Application Deadline Calendar

Never miss a Dutch university deadline. See all application dates filtered by your nationality, degree level, and intake period.

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Understanding Dutch University Application Deadlines

Dutch universities operate on a structured application calendar with deadlines that vary by programme type, nationality, and intake period. Understanding these dates is essential to avoid missing your window of opportunity. This guide covers everything you need to know about when to apply, from Studielink registration to visa timelines.

Tips for staying on track

  • Know your key dates

    The two most important national deadlines are 15 January (numerus fixus via Studielink) and 1 May (general Studielink deadline for EU students). Master's programmes each set their own — always check the specific programme page.

  • Non-EU? Apply early

    Non-EU students often face earlier deadlines — sometimes months before the EU deadline — to allow time for visa processing, document legalisation, and housing arrangements. Start at least 6 months before your intended start date.

  • Numerus fixus is strict

    Programmes with a numerus fixus (limited intake) have a firm 15 January deadline. Missing it means waiting a full year. You can apply to a maximum of two numerus fixus programmes simultaneously.

  • Consider February intake

    Not all programmes offer a spring start, but those that do can be a great alternative if you missed the September deadline. February intake deadlines are typically in October-November of the preceding year.

  • Don't forget post-acceptance steps

    After receiving an offer, you still need to accept, pay any deposit, apply for a visa (if non-EU), arrange housing, and register with the municipality upon arrival. Each step has its own timeline.

  • Studielink is just the start

    Registering on Studielink is the first step for Bachelor's programmes, but many universities also require direct applications with additional documents. Master's applicants often apply directly to the university.

Frequently Asked Questions

Deadlines vary by programme and institution. For Bachelor's programmes, the Studielink general deadline is 1 May. Numerus fixus programmes close on 15 January. Master's programmes set their own deadlines — typically between 1 March and 1 June. Non-EU students should apply earlier to allow time for visa processing.
Studielink is the centralised enrolment platform for Dutch higher education. The general deadline for EU/EEA Bachelor's students is 1 May each year. For numerus fixus programmes (limited intake), the deadline is 15 January. Master's programmes may or may not use Studielink — check with your university.
The numerus fixus deadline is 15 January each year. This applies to programmes with a capped number of places. You must register through Studielink by this date and complete any selection procedures set by the university.
Often, yes. Many universities set earlier deadlines for non-EU/EEA students — sometimes 2 to 4 months earlier than EU deadlines — to allow time for visa (MVV) processing, document verification, and housing arrangements. Always check the specific programme deadline for non-EU applicants.
For numerus fixus programmes, no — the 15 January deadline is firm. For other programmes, some universities accept late applications if places remain, but this is not guaranteed. Contact the university's admissions office directly to ask about late applications.
Not all programmes offer a February intake. Those that do typically set deadlines between 1 October and 1 November of the preceding year. Non-EU deadlines may be earlier. Use the filters above to select February intake and see exact dates.
Start the visa (MVV) process at least 3 months before your programme starts. Your university will typically initiate the MVV application after you accept your offer and pay the deposit. Processing usually takes 4 to 8 weeks, but delays can happen.
Yes. Master's programmes each set their own deadlines, which vary by university and programme. There is no single national Master's deadline like Studielink's 1 May for Bachelor's. Deadlines range from February to June for a September start.
You can register for up to four study programmes simultaneously in Studielink. For numerus fixus programmes, you can apply to a maximum of two. There is no limit on the number of Master's applications, as these are often handled directly by the university.
If you miss the 15 January deadline, you cannot participate in the selection procedure for that academic year. Your options are to apply for a non-numerus fixus alternative, consider a different university offering the same programme without intake limits, or wait and apply for the following year.