University of Groningen
Admissions Guide for International Students
Admissions Guide for International Students
Founded in 1614, the University of Groningen (RUG) is one of the oldest and most internationally respected research universities in the Netherlands, ranked #3 nationally and #139 globally by QS. Home to Nobel laureate Ben Feringa and a community of 36,000 students from more than 120 nationalities, RUG offers an exceptional range of English-taught bachelor's and master's programmes in a compact, affordable, and famously student-friendly city. For ambitious international students seeking world-class research, genuine multicultural immersion, and strong graduate outcomes in Europe, Groningen delivers at a fraction of the cost of comparable Anglo-American universities.
University of Groningen — campus in pictures
Real, freely-licensed photographs of the campus (via Wikimedia Commons).
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The Duisenberg Building of the University of Groningen, home of the Faculty of Economics & Business.
Choinowski · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
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De oostzijde van onderwijsgebouw Bernoulliborg op het Zernikecomplex in Groningen. Architect: De Zwarte Hond
Choinowski · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
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Overview of the campus of the University of Groningen Yantai
Wybe · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
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Zernike.Campus.Rug.Chemie.Scheikunde.Bernoulli.Chemistry.Nobel.Feringa.Building P5 Parkeerplaats
Andre Hosper · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
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De Beurs, Campus Fryslan, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen (2019). Formerly in use as the public library.
Lwd-fotograaf · CC BY 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
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Eg-T2g · CC BY-SA 3.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
Groningen combines four centuries of academic tradition with a genuinely international present-day campus. Here is what sets it apart for students coming from outside the Netherlands.
Ranked #75 by Times Higher Education and #139 by QS, RUG is consistently placed among the world's top 150 universities. Its research focus areas — Energy & Climate, Healthy Ageing, Sustainable Society, and Digitalisation — attract EU and international funding at scale, and undergraduates participate in real research projects from Year 1.
Ben Feringa, RUG Professor of Organic Chemistry, won the 2016 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his work on molecular machines. RUG has also produced the first female university student in the Netherlands and the first Dutch astronaut — a culture of breakthrough that permeates the institution.
RUG offers more than 30 English-taught bachelor's programmes spanning Arts & Humanities, Economics & Business, Science & Engineering, Law, Psychology, AI, Astronomy, Spatial Sciences, and the interdisciplinary Liberal Arts & Sciences programme at University College Groningen. Most programmes accept IB, A-Level, and other international qualifications directly.
Non-EU/EEA institutional tuition fees are significantly lower than comparable institutions in the UK or US. Combined with Groningen's low cost of living by European standards, the total annual cost of attendance is highly competitive for a global top-150 university.
25% of RUG's 36,000 students are international, and the city of Groningen has a student population that makes up roughly a quarter of its total residents. Over 120 nationalities are represented, and English is widely spoken across campus and in the city.
88% of RUG graduates are employed within a defined period after graduation. The university's membership in the elite Coimbra Group of European research universities and its location in a region with growing tech, energy, and agri-food sectors creates strong pathways into graduate employment and further study across Europe and globally.
Admissions at RUG depend heavily on programme type. Open-admission programmes accept all applicants who meet the minimum entry requirements (secondary diploma, language proficiency). Numerus fixus (limited-enrolment) programmes — including Psychology, Medicine, and some others — use selection procedures and may admit as few as 50% of qualified applicants. Across the full range of programmes, the average acceptance rate is approximately 50%, but this figure masks significant variation: competitive programmes are much harder to enter than their open-admission counterparts.
RUG uses the Dutch national application platform Studielink. Applications are submitted online; supporting documents are uploaded separately. The components required depend on your programme and nationality, but the following are standard for international bachelor's applicants.
All applicants to Dutch universities register via Studielink (studielink.nl), the national centralised system. Create an account, select your programme, and choose University of Groningen. This initiates the formal application.
Submit certified copies of your diploma and all final transcripts. IB Diploma, A-Levels, Indian +2 boards, US high school diploma with SAT/ACT, and most other international secondary qualifications are accepted. Check the RUG admissions page for qualification equivalency tables.
