Study preparations
Make sure you are well prepared for your studies. Request a university ID card, discover the student website, and get to know your rights as a student. And why not learn a little Dutch and read up on Dutch student life.
Request a LU-Card (university ID card)
Before arrival, make sure to request a LU-Card. This is your university ID, library and copy card. You can request a LU-Card online by uploading a passport photo.
Discover the student website
On the student website you can find important practical information for students. For example, schedules, study materials, facilities, well-being support and who to contact for what.
- Student website: information for new bachelor's and master's students
- Student website: information for international exchange students
When using the student site, select your study programme or exchange - faculty to see information specific to your studies.
Learn a little Dutch
Want to learn some basic Dutch and get a taste of Dutch culture? Leiden University's free online ‘Dutch & More' course is aimed at international students who are about to join Leiden University.
As well as teaching you the basics of the Dutch language, the online 'Dutch and More' course will introduce you to student life in Leiden and The Hague. Sign up via this link.
After successful completion, you can register for a Dutch course at Leiden University’s Academic Language Centre for a greatly reduced price.
Read up on Dutch student life
Before arrival, find out more about student life in the Netherlands. On the Study in NL channel you can find a wealth of useful information for students who are new to Dutch student life. For handy local information, visit Leiden Municipality’s I wish I knew video series or watch the Study in the Hague vlogs.
Your rights and obligations as a student
Before starting your studies, familiarise yourself with your rights and obligations in our student charter, regulations, and the code of conduct international students.
Student charter
Your most important rights and obligations are laid down in the Student Charter. The student charter informs Leiden University students of what they can expect from the university and what the university expects from them.
Regulations
Each study programme also has its own Course and Examination Regulations. You can find these, as well as many other university regulations, on the regulations webpage.
Code of conduct international students in Dutch higher education
Leiden University is proud signatory of the code of conduct international student in Dutch higher education which ensures good practices in the recruitment of international students. The code of conduct stipulates that international students must be provided with a clear insight into the quality of education, student recruitment and selection procedures. If you believe Leiden University has not acted in accordance with the code of conduct, you are entitled to submit a complaint.