Leiden University Summary
Leiden University is the oldest university in the Netherlands, with a rich academic heritage, excellent research and international orientation. The university, founded in 1575, is an important part of the history of European education and still maintains its reputation as a center of intellectual progress and academic achievement. The university is located in the cities of Leiden and The Hague, combining historical traditions with modern educational methods and innovative research projects. Leiden University has developed over the centuries into a respected university worldwide. The university provides education in a wide variety of disciplines such as law, social sciences, humanities, medicine, international relations, psychology, political science, archeology and natural sciences. The institution is particularly renowned for its strong academic programs in international studies, governance, public administration and legal studies. The university encourages multidisciplinary learning, challenging students to look at complicated world problems from different angles and to hone their skills in analysis and problem solving. Research is the heart of Leiden University. The university is home to several research institutes and interdisciplinary centers dedicated to scientific discovery, social development, international policy, healthcare advancements and global challenges. Students are provided with a research-led education, making the connection between theoretical concepts and practical application. This approach helps students to gain both academic depth and practical know-how in their chosen fields. The university offers a unique learning environment combining the historic academic traditions with modern learning infrastructure. Academic buildings are furnished with state-of-the-art libraries, laboratories and research facilities to foster learning and innovation. Arguably the most important aspect of Leiden University are its libraries and academic collections that make a major contribution to research activities in all disciplines. The institution still bears the hallmark of internationalization. Students from many countries are undertaking their undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral studies on taught programmes in a variety of English. More opportunities for international academic exposure and collaborative learning are provided through international collaborations and student exchange programs. Such initiatives open up wider scopes for students and create a multicultural learning environment. At Leiden University student life is more than just study. There are cultural organizations, student associations, research communities and social initiatives to join. The university encourages students to participate in clubs, events and leadership opportunities as a method for students to become active participants in their academic and personal development. The schoolβs reputation and international links add value to graduatesβ career prospects. Our alumni have pursued careers in law, diplomacy, public policy, research, consulting, international organizations, healthcare and the corporate sector. Career services and employer partnerships help students transition to the professional world. Leiden University is an internationally oriented university with a long academic tradition, contemporary research and multidisciplinary education. The university is one of the leading institutions for students seeking high quality education in the Netherlands due to its international reputation, research strengths and wide range of academic offerings.
About Leiden University
Leiden University is one of the oldest universities in the Netherlands and enjoys international renown for its academic heritage, excellence in research and international reputation. Founded in 1575, it has played a very important role in the development of education and research in Europe. The university is firmly rooted in history, but has modern teaching and interdisciplinary research. The university is mainly located in Leiden and The Hague. It offers graduation, post graduation and doctoral programs in various disciplines such as law, humanities, political science, psychology, medicine, social sciences, international relations, science and governance studies. It has an excellent reputation for research and intellectual contribution, particularly in the fields of international studies, law, public policy, archaeology and the social sciences. Leiden University is committed to critical thinking, independent research and international involvement. Students are encouraged to involve themselves in collaborative learning, academic research projects and international exchange opportunities. A large number of programmes are also available in English, particularly at the masterβs level, which makes the university appealing to students from around the world. It has modern campuses and research facilities that promote innovation and interdisciplinary education. Libraries, laboratories, research institutes and digital learning spaces offer an environment conducive to academic development and research excellence. Besides academic studies, students are also encouraged to join cultural organizations, student associations, study communities and international projects at Leiden University. The students are exposed not only to academics but also to a diverse global environment.