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency via IELTS (min 6.5 overall), TOEFL iBT (min 90), or Duolingo English Test (min 120). Some programmes have higher requirements — verify at programme level.
Numerus fixus and other selection-based programmes require a motivation letter explaining why you are applying, your academic background, relevant experience, and career goals. This is the primary written component of your application and carries significant weight in selection decisions.
A non-refundable application fee of approximately €100 (USD equivalent ~$100) applies to non-EU/EEA international students. Payment is made via the Progress Portal after submitting your Studielink application.
Some programmes require a portfolio (Arts & Culture), mathematics entrance test (Engineering, Econometrics), or proof of specific prerequisite subjects. Check each programme's individual admissions page for exact requirements.
https://www.rug.nl/education/application-enrolment-tuition-fees/
Unlike highly selective US or UK universities with holistic admissions processes, most RUG programmes use a qualification-based model: if you meet the entry requirements, you are admitted. However, for numerus fixus programmes like Psychology, selection is genuinely competitive. Across all routes, the key factors are:
Your secondary school diploma must be recognised as equivalent to Dutch VWO level. IB Diploma holders with 32+ points typically meet this threshold. Strong grades in subjects relevant to your chosen programme are essential — especially mathematics for STEM and economics disciplines.
For numerus fixus programmes, your motivation letter must clearly link your academic background, activities, and goals to the specific programme. Generic letters are penalised; specificity about why you chose Groningen and this programme matters.
For non-native speakers, demonstrating clear English proficiency above the minimum (IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL 90) is important. Strong IELTS scores (7.0+) signal academic readiness and are viewed positively.
STEM programmes require strong mathematics (at least Mathematics HL for IB students). Law and Social Sciences require good grades in humanities. Ensure your subject choices at secondary school align with your chosen programme's prerequisites.
While there is no binding Early Decision equivalent, applying well before the final deadline gives you more time to gather documentation and, in the event of a numerus fixus rejection, to pivot to an alternative programme or university.
RUG operates a rolling admissions process for most open-enrolment bachelor's programmes, with deadlines in the spring for September intake. Numerus fixus programmes have strict early deadlines. The table below gives general guidance — confirm exact dates for your specific programme on the official RUG deadlines page, as these are updated annually.
All deadlines are indicative. Always verify current-year deadlines directly at rug.nl before applying. Non-EU applicants requiring a visa or residence permit should apply at least three months before the programme start date to allow immigration processing time.
Strict deadline; late applications not accepted
Apply early; some programmes close earlier
Final upload deadline for admitted students
Primary intake; limited February intake for some
https://www.rug.nl/education/application-enrolment-tuition-fees/
Groningen is frequently cited as one of the best student cities in the Netherlands — and indeed in Europe. With a student population of roughly 60,000 in a city of 240,000, the university shapes the city's character in unmistakeable ways. The historic city centre, with its medieval Martinitoren, canals, and market square, is home to countless cafes, international restaurants, music venues, and independent bookshops.
Cycling is the primary mode of transport, and Groningen is consistently ranked among Europe's most cycle-friendly cities — a fact that dramatically reduces day-to-day costs and makes the entire city navigable within 15 minutes by bike. The cost of living is lower than Amsterdam, Utrecht, or Leiden, making it significantly more affordable for students on a budget. Most international students live in shared apartments or student housing in the city centre or adjacent neighbourhoods.
RUG has more than 300 student associations and clubs spanning sports, culture, debate, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and academic interest. The university's International Student Network (ISN) runs social events and excursions specifically designed to integrate newly arriving international students. The city also hosts a lively arts and music scene — it is the birthplace of DJ Tiësto — and has strong theatre, gallery, and festival programming year-round.
88% of RUG graduates are employed within a defined period after graduation, with an average starting salary of approximately USD 42,000 (equivalent). RUG's location in the northern Netherlands places graduates close to a growing ecosystem of energy, agri-food, and technology companies, while its Coimbra Group membership and pan-European alumni network open doors across the continent.
