Do you already know what you want to study? Or, like thousands of other prospective students, are you finding it difficult to choose? The first step towards making the right choice is a broad orientation. Come to our Open Day and talk to students and study advisers. You’ll find the answers to your important questions and it will give you a much better idea which study will suit you best.

Has a particular programme sparked your interest? What’s the first year like, what are the most difficult subjects, what specialisations and master’s programmes can you do?  You’ll get answers to all these questions if you take part in one of the insight activities. We offer experience days, on-line courses to prepare you for specific subjects and student-for-a-day-events. This will give you a good idea of what the study entails.

Made your choice? Then register in good time via Studielink, so that you can start your bachelor’s programme in September. Make sure you have the answers to the following questions:

• Does the programme have a selection procedure?
• Do (Will) I have the correct entrance qualifications?
• Do I have the correct profile and subjects package?
• Will I have to sit an entrance exam?

Tip: register as soon as possible to give yourself enough time for matching (see step 4).

Registering for a programme with selection and placement
Please note that for the following programmes with a selection and placement procedure there is a registration deadline of 15 January:

• Bio-Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Biomedical Sciences
• Clinical Technology
• Criminology
• International Relations and Organisations (Political Science)
• Medicine
• Political Science
• Psychology

Read more about admission and application

Once you have registered for a programme, the study choice check*  will be emailed to you. In it, you will be asked various questions about your study choice and about yourself. You can then verify whether your answers match the demands that the programme will make on you. In this way you’ll know you’ve chosen the right programme before you start.
* Some programmes also do have compulsory matching which is part of your admission and application procedure.

You’re now in the starting blocks for your study. But don’t worry; we’ll continue to provide intensive support in what is, after all, an exciting new period in your life. At the beginning of your study, for example, you’ll have an introductory interview with a lecturer or study adviser. The latter will also be available to help you as you continue with your studies.

A mentoring group will also offer additional support during your first year. Together with several first-year students, and supervised by a mentor, you’ll be able to practise your academic skills: from the correct referencing of literature to writing scientific arguments. If you need some help outside your studies, you can visit the student counsellor or psychologist. And if you have a disability or a functional impairment, the Fenestra Disability Centre can provide special facilities, advice or perhaps just a listening ear.

During your first year we will do everything in our power to support you and ensure your study goes smoothly. The binding study advice that you’ll receive at the end of this year is therefore in your own interest. Only if you have attained at least 45 out of a possible 60 credits by the end of your first year, as well as having met any other additional requirements, will you be allowed to continue your programme. If you don’t meet these requirements, you cannot continue this programme at Leiden University. Naturally, we will take into account study delays that may be due to personal circumstances.

Approaching the end of your first year? Then now’s the time to formulate your study plan. This will give you an impetus to plan a follow-up to your studies, so that once you’re earned you bachelor’s degree after three years, you can then choose a master’s!