Как поступить в нидерландские университеты 2026

Applying to a Dutch university in 2026 starts with Studielink — the central application portal used by all Dutch higher education institutions. You create one account and apply to up to four programmes simultaneously. For competitive numerus fixus programmes (limited spots), the deadline is January 15. For regular programmes, non-EU students should apply by May 1. EU students have until May 1 for most programmes (some accept until August). You need a Nuffic credential evaluation of your foreign diploma and English proficiency at IELTS 6.0–6.5 or equivalent. This guide covers every step from creating your Studielink account to receiving your admission letter.

What Is Studielink?

Studielink (studielink.nl) is the Dutch central application platform. Every student — Dutch and international — must use Studielink to enrol at a publicly funded university or university of applied sciences (HBO). Think of it as the Dutch equivalent of UCAS (UK) or the Common App (US).

You create one Studielink account and use it throughout your time in the Netherlands. It handles initial applications, enrolment, and programme changes. Studielink is available in Dutch and English.

After submitting your application through Studielink, the university contacts you directly with additional requirements — motivation letters, portfolios, transcripts, or test scores. Studielink is the gateway; the university handles the detailed admission process.

Key Studielink Rules

Rule	Details
Maximum applications	4 programmes per academic year
Numerus fixus maximum	1 numerus fixus programme per year (plus non-NF programmes)
Language	English interface available
Cost	Free to register and apply
Required for	All publicly funded Dutch universities and HBO

Types of Dutch Higher Education

The Netherlands has two types of higher education institutions. Understanding the difference is essential before you apply.

Research universities (WO — wetenschappelijk onderwijs) offer theory-focused bachelor's (3 years) and master's (1–2 years) programmes. There are 14 research universities, including the University of Amsterdam, TU Delft, Leiden University, and Erasmus University Rotterdam. These appear in international rankings and focus on academic research.

Universities of applied sciences (HBO — hoger beroepsonderwijs) offer practice-oriented bachelor's (4 years) and some master's programmes. There are 36 HBO institutions, including Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (HvA), The Hague University of Applied Sciences, and Saxion. HBO programmes include mandatory internships and focus on professional skills.

Feature	Research University (WO)	Applied Sciences (HBO)
Bachelor duration	3 years (180 ECTS)	4 years (240 ECTS)
Master duration	1–2 years (60–120 ECTS)	1–2 years (some programmes)
Focus	Theory and research	Practice and profession
Internship	Optional (common in master's)	Mandatory (6–12 months)
Number of institutions	14	36

Numerus Fixus: Limited-Spot Programmes

Some Dutch programmes have a numerus fixus — a maximum number of students admitted per year. This applies mainly to popular programmes like medicine, psychology, dentistry, physiotherapy, and some business and law programmes.

The numerus fixus deadline is January 15 for programmes starting in September. This is a hard deadline — late applications are not accepted. If more applicants meet the requirements than there are spots, the university uses a selection procedure (not a lottery — since 2017, selection replaced the lottery system).

Selection procedures vary by university but typically include academic grades, a motivation letter, a CV, and sometimes an additional test or interview. Some medical schools use the decentrale selectie process with multiple assessment rounds.

You can only apply to one numerus fixus programme per year through Studielink. If you are not selected, you can still apply to non-numerus fixus programmes before their deadlines.

Diploma Requirements and Nuffic Evaluation

Dutch universities accept a wide range of international qualifications. Nuffic — the Dutch organisation for internationalisation in education — evaluates foreign diplomas to determine their Dutch equivalence.

