Thinking of studying in Europe, but want a university that values both global perspectives and regional depth? 🌏✨
Welcome to Leiden University — one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious institutions, where tradition meets innovation.
Founded in 1575, Leiden has shaped generations of thinkers, scientists, and leaders who’ve made a real impact worldwide. From Nobel Prize-winning physicists to global policymakers, its alumni network spans across continents — and now, it’s your turn to join this legacy.
For Asian students, Leiden University is more than just an academic destination — it’s a gateway to understanding your own region from a new, global lens. With its strong programs in Asian Studies, International Relations, Law, Computer Science, Psychology, and Data Science, Leiden offers the perfect blend of intellectual rigor and cross-cultural exchange.
Bachelor’s Admission and Application
Congratulations — you’re considering Leiden University for your bachelor’s studies! 🎓 This is where your dream of earning a globally recognized degree begins. The university welcomes thousands of international students every year, many from countries like India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, Bangladesh, Nepal, and China.
Leiden’s bachelor’s programs combine academic depth with practical exposure. You can choose from courses in International Studies, Psychology, Computer Science, Law, Political Science, Archaeology, Linguistics, and more. The key lies in selecting a program that aligns with your career goals and intellectual interests.
Inforens mentors recommend that you begin researching programs at least 8–10 months before the intake to understand their entry requirements, study tracks, and specializations.
Step-by-Step Guide for Bachelor’s Application
Leiden University has a transparent and systematic application process. Let’s go through it step by step:
Step 1: Choose Your Bachelor’s Programme
Explore Leiden’s full list of English-taught bachelor’s programs on the official website. Some of the most popular programs among Asian students include:
- International Studies
- Psychology
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence
- Biology
- Law and International Relations
- Urban Studies
- Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
💡 Inforens Tip: Before finalizing your choice, analyze the course structure, entry requirements, and future career pathways. Inforens counselors can help you map your academic interests with Leiden’s program strengths.
Step 2: Check the Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary by program, but general guidelines include:
A secondary school diploma equivalent to the Dutch VWO diploma
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge)
- IELTS: Minimum 6.5 overall
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum 90
Some programs may require Mathematics or Science prerequisites
Motivation letter and possibly an interview
For applicants from India, for example, the CBSE or ISC Class XII certificate with high marks in relevant subjects is often required. Students from Malaysia (STPM or A Levels), Indonesia (SMA or IB), or Singapore (A Levels or Poly Diplomas) should check their equivalence directly on Leiden’s admission portal.
Step 3: Check the Application Deadlines
For September (Fall) intake — which is the main intake — applications usually open in October of the previous year.
Typical deadlines:
- Non-EU/EEA students (visa required): April 1
- EU/EEA students: June 15
💡 Inforens Reminder: Always aim to submit your application at least 3–4 weeks before the official deadline to avoid last-minute portal slowdowns or missing document uploads.
Step 4: Collect the Required Documents
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Copy of your valid passport
- Certified copies of your academic transcripts
- English language proficiency test results
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter (1–2 pages explaining why you chose Leiden)
- Reference letters (if required)
- Proof of financial means (for visa and scholarship purposes)
Inforens experts can review your documents before submission to ensure they meet the Dutch and Leiden standards — a small check that can make a big difference.
Step 5: Start Your Application
All applications for Leiden University go through Studielink, the official Dutch application portal.
Once you create your Studielink account:
- Select “Leiden University” and your desired program.
- Complete your details and upload all required documents.
- You’ll receive an email from Leiden with login details for uSis, the university’s own application system.
Within uSis, you’ll upload additional documents, check your application progress, and receive updates on admission status.
Step 6: Pay Your Tuition Fees
Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA bachelor’s students typically range between €11,000 and €17,000 per year, depending on the program.
Payment can usually be made in installments, and scholarships like the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) and Holland Scholarship are available to outstanding Asian students.
Step 7: Prepare for Your Studies at Leiden University
Once accepted, it’s time to organize your visa, housing, and pre-departure tasks.
- Visa: Apply for your student visa (MVV) by April 1 for the September intake. Leiden’s Student Immigration Office will guide you.
- Housing: You can apply for university housing through the housing portal (early applications get priority).
- Orientation: Attend the Orientation Week Leiden (OWL) — a fantastic way to meet peers and settle into student life.
💡 Inforens Pro Tip: Book your visa appointment and accommodation early. These are the two most common bottlenecks for Asian students every year.
Master’s Admission and Application
A New Level of Academic Excellence
If you’re planning to pursue a master’s degree, Leiden University offers over 200 master’s programs, many of which are internationally ranked. From International Law to Artificial Intelligence and Asian Studies, Leiden attracts top global talent, making it a vibrant environment for postgraduate growth.
The master’s admission process is similar to the bachelor’s, but with greater emphasis on academic performance, motivation, and research alignment.
Step-by-Step Guide for Master’s Application
Step 1: Check the Admission Requirements
Each master’s program has its own entry criteria. Generally, you’ll need:
- A recognized bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- GPA or grade equivalent to the Dutch standard
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 90+)
- Strong motivation letter
- Academic references
- Sometimes a writing sample or portfolio (for research-based programs)
Asian students applying to programs like International Relations, Law, or Public Administration often need to show previous coursework in related subjects.