RUG graduates enter a wide range of industries. Economics & Business graduates typically go into finance, consulting, and corporate strategy — many at major Dutch and European multinationals like Shell, Philips, KPMG, and Unilever. Science graduates pursue PhD programmes across Europe, or enter the energy, biotech, and computing sectors. Psychology and Behavioural Sciences graduates enter healthcare, HR, policy, and research. Law graduates, particularly in International and European Law, find careers in international organisations, NGOs, multinational firms, and government.
The Career Services & Alumni office at RUG runs year-round career events, employer fairs, internship databases, and coaching sessions. The university maintains strong employer relationships in the Netherlands and broader EU, and hosts specific events for international students navigating the Dutch job market.
Can I apply to multiple programmes at RUG simultaneously?
Yes. Via Studielink, you can apply to multiple programmes at Dutch universities simultaneously. However, if you are applying to a numerus fixus programme, you should have a clear first choice in mind, as selection procedures can differ.
Does RUG accept the IB Diploma for direct bachelor's admission?
Yes. IB Diploma holders are accepted for direct entry to most RUG bachelor's programmes. A typical minimum of 32 points is expected for admission, though higher-demand programmes may require more. Specific subject prerequisites (e.g., Higher Level Mathematics for STEM programmes) must also be met.
Do I need to speak Dutch to study at RUG?
Not for English-taught programmes. RUG offers more than 30 English-taught bachelor's programmes, and English is widely spoken across campus and in the city. Some degree programmes are taught in Dutch — check programme pages carefully if you are uncertain.
What is a numerus fixus programme and how does selection work?
Numerus fixus programmes have a capped number of places. For these programmes, meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission — you undergo a selection procedure that typically includes a motivation letter, an online questionnaire, and sometimes additional tasks or interviews. Psychology is the most prominent example at RUG.
Can I get financial aid as a non-EU student at RUG?
Non-EU/EEA students are not eligible for Dutch student finance (DUO). However, the NL Scholarship (€5,000) is available for non-EEA master's students with excellent bachelor grades. Some programmes and external government scholarships also exist. See the Cost & Aid tab for more detail.
Is Groningen a safe city for international students?
Groningen is consistently rated one of the safest cities in the Netherlands, with low crime rates and a welcoming attitude towards international students. The large student population means support infrastructure — including international student services — is well-developed.
What housing options are available for international students?
RUG does not guarantee on-campus housing, and the Groningen student housing market is competitive. The university strongly advises starting your housing search early — ideally as soon as you receive an offer. SSH Student Housing (the regional student housing corporation) is the main provider, supplemented by private-sector apartments. The International Student Network also provides tips and resources for new arrivals.
When should I apply if I need a student visa?
Non-EU students who need a residence permit or student visa (MVV) should apply to their programme at least three to four months before the September start date to allow sufficient time for immigration processing. RUG's Student Immigration Team provides guidance on the residence permit process.
RUG is a research-intensive university with high academic standards. Understanding what is expected — and how international qualifications are assessed — is the first step to a strong application.
Unlike many Anglo-American universities, RUG does not use a single holistic admission score. Instead, admission is primarily qualification-based: your secondary school diploma must be equivalent to Dutch VWO (pre-university education), and programme-specific subject and grade requirements must be met. For competitive programmes with selection (numerus fixus), academic excellence matters both as a threshold and as part of the selection ranking. For open-enrolment programmes, meeting the requirements means you are in — which makes preparation about eligibility, not just competitiveness.
The following benchmarks give a practical guide to the academic profile of a competitive RUG international applicant. Hard numbers come from the facts file; others are qualitative.
Points; higher for competitive programmes
RUG's standardised test policy is listed as 'optional' — this means that SAT and ACT scores are neither required nor a central part of the admissions evaluation. The admissions system is qualification-based: your secondary school diploma and its grades carry the most weight. SAT/ACT results are generally not submitted by applicants to Dutch universities, and submitting them provides little admissions advantage. Admission for international bachelor's students is determined by: (1) equivalency of your secondary qualification to Dutch VWO, (2) grades in prerequisite subjects, and (3) English language proficiency tests.
RUG does not use the SAT or ACT in its admissions process. If you are a US-based applicant or have taken these tests, you may include them in your application, but they carry no formal weight and do not substitute for recognised secondary qualifications.
