Leiden University, located in Leiden, Netherlands, is one of Europe’s oldest universities, founded in 1575. It holds a strong global reputation, ranking #141 in the QS World University Rankings and #56 in the US News Best Global University Rankings. The university offers a variety of programs across seven faculties, with 47 bachelor’s and 78 master’s programs. Some of its most sought-after courses include Data Science, Clinical Psychology, Computer Science, and International Relations.
With an acceptance rate of 63%, Leiden University is moderately selective. Students rate the campus highly, giving the infrastructure a 9.7/10 and the faculty a 9.0/10. To apply, international students must pay an admission fee of EUR 100 (INR 9,000). The upcoming deadline for international students to apply for the September intake is 15th October 2025. For those interested, the following guide provides all the key information you need to begin the application process.
Also Check: Study in Netherlands for International Students
Leiden University Rankings
The Table below highlights the Rankings of Leiden University by some of the prestigious rankings bodies for the year 2025:
| Ranking Bodies | Rankings 2025 |
|---|---|
| QS World University Rankings | #141 |
| US News Best Global University Rankings | #56 |
| THE World University Rankings | #73 |
Amity University Dubai has been recognized globally with strong rankings in 2025. It is ranked #141 in the QS World University Rankings, #56 in the US News Best Global University Rankings, and #73 in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. Additionally, it is ranked #80 by CWUR and within the 101-150 range in the 2024 ARWU rankings. These positions reflect the university’s growing reputation around the World.
Popular Courses at Leiden University
Tabulated below are some of the most popular courses that international students choose at Leiden University:
| Course Name | Duration (Years) | Tuition Fees (Dinar) | Tuition Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Science [M.S] Data Science: Computer Science | 2 Years | €21,200 | ₹20,58,096 |
| Master of Science [M.S] Clinical Psychology | 2 Years | €21,200 | ₹20,58,096 |
| Master of Science [M.S] Astronomy: Astronomy and Instrumentation | 2 Years | €21,200 | ₹20,58,096 |
| Master of Science [M.S] Computer Science | 2 Years | €21,200 | ₹20,58,096 |
| M.A International Relations | 1 Years | €20,900 | ₹20,28,972 |
| M.S International Relations and Diplomacy | 2 Years | €21,200 | ₹20,58,096 |
| L.L.M Public International Law (Advanced LL.M.) | 1 Years | €20,900 | ₹20,28,972 |
| B.A/B.S Liberal Arts and Sciences | 3 Years | €19,295 | ₹18,73,159 |
| B.S International Bachelor Psychology | 3 Years | €20,030 | ₹19,44,512 |
Leiden University Admissions
Leiden University offers admission in two main intakes: September and February, with the September intake being the most popular among international students. Each year, the university receives thousands of applications from over 100 countries, making it a diverse and globally recognized institution. Additionally, Leiden University specializes in scientific research-based programs as well as teaching. The university comprises seven faculties spread over locations in Leiden and The Hague. These include:
- Archeology
- Government and Global Affairs
- Humanities
- Law
- Science
- Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Medicine
For the interested students, the admission deadlines for upcoming semesters are mentioned below:
| Semester | Admission Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall Semester (Studies starting in September) | 1 April, 2026 |
| Spring Semester (Studies starting in February) | 15 October, 2025 |
| Other Start Dates | At least 4 months prior to your proposed start date |
Also Check: Application Deadlines in Netherlands
Leiden University PG Admission Requirements
Graduate admissions are open biannually for most of the programs. Almost all programs have the same deadlines and requirements, but in some cases, it vary. Popularly opted master’s programs at Leiden University are MSc in Advanced Computing and Systems, MA in Ancient History, MSc in Astronomy, MSc in Business Studies and LL.M. Civil Law. The university offers 200+ Master's programmes.
Application Form: Studielink or uSis Application
Application Fee: EUR 100
Application Requirements:
- Application form – Studielink and University uSis
- Academic transcripts of Bachelor's degree/Diplomas – BSc/BA equivalent
- English translation of all documents (if not already)
- Valid passport copy
- CV/Resume
- Letter of motivation, recommendation – program specific
- Additional program-specific requirements
- Language proficiency results
Leiden University UG Admission Requirements
Students who have a Dutch diploma or equivalent certificates may be eligible for direct admission. Students without these certificates need to apply through Studielink and University application (uSis) both. Popular bachelor’s programmes at Leiden University include BSc in Computer Science, BSc Mathematics, BSc Economics, BA Archaeology, International Business law (LL.B.) .
