Course Level: | Bachelor’s | |
---|---|---|
Course Program: | Education & Teaching | |
Course Duration: | 3 Years | |
Course Language: | English | |
Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Course Level: | Master's | |
---|---|---|
Course Program: | Education & Teaching | |
Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
Course Language: | English | |
Required Degree | 3 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Course Level: | Master's | |
---|---|---|
Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
Course Language: | English | |
Required Degree | 3 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Leiden University is renowned for its research and academic programs across a wide range of disciplines. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and law. The university is particularly noted for its law school, as well as strong programs in arts, medicine, and sciences. It includes several interdisciplinary centers focusing on areas such as artificial intelligence, drug research, and environmental studies.
Leiden is known for its strong research culture. The university houses more than 40 national and international research institutes, including the Leiden Observatory and the Leiden Institute for Area Studies. It consistently ranks high in various global university rankings, especially in the arts and humanities and life sciences fields.
The main university campus is located in Leiden, with additional facilities in The Hague. The Leiden campus is characterized by its historic buildings and student-friendly atmosphere, while The Hague campus offers specialized programs mainly in the fields of international law, politics, and governance.
Leiden University is a part of numerous international networks and consortia, collaborating with universities and research institutions around the world. It is a member of the League of European Research Universities (LERU), a consortium of European research-oriented universities.
The university offers a vibrant student life with various student organizations, sports clubs, and cultural events. Its international student body brings diverse perspectives to campus, enhancing both social and academic learning environments.
Leiden's commitment to scholarly excellence and its historic and innovative environment make it a popular choice for students and researchers from around the globe.
Leiden University offers a wide array of bachelor's programs, primarily taught in Dutch, but there are also several programs offered in English to cater to international students. Fields include:
Arts and Humanities (e.g., History, Archaeology, Philosophy)
Sciences (e.g., Biology, Physics, Astronomy)
Social Sciences (e.g., Psychology, Political Science, International Relations)
Law (e.g., European Law, International Law)
Medicine (limited to Dutch-speaking students due to the nature of the medical practice in the Netherlands)
The master's programs at Leiden are particularly diverse, with many courses offered in English, attracting a large international student body. Examples include:
Humanities (e.g., Literary Studies, Media Studies, Art History)
Social Sciences (e.g., Anthropology, Public Administration, International Studies)
Science and Technology (e.g., Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Pharmaceutical Sciences)
Law (e.g., Public International Law, European Law, Corporate Law)
Interdisciplinary Studies (e.g., Bio-Pharmaceutical Sciences with Business Studies)
PhD candidates at Leiden work closely with their supervisors to conduct deep, meaningful research that contributes to their field. PhD studies at Leiden often involve collaboration with international research institutes.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|
B.A. in International Studies |
3 years |
Approx. $12,000 |
B.Sc. in Psychology |
3 years |
Approx. $12,000 |
B.Sc. in Computer Science |
3 years |
Approx. $12,000 |
LL.B. in International Law |
3 years |
Approx. $12,000 |
B.A. in English Language and Culture |
3 years |
Approx. $12,000 |
B.Sc. in Biology |
3 years |
Approx. $12,000 |
B.A. in Archaeology |
3 years |
Approx. $12,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|
M.Sc. in Artificial Intelligence |
2 years |
Approx. $20,000 |
M.A. in International Relations |
1 year |
Approx. $20,000 |
M.Sc. in Psychology |
1 year |
Approx. $20,000 |
LL.M. in International Law |
1 year |
Approx. $20,000 |
M.Sc. in Biomedical Sciences |
2 years |
Approx. $20,000 |
M.A. in Media Studies |
1 year |
Approx. $20,000 |
M.Sc. in Data Science |
2 years |
Approx. $20,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|
PhD in Humanities |
4 years |
Often funded |
PhD in Social Sciences |
4 years |
Often funded |
PhD in Law |
4 years |
Often funded |
PhD in Medicine |
4 years |
Often funded |
PhD in Science |
4 years |
Often funded |
PhD in Archaeology |
4 years |
Often funded |
Programs Offered
Bachelor’s Programs: While many undergraduate programs are taught in Dutch, Leiden offers several bachelor's programs in English, including in Liberal Arts & Sciences at Leiden University College, International Studies, Psychology, and various programs in the sciences.
