Complete Application Guide for Dutch Universities in 2026

The Netherlands has become one of the most popular study destinations for international students. This application guide for Dutch universities will help you understand every stage of the admission process clearly. The blog covers entry requirements, application deadlines, and Studielink registration for both bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Each part of the process is explained in simple terms so students can avoid confusion and plan effectively.

Step-by-Step Application Guide for Dutch Universities in 2026

The Dutch university application process is designed to be transparent and digital, making it easier for both bachelor’s and master’s students to apply from anywhere in the world. However, the process involves multiple stages. Here’s how the complete process works for 2026 admissions.

Check Program Requirements and Eligibility

Before applying, visit the university’s official website and go through the admission section for your chosen program.

• For bachelor’s, you’ll generally need a secondary school diploma equivalent to the Dutch VWO or IB level.
  
• For master’s, a relevant bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution is required. Some programs may ask for subject prerequisites, portfolios, or entrance tests.

Confirm Language Proficiency Criteria

Almost all international programs in the Netherlands are taught in English. Universities typically accept:

• IELTS: Minimum 6.0–6.5 (Bachelor’s), 6.5–7.0 (Master’s)
  
• TOEFL iBT: 80–100
  
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency

Note: If your previous education was fully in English, you may be exempt, but this depends on the institution’s policy.

Check Important Application Deadlines

Most Dutch universities follow the same intake periods:

• Main Intake (September): Application opens in October 2025 and closes by April 2026.
  
• Selective or Numerus Fixus Programs: Deadline is 15 January 2026 (fixed and non-negotiable).

Apply Through Studielink (National Application Portal)

All applications for Dutch universities must be initiated through Studielink, the national enrolment system. Here, you’ll:

1. Create a Studielink account.
   
2. Select your university and program.
   
3. Submit your enrolment request.

You can apply for up to four programs per academic year (two if any are Numerus Fixus). After this, you’ll receive confirmation and further instructions directly from the university. We will cover this section in more detail later.

Activate Your University Account

After submitting your application in Studielink, the university will send you login credentials. This account gives you access to their internal portal, where you:

• Upload required documents
  
• Track your application status
  
• Receive updates or interview invites

Pay the Non-Refundable Application Fee

Most universities charge a EUR 75 to EUR 100 application fee per program. Your application will not be reviewed until the payment is confirmed, so ensure you pay it before the set deadline. Some universities waive this fee for exchange or partner-school applicants.

Submit Supporting Documents

You’ll be asked to upload digital copies of:

• Academic transcripts and degree or diploma certificates
  
• English proficiency proof
  
• Motivation letter
  
• Passport copy
  
• Curriculum Vitae especially for Master’s
  
• Reference letters 

Note: Make sure all documents are officially translated into English or Dutch by certified translators.

Wait for the Admission Decision

Once the university receives your documents, it’ll assess your application.

• For bachelor’s: Expect results by May–June 2026.
  
• For master’s: Most universities respond within 6–10 weeks after submission. You may receive a conditional offer if you still need to submit final exam results or pending English scores.

Accept the Offer and Prepare for Enrolment

If accepted, log in to your university portal to accept your offer. You’ll then need to:

• Pay the tuition deposit
  
• Upload proof of financial means
  
• Arrange housing
  
• Begin the visa and residence permit process

Once your documents are verified and tuition is paid, your enrolment will be finalized, and you’ll be ready to begin your studies in the Netherlands.

What Is Studielink and How Does It Work?

Studielink is the official national application system for higher education in the Netherlands. It connects students, universities, and the Dutch government on one digital platform. When you create an account and submit your enrolment request here, your application data automatically syncs with the university’s internal system. This means you don’t have to fill out separate national forms or send physical copies. Everything from personal details to degree choices is managed digitally.

Creating and Setting Up Your Studielink Account

To get started, go to www.studielink.nl and create an account. Non-EU students must create a Studielink username and password. After registration, you’ll receive an email to verify your account. Once verified, you can start your application right away.

Adding and Managing Your Program Choices

Inside Studielink, you can select up to four programs per academic year, with a maximum of two Numerus Fixus programs. For each choice, you’ll need to enter:

• The university name
  
• The exact degree title
  
• The starting month

Note: Make sure the program code and intake period are correct, as mistakes here can delay your application.

Submitting an Enrolment Request

Once your chosen programs are added, Studielink sends an enrolment request to the respective universities. From this point, your chosen university takes over. They’ll contact you directly for document uploads, portfolio submissions, or interviews through their own application portal.

Tracking Your Application Status

You can log in to Studielink anytime to track updates. The status will usually show:

• Submitted means you’ve sent your enrolment request
  
• Completed means the university has received it
  
• Conditional admission means pending final documents or results
  
• Final admission means you’re officially accepted

Applying to Numerus Fixus Programs & Understanding the Selection Process

Some Dutch universities offer Numerus Fixus programs, which have a limited number of seats because of high demand or practical training limits. These include popular fields such as Medicine, Psychology, and International Business. The application process for these programs is more selective than for regular courses. This process ensures that Numerus Fixus programs select students who are not only qualified but also highly motivated to study in competitive fields.

