Are admission requirements the same at every Dutch university?

No. While there are national guidelines, each university — and often each faculty or programme — sets its own specific requirements. Entry criteria can differ for the same subject at different institutions. Always check the programme page directly for the most accurate and up-to-date requirements.

Do I need to have my diploma evaluated before applying?

It depends on your nationality and diploma. Many universities evaluate your credentials internally, but some may require a Nuffic credential evaluation or an IDW (Internationaal Diploma Waardering). Non-EU students applying to HBO programmes often need a separate evaluation. Check with your target university.

What English test scores do I need?

Most Dutch universities require IELTS 6.0–6.5 (or TOEFL iBT 80–90) for English-taught programmes. Competitive or research-heavy programmes may ask for higher scores. Some universities also accept Cambridge C1 Advanced or Duolingo English Test.

What is the difference between WO and HBO?

WO (wetenschappelijk onderwijs) refers to research universities — more theoretical and academic. HBO (hoger beroepsonderwijs) refers to universities of applied sciences — more practical and career-oriented. Both award internationally recognised degrees, but entry requirements, teaching style, and programme structure differ.

Can I apply without a motivation letter?

Some programmes don't require one, but most do — especially at WO universities and for competitive programmes. Even when optional, a strong motivation letter strengthens your application. For numerus fixus programmes, it's often a key part of the selection process.

What happens if I'm missing a prerequisite subject?

You may still have options. Some universities offer deficiency programmes or pre-master tracks to fill gaps. Others accept alternative qualifications or allow you to take specific courses before or alongside your programme. Contact the admissions office early for advice.

Application Guide

Dutch University Application Requirements

General requirements checklist for studying in the Netherlands — covering research universities (WO) and universities of applied sciences (HBO).

Disclaimer: Applying to Dutch higher education (research universities (WO) and universities of applied sciences (HBO)) is usually straightforward, but requirements can differ per university, faculty, and programme. Always verify the exact rules on your specific programme page before you submit.

Prior Education & Diploma Equivalency

You must have a prior qualification that matches the Dutch entry level for your programme. The institution decides whether your foreign diploma is comparable and admissible.

If needed, universities may request or arrange a credential / diploma evaluation (often via Nuffic resources or evaluation processes).

Common programme-specific variations include:

Required subjects (e.g., maths, physics, economics)
Minimum grades / class rank / GPA (Grade Point Average)
Specific curriculum background

Language Proficiency

English-Taught Programmes

You will typically need approved proof of English proficiency. The accepted tests and minimum scores are set by the institution/programme.

Dutch-Taught Programmes

Dutch proficiency is required for Dutch-taught programmes.

Required Documents

Most programmes ask for a combination of the following documents.

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Passport / ID Copy

A copy of your passport or identity document.

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Diploma(s) + Transcript(s)

Your secondary school diploma and academic transcripts.

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A curriculum vitae covering your education and experience.

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Motivation Letter

A personal statement explaining why you chose this programme.

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References (optional)

Academic or professional references, if requested.

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Portfolio (art-related subjects)

Required for creative and art-related programmes.

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Additional Forms or Questionnaires

If applicable to your programme.

Note: Applying in Studielink often starts the process, but many education institutions require a second step in their own portal where you upload documents.

Selection Programmes & Numerus Fixus

Some programmes cap places and select applicants (numerus fixus).

These programmes follow strict timelines and additional selection steps (tests, assignments, interviews). The Dutch government highlights the fixed national deadline for fixed-intake courses.

Application Route: Studielink + University Portal

In many cases the application involves two steps. Studielink tells applicants to check the institution's website for the admissions procedure and requirements.

Studielink

Submit an enrolment request in Studielink.

Read our Studielink guide

University Portal

Complete the university's application in their portal.

Non-EU/EEA: Immigration Timelines

If you need a Dutch visa or residence permit for study, universities typically coordinate the process once you're admitted. Timelines and required proof vary.

A key framework universities refer to is the international student "code of conduct," linked to residence-permit conditions for non-EU/EEA students. Apply early to protect visa timelines.

Why Requirements Differ

Even within the same university, two faculties can apply different rules.

Common differences you may see:

Stricter maths prerequisites for STEM vs social sciences
Portfolio + auditions for arts / design
Interviews or assessments for selective tracks
Extra proof of relevant background for Master's (and sometimes a pre-Master's pathway)

A practical reality: many universities explicitly state that admissibility is only confirmed after you submit a formal application with required documentation.

Quick StudyPath Checklist

Use this checklist to stay on track.

Confirm diploma equivalency route (and whether evaluation is needed)
Confirm language test type + minimum score
List all programme-specific extras (portfolio, interview, prerequisites)
Submit Studielink early enough to complete the university portal steps
If non-EU/EEA: apply early to protect visa timelines

Not Sure If You Meet the Requirements?

Every application is different. Let StudyPath review your qualifications, check your eligibility, and build a personalised application plan — so you apply with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Requirements can differ per university, faculty, and programme. Even within the same university, two faculties can apply different rules. Always verify the exact rules on your specific programme page before you submit.

The institution decides whether your foreign diploma is comparable and admissible. If needed, universities may request or arrange a credential/diploma evaluation (often via Nuffic resources or evaluation processes). Check with your target university.

For English-taught programmes, you will typically need approved proof of English proficiency — the accepted tests and minimum scores are set by the institution/programme. For Dutch-taught programmes, Dutch proficiency is required. Always check your programme page.

Some programmes cap places and select applicants (numerus fixus). These programmes follow strict timelines and additional selection steps such as tests, assignments, or interviews. The Dutch government highlights a fixed national deadline for fixed-intake courses.

In many cases you submit an enrolment request in Studielink, then complete the university's application in their own portal. Studielink tells applicants to check the institution's website for the admissions procedure and requirements, as each school has various stipulations.

If you need a Dutch visa or residence permit for study, universities typically coordinate the process once you're admitted. Timelines and required proof vary. Apply early to protect visa timelines.