Master’s Programs: There is a broader selection of English-taught master's programs, covering fields such as Law, Arts, Sciences, Social Sciences, and International Relations.
PhD Programs: The university is renowned for its research-driven PhD programs, which are typically offered with funding that covers tuition and living costs.
Leiden University provides extensive support for international students, including:
Orientation Week: An introduction program to help new students acclimate to the university and the country.
Student Services: Counseling, visa support, housing assistance, and a career service to help with job placements post-graduation.
Language Courses: Dutch language courses are available for international students interested in learning the local language, though it is not necessary for daily life as most Dutch people speak excellent English.
The main campus is in Leiden, with additional faculties located in The Hague. Both cities offer a rich historical atmosphere combined with modern facilities. The university has a vibrant student life with numerous clubs, societies, and sports facilities.
Leiden University offers various scholarships and financial aid options for international students. These include Leiden University Excellence Scholarships (LExS), specific faculty scholarships, and external funding options from governmental and private sources.
Located near Amsterdam, Leiden is well-connected to major European capitals via the Netherlands' excellent transportation network. This geographical advantage enriches student life with opportunities for travel and international networking.
The Netherlands, being a hub of international law, business, and diplomacy, particularly in The Hague, provides ample professional opportunities for students. The multicultural environment allows for a rich exchange of ideas and fosters a global perspective among students.
1. Choose Your Program: First, identify which bachelor's program you are interested in. For programs taught in English, there are fewer options compared to Dutch-taught programs.
2. Check Admission Requirements: Each program has specific admission requirements. For international students, these often include language proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS, and sometimes a secondary education diploma equivalent to the Dutch pre-university diploma (VWO).
3. Submit Your Application via Studielink: Studielink is the Dutch higher education registration system. You’ll need to create an account and submit your application here.
4. Complete the University’s Application: After registering on Studielink, you may need to complete your application through Leiden University’s online portal, where you can upload necessary documents (transcripts, diplomas, motivation letter, CV, etc.).
5. Meet Any Additional Requirements: Some programs may require additional tests, such as an entrance examination or a specific portfolio.
6. Receive Admission Decision: If you meet all the requirements and have been selected, you will receive an offer from the university.
1. Choose Your Program: Leiden offers a wide range of master’s programs in English. Review the options and choose the one that fits your academic and career goals.
2. Check Specific Admission Requirements: Master’s programs may have more specific requirements, including a relevant bachelor’s degree, specific coursework, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
3. Submit Your Application via Leiden’s Online Portal: Unlike bachelor’s applications, master’s applications are usually submitted directly through the university's own application system.
4. Complete Additional Requirements: Depending on the program, you might need to attend an interview or submit additional documentation.
5. Receive Admission Decision: Admissions decisions for master’s programs are typically communicated via email.
1. Find a Supervisor: Prospective PhD candidates should first find a faculty member who is willing to supervise their research. This usually involves proposing a research topic that aligns with the interests and expertise of a potential supervisor.
2. Proposal Submission: Submit a detailed research proposal along with your academic CV, publications (if any), and references.
3. Admission and Funding: PhD admission often depends on the availability of funding, which can come from university positions, grants, or scholarships.
For bachelor’s programs, the main intake is in September at the start of the academic year. Some programs might also offer a February intake, but this is less common and typically depends on the specific program.
Academic Requirements: Applicants generally need to have completed secondary education that is equivalent to the Dutch VWO diploma. This includes international qualifications like the IB diploma, A-levels (with specific grades), or regional equivalents.
Language Proficiency: For English-taught programs, non-native English speakers must prove their proficiency through standardized tests like TOEFL (with a minimum score around 90), IELTS (minimum score around 6.5), or other accepted tests.
Specific Program Requirements: Depending on the program, additional requirements may include a motivation letter, CV, reference letters, or specific subject prerequisites.
Master's programs typically start in September, with some programs also offering a February start. It’s important to check the specific program for its available intake options.
Academic Requirements: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. The degree should be from an accredited institution and show academic proficiency suitable for higher education.
Language Proficiency: Similar to bachelor's programs, proficiency in English must be demonstrated. Requirements may be stricter, with some programs requiring a minimum of 7.0 in IELTS or equivalent.
