vary and can be earlier than admission deadlines. Check each scholarship’s website for details.