Application Form: - Studielink or uSis Application
Application Fee: EUR 100
Application Requirements:
- Completed Application form
- Dutch diploma certificates
- Optional – for direct admission
- Report cards from high school
- English translation of report cards if not already
- Proficiency in Dutch
- For programmes taught in Dutch language
- Proficiency in English
- For English medium programmes– In most cases
- Passport Copy
- CV/Resume
- Program-specific requirements
Leiden University Scholarships for International Students
Tabulated below are some popular scholarships for international students who are looking to ease their financial burden:
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Program Level | Award Type | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leiden University Excellence Scholarship | Non-EU/EEA international students with excellent academic records who are applying for a Master's program | Master's programs (excluding LLM and Erasmus Mundus) | Full or partial tuition fee waiver (up to €18,750) | January 15 (for September intake) |
| Holland Scholarship | Non-EU/EEA international students who are applying for a Master's program at a Dutch university | Master's programs | €5,000 one-time payment | February 1 (for September intake) |
| Leiden Law School Excellence Scholarship | Non-EU/EEA international students applying for a Master's program in Law at Leiden Law School | Master's in Law | Partial tuition fee waiver (up to €12,000) | April 1 (for September intake) |
| LExS – Leiden Excellence Scholarship | Non-EU/EEA international students who are applying for a Master's program at Leiden University | Master's programs (excluding LLM, MBA, and Erasmus Mundus) | Full or partial tuition fee waiver (up to €18,750) | January 15 (for September intake) |
| Leiden Summer School Scholarships | International students with academic merit applying for the Leiden Summer School | Summer programs | Partial or full tuition waiver depending on program | April 1 (for summer session) |
| Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) | Students from specific countries listed by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs | Short courses or Master’s programs | Full scholarship covering tuition fees, travel, and living costs. | Varies (depending on the program) |
Also Check: Popular Scholarships to Study in Netherlands
Leiden University also offers a range of student services to support international students. These include help with visa and immigration processes, guidance on finding accommodation, and orientation programs to ease the transition to life in the Netherlands. The university also provides language support, academic advising, and career services to assist students in their studies and future employment. Additionally, international students can access counseling, health services, and social activities to help them feel welcome and integrated into the campus community.
FAQs
Ques: How good is Leiden University for international studies?
Ans: Leiden University stands out for international studies due to its strong academic focus on global issues like international law and diplomacy. It's recognized for producing high-quality research, particularly in international relations, and has various specialized programs. The university offers a diverse international environment, helping students engage in cross-cultural learning. While the workload is more demanding compared to some other countries, it prepares students well for global careers in fields like NGOs, international organizations, and government roles.
Ques: What are the benefits of studying at Leiden University as an international student?
Ans: Studying at Leiden University offers international students a chance to receive high-quality education in a well-organized and welcoming country like the Netherlands. While most courses are in English, learning some Dutch will help you navigate daily life. The university supports international students with all the necessary paperwork and provides a friendly environment. Although housing can be challenging and costs vary, the country’s lifestyle is safe and student-friendly. With good public transport and a strong cycling culture, getting around is easy and affordable. Overall, Leiden offers a great combination of education, independence, and cultural experience.
Ques: How is life as a master's student at Leiden University for international students?
Ans: As per student reviews, life as a master's student at Leiden University is both academically demanding and personally rewarding. The university has a strong focus on research, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary learning, which makes the experience intellectually stimulating. Students come from all over the world, adding a global perspective to your classes. Outside of academics, Leiden is a vibrant, student-friendly city with plenty of cultural events and historical sites to explore. While finding housing can be tough, the city's great transport links make it easy to explore the rest of the Netherlands.
Leiden University, located in Leiden, Netherlands, is one of Europe’s oldest universities, founded in 1575. It holds a strong global reputation, ranking #141 in the QS World University Rankings and #56 in the US News Best Global University Rankings. The university offers a variety of programs across seven faculties, with 47 bachelor’s and 78 master’s programs. Some of its most sought-after courses include Data Science, Clinical Psychology, Computer Science, and International Relations.
With an acceptance rate of 63%, Leiden University is moderately selective. Students rate the campus highly, giving the infrastructure a 9.7/10 and the faculty a 9.0/10. To apply, international students must pay an admission fee of EUR 100 (INR 9,000). The upcoming deadline for international students to apply for the September intake is 15th October 2025. For those interested, the following guide provides all the key information you need to begin the application process.
