Do I need a credential evaluation to apply to a Dutch university?

Usually not. Most Dutch universities evaluate your diploma themselves as part of the admissions process. You typically only need a separate Nuffic credential evaluation if an employer, government body, or regulated profession requires one. Always check with your university's admissions office first.

How long does a Nuffic credential evaluation take?

If you apply yourself via IDW, expect at least 6 weeks processing time after submitting all documents. During busy periods it can take longer. Universities that request evaluations directly from Nuffic may have different timelines.

Is credential evaluation the same as diploma legalisation?

No. Legalisation (or apostille) confirms your document is authentic. Credential evaluation compares the level of your diploma to the Dutch education system. You may need legalisation as a prerequisite before your credential evaluation can proceed.

Can I get a free credential evaluation?

Yes — if you apply through a Dutch university, they often request the evaluation from Nuffic on your behalf at no cost to you. If you apply independently via IDW, there is a fee (currently around €138).

What if Nuffic says my diploma is not equivalent?

A Nuffic evaluation is advisory, not a final decision. If your diploma is evaluated at a lower level, it doesn't automatically disqualify you. Universities may still admit you based on their own assessment, or suggest bridging courses or a foundation year.

Diploma Recognition Guide

Credential Evaluation (Nuffic)

A credential evaluation (diplomawaardering) is an official comparison of your foreign diploma to a Dutch diploma level. The government has appointed Nuffic (and SBB for vocational qualifications) to evaluate diplomas, and IDW is the digital counter where you can request an evaluation.

What Is a Credential Evaluation?

Understanding what it does — and what it doesn't

What It Does

States the comparable level of your diploma in the Dutch education system.
Helps schools/universities understand whether your qualification likely meets entry level requirements.

What It Does NOT Do

It does NOT guarantee admission. The university makes the final admissions decision and may impose additional requirements (e.g., language tests, subject prerequisites).
It is advice, not a legal decision: you cannot automatically claim rights based on the evaluation alone.

When Do You Need It for University Applications?

Usually, you don't need to apply for it yourself

If you already know which programme you want, the best first step is to contact the admissions office. Most Dutch educational institutions can obtain free advice about the level of your diploma, so you may not need a paid evaluation.

You might need it if…

Your diploma is unfamiliar, your case is complex, or the university specifically asks you to provide an official evaluation document.
You are still exploring options and want an official statement of your diploma level before choosing a programme (this is typically paid).

How It Works

Two routes to a credential evaluation

Often free for you

Option A: Via Your Chosen University

Apply via Studielink / university portal
The institution consults Nuffic as part of the admissions assessment (when relevant)

Option B: You Request It Yourself via IDW

You apply through My IDW. Nuffic notes you usually receive an evaluation after at least 6 weeks, while government guidance indicates it can take up to several months depending on completeness and processing.

IDW also clearly states: if you already know what you want to study, it's often better to go via the institution first.

What You'll Typically Need If Applying via IDW

Commonly requested documents

Diploma/certificate + grades list/diploma supplement

Valid passport/ID

Sworn translations if documents are not in Dutch / English / German / French (rules apply)

Tips from StudyPath

Ask admissions first

If your programme page does not clearly state whether your diploma is admissible, don't guess: ask admissions first. Credential evaluation can be useful, but it's best used strategically, especially if timelines (selection, visa, housing) are tight.

Not Sure About Your Diploma?

Let StudyPath help you figure out whether you need a credential evaluation and guide you through the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Usually not. Most Dutch universities can obtain free advice about the level of your diploma, so you may not need a paid evaluation. The best first step is to contact the admissions office of your chosen programme.

Nuffic notes you usually receive an evaluation after at least 6 weeks, while government guidance indicates it can take up to several months depending on completeness and processing.

No. The university makes the final admissions decision and may impose additional requirements (e.g., language tests, subject prerequisites). A credential evaluation is advice, not a legal decision — you cannot automatically claim rights based on the evaluation alone.

IDW is the digital counter where you can request a credential evaluation yourself. IDW also clearly states: if you already know what you want to study, it's often better to go via the institution first.