Leiden University History
Established in 1575 by William I of Orange as the first university in the Netherlands Founded as a reward to the citizens of Leiden for their resistance during the Siege of Leiden Initially focused on theology, law, and classical studies Quickly developed into an important academic and intellectual center in Europe Attracted influential scholars, scientists, and philosophers during the Dutch Golden Age Became internationally known for contributions to medicine, law, astronomy, and philosophy Expanded academic faculties and research activities throughout the 18th and 19th centuries Developed strong scientific research traditions and academic libraries Established campuses and academic facilities in both Leiden and The Hague Expanded international collaborations and student exchange opportunities Introduced English-taught programs to support global education initiatives Continued modernization through interdisciplinary research institutes and advanced facilities Built a reputation in international law, governance, archaeology, and political science Strengthened global research partnerships with institutions worldwide Today recognized as one of Europeβs oldest and most respected research universities
Leiden University Highlights
Established: 1575 Institution Type: Public Research University Location: Leiden & The Hague, Netherlands Student Population: 35,000+ Students International Community: Large Global Student Base Medium of Instruction: English + Dutch Popular Courses: Law, Political Science, International Relations, Psychology, Archaeology Research Focus: Interdisciplinary & Global Research Exchange Programs: Worldwide Partnerships Career Services: Dedicated Student Support Campus Environment: Historic + Modern Learning Facilities Global Reputation: One of Europeβs oldest universities
Leiden University Courses Offered
ndergraduate (UG) Courses Offered Humanities & Social Sciences BA International Studies BA Political Science BA Psychology BA Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology BA History BA Linguistics Law & Governance LLB Law Programs BA Security Studies Science BSc Computer Science BSc Mathematics BSc Physics BSc Biology Interdisciplinary Programs BA Liberal Arts and Sciences BA Urban Studies Postgraduate (PG) Courses Offered Law & International Relations LLM International Law LLM European Law MSc International Relations and Diplomacy Humanities & Social Sciences MSc Political Science MSc Psychology MA Media Studies MSc Public Administration Science & Technology MSc Computer Science MSc Artificial Intelligence MSc Data Science MSc Physics Health & Research MSc Biomedical Sciences MSc Health and Society International Studies & Governance International Relations Global Politics Security Studies Public Administration Governance & Policy Law International Law European Law Human Rights Law Commercial Law Psychology & Social Sciences Clinical Psychology Social Psychology Behavioral Studies Cultural Studies Science & Technology Artificial Intelligence Data Science Computer Science Biomedical Sciences Doctoral Programs PhD Programs across research disciplines
Leiden University Admission Process
Visit the official Leiden University admissions portal Select undergraduate or postgraduate program Create an online application account Complete the application form with academic details Upload required documents: Academic transcripts Passport copy IELTS/TOEFL scores Statement of Purpose (if required) CV/Resume (selected programs) Recommendation letters (program specific) Submit application before program deadlines Faculty reviews academic qualifications and eligibility Additional assessments/interviews may apply for selected programs Receive admission decision and offer letter Accept offer and complete tuition procedures Apply for Netherlands student visa and residence permit Final enrollment and registration before intake
Leiden University Admission Steps
| BA International Studies | β¬11,000ββ¬15,000/year | 3 Years | 10+2 + IELTS 6.5 | Online Application + Academic Review | September Intake |
| BA Political Science | β¬10,500ββ¬15,000/year | 3 Years | 10+2 + IELTS 6.5 | University Portal + Document Evaluation | September Intake |
| BA Psychology | β¬11,000ββ¬16,000/year | 3 Years | 10+2 + English Proficiency + IELTS | Selection Process + Online Application | September Intake |
| BA Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology | β¬10,000ββ¬15,000/year | 3 Years | 10+2 + IELTS | University Portal Admission | September Intake |
| BSc Computer Science | β¬13,000ββ¬18,000/year | 3 Years | 10+2 + Mathematics + IELTS 6.5 | Academic Review + Application | September Intake |
| BSc Mathematics | β¬12,000ββ¬17,000/year | 3 Years | 10+2 + Advanced Mathematics + IELTS | Online Admission Process | September Intake |
| MSc International Relations and Diplomacy | β¬17,000ββ¬22,000/year | 1 Year | Bachelor's Degree + IELTS | SOP + Academic Evaluation | September Intake |
| MSc Political Science | β¬16,000ββ¬21,000/year | 1 Year | Relevant Bachelor's Degree + IELTS | University Portal + Review | September Intake |
| MSc Computer Science | β¬18,000ββ¬23,000/year | 2 Years | Technical Background + Bachelor's Degree + IELTS | Application + Academic Assessment | September Intake |
| MSc Artificial Intelligence | β¬18,000ββ¬24,000/year | 2 Years | Relevant Bachelor's Degree + IELTS | Online Admission + Evaluation | September Intake |
| LLM International Law | β¬16,000ββ¬22,000/year | 1 Year | Bachelor's Degree in Law + IELTS | Academic Review + Documents | September Intake |
| PhD Programs | Fully Funded / Research Based | 4 Years | Master's Degree + Research Proposal + Supervisor Approval | Direct Research Admission | Rolling Intake |
Leiden University Scholarships
Merit-Based Scholarships Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) for outstanding international students Faculty-based scholarships for exceptional academic performance Tuition reduction opportunities for selected master's programs International Student Scholarships Scholarship support for non-EU/EEA students Program-specific funding opportunities across faculties Country-based scholarship initiatives for selected applicants Government & External Scholarships Holland Scholarship for international students Erasmus+ exchange and mobility funding External educational sponsorships and grants Research Funding Funded PhD positions and research assistant opportunities Faculty grants for research projects and doctoral studies
Important Links
www.universiteitleiden.nl/en www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/education/admission-and-application www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/scholarships
