The admissions office evaluates your secondary school diploma against the Dutch VWO standard. For US students, a high school diploma combined with strong GPA and AP/IB courses is typically accepted. For Indian students, CBSE/ISC 12th standard boards are accepted; for most others, the RUG admissions team will assess your specific qualification.
If your secondary qualification is not automatically recognised, RUG may request additional documents or refer you to a qualification assessment body. Check the RUG admissions page or contact Student Information & Administration for guidance specific to your home country's qualifications.
IB, A-LEVELS & INTERNATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
The IB Diploma is well-known and widely accepted at RUG. Typically, a minimum of 32 points total is the threshold for admission, though specific programmes may require higher overall scores or specific Higher Level results.
A minimum total of 32 points is the general benchmark. STEM programmes typically require Higher Level Mathematics (Analysis & Approaches or Applications & Interpretation at HL). Business and Economics programmes may require HL Mathematics. Arts and Humanities programmes are more flexible. Always check your specific programme's prerequisites.
British A-Levels are well-recognised. Typically, BBB or above at A-Level is the general entry threshold, though competitive programmes and STEM fields may require higher grades. Subject-specific requirements apply — for example, Engineering requires Mathematics A-Level.
Indian CBSE/ISC, US High School Diploma, European Baccalaureate, French Baccalaureate, and most national secondary leaving qualifications are accepted. RUG maintains equivalency tables; some qualifications may require an additional subject or language test.
If your qualification does not meet the direct entry requirements, RUG does not operate its own foundation year. In such cases, applicants may need to complete an internationally recognised foundation programme or contact RUG's admissions team to explore alternative pathways.
https://www.rug.nl/education/bachelor/international-students/
STEM (Science, Engineering, Maths, Computing)
Mathematics at the highest available level is essential. For IB students, Higher Level Mathematics (AA or AI) is typically required. Physics HL is advantageous for Engineering and Astronomy. Chemistry HL matters for Life Sciences and Chemical Engineering. Strong laboratory skills are a plus.
Economics & Business (incl. Econometrics)
Mathematics is critical — Econometrics and Operations Research is one of the most maths-intensive undergraduate programmes in Europe. Economics and International Business require strong quantitative foundations. IB students: HL Mathematics strongly recommended. A-Level students: Mathematics required.
Psychology at RUG is a numerus fixus programme, meaning strong all-round secondary performance matters for selection. Biology and statistics are useful background. Clear motivation and well-articulated reasons for the discipline are important in the selection procedure.
Strong performance in social sciences, history, and languages is advantageous. No specific subject prerequisites, but analytical writing ability and an understanding of European context are valued. Excellent English proficiency is important given the programme's written assessment load.
Language skills (especially English), critical thinking, and humanities subjects at secondary level are the most relevant preparation. Subjects like history, literature, philosophy, and languages signal readiness for essay-heavy, seminar-based teaching styles.
All English-taught programmes require proof of English language proficiency from non-native English speakers. The following are the minimum scores required. Individual programmes may set higher thresholds — always verify at programme level on the RUG website.
Check programme for sub-score requirements
Widely accepted; verify at programme level
Students who completed all their secondary education in English (e.g., IB Diploma in English, A-Levels in English) are typically exempt from language test requirements. Confirm exemption eligibility with RUG's admissions team.
https://www.rug.nl/education/bachelor/international-students/
Grade 9–10: Choose Subjects Strategically
Identify your intended degree programme at RUG early and select secondary subjects accordingly. For STEM: prioritise Higher Level Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry. For Economics: ensure Mathematics is at the highest level. For Arts/Social Sciences: focus on English, History, and Languages. Avoid dropping core quantitative subjects prematurely.
Pursue challenging courses — IB Higher Level or A-Level. Engage in research projects, extended essays (IB EE), or independent academic work that demonstrates intellectual depth. Begin exploring specific RUG programmes and confirm subject prerequisites for your target degree.
Grade 11–12: Take Your English Test Early
Sit IELTS Academic or TOEFL iBT by mid-Year 12 (or Year 11 if confident). Aim above the minimum — IELTS 7.0+ or TOEFL 100+ demonstrates genuine academic language readiness. Retakes are possible, so early sitting removes deadline pressure.
