Applying via Studielink: the Netherlands application guide
Your guide to the official Dutch application platform: steps, numerus fixus and key deadlines.
What is Studielink?
Studielink is the official, centralised platform for applying to all higher education institutions in the Netherlands (research universities and universities of applied sciences). It is the Dutch equivalent of UCAS in the UK or the Common App in the US.
How the application works
The process has two steps. Registering on Studielink is not enough: most universities then require you to complete a separate application on their own portal (documents to upload, forms, sometimes fees). Many applicants realise this too late and leave their application incomplete.
- You may apply to a maximum of 4 programmes per academic year, across different universities.
- Of these, a maximum of 2 numerus fixus programmes are allowed per year.
Key deadlines
| 15 January (23:59) | Deadline for numerus fixus programmes. Absolute — no exceptions. |
| 15 April | You receive your ranking number for numerus fixus programmes via Studielink. |
| 1 May (23:59) | Deadline for programmes without a numerus fixus. |
What is numerus fixus?
Numerus fixus refers to capacity-limited programmes that select through a competitive process rather than grades alone. Popular fields — psychology, computer science, artificial intelligence, international business — often fall into this category. If applicants outnumber places, a selection takes place between 15 January and 15 April. On 15 April you receive your ranking number; if it entitles you to a place, you must accept it within two weeks.
Get support
YourDreamSchool guides applicants to Dutch universities, from programme strategy to finalising the file. Get in touch with Your Dream School for a first conversation about your project.
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Sources: Studielink and the admissions services of Dutch universities (Study in NL, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Radboud University). Dates and rules change — check the official information each year on studielink.nl.