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.
Always 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.
Key application dates
Numerus fixus programmes
15 January
Other bachelor programmes
1 May
Check your programme deadline
Your university or programme may have additional or earlier deadlines, particularly for international applicants. Always check the programme's own admissions page before applying.
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.
How applying usually works
- Check the programme requirements and deadline.
- Apply through Studielink.
- Complete any additional university application steps.
- Submit required documents.
- Follow the university’s instructions and decision process.
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.