Create your Studielink account and submit your application for your chosen RUG programme. For numerus fixus programmes, the deadline is typically 15 January — this is strict. For open-enrolment programmes, apply as early as feasible. Upload documents promptly via the Progress Portal.
Grade 12 (Feb–May): Complete Selection Tasks
If applying to a selection programme, you will be invited to complete questionnaires, submit your motivation letter, or take part in further selection steps. Prepare your motivation letter early. For open-enrolment programmes, track your application status via the Progress Portal.
Grade 12 (May–July): Confirm Admission & Plan Arrival
Accept your offer, pay any required fees, apply for a student residence permit if needed (non-EU students), and begin your housing search. Register for the introduction week (introductory orientation programme for new international students) and connect with the International Student Network ahead of arrival.
Missing the numerus fixus deadline (typically 15 January) — there are no exceptions, and late applications are not accepted.
Applying for a Dutch-language programme by mistake — always verify on the programme page whether the degree is taught in English or Dutch before applying.
Underestimating the mathematics requirement for Econometrics — it is one of Europe's most quantitative undergraduate programmes; apply only with strong HL/A-Level maths.
Submitting uncertified or unnotarised copies of documents — RUG requires certified translations and certified copies; scanned images are not sufficient.
Assuming SAT/ACT scores will strengthen your application — they carry no weight at Dutch universities. Focus on your secondary diploma and grades.
Not checking prerequisite subjects — some programmes require specific Higher Level or A-Level subjects that must appear on your diploma.
Starting the housing search late — Groningen student housing fills up quickly; begin searching as soon as you receive your offer letter.
Not checking if your English qualification exempts you from a language test — unnecessarily sitting and paying for IELTS or TOEFL wastes time and money if you already qualify for exemption.
For non-EU/EEA international students, the University of Groningen is significantly more affordable than comparable universities in the UK, US, or Australia — without sacrificing academic quality.
The Netherlands charges two categories of tuition: statutory fees for EU/EEA students (around €2,500/year) and institutional fees for non-EU/EEA international students. RUG's institutional fee for non-EU bachelor's students is approximately $15,960 (USD equivalent) per year. Combined with Groningen's relatively low cost of living, the total annual cost of attendance is around $29,640 — well below comparable programmes at leading UK or US universities. However, non-EU students cannot access Dutch student finance (DUO), so it is important to plan your funding carefully before applying.
The figures below are sourced from the university facts file and represent approximate annual costs. All amounts are in USD equivalent. Always verify current-year EUR figures directly with RUG, as institutional fees are set annually.
Living costs (rent, food, transport, personal)
Groningen is among the most affordable NL cities
EU/EEA students pay the statutory tuition fee (approximately €2,530/year as of 2024–25), which is dramatically lower. If you hold EU/EEA citizenship or permanent residency, confirm your fee status with RUG before applying.
https://www.rug.nl/education/application-enrolment-tuition-fees/
Non-EU/EEA students are not eligible for Dutch government student finance (DUO loans and grants). RUG does not operate a large-scale need-based aid programme for international bachelor's students — in contrast to some US universities that offer need-blind or need-aware admission with substantial grants.
The primary source of institutional financial support for non-EU international students is the NL Scholarship (€5,000, primarily for master's students). At bachelor's level, the key funding routes are external: government scholarships from your home country, bilateral programme agreements, and private foundations. Students from specific countries may be eligible for Netherlands-government-funded scholarships administered by Nuffic.
Plan your funding comprehensively before committing to a place. RUG's Student Financial Affairs office can advise on available external funding sources relevant to your country of origin.
There is no average aid percentage available in our facts database for RUG — aid figures are not published in aggregate, and we do not estimate what is not verifiable.
The following scholarships are relevant to international students at RUG. Always verify current eligibility and application deadlines directly with RUG or the administering body, as scholarship programmes change annually.
A €5,000 partial scholarship awarded in the first year of a master's programme. Available to non-EEA students with excellent bachelor's grades who have been admitted to an eligible RUG master's programme. Application requires a motivation letter. Deadline: 1 February. Not a full-tuition scholarship.
https://www.rug.nl/education/scholarships/holland-scholarship
RUG participates in several EU-funded Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree programmes that carry full scholarships for non-EU students. These are highly competitive and programme-specific. Check the Erasmus Mundus catalogue for eligible RUG-linked programmes.
