Want to swap your campus coffee runs for Dutch stroopwafels and centuries-old classrooms? ☕🍪
At Leiden University, the Netherlands’ oldest and most prestigious institution, U.S. students get to study world-class programs in a truly international environment.
From International Relations to Data Science, Law, and European Studies, Leiden blends top-tier education with a global mindset that helps you see the world differently.
The application process may sound intense - deadlines, documents, visas - but that’s where Inforens steps in. With expert mentorship, you’ll have everything sorted before your flight to the Netherlands.
This guide will walk you through it all, so you can stop stressing and start planning your next big adventure in Europe!
Bachelor’s Admission and Application
Choosing Leiden University for your bachelor’s studies means joining a university renowned for its academic excellence, historical significance, and international community. 🎓
Each year, students from across the US - including California, New York, Texas, and Florida - choose Leiden for its strong academic programs and unique opportunities to study in a European context.
Leiden’s bachelor programs combine theory with practical application. Students can pursue International Studies, Law, Political Science, Psychology, Computer Science, and Data Science. Whether your goal is diplomacy, research, technology, or global policy, Leiden equips you with the knowledge and skills to succeed globally.
Guide for Bachelor’s Application
Step 1: Choose Your Bachelor’s Programme
Leiden offers a wide range of English-taught bachelor programs. Popular choices among US students include:
- International Studies (The Hague Campus)
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence
- Law and International Relations
- Psychology
- Urban Studies
- Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
💡 Inforens Tip: Select a program that aligns with your career aspirations. For example, International Studies is ideal if you’re aiming for diplomacy, international organizations, or global policy. Inforens mentors can guide US students to pick the best program for their strengths and goals.
Step 2: Check the Admission Requirements
General requirements:
US high school diploma (or equivalent) with strong grades
English proficiency:
- IELTS: Minimum 6.5
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum 90
- Cambridge C1/C2 Advanced (if applicable)
Strong academic record in relevant subjects
Motivation letter
Reference letters (if requested)
💡 Inforens Note: US students usually qualify with a standard high school diploma plus SAT/ACT scores if required. Inforens ensures your transcripts meet Dutch academic equivalency standards.
Step 3: Check the Application Deadlines
Leiden’s main intake is September:
- Non-EU/EEA students (visa required): April 1
- EU/EEA students: June 15
Inforens Tip: Submit applications 3–4 weeks early to account for processing and document verification.
Step 4: Collect the Required Documents
Required documents:
- Valid passport copy
- Academic transcripts (high school or previous college, if applicable)
- Proof of English proficiency
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- Reference letters
- Proof of financial means
Inforens helps prepare and review all documents to ensure they meet Leiden University standards.
Step 5: Start Your Application
Applications start in Studielink, then continue in uSis:
- Create a Studielink account
- Select Leiden University and your bachelor’s program
- Upload initial documents
- Receive uSis login to submit additional documents and track application status
Step 6: Pay Tuition Fees
For non-EU/EEA students, tuition typically ranges from €11,000–€17,000 per year, depending on the program.
Scholarships for US students:
- Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS)
- Holland Scholarship
- Orange Tulip Scholarship (for select US applicants)
💡 Inforens Tip: Early application is crucial for scholarship consideration. Inforens helps students craft strong essays and supporting documents.
Step 7: Prepare for Your Studies
Once admitted:
- Apply for MVV student visa
- Arrange accommodation (university-managed or private housing)
- Attend OWL (Orientation Week Leiden)
Inforens provides pre-departure guidance covering academics, finances, and cultural adaptation for US students.
Master’s Admission and Application
Leiden University offers over 200 master’s programs. Popular fields for US students include International Law, Data Science, European Studies, Political Science, and Psychology.
Programs are research-driven and globally recognized, offering students opportunities to collaborate with top scholars and institutions across Europe.
