As a prestigious European research university, Leiden University plays a foremost role in academic research and teaching. High-quality academic research and teaching are crucial to a safe, healthy, sustainable, prosperous and just world.
- #101 Ranking
- 2 Courses
- 1,627 Academic Staff
- 31,556 Students
- 5,996 Students (int'l)
- 18,934 Students (female)
- Public Institution Type
Top reasons to study here
- The motto of Leiden University is: Libertatis Praesidium or Bastion of Freedom. A number of basic principles guide the University’s actions.
- Throughout its history the University has always stood for freedom of spirit, thought and speech, and for freedom of research and teaching.
- Our academics are guided by the highest ambitions of quality and academic integrity. We aim to instil this same academic attitude in our students.
Distance Learning Courses
Law (1)
Medicine & Health (1)
About
History
Leiden University was the first university to be established in the Netherlands. William of Orange gave Leiden Academia Lugduno Batava in 1575, it is said in recognition of the city’s courageous resistance against the seige by the Spanish invaders.
Education
Our teaching is characterised by individual attention for students, contact with diverse cultures and innovative teaching methods. Personal supervision and the binding study advice contribute to our success. Our teaching and research are closely interwoven.
Research
- Leiden University is an internationally oriented, comprehensive University. Our scientific research and teaching inspire one another, and this cross-pollination shapes our contribution to society. With our research, we work to gain a fundamental understanding of the world and the people around us.
- In our teaching, we train our students to become analytical thinkers and critical world citizens who can apply this knowledge to make the world a safe, healthy, sustainable, prosperous and just place. Where possible, we endorse and apply the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations.
Career
As an alumnus you can come to the Career Services for career guidance for up to one year after graduation. A session with one of the career counsellors is free of charge. For workshops you pay the student rate.
Services
Housing services
With many kilometres of beaches, hundreds of sights, excellent restaurants and lively cafés, the Hague really is a cool city to live in. However, arranging accommodation can demand a lot of time and effort for Dutch and international students. For this reason, finding a place to stay is one of the first things that need to be arranged when you are planning to study at Leiden University. But how do you actually find a room in The Hague?
- Are you an international student? Each semester, Leiden University reserves a limited number of rooms for international students via a local housing agency. These rooms are intended for short-stay students only as the maximum rental contract duration is one year.
Library services
The UBL owns a vast collection of scientific information, both on paper and online. Furthermore, UBL provides access to special collections of international allure. Among these are medieval manuscripts, archives, old prints, maps, sketches, drawings and photographs, both from the Western world and the Middle East and Asia.
Student Life
Campus life
Leiden University chose The Hague because the city’s identity complements the University. As a city of peace, justice and security and as a metropolitan area, The Hague provides plenty of opportunity for research and teaching. It is also the political and administrative heart of the Netherlands and a home to many international organisations. The teaching and research at Campus The Hague is closely linked to the city’s profile and is grouped into four key themes:
- International law, peace and security
- Globalisation and international relations
- Politics, public administration and public finance
- Urban issues
- Health and patient care
Student clubs
- Becoming a member of a student association is the best way to quickly feel at home in The Hague. You’ll soon get to know people and you’ll make new friends for life.
- The Hague’s student associations: As a student city, The Hague is growing in stature and is gaining more and more student associations. But don’t worry if you’re not sure which one you should join. During The HOP introduction week you can simply drop by them all, talk to existing members and visit their parties. Or, to get a better picture, you could check them out online first.
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