Commonly Accepted Qualifications

Country/System	Accepted Diploma	Dutch Equivalence
Germany	Abitur	VWO diploma (research university)
UK	A-Levels (3 passes)	VWO diploma
USA	High school diploma + SAT/ACT or AP	VWO diploma (with conditions)
India	12th standard (CBSE/ISC/State Board)	HAVO diploma (HBO) — additional requirements for WO
China	Gaokao + 1 year university	VWO diploma
International Baccalaureate	IB Diploma (24+ points)	VWO diploma

For bachelor's admission at a research university, your diploma must be equivalent to the Dutch VWO (voorbereidend wetenschappelijk onderwijs — pre-university education). For HBO, the HAVO level is sufficient. Some programmes require specific subjects — engineering programmes often require mathematics and physics at a certain level.

You can check your diploma's equivalence on the Nuffic country modules (nuffic.nl). Most universities handle the credential evaluation internally using Nuffic guidelines. You typically do not need to order a separate evaluation yourself — the university does it as part of the admission process.

English Language Requirements

English-taught programmes require proof of English proficiency. The most common requirements are:

Test	Typical Minimum	Competitive Programmes
IELTS Academic	6.0 (no sub-score below 5.5)	6.5–7.0
TOEFL iBT	80	90–100
Cambridge C1 Advanced	Grade C / 169	Grade B / 176+

Exemptions apply if you completed your previous education in English in a country where English is the native language (UK, USA, Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand). Some universities also exempt graduates from English-medium programmes in other countries — check with your specific institution.

For Dutch-taught programmes (mostly bachelor's), you need to prove Dutch proficiency, typically through the NT2 (Nederlands als Tweede Taal) exam at level II or a CNaVT certificate.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Research Programmes (6–12 months before)

Use Studyfinder.nl to search all English-taught programmes in the Netherlands. Filter by field, degree level, and city. Check individual university websites for specific admission requirements, tuition fees, and curriculum details. Make a shortlist of two to four programmes.

Step 2: Create a Studielink Account (October–November)

Go to studielink.nl and create an account. You need an email address and will create a password. International students use their passport number as identification. Dutch residents use their BSN. Fill in your personal details and previous education accurately.

Step 3: Submit Your Application (November–January for NF; before May 1 for others)

Select your programme(s) in Studielink and submit. The system sends your application to the university. For numerus fixus programmes, submit before January 15. For regular programmes, submit as early as possible — ideally before March 1 for the best chance of admission and housing. The hard deadline for most non-EU students is May 1.

Step 4: Complete University Requirements (varies)

After your Studielink application, the university contacts you (usually within two weeks) with instructions for additional documents: certified transcripts, diploma copies, English test scores, motivation letter (1–2 pages), CV, portfolio (for art/architecture), and any programme-specific materials. Upload these through the university's own application portal.

Step 5: Receive Admission Decision (March–June)

For numerus fixus programmes, results come by April 15. For regular programmes, decisions arrive within four to eight weeks of a complete application. You receive the decision through Studielink and by email from the university. If admitted, you must confirm your enrolment in Studielink.

Step 6: Pay Tuition and Arrange Housing (May–August)

After confirming, pay your tuition fee (or first instalment). Register for university housing immediately. Non-EU students start the visa process — your university initiates the TEV visa procedure with the IND.

Application Timeline

When	What to Do
September–October	Research programmes on Studyfinder.nl
October–November	Take IELTS/TOEFL if needed
November–December	Create Studielink account, prepare documents
January 15	Deadline for numerus fixus programmes
January–April	Submit applications for regular programmes
April 15	Numerus fixus results announced
May 1	Deadline for most non-EU applications
May–July	Regular admission decisions arrive
May–August	Pay tuition, arrange housing, start visa process
August–September	Arrive and begin orientation

Master's Applications: What Is Different

Master's applications follow a similar path through Studielink but have some differences. Most master's programmes do not have a numerus fixus. Deadlines vary more — some accept rolling applications until June 1 or later for EU students.

You need a completed bachelor's degree (or proof of expected graduation) in a related field. Some programmes require specific prerequisite courses. Letters of recommendation (two, typically) are common for competitive master's programmes. A research proposal may be required for research master's programmes.