Also Check: Study in Netherlands for International Students
Leiden University Rankings
The Table below highlights the Rankings of Leiden University by some of the prestigious rankings bodies for the year 2025:
| Ranking Bodies | Rankings 2025 |
|---|---|
| QS World University Rankings | #141 |
| US News Best Global University Rankings | #56 |
| THE World University Rankings | #73 |
Amity University Dubai has been recognized globally with strong rankings in 2025. It is ranked #141 in the QS World University Rankings, #56 in the US News Best Global University Rankings, and #73 in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. Additionally, it is ranked #80 by CWUR and within the 101-150 range in the 2024 ARWU rankings. These positions reflect the university’s growing reputation around the World.
Popular Courses at Leiden University
Tabulated below are some of the most popular courses that international students choose at Leiden University:
| Course Name | Duration (Years) | Tuition Fees (Dinar) | Tuition Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Science [M.S] Data Science: Computer Science | 2 Years | €21,200 | ₹20,58,096 |
| Master of Science [M.S] Clinical Psychology | 2 Years | €21,200 | ₹20,58,096 |
| Master of Science [M.S] Astronomy: Astronomy and Instrumentation | 2 Years | €21,200 | ₹20,58,096 |
| Master of Science [M.S] Computer Science | 2 Years | €21,200 | ₹20,58,096 |
| M.A International Relations | 1 Years | €20,900 | ₹20,28,972 |
| M.S International Relations and Diplomacy | 2 Years | €21,200 | ₹20,58,096 |
| L.L.M Public International Law (Advanced LL.M.) | 1 Years | €20,900 | ₹20,28,972 |
| B.A/B.S Liberal Arts and Sciences | 3 Years | €19,295 | ₹18,73,159 |
| B.S International Bachelor Psychology | 3 Years | €20,030 | ₹19,44,512 |
Leiden University Admissions
Leiden University offers admission in two main intakes: September and February, with the September intake being the most popular among international students. Each year, the university receives thousands of applications from over 100 countries, making it a diverse and globally recognized institution. Additionally, Leiden University specializes in scientific research-based programs as well as teaching. The university comprises seven faculties spread over locations in Leiden and The Hague. These include:
- Archeology
- Government and Global Affairs
- Humanities
- Law
- Science
- Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Medicine
For the interested students, the admission deadlines for upcoming semesters are mentioned below:
| Semester | Admission Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall Semester (Studies starting in September) | 1 April, 2026 |
| Spring Semester (Studies starting in February) | 15 October, 2025 |
| Other Start Dates | At least 4 months prior to your proposed start date |
Also Check: Application Deadlines in Netherlands
Leiden University PG Admission Requirements
Graduate admissions are open biannually for most of the programs. Almost all programs have the same deadlines and requirements, but in some cases, it vary. Popularly opted master’s programs at Leiden University are MSc in Advanced Computing and Systems, MA in Ancient History, MSc in Astronomy, MSc in Business Studies and LL.M. Civil Law. The university offers 200+ Master's programmes.
Application Form: Studielink or uSis Application
Application Fee: EUR 100
Application Requirements:
- Application form – Studielink and University uSis
- Academic transcripts of Bachelor's degree/Diplomas – BSc/BA equivalent
- English translation of all documents (if not already)
- Valid passport copy
- CV/Resume
- Letter of motivation, recommendation – program specific
- Additional program-specific requirements
- Language proficiency results
Leiden University UG Admission Requirements
Students who have a Dutch diploma or equivalent certificates may be eligible for direct admission. Students without these certificates need to apply through Studielink and University application (uSis) both. Popular bachelor’s programmes at Leiden University include BSc in Computer Science, BSc Mathematics, BSc Economics, BA Archaeology, International Business law (LL.B.) .
