How to apply for undergraduate (first cycle) and graduate studies (second and third cycle) in the Netherlands

Application procedures to study in the Netherlands vary depending on whether you participate in undergraduate (first cycle) or graduate studies (second and third cycle).

If you plan to enroll in full time undergraduate studies (first cycle) at a public university in the Netherlands for the first time, you will have to submit your application through the Dutch joint application system called Studielink as explained below:

01Search for a study program or course that best meets your personal expectations and educational profile. At the program/course web page, you will see a link or banner to the joint application system, called Studielink.

02Register at Studielink to provide your personal data and information about your educational background. Through your account, you will be able to check the status of your application, change your contact information or even terminate your enrollment in a course.
If you haven't decided yet where to study, you may still sign up for an account at Studielink.
[Click here to register and apply online for university studies in Netherlands as an undergraduate student]

03Once you are registered, Studielink will send to your home address a letter with a verification code (Verificatiecode brief). The verification code is used to confirm your personal and educational information. Make sure you insert your verification code through your Studielink account soon after you receive it since it has a validity of 14 days after the reception of the letter. [View here a sample letter with the verfication code from Studielink]
The image below shows the Studielink screen where students have to type in the verification code.

Please, note that your educational background and grade point average from your upper secondary studies will determine whether you qualify for the studies you applied for.

[Click here to convert your grade point to study in the Netherlands] (Only EU students)

Applications for graduate studies (second and third cycle) must be sent directly to the institution where you would like to enroll. In general, the application form is avaliable for download at the study program or course website.

Sources: Studielink (Netherlands' Joint Application System)
Eurydice database (Eurydice is an international educational database developed by the European Commission and Member States of the European Union with the aim of facilitating and improving the understanding of the different educational systems in Europe).