💡 Inforens Insight: In your motivation letter, explain not just why Leiden, but why this program fits your long-term vision. Inforens counselors help students craft personalized statements that resonate with Leiden’s academic culture.
Step 2: Check the Application Deadlines
Deadlines vary, but for non-EU students requiring visas, it’s typically:
- April 1 for September intake
- October 1 for February intake (limited programs)
Always double-check your specific program’s webpage, as some (like Law or Medicine) may have earlier deadlines.
Step 3: Collect the Required Documents
Prepare the following:
- Degree certificate and transcripts
- Curriculum Vitae
- Motivation letter
- Two reference letters
- Proof of English proficiency
- Passport copy
- Research proposal (for research-based programs)
Inforens offers document review and mock interview preparation for students applying to competitive programs like Leiden Law School or the Faculty of Science.
Step 4: Start Your Application
Applications begin in Studielink and continue in uSis.
Once logged into uSis, you’ll find detailed instructions to upload all documents.
The university evaluates your academic eligibility first; if successful, you’ll receive a conditional offer pending final verification.
Step 5: Pay Your Tuition Fees
Master’s tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students range from €17,000 to €23,000 per year.
Scholarships to explore:
- Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS)
- Orange Tulip Scholarship (for select Asian countries)
- Holland Scholarship
- Fulbright Program (for U.S.-based applicants)
- MENA Scholarship Programme (for Middle Eastern students)
💡 Inforens Reminder: Some scholarships require a separate application before the admission deadline, so plan early!
Step 6: Prepare for Your Studies at Leiden University
After receiving your unconditional admission:
- Apply for your MVV student visa immediately
- Finalize accommodation through Leiden’s housing service or private rentals
- Attend pre-departure webinars and orientation
Inforens hosts personalized pre-departure sessions covering visa interviews, packing essentials, budgeting, and networking with fellow students already studying in the Netherlands.
Study Abroad and Exchange Admission and Application
Experience Leiden for a Semester or a Year
If you’re an Asian student already enrolled in a university in your home country and want a global experience, Leiden’s study abroad and exchange programs are the perfect opportunity.
You can study at Leiden for one semester or a full year, earning credits that transfer back to your home institution.
Step-by-Step Guide for Exchange Students
Step 1: Check the Admission Requirements
You must be a full-time student at a partner university.
Check with your international office to confirm partnership with Leiden.
Typical requirements include:
- Minimum GPA equivalent to 3.0/4.0
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80)
- Academic transcript
- Nomination from home university
Step 2: Check the Application Deadlines
- Fall Semester: Apply by April 1
- Spring Semester: Apply by October 15
Step 3: Collect the Required Documents
- Nomination form (from home university)
- Transcript of records
- Copy of passport
- Motivation letter
- Proof of English proficiency
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Exchange applications are usually processed through your home university, followed by uploading documents to Leiden’s Mobility Online or uSis system.
Once accepted, you’ll receive a formal Letter of Acceptance for visa purposes.
Step 5: Pay Your Tuition Fees (if applicable)
Most exchange students do not pay tuition fees at Leiden, as they continue to pay fees at their home institution. However, freemover students (not part of a partner exchange) must pay Leiden’s semester tuition, approximately €8,000–€10,000.
Step 6: Prepare for Your Studies at Leiden University
- Apply for visa/residence permit (MVV) if required
- Arrange accommodation early
- Join Leiden’s Orientation Week for exchange students
💡 Inforens Advice: If your home university isn’t a Leiden partner, Inforens can guide you through the freemover application route — helping you with documentation, course selection, and credit transfer.
Joining Leiden for a Traineeship
If you’re coming for an internship, project, or research traineeship, check the Internship, Projects, and Traineeships section on Leiden’s official website. The process differs slightly, focusing on research supervision and departmental approval rather than general admission.
Inforens provides tailored consultation for students seeking research internships or academic collaborations at Leiden’s specialized centers like:
- The Leiden Asia Centre
- The Faculty of Humanities
- The Institute of Political Science
Conclusion
Leiden University offers Asian students more than just a degree — it provides a globally recognized platform to become an expert on your region from a critical, European perspective.
Your journey to Leiden is also a journey toward personal and professional transformation. The university’s diverse classrooms, cutting-edge research, and open academic culture encourage you to think deeply, debate freely, and grow globally.
The admission process, while detailed, is completely manageable when approached step-by-step:
- Understand your program’s requirements
- Prepare your documents early
- Keep track of visa and housing deadlines
- Use the Studielink and uSis portals efficiently
💡 Inforens Final Advice: Visa deadlines — usually April 1 for a September start — are non-negotiable. Begin collecting transcripts, language certificates, and motivation letters at least three months before applying.
By following this roadmap and seeking timely mentorship, you’ll not only secure a place at one of Europe’s oldest universities but also open doors to a future filled with global opportunities.
Leiden University is waiting for you — a place where Asia’s brightest minds meet Europe’s oldest seat of learning.
What part of the Leiden experience excites you most — world-class research, cultural diversity, or the chance to study in the Netherlands’ most historic city? 🌍💬
Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below!
And if you’re planning your journey to Leiden, connect with Inforens Mentorship today. Our experts specialize in guiding Asian students step-by-step through applications, scholarships, visa processes, and pre-departure planning — making your dream university a reachable reality.
Your future at Leiden begins with one confident step — start it with Inforens.
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