A Dutch government scholarship for professionals from eligible developing countries, administered by Nuffic. Covers tuition, living allowance, and travel for short courses and master's programmes at Dutch universities including RUG. Applicants must be employed and apply through their employer or the Dutch Embassy in their home country.
Many governments fund students studying abroad — for example, India's ICCR, various Gulf government scholarships, and Indonesian LPDP scholarships can be used at RUG. These are applied for independently of RUG. Check your home government's scholarship portal and confirm RUG's institutional eligibility.
Some RUG faculties and research institutes offer small grants or stipends to exceptional incoming students, particularly at master's and PhD level. These are not systematically listed and should be explored directly with your faculty's administration after receiving an offer.
https://www.rug.nl/education/scholarships
At approximately $29,640 per year in total cost of attendance, RUG represents exceptional value for a globally ranked top-150 research university. For comparison, US research universities of comparable global standing often cost $70,000–$90,000 per year all-in, and top UK universities can run to £40,000+ per year for international students.
Groningen's low cost of living is a genuine advantage: rent for a room in a shared student flat typically runs €400–€700/month, groceries are affordable by Western European standards, and cycling eliminates transport costs. For students who plan carefully and secure part-time work (non-EU students on a student residence permit can typically work 16 hours per week during term time), the actual out-of-pocket cost can be meaningfully lower than the headline figures suggest.
That said, no-loan or no-tuition policies do not exist at RUG for non-EU international students. Come with a clear funding plan covering at least the first two years.
Determine whether you will pay statutory fees (EU/EEA) or institutional fees (non-EU/EEA). This is the single biggest variable in your cost calculation. Confirm your status with RUG's Student Information & Administration team.
Apply for home-country government scholarships early
Research scholarship programmes from your home government, national education ministry, or bilateral exchange agreements. Many have deadlines 6–12 months before your programme start date. Apply simultaneously with your RUG application.
Check NL Scholarship eligibility (master's applicants)
If you are applying to a master's programme, check eligibility for the NL Scholarship (€5,000) and submit your application by the 1 February deadline. Prepare your motivation letter carefully — academic merit and motivation are the key selection criteria.
If your programme is part of an Erasmus Mundus Joint Degree, the associated scholarship covers full costs for non-EU students. These are extremely competitive — strengthen your application with research experience and strong grades.
Open a Dutch bank account as soon as you arrive (required for rent payments and salary). Budget approximately €1,000/month for all living expenses in Groningen, though many students manage on less. SSH student housing is typically cheaper than the private market — apply early.
Non-EU students on a student residence permit are typically permitted to work 16 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during official holidays. Register with the Dutch Tax Authority (Belastingdienst) and ensure your employer files the correct documentation.
Can I get a student loan in the Netherlands as a non-EU student?
No. Dutch student finance (DUO) is only available to EU/EEA students and certain other groups. Non-EU/EEA students must fund their studies independently through savings, family support, scholarships, or their home country's loan programmes.
What is the exact tuition fee for non-EU students?
The institutional tuition fee for non-EU/EEA bachelor's students is approximately €14,900–€16,500/year, depending on the programme (USD equivalent ~$15,960). Fees are set annually — always check the current figure on the RUG tuition fees page before making financial decisions.
Are there scholarships for bachelor's-level international students?
Institutional scholarships at bachelor's level are very limited at RUG. The NL Scholarship targets master's students. External home-country government scholarships are the main funding route for bachelor's level. Some bilateral agreements exist — check with your national education ministry.
Can I work while studying in the Netherlands?
Yes. Non-EU students on a student visa may typically work 16 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during summer months. Your employer must hold a valid labour market statement (gecombineerde vergunning or TWV). Always verify current rules with the Dutch immigration authority (IND).
No. The application fee of approximately $100 (€100 equivalent) is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of your application.
Is health insurance mandatory in the Netherlands?
