☰
πŸ”
U
User
logo
Web StoriesAdmissions OpenExam TrackerResultsCollegesCutoff TrendsCollege RankingsCourses & FeesPlacementScholarshipRank PredictorCollege CompareCareer AdviceStudy AbroadExpert Reviews
Admissions OpenResults DeclaredCollegesLatest CutoffsCollege PredictorExam Calendar

Leiden University Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Placement & Ranking

Leiden University

Leiden University

South Holland, Netherlands

Established 1575

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 school’s reputation and international links add value to graduates’ 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 master’s 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 Europe’s 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 Europe’s 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€11,000–€15,000/year3 Years10+2 + IELTS 6.5Online Application + Academic ReviewSeptember Intake
BA Political Science€10,500–€15,000/year3 Years10+2 + IELTS 6.5University Portal + Document EvaluationSeptember Intake
BA Psychology€11,000–€16,000/year3 Years10+2 + English Proficiency + IELTSSelection Process + Online ApplicationSeptember Intake
BA Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology€10,000–€15,000/year3 Years10+2 + IELTSUniversity Portal AdmissionSeptember Intake
BSc Computer Science€13,000–€18,000/year3 Years10+2 + Mathematics + IELTS 6.5Academic Review + ApplicationSeptember Intake
BSc Mathematics€12,000–€17,000/year3 Years10+2 + Advanced Mathematics + IELTSOnline Admission ProcessSeptember Intake
MSc International Relations and Diplomacy€17,000–€22,000/year1 YearBachelor's Degree + IELTSSOP + Academic EvaluationSeptember Intake
MSc Political Science€16,000–€21,000/year1 YearRelevant Bachelor's Degree + IELTSUniversity Portal + ReviewSeptember Intake
MSc Computer Science€18,000–€23,000/year2 YearsTechnical Background + Bachelor's Degree + IELTSApplication + Academic AssessmentSeptember Intake
MSc Artificial Intelligence€18,000–€24,000/year2 YearsRelevant Bachelor's Degree + IELTSOnline Admission + EvaluationSeptember Intake
LLM International Law€16,000–€22,000/year1 YearBachelor's Degree in Law + IELTSAcademic Review + DocumentsSeptember Intake
PhD ProgramsFully Funded / Research Based4 YearsMaster's Degree + Research Proposal + Supervisor ApprovalDirect Research AdmissionRolling 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

College Facilities

πŸ“š

Library

πŸ’»

Computer Lab

πŸ€

Sports Complex

πŸ›οΈ

Hostel

β˜•

Cafeteria

🚌

Transport

Find Us Here

Leiden University, located in , , – easily accessible by metro and road.

Global Education

Study Abroad Destinations

Explore top universities, admissions, scholarships, visas and student life across the world's most popular study destinations.

Want to Study in Netherlands?

Get admission guidance, scholarship support and visa assistance.