Application Form: - Studielink or uSis Application
Application Fee: EUR 100
Application Requirements:
- Completed Application form
- Dutch diploma certificates
- Optional – for direct admission
- Report cards from high school
- English translation of report cards if not already
- Proficiency in Dutch
- For programmes taught in Dutch language
- Proficiency in English
- For English medium programmes– In most cases
- Passport Copy
- CV/Resume
- Program-specific requirements
Leiden University Scholarships for International Students
Tabulated below are some popular scholarships for international students who are looking to ease their financial burden:
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Program Level | Award Type | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leiden University Excellence Scholarship | Non-EU/EEA international students with excellent academic records who are applying for a Master's program | Master's programs (excluding LLM and Erasmus Mundus) | Full or partial tuition fee waiver (up to €18,750) | January 15 (for September intake) |
| Holland Scholarship | Non-EU/EEA international students who are applying for a Master's program at a Dutch university | Master's programs | €5,000 one-time payment | February 1 (for September intake) |
| Leiden Law School Excellence Scholarship | Non-EU/EEA international students applying for a Master's program in Law at Leiden Law School | Master's in Law | Partial tuition fee waiver (up to €12,000) | April 1 (for September intake) |
| LExS – Leiden Excellence Scholarship | Non-EU/EEA international students who are applying for a Master's program at Leiden University | Master's programs (excluding LLM, MBA, and Erasmus Mundus) | Full or partial tuition fee waiver (up to €18,750) | January 15 (for September intake) |
| Leiden Summer School Scholarships | International students with academic merit applying for the Leiden Summer School | Summer programs | Partial or full tuition waiver depending on program | April 1 (for summer session) |
| Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) | Students from specific countries listed by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs | Short courses or Master’s programs | Full scholarship covering tuition fees, travel, and living costs. | Varies (depending on the program) |
Also Check: Popular Scholarships to Study in Netherlands
Leiden University also offers a range of student services to support international students. These include help with visa and immigration processes, guidance on finding accommodation, and orientation programs to ease the transition to life in the Netherlands. The university also provides language support, academic advising, and career services to assist students in their studies and future employment. Additionally, international students can access counseling, health services, and social activities to help them feel welcome and integrated into the campus community.
FAQs
Ques: How good is Leiden University for international studies?
Ans: Leiden University stands out for international studies due to its strong academic focus on global issues like international law and diplomacy. It's recognized for producing high-quality research, particularly in international relations, and has various specialized programs. The university offers a diverse international environment, helping students engage in cross-cultural learning. While the workload is more demanding compared to some other countries, it prepares students well for global careers in fields like NGOs, international organizations, and government roles.
Ques: What are the benefits of studying at Leiden University as an international student?
Ans: Studying at Leiden University offers international students a chance to receive high-quality education in a well-organized and welcoming country like the Netherlands. While most courses are in English, learning some Dutch will help you navigate daily life. The university supports international students with all the necessary paperwork and provides a friendly environment. Although housing can be challenging and costs vary, the country’s lifestyle is safe and student-friendly. With good public transport and a strong cycling culture, getting around is easy and affordable. Overall, Leiden offers a great combination of education, independence, and cultural experience.
Ques: How is life as a master's student at Leiden University for international students?
Ans: As per student reviews, life as a master's student at Leiden University is both academically demanding and personally rewarding. The university has a strong focus on research, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary learning, which makes the experience intellectually stimulating. Students come from all over the world, adding a global perspective to your classes. Outside of academics, Leiden is a vibrant, student-friendly city with plenty of cultural events and historical sites to explore. While finding housing can be tough, the city's great transport links make it easy to explore the rest of the Netherlands.