Yes, if you work in the Netherlands. Students who work (even part-time) are required to have Dutch health insurance. Students who do not work may use home-country travel/health insurance or a student international policy. Check with RUG's international office for current requirements.
The Motivation Letter & Studielink Process
Unlike US or UK universities, the University of Groningen does not require application essays as a central admissions component. Admission to most bachelor's programmes is qualification-based — your diploma and grades decide the outcome. However, for numerus fixus (selection) programmes, your motivation letter is a critical and differentiating document.
This tab explains how the Dutch application system works, what Studielink is, when and how a motivation letter matters, and how to write a compelling one if your target programme requires it. It is designed to give you an honest picture of what the RUG application actually involves — not a US-style supplemental essay guide that doesn't apply here.
The Netherlands uses Studielink — a centralised national platform — for all bachelor's programme applications. Every applicant creates an account at studielink.nl, selects their programme and university, and uploads supporting documents. RUG then receives your application via Studielink and processes it through their internal Progress Portal.
For most open-enrolment (vrije instroom) bachelor's programmes, the application process is primarily administrative: you submit your diploma, transcripts, English test results, and application fee, and receive an admission decision based on whether your qualifications meet the programme entry requirements. There is no competitive ranking, no essay prompt, and no personal statement required in the US sense.
For numerus fixus (limited-enrolment) programmes — most notably Psychology, Medicine/Health Science, and certain other programmes — a selection procedure applies. This typically involves: an online questionnaire about your background and motivation, a motivation letter, and sometimes additional tasks. The motivation letter here is substantive and genuinely assessed — it is the closest equivalent to an admissions essay in the Dutch system.
For master's programmes, a statement of purpose or motivation letter is often required even for open-enrolment courses, as master's admission is more competitive and involves programme-level review.
https://www.rug.nl/education/application-enrolment-tuition-fees/
Visit studielink.nl and register with your personal details. Use your legal name exactly as it appears on your passport. International students create an account under the 'International Students' flow. You will need a valid email address and passport details.
Search for University of Groningen and your intended bachelor's programme. Note whether the programme is vrije instroom (open enrolment) or numerus fixus (selection). You can apply to up to four programmes across Dutch universities simultaneously, but numerus fixus programmes in the same discipline count against your chances if you spread too thin.
Pay the application fee and upload documents
After completing your Studielink registration, you will be directed to RUG's Progress Portal to pay the application fee (~€100) and upload your required documents: secondary school diploma, transcripts, English language test certificate, passport copy, and any programme-specific materials.
If applying to a numerus fixus programme, you will receive instructions for the selection procedure by email. This may include an online questionnaire, motivation letter submission, and a ranking or decentralised selection process. Follow all instructions carefully and submit by the stated deadlines.
For open-enrolment programmes, decisions are typically made within weeks of a complete application. For numerus fixus programmes, national results are announced in the spring. You will receive your outcome via Studielink and the RUG Progress Portal.
Accept your offer in Studielink, pay your tuition fee, and complete final enrolment steps. Non-EU students must also apply for a student residence permit (MVV/VVR) — RUG's Student Immigration Team supports this process. Register for orientation programmes and begin your housing search immediately.
https://www.rug.nl/education/application-enrolment-tuition-fees/
For numerus fixus programmes and master's applications at RUG, the motivation letter (motivatiebrief) is the most important written component of your application. Unlike a US personal essay, the motivation letter at Dutch universities is explicitly professional and academic in tone — it is not a personal narrative or a coming-of-age story. Its purpose is to demonstrate that you have made a deliberate, informed choice about this programme and university, and that you have the academic and personal attributes to succeed.
A strong RUG motivation letter covers four elements: (1) your academic background and what specifically prepared you for this programme; (2) your motivation for studying this field — what drove your interest and how it developed; (3) why you chose the University of Groningen specifically — not generic praise, but concrete reasons linked to the programme's content, faculty research, or unique features; and (4) what you intend to do with the degree — your career direction or further study goals.
Length is typically one to two pages (500–800 words). Write in clear, formal English. Avoid clichés ('I have always been passionate about…'). Be specific: name professors whose work interests you, reference RUG's research focus areas (Energy, Healthy Ageing, Sustainable Society), mention particular courses or specialisations within the programme, and connect your prior activities to what the programme offers.
