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Admission & Programmes
Admission & Programme FAQ
Common questions about getting started with Dutch higher education — programme types, credits, grading, and the academic calendar.
Getting Started & Choosing a Programme
WO (research universities) is generally more academic/theoretical, while HBO (universities of applied sciences) is more practical and profession-focused.
See: WO vs HBO Universities
See: WO vs HBO Universities
Bachelor's is your first degree; Master's is a specialisation after a Bachelor's. Which is right depends on your current education and goals.
See: Bachelor's vs Master's
See: Bachelor's vs Master's
ECTS shows workload and helps universities judge whether you meet prerequisites (e.g., "15 ECTS in math").
See: ECTS Credits Explained
See: ECTS Credits Explained
Dutch universities usually grade on a 1–10 scale; 5.5 or 6.0 is commonly a pass, and 9–10 is rare. "Cum laude" rules vary per programme.
See: Dutch Grading System
See: Dutch Grading System
Most programmes start in early September and run to late June, with exam/resit periods depending on the university. Some Master's programs may start in February every year.
See: Academic Calendar 2025–2026
See: Academic Calendar 2025–2026