Leiden University Program Fees & Deadlines
| Program | Important Dates | Fees | Application Fees | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Application Deadline For February 2026 Intake (15th Oct 2025) Application Deadline For September 2026 Intake (1st Apr 2026) | USD 25,724 /Yr EUR 21,800 /Yr | 100 | IELTS:- 6.5, TOEFL:- 90 | |
M.S Computer Science 2 years | Application Deadline For February 2026 Intake (15th Oct 2025) Application Deadline For September 2026 Intake (1st Apr 2026) | USD 25,724 /Yr EUR 21,800 /Yr | 100 | IELTS:- 6.5, TOEFL:- 90 |
M.S Clinical Psychology 1 year | Application Deadline For February 2026 Intake (15th Oct 2025) Application Deadline For September 2026 Intake (1st Apr 2026) | USD 25,488 /Yr EUR 21,600 /Yr | 100 | IELTS:- 6.5, TOEFL:- 90 |
| USD 22,768 /Yr EUR 19,295 /Yr | - | - | ||
Application Deadline For February 2026 Intake (15th Oct 2025) Application Deadline For September 2026 Intake (1st Apr 2026) | USD 25,724 /Yr EUR 21,800 /Yr | 100 | IELTS:- 6.5, TOEFL:- 90 | |
M.S Biomedical Sciences 2 years | USD 25,016 /Yr EUR 21,200 /Yr | - | - | |
| USD 23,635 /Yr EUR 20,030 /Yr | - | - | ||
B.S Psychology 3 years | USD 23,635 /Yr EUR 20,030 /Yr | - | - | |
| USD 24,662 /Yr EUR 20,900 /Yr | - | - | ||
| USD 25,016 /Yr EUR 21,200 /Yr | - | - |
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Leiden University comparison
| University Name | Leiden University | University of Amsterdam |
|---|---|---|
| Collegedunia Score | 5.8 Out of 10 | 6.3 Out of 10 |
| Overall Ranking |
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| Subject Strength |
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| Programs |
|
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| Acceptance Rate | 63.0 % | 4.0 % |
| Cost to Study |
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| Placement | 76% of the graduates find jobs within two months of graduation. The programs and their average salary are as follows: Bachelor in science: $38,000 Master in Science: $46,000 LLM: $76,000 Master (other): $61,000 | The University of Amsterdam has a team for career and employability that has won an award for their dedication to supporting the student throughout the process of placement. The university hosts fairs and events to provide students with a job. The students in the final year gain more work experience and are also placed in research institutions, museums, or private conservation studios. Avverage Salaries by Degree:
|
| - | Read Full Comparison |
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Overall 119 out of 1401 in Global Ranking
Nearest Ranked Colleges
Utrecht University
University of Amsterdam
Erasmus University Rotterdam
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Leiden University Student Profiles
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Leiden University Reviews
3 Reviews Found
Likes
- The faculties- they were well learned in their subjects and were really approachable.
- Courses which train you for practical experience i.e., prepare you for the relevant and prevalent field.
- Extra-curricular activties, sports centres, multi cultural diaspora
Dislikes
- Not all students are high-rankers. It shouldn't be considered that the students know everything beforehand.
- Courses can be a bit more informative.
- Dutch language lessons can be part of the course, to increase job aspects of students.
Campus Life
- The campus was spread out in the whole city of Leiden and also in The Hague.
- More than 4 libraries, 2 sports centres in both Leiden and The Hague and a famous medical college, LUMC.
- Leiden Law Campus, famous events- OWL, Leiden Day and a trip to EU Parliament in Brussels. Clubs—FINSTAS
- All sorts of extracurriculars are present; it depends upon your interests.
Likes
- The following factors were considered: 1) Quality of professors 2) Job Market orientation pertaining to the country 3) Variety of courses offered"
Overview
Challenging and fruitful with the ability to connect with like-minded legal professionals and hone one's research skills in sector-specific areas of cross-border laws.
Campus Life
You will find a plethora of activities to keep you engaged. You will also have frequent social gatherings.
Likes
- Its reputation and tradition for International Law studies.
Overview
The best part was the truly international environment. You get to learn from both the faculty members as well as other students in your class. There is a lot of emphasis on academic writing and research. The exam process is rigorous which they have kept to maintain the standards.
Campus Life
Never participated in these activities. But there are lots of events for students.
Leiden University Scholarships
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Orange Tulip Scholarship | Scholarship per student$4,530 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Orange Knowledge Programme | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Holland Scholarship- Leiden University | Scholarship per student$5,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| University of Twente Holland Scholarship | Scholarship per student$2,500 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Holland Scholarships | Scholarship per student$10,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based |
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Leiden University Exam Scores
| Exams | Avg. Score | Min Score | Max. Score | %Submitted' |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graduate | ||||
| GRE | 313 | - | - | - |
Attendance Cost
The table shows average yearly cost of attendance for international students. Amount may vary with the course opted, nature of accommodation, and personal spending habits of a candidate.Check Program wise Fees
Leiden University Campus Location
Nearby This Campus
- Bus Station
- Hospital
- Book Store
- Shopping Mall
- Super Market
- Train Station
- Airport
Bus Station
Book Store
Super Market
Airport
Hospital
Shopping Mall
Train Station
● All distance are measured radially. Actual distance may vary
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Comments
Found 2 Comments
What is the fees structure of the hostel?
Leiden University, Netherlands does not have hostel facilities available for the students.
Leiden University offers 1 year duration MA International Relation course only (not Internaional Public Relations) to students. The fee is INR 17.4 lacs. You need to be in top 10% of your bachelor’s degree for being eligible for submitting scholarship application.