Application Process for Numerus Fixus Programs

Applicants must first register on Studielink and choose the Numerus Fixus program before the 15 January deadline. After submitting the required documents, universities start their internal selection. Students can apply to a maximum of two Numerus Fixus programs per year.

How the Selection and Ranking Work

After the application period closes, universities evaluate candidates based on their grades, motivation, and sometimes entrance assessments. Each applicant then receives a ranking number, which decides who gets admitted once the limited places are filled. The ranking number is released in April, and offers are sent according to available seats.

Key Points to Remember

• Selection results are final. Appeals are not accepted.
  
• Applicants who don’t get a place can still explore regular admission routes at Dutch universities.
  
• Early preparation and a strong motivation letter increase your chances of ranking higher.

Application Deadlines for Dutch Universities 2026–27

Deadlines for Dutch university applications in 2026–27 vary by intake, course type, and nationality. Most international students apply through Studielink, where each university lists its specific deadline. In general, the September fall intake is the main entry point, while the February Spring intake is secondary. Knowing these deadlines is key, and missing one could mean waiting another year. The Netherlands mainly has two intakes every year:

• Fall Intake (September): Most popular among international students, almost all universities open applications around October–November 2025 and close by April–May 2026.
• Spring Intake (February): Limited courses available. Deadlines usually fall between August and October 2025.
• Numerus Fixus Programs: 15 January 2026 (strictly fixed)

Note: Some research-intensive programs might have earlier internal deadlines for selection rounds.

Also Read: Popular Universities in the Netherlands for International Students in 2026

Required Documents for Dutch University Applications

Every university wants proof that you’re serious, qualified, and ready for international study. These documents help you show exactly that.

Every student, no matter the level, needs to submit these basic files:

• Valid passport or national ID 
• Official academic transcripts 
• Degree certificate or proof of graduation
• English language test scores
• Statement of purpose
• Curriculum Vitae
• Recommendation letters
• Copy of application form
• Proof of financial means
• Copy of residence permit or visa if available
• Medical insurance certificate 

• Research proposal, especially for a PhD or research-based master’s
• Work experience certificates
• Portfolio for design, art, or architecture courses

Language Requirements for Dutch University Applications

Language scores are one of the most important parts of your Dutch university application. Most courses in the Netherlands are taught in English, so you’ll need to prove that you can study and communicate easily in it.

English-Taught Programmes

Almost 95% of international programs in the Netherlands are in English. For these, you’ll need to show proof of English proficiency through one of these tests:

• IELTS – usually a minimum of 6.0 to 6.5 overall band
  
• TOEFL iBT – 80 to 90 overall
  
• Cambridge English (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency) – accepted by most top universities

Some highly selective programs may ask for IELTS 7.0 or higher. Always check the exact band on your university’s official page before applying.

Dutch-Taught Programmes

If you plan to study in Dutch, you’ll need to prove your language ability through:

• NT2-II (Dutch as a Second Language, State Exam II)
  
• Or a Dutch-taught diploma from your previous school

These programs require at least a B2 or C1 level under the CEFR scale, depending on how technical the course is.

Waivers and Exemptions

Some students don’t need to take a language test. You may be exempt if you:

• Studied your previous degree fully in English
  
• Attended an international school with English as the main language
  
• Come from a country where English is the native language

Still, universities often ask for a medium of instruction (MOI) certificate as proof, so keep that document ready.

Validity of Scores

Language test scores remain valid for two years, so plan your test date wisely. If your score expires before your course starts, you’ll have to retake the exam.

Also Read: Popular Universities in the Netherlands for STEM Students in 2026

Application Fees and Costs for Dutch Universities 2026

Most universities charge a non-refundable application fee, which helps them process and verify your documents. Knowing these costs early can help you plan your budget smartly.

• Most universities charge between EUR 75 and EUR 100 per application.
  
• Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) and the University of Amsterdam (UvA) usually charge EUR 100 per program.
  
• Radboud University and the University of Groningen typically charge EUR 75.
  
• Some applied sciences universities may not charge a fee at all for EU students.

How to Pay

You’ll pay the fee after submitting your enrolment request on Studielink. The university will send you a payment link or IBAN details. Payments are made online through credit card or bank transfer, and your application won’t be processed until the payment is complete.

Other Application-Related Costs

Along with the application fee, expect a few extra costs during your admission process:

• Document translations and certifications: around EUR 50–150, depending on the number of documents.
  
• Language test fees (IELTS/TOEFL): between EUR 180–250.
  
• Courier charges (if physical copies are needed): EUR 20–50.

Fee Waivers or Reductions

Some universities offer fee waivers for students from low-income countries or those applying under special scholarships such as the Orange Tulip Scholarship or the Holland Scholarship. Always check the official university website before paying.

Also Read: Netherlands Higher Education System for International Students

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This was all about the application guide for Dutch universities in 2026. We covered every step, from Studielink registration to deadlines for international students. Now that you know the full process, you can plan your Dutch university application smartly and avoid common mistakes. For more such insights, make sure to check out the Study Abroad page on Leverage Edu and stay updated!