Non-EU master's applicants should aim for a May 1 deadline to allow time for the visa process. Some universities have earlier deadlines for scholarship consideration — check our Netherlands scholarships guide for details.

Common Application Mistakes

Missing the numerus fixus deadline. January 15 is absolute. No exceptions, no late applications. Set a reminder for January 1 and submit a week early.

Applying too late for housing. Housing is scarce. Register for university housing the day you receive your admission. In Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Leiden, waiting even a few weeks can mean no university housing.

Incomplete documents. Universities reject applications with missing transcripts, unsigned motivation letters, or expired test scores. Create a checklist and verify everything before uploading.

Wrong programme type. Make sure you understand the difference between WO (research) and HBO (applied). An HBO bachelor's gives you a different qualification than a WO bachelor's. WO bachelor's graduates proceed directly to WO master's programmes. HBO graduates may need a pre-master's programme (30–60 ECTS) before entering a WO master's.

Ignoring subject requirements. Some programmes require specific high school subjects. A Dutch engineering programme may require mathematics at a level equivalent to Dutch VWO Mathematics B. Check the programme's specific requirements on the Nuffic country module for your diploma.

For more on choosing the right programme and university, see our programmes and universities guide. For admission processes, check our admissions and application guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Studielink and do I have to use it?

Studielink is the central application portal for all publicly funded Dutch universities and HBO institutions. Yes, every student must use it. You create one account and can apply to up to four programmes. It is free to use and available in English. Private institutions may have their own application systems.

What is the deadline for applying to Dutch universities?

There are three key deadlines: January 15 for numerus fixus programmes, May 1 for most non-EU applications, and May 1–September 1 for EU applications to non-NF programmes (varies by university). Apply as early as possible — earlier applications get priority for housing and scholarships. Some competitive master's programmes close earlier.

What is numerus fixus and how does selection work?

Numerus fixus means a programme has a limited number of spots. Popular programmes like medicine, psychology, and dentistry use this system. Apply by January 15 through Studielink. Universities select based on grades, motivation letters, and sometimes tests or interviews. Results come by April 15. You can apply to only one numerus fixus programme per year.

Do I need to have my diploma evaluated by Nuffic?

Usually not separately. Most Dutch universities evaluate your diploma internally using Nuffic guidelines. You submit your certified transcripts and diploma to the university, and they assess the equivalence. In some cases, the university may ask you to obtain a credential evaluation from Nuffic or a Nuffic-recognised agency. Check with your university's admissions office.

What IELTS score do I need for Dutch universities?

Most English-taught programmes require IELTS 6.0 overall (with no sub-score below 5.5). Competitive programmes at UvA, TU Delft, or Leiden may require 6.5 or 7.0. TOEFL iBT 80 is the equivalent minimum. Take your test at least three months before your application deadline to ensure results arrive on time.

Can I apply to multiple Dutch universities at once?

Yes. Studielink allows up to four applications per academic year. You can apply to different programmes at different universities. The only restriction: you can apply to only one numerus fixus programme. If you receive multiple offers, you choose one and withdraw the others in Studielink.

What are the requirements for a master's application?

You need: a completed bachelor's degree (or proof of expected graduation) in a relevant field, English proficiency (IELTS 6.0–7.0), transcripts, a motivation letter, a CV, and often two letters of recommendation. Some programmes require a research proposal or portfolio. Non-EU students also need to arrange a visa through their university.

How long does the admission process take?

For numerus fixus: apply by January 15, results by April 15. For regular programmes: decisions arrive four to eight weeks after a complete application. Complex cases (credential evaluation, conditional admission) may take longer. Non-EU students should allow extra time for the visa procedure (60–90 days after admission).

Next Steps

Start on Studyfinder.nl to find your programme. Create your Studielink account early. For costs and funding, see our Netherlands costs guide. For visa requirements, read our Netherlands student visa guide. For the full picture, explore our complete Netherlands guide, with sections on admissions, programmes, and costs.