Program-specific Requirements: Some programs might require GRE or GMAT scores, a portfolio (for arts and design programs), or significant work experience (especially for business-related or executive programs).
PhD intakes are generally more flexible and can occur throughout the year, as they are often dependent on the availability of supervisors and funding.
Academic Requirements: A master’s degree in a relevant field is typically required. Applicants should demonstrate strong research capabilities, often shown through a master's thesis or equivalent research work.
Proposal and Supervisor Alignment: Applicants need to propose a research topic and find a faculty member at Leiden who is interested in supervising the project. The feasibility of the research proposal and its alignment with the university’s research strengths are critical.
Funding: Many PhD positions are funded, which means candidates are often hired as university staff and must meet the job application criteria, which can include interviews and additional documentation.
Ranking System |
Rank of Leiden University |
---|---|
QS World University Rankings |
Top 100 |
US News & World Report Global Universities |
Top 100 |
Scholarship Name |
Who is Eligible |
Coverage/Amount |
Description |
---|---|---|---|
Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) |
International non-EEA master’s students |
Partial to full tuition fee waiver |
Awarded for outstanding academic achievement in a master's program. |
Holland Scholarship |
International students from outside the EEA applying for bachelor’s or master’s |
€5,000 for the first year of study |
Meant to assist students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) who want to study in the Netherlands. |
Orange Tulip Scholarship |
Students from specific countries (varies yearly) |
Often includes a tuition fee waiver and other costs |
Designed for excellent students from selected countries to study in the Netherlands. |
Minerva Scholarship Fund |
Leiden University students |
Up to €10,000 |
Provides scholarships for study and research projects within fields of study, including travel expenses for fieldwork. |
Sallie Mae Student Loans |
U.S. students |
N/A |
Private educational loans from the U.S. for students studying abroad, including at Leiden. |
StuNed Scholarships |
Indonesian students at master’s level |
Tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs |
Aimed at supporting Indonesian professionals and graduates to pursue master’s studies in the Netherlands. |
Mandela Scholarship Fund |
Students from South Africa |
Living expenses, travel, and insurance for up to 5 months |
Intended for South African students who wish to study at Leiden for a short period (one semester). |
Campus Location |
Accommodation Type |
Cost Range (per month) |
Description |
---|---|---|---|
Leiden |
University-managed housing (via DUWO) |
€350 to €800 |
Options range from single rooms in shared apartments to studio apartments. This includes utilities like water, electricity, and internet. |
The Hague |
University-managed housing (via DUWO) |
€400 to €900 |
Similar options as in Leiden, adjusted for the slightly higher cost of living in The Hague. |
Leiden & The Hague |
Private market rentals |
€500 to €1,200 |
Students can choose private rentals, which can vary widely in terms of cost and quality. This option requires independent handling of utilities. |
Leiden & The Hague |
Short Stay facilities |
€600 to €1,000 |
Typically furnished rooms or studios with utilities included, often used for shorter academic stays or by exchange students. |
Research-Driven: As a premier research university, Leiden encourages a culture of inquiry and innovation. Students often engage in research projects, conferences, and seminars, which are integral parts of the learning experience.
Interactive Learning: Courses are designed to be interactive, often featuring small group sessions, tutorials, and extensive faculty-student engagement.
Diverse Student Body: With students from over 120 countries, Leiden boasts a multicultural environment. This diversity enriches classroom discussions and broadens personal and cultural perspectives.
Support Services: The university offers numerous support services for international students, including orientation programs, Dutch language courses, and dedicated advisors to help with academic and personal matters.
Student Associations: There are numerous student organizations and clubs, including study-specific associations, cultural clubs, and sports teams. These groups often organize events, workshops, and social gatherings.
Sports and Recreation: Leiden University offers a variety of sports facilities and programs, ranging from fitness classes and team sports to recreational activities.
Cultural Activities: The university's close proximity to the cultural riches of Leiden and The Hague allows for frequent museum visits, theater outings, and participation in local festivals and events.
Historic Cities: Both cities boast rich histories, with beautiful canals, historic buildings, and vibrant cultural scenes. Leiden, known for its picturesque old town, and The Hague, as the international city of peace and justice, offer unique atmospheres.
Transport: The cities are well-connected by public transportation, with easy access to bikes, buses, and trains. Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and other Dutch cities are just a short train ride away.
