Start with the programme, not Studielink
Before you register anywhere, open the official page for the bachelor's programme you want to apply to.
Check:
- the admission requirements;
- whether the programme has a selection procedure;
- the application deadline;
- whether international applicants have a different process or earlier practical deadline;
- which documents you may need.
Study in NL specifically advises students to check the institution's own application information because procedures and deadlines can vary.
What is Studielink?
Studielink is the official registration and application portal used by Dutch higher education institutions.
For most programmes, you first register through Studielink. However, not every institution or programme uses exactly the same process for students applying from abroad, so always follow the instructions on the programme's official website.
If you live outside the Netherlands, institutions may direct you to create a Studielink account rather than sign in with DigiD. Follow the current Studielink and institution instructions for your situation.
Studielink is often only step one
Submitting an enrolment request in Studielink does not necessarily mean your university application is complete.
Many institutions use their own application system after Studielink. You may receive an email asking you to log in to a university portal, upload documents, complete an application form, pay an application fee where applicable, or complete additional programme-specific steps.
For example, Utrecht University sends applicants from Studielink to OSIRIS Online Application, while the University of Amsterdam uses its own SIS/My Applications process for relevant international applications.
The important rule is simple: after using Studielink, keep checking your email and the university's instructions until the institution confirms that your application is complete.
Know the general dates — then check your real deadline
Numerus fixus programmes
General application deadline:15 January
Other programmes
General application deadline:1 May
What is numerus fixus?
Some Dutch programmes have a limited number of places. These are called numerus fixus programmes.
When applications exceed the number of available places, the institution uses a selection procedure. The application process is therefore different from a regular programme, and the general deadline is 15 January.
If you are considering a numerus fixus programme, check its selection procedure early. Do not wait until January to investigate how it works.
What may happen after you apply?
The steps differ by programme, but a typical application journey may include:
- Check the programme and entry requirements.
- Check the exact application deadline.
- Prepare the required documents.
- Register or submit an enrolment request through Studielink where required.
- Complete the university's own application portal or additional steps if instructed.
- Upload documents and pay any applicable application fee.
- Complete selection, matching or other programme-specific requirements where applicable.
- Wait for the institution's admission decision.
- Follow the institution's final enrolment instructions if you receive an offer.
Why international students need to check carefully
International applicants can have extra practical steps or earlier deadlines.
Your institution may need time to evaluate an international diploma, and students who need services such as immigration support or university-arranged housing may face earlier dates than the general application deadline.
That is why the programme's own international application page matters more than a generic deadline found elsewhere.