Step-by-Step Guide for Master’s Application
Step 1: Check the Admission Requirements
Typical requirements:
- Relevant bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
- GPA equivalent to 7.0/10 (or US 3.0/4.0 scale)
- English proficiency (IELTS 6.5+/TOEFL 90+)
- Motivation letter
- Two academic references
- Research proposal or portfolio for specific programs
💡 Inforens Tip: Highlight international experience, US perspectives, or research experience in your application to strengthen it.
Step 2: Check Application Deadlines
- April 1: Main September intake (non-EU/EEA students)
- October 1: February intake (limited programs)
Start early, especially for competitive master’s programs.
Step 3: Collect Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Academic references
- English proficiency test results
- Passport copy
- Research proposal if required
Inforens mentors help US students polish their motivation letters and prepare documents for maximum impact.
Step 4: Start Your Application
Applications start via Studielink and continue in uSis. Conditional offers are sent first, becoming final after transcript and document verification.
Step 5: Pay Tuition Fees
Non-EU/EEA master’s tuition ranges from €17,000–€23,000 per year.
Scholarships for US students:
- Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS)
- Holland Scholarship
- Orange Tulip Scholarship
- External funding: Fulbright, private foundations
💡 Inforens Tip: Apply for both university and external scholarships. Inforens tracks deadlines and requirements.
Step 6: Prepare for Your Studies
- Confirm enrollment and pay tuition
- Apply for MVV visa
- Arrange housing
- Attend Orientation Week and pre-departure webinars
Inforens connects US students with Leiden’s international student network for a smooth transition.
Study Abroad and Exchange Admission
US students can join exchange programs through partnerships between Leiden and US universities. Programs typically last one semester or one academic year, with credits transferable to home institutions.
Step-by-Step Guide for Exchange Students
Step 1: Check Admission Requirements
- Enrollment at a partner US university
- Minimum GPA 3.0/4.0
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL 80)
- Transcript of records
- Nomination from home university
💡 Inforens Tip: For freemovers not attending a partner university, Inforens guides students through the application and credit transfer process.
Step 2: Check Deadlines
- Fall Semester: April 1
- Spring Semester: October 15
Early submission ensures smooth visa and housing arrangements.
Step 3: Prepare Documents
- Nomination form
- Transcript
- Passport copy
- Proof of English proficiency
- Motivation letter
Step 4: Submit Application
Exchange applications are processed through your home university or directly via Leiden’s Mobility Online/uSis portal. Acceptance letters are required for visa processing.
Step 5: Pay Tuition Fees (if applicable)
Exchange students typically pay tuition to their home university. Freemovers pay €8,000–€10,000 per semester.
Inforens helps US students identify scholarships or financial support options.
Step 6: Prepare for Studies
- Apply for MVV visa
- Arrange housing
- Attend Orientation Week for exchange students
- Connect with US and international student communities at Leiden
Traineeships and Internships
Leiden offers research or project placements through its Internships, Projects, and Traineeships pages.
Inforens supports US students in securing placements in:
- Faculty of Law
- European Studies Departments
- Humanities and Social Sciences
Conclusion
Leiden University provides US students with a world-class education, international exposure, and a platform to influence global and regional change.
Key steps for a successful application:
- Understand program requirements early
- Prepare accurate documents
- Meet visa and housing deadlines
- Navigate Studielink and uSis efficiently
💡 Inforens Tip: Visa deadlines (typically April 1 for September intake) are strict. Prepare transcripts, English certificates, and motivation letters early.
With Inforens mentorship, US students receive step-by-step support to secure admission, scholarships, and a smooth transition to life in the Netherlands.
Leiden University isn’t just a place to study - it’s where your US perspective meets global learning opportunities.
Which Leiden program excites you most - International Law, European Studies, or Data Science? 🌍💬
Share your thoughts or questions below!
Start your journey with Inforens Mentorship today - your guide for applications, scholarships, and visas to Europe’s top universities.
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