Housing: While finding housing can be challenging due to high demand, the university assists with housing options as previously detailed.
Leiden's Introduction Week: Known as the Orientation Week Leiden (OWL), it helps new students adjust to university life and meet peers.
Dies Natalis: The university's anniversary is celebrated with academic ceremonies and social activities, emphasizing its rich traditions and history.
The Hague Orientation Programme: Specifically tailored for students at the Campus The Hague, this orientation includes introductions to study and city life in The Hague.
Career Support: The university's Career Services offers workshops, counseling, and networking events designed to help students transition from university to the workplace.
Internship and Job Opportunities: Proximity to numerous NGOs, international courts, and multinational companies in The Hague provides ample internship and employment opportunities for students.
Career Counseling: Leiden University provides career counseling services where students can receive guidance on career planning, resume building, interview preparation, and job search strategies.
Workshops and Training: The university regularly organizes workshops that focus on skill development such as networking techniques, writing effective cover letters and resumes, and mastering job interviews.
Career Events: Leiden hosts various career events, including job fairs, company presentations, and networking events, often featuring alumni and professionals from diverse fields. These events are great opportunities for students to meet potential employers and learn about job openings and internship opportunities.
Internship Office: Many of Leiden’s faculties have dedicated internship coordinators who assist students in finding and securing internships related to their field of study. These internships can be a mandatory part of the curriculum or an optional addition to enhance practical experience.
Credits for Internships: In many programs, internships can be integrated into the academic curriculum, allowing students to earn credits while gaining professional experience.
Leiden Alumni Association: The university boasts a strong and active alumni network, which can be a valuable resource for current students. Through the alumni network, students can connect with graduates who are established in their fields and can offer mentorship, advice, or job leads.
Mentorship Programs: Programs connecting students with alumni mentors are available in various departments, providing guidance, career advice, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outcomes: While specific employment statistics can vary greatly by faculty and program, Leiden University generally reports strong employment rates for its graduates. Graduates tend to find relevant employment or pursue further studies within a few months after graduation.
Preparation for a Global Market: With its international orientation, Leiden prepares students for careers not only within the Netherlands but also globally. Many graduates find positions in international organizations, especially in cities like The Hague, a hub for international law, peace, and justice organizations.
Work Permit Guidance: The university offers guidance on work permits and regulations for non-EU students, providing support for those seeking to work in the Netherlands post-graduation.
Program Popularity and Competitiveness: More competitive programs, such as those in law, medicine, psychology, and international studies, tend to have lower acceptance rates due to high demand.
Applicant Pool: The quality and size of the applicant pool each year also affect the acceptance rates. Programs with a strong international appeal might attract a large number of high-caliber applicants, making the selection process more competitive.
Admission Requirements: Stringent requirements, including language proficiency tests, specific academic prerequisites, and supplementary materials like personal statements and recommendation letters, can influence the acceptance rates. Programs that require more rigorous entry qualifications generally have lower acceptance rates.
Main Address: Rapenburg 70, 2311 EZ Leiden, The Netherlands
Key Details:
Historical Heart: The Leiden campus is the historic heart of the university, nestled within the charming city of Leiden, known for its old architecture, picturesque canals, and vibrant cultural scene.
Faculties: It houses the majority of the university’s faculties, including Humanities, Law, Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, and Archaeology.
Libraries and Museums: The campus is home to the main university library, several museums like the National Museum of Antiquities and the Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC).
Student Facilities: This campus offers extensive student facilities, including sports centers, student housing, and numerous dining options.
Main Address: Wijnhaven Building, Turfmarkt 99, 2511 DP The Hague, The Netherlands
Key Details:
International Focus: Reflecting The Hague’s international character, this campus focuses on global and European law, international relations, public administration, and political sciences.
Modern Facilities: The campus features modern educational facilities, including classrooms, study spaces, and a library tailored to its academic programs.
Strategic Location: Situated near many international organizations, embassies, and government institutions, it provides students with unique networking and internship opportunities.
Leiden: Easily accessible by train and other public transport from major cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht. Leiden is compact, so most university buildings and facilities are within walking or cycling distance from each other.
The Hague: Also well-connected by public transport, particularly trams and trains, allowing easy access to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and other major Dutch cities.