The institution is organized into seven faculties covering a wide range of academic disciplines, including Archaeology, Governance and Global Affairs, Humanities, Law, Medicine, Science, and Social and Behavioural Sciences.
Introduction
Leiden University is a large, research-intensive institution with more than 33,800 students representing 120 nationalities, across a broad portfolio of academic programmes, including 50 bachelor’s, 83 master’s and over 100 professional courses. True to its historic ethos, the university places great value on freedom of spirit, thought and speech, a commitment embodied in its motto Praesidium Libertatis (“Bastion of Freedom”) which has been part of the University’s academic seal since 1917 and reflects its long-standing dedication to independent inquiry and open intellectual debate.
Leiden’s research presence is visible in large publication numbers annually, and the university ranks well in global comparison tables, consistently appearing within the top 150 worldwide in major rankings and placing strongly in subject-specific lists such as archaeology, classics, law and politics. The institution also counts around 16 Nobel Prize winners among its historical affiliates, underlining its long tradition of scholarly influence.
Academic Excellence & Strengths
Leiden University’s undergraduate programmes are known for their strong academic quality, across humanities, social sciences, sciences and interdisciplinary fields:
- Leiden University has seven top-rated bachelor’s programmes according to the Keuzegids universiteiten (based on the Dutch National Student Survey), highlighting strong teaching quality and student satisfaction. These include English Language and Culture (BA), Classics (BA), Dutch Language and Culture (BA), Religious Studies (BA), Biomedical Sciences (BSc), Clinical Technology (BSc) and Liberal Arts and Sciences: Global Challenges (BA/BSc).
- The Liberal Arts and Sciences: Global Challenges programme at Leiden University College (The Hague) is consistently awarded a Top Rated Programme quality seal and is fully taught in English, drawing an international cohort of students.
- Leiden’s undergraduate offerings span a diverse range of fields. English-taught options include Archaeology (BA), Security Studies (BSc), Data Science & Artificial Intelligence (BSc), Psychology (BSc), International Studies (BA), Linguistics (BA), Urban Studies (BA) and more, reflecting breadth across humanities, social sciences, sciences and interdisciplinary areas.
Additionally, Leiden’s Faculty of Science is a first-class research faculty with an excellent position in the fundamental disciplines of science. The current research and education programmes cover the entire spectrum of science, including Mathematics, Statistics and Data Science, Computer Science, Astronomy, Physics, Chemistry, Bio-Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biology, and Environmental Sciences.
Who Should Consider Joining the University?
Leiden University is an excellent choice for students who are looking for an academically rigorous and research-rich environment where curiosity, critical thinking and independent inquiry are central to the learning experience. Students who thrive here are those who want to delve deeply into their subjects, engage with current global challenges, and contribute to scholarly debate and solutions rather than just memorise facts. The university’s emphasis on freedom of thought and expression encourages learners to question assumptions and develop well-reasoned perspectives.
Leiden is also a great fit for students who enjoy a blend of academic challenge and personal growth: those who seek opportunities to participate in research early on, engage with active student communities in Leiden and The Hague, and build networks that extend into international organisations and professional fields.
Conclusion
If you are someone who values diversity and an international classroom, Leiden’s mix of students from around the world offers a multicultural studying experience. The university’s inclusive environment supports students from varied backgrounds and encourages respect for different viewpoints, making it suitable for those who enjoy learning in a global community.
If you’re considering taking your first step into higher education here, the application process begins with Studielink, the national online registration system used by Dutch universities. After creating a Studielink account (open from 1 October for the next academic year), you’ll receive login details for Leiden’s own application portal (uSis), where you complete your submission and pay the €100 application fee. Be sure to meet the relevant deadlines (which vary by programme and visa requirements), as early application increases your chances of securing admission, housing and any potential scholarships.