Academic background and relevant prior experience; specific reasons for choosing this programme and RUG; career or academic goals after graduation; any relevant extracurricular activities, research projects, or work experience.
Vague generalities ('I love learning'); excessive personal narrative unrelated to the discipline; copying language from the programme website without adding your own perspective; exceeding the stated length; informal or casual language.
Professional, direct, and confident. Dutch academic culture values clarity and self-awareness over rhetorical flourish. Write in a tone you would use for a formal academic cover letter, not a creative application essay.
The most common mistake is a generic letter. Research your specific programme in depth before writing. Reference the curriculum, a research group, a faculty member's published work, or a distinctive element of the Groningen programme that you cannot find at other universities.
For the numerus fixus selection questionnaire and motivation letter, the selection committee is assessing fit — between you and the programme, between your goals and what RUG can offer. Your 'topic' is therefore not a narrative choice (as it would be for a US essay), but a strategic framing of your academic and personal development.
Think of your letter as an argument: 'Here is who I am academically, here is what I have done, here is why this specific programme at Groningen is the right next step, and here is where I plan to go afterwards.' The letter should be evidence-based — support your claims with concrete examples rather than assertions. If you say you are passionate about psychology, cite a book you read, a study you found compelling, or an experience that crystallised your interest. If you say you want to work in international development, explain why and how this programme equips you for it.
For international students, it can also be powerful — but not obligatory — to briefly acknowledge your international perspective and how diversity of background enriches the learning environment. Keep this brief and avoid making it the centrepiece of your letter.
Applying to a numerus fixus programme without checking whether you are likely to be selected — for Psychology, competition is real and motivation letters are closely read.
Writing a US-style personal narrative essay when RUG expects a direct, professional motivation letter — tone mismatch undermines an otherwise strong candidate.
Not registering on Studielink early enough — the system requires identity verification and can take several days to activate for international students.
Missing the numerus fixus application deadline (typically 15 January) — this deadline is absolute; no exceptions are made.
Submitting uncertified document copies — always check the certification requirements for your country before uploading.
Writing a generic motivation letter that does not reference the specific programme, RUG's research strengths, or any faculty/course-level details.
Not verifying whether your secondary qualification meets Dutch VWO equivalency before applying — some qualifications require additional steps or assessments.
Forgetting to apply for a student residence permit early enough for non-EU students — immigration processing takes time, and missing the MVV window delays your arrival.
Assuming your IELTS or TOEFL score is sufficient without checking programme-specific minimums, which may be higher than the university-wide minimum.
Do I need to write an essay to apply to RUG?
Not for most open-enrolment (vrije instroom) bachelor's programmes. Admission is based on your secondary school diploma and grades. A motivation letter is required for numerus fixus (selection) programmes such as Psychology, and for most master's programme applications.
What is Studielink and do I have to use it?
Studielink (studielink.nl) is the mandatory Dutch national application platform for all bachelor's programmes at Dutch universities. You must register and submit your application via Studielink — there is no separate RUG application form for bachelor's programmes.
Typically 500–800 words (one to two pages). Check programme-specific guidance, as some programmes may give exact word or page limits. Avoid going significantly over or under the guideline.
Should I write my motivation letter in English or Dutch?
For English-taught programmes, write in English. Writing in Dutch when the programme is English-taught may actually work against you, as it signals you have not read the programme requirements carefully.
Can I apply to multiple numerus fixus programmes?
Yes, you can apply to multiple programmes via Studielink. However, selection procedures for numerus fixus programmes are demanding and time-consuming — focus your effort on a small number of strong choices rather than applying broadly and diluting your preparation.
When will I hear back about my application?
For open-enrolment programmes, decisions are usually made within a few weeks of submitting a complete application. For numerus fixus programmes, national results are announced in the spring (typically April–May for a September start). You are notified via Studielink.
Is there an interview for bachelor's admission at RUG?
Formal interviews are not a standard part of bachelor's admissions at RUG. Numerus fixus selection may include online tasks, questionnaires, or written components, but in-person interviews are not typical at bachelor's level. Verify with your specific programme.