Limited-Enrolment Programmes

Numerus Fixus Programs

Earlier deadlines, selection processes, and strict limits. Here's how numerus fixus works — and how to plan around it.

What's Different About Numerus Fixus

These programmes don't follow the standard 1 May deadline. The rules are different — and stricter.

Earlier deadline: 15 January

The national deadline for numerus fixus is 15 January. Late applications are generally not accepted.

Selection process

Universities don't just check if you qualify — they actively select who gets in through interviews, tests, portfolios, or other assessments.

Ranking & placement on 15 April

After selection, all results are published on 15 April. You'll know if you're placed, waitlisted, or not selected.

Strict follow-up deadlines

Once placed, you have exactly 14 days to accept. Miss it and your spot goes to the next person on the waiting list.

The Standard Timeline

From application opening to accepting your place — here's how numerus fixus unfolds.

Around 1 October

Applications Open

Many numerus fixus applications open around 1 October for the next academic year.

15 January

Studielink Deadline

All numerus fixus applications must be submitted in Studielink by this date. No exceptions.

Jan – Mar

Selection Period

Universities run their selection process: interviews, tests, portfolio reviews, or other assessments.

15 April

Ranking & Placement

Universities publish results. You'll learn whether you've been placed, waitlisted, or rejected.

Within 14 days

Accept Your Place

You must accept or decline within 2 weeks of receiving your placement. Missing this forfeits your spot.

Limits to Plan Around

Studielink enforces hard limits on how many programmes you can apply to. Know them before you strategise.

Max 4 programmes total

You can have up to 4 active enrolment requests in Studielink per academic year.

Max 2 numerus fixus

Of your 4 total applications, at most 2 can be numerus fixus programmes.

Same programme, 2 universities

You can register twice for the same numerus fixus programme at two different universities, with exceptions (e.g., medicine programs can be stricter).

Things to Pay Attention To

Numerus fixus has more moving parts than a regular application. Don't let these catch you off guard.

Studielink isn't the whole application

Studielink registers your intent, but most universities require additional materials (motivation letter, CV, portfolio, test scores) through their own portal. Missing the university steps means your application is incomplete.

Selection varies by programme

Some programmes use interviews, others use written tests, portfolios, or weighted lottery. Research each programme's specific selection method early so you can prepare properly.

Deadlines are strict

The 15 January deadline is absolute — Studielink closes and there are no extensions. University portal deadlines can be even earlier. Late = out.

Don't bet on a single fixus

Selection is competitive and results aren't guaranteed. Always have a non-selective backup programme in your application mix.

Non-EU visa timeline

If you need a visa, the numerus fixus timeline is even tighter. Results come 15 April, but visa processing takes months. Plan ahead and have documents ready before results arrive.

StudyPath Advice

Tips for a Stronger Strategy

Based on what we see students get right — and wrong — every year.

Apply early in October

Don't wait until January. Submit your Studielink enrolment as soon as applications open on 1 October, then focus on university-specific requirements.

Keep a selection file folder

Create a dedicated folder for each programme with deadlines, portal links, required documents, and submission confirmations. Stay organised from day one.

Build a backup plan

Use your remaining application slots for non-selective programmes you'd genuinely attend. A backup isn't a compromise — it's smart strategy.

Track everything

Keep a checklist of every deadline, every portal, every document. Numerus fixus involves multiple systems and timelines — losing track of one step can cost you a place.

Don't Navigate Numerus Fixus Alone

With tight deadlines and limited slots, having a plan matters more than ever. Let StudyPath help you build one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Numerus fixus is the Dutch term for programmes with a limited number of places (a 'fixed number'). Even if you meet the entry requirements, you may still not get a spot because admission depends on a selection and placement process.
You can apply to a maximum of 2 numerus fixus programmes per academic year through Studielink. This is within your overall limit of 4 total programme applications. You can use the remaining 2 slots for non-selective programmes.
The national deadline for numerus fixus is 15 January. Late applications are generally not accepted. Many applications open around 1 October.
If you're not placed on 15 April, you may be put on a waiting list. Some spots open up when others decline their offers. If you're ultimately not placed, your backup (non-selective) programmes become your path forward — which is why having a backup plan is essential.
Yes. Some universities note you can register twice for the same numerus fixus programme at two different universities, with exceptions (e.g., medicine programs can be stricter).
Not exactly. Numerus fixus refers specifically to programmes with a government-approved cap on student numbers, with the 15 January Studielink deadline. 'Selective' programmes (like University College honours programmes) may have their own selection processes and different deadlines. Both involve selection, but the rules and timelines differ.