NETHERLANDS
Islamic University of Rotterdam
public · Founded 1997 · Languages: Dutch, Arabic
In short
The Islamic University of Rotterdam offers specialized Islamic theology and applied sciences programs tailored for Western European contexts. It is a recognized private institution known for its personalized learning environment and community focus.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1997
- Students
- 300
- International students
- 80
- Acceptance rate
- 70%
- Tuition (intl)
- €5–7k/yr
- Languages
- DUTCH, ARABIC
- Location
- Netherlands
The Islamic University of Rotterdam (IUR) is a private higher education institution in Rotterdam, Netherlands, specialising in Islamic theology and applied sciences. Founded in 1997, it prepares imams, chaplains, and Islamic educators for service in Western European contexts. The university's curriculum integrates classical Islamic scholarship with contemporary European realities, equipping graduates to serve Muslim communities in the Netherlands and beyond.
Why study here
- Specialised Islamic theology education tailored to a Western European context
- Small institution offering close mentorship and personalised learning
- Programmes designed to produce imams and chaplains suited to Dutch society
- Recognised by the Dutch government within the national higher education framework
- Located in Rotterdam, one of Europe's most culturally diverse cities
Student life
Student life at IUR is community-focused and closely tied to the Muslim community in Rotterdam. The small campus size fosters close relationships between students and faculty. Students engage in theological study circles, community outreach, and practical placements in mosques and Islamic organisations across the Netherlands.
Fees
InternationalApproximately €4,500–€7,000 per year for international students
HomeEU/EEA students pay standard Dutch statutory tuition fees (around €2,314 per year for eligible students)
LivingRotterdam living costs approximately €900–€1,100 per month including accommodation, food, and transport
Fee details should be confirmed directly with the university as they may vary by programme
Admissions
Secondary educationRecognised secondary school diploma or equivalent
LanguageProficiency in Dutch or Arabic depending on the programme
Islamic backgroundSome foundational knowledge of Islamic studies may be required
University scholarships
Dutch Government GrantsVaries — check DUO (Netherlands Student Finance) eligibility
Accreditation
IUR operates within the Dutch higher education framework and is subject to the Dutch Higher Education and Research Act (WHW). Accreditation status should be verified with NVAO (the Dutch-Flemish Accreditation Organisation).
For international students
NetherlandsStudent visa & funds
Non-EU students cannot apply for their own residence permit; only an IND-recognised institution (a registered sponsor) submits the application on their behalf. The permit is issued for up to five years and stays valid for three months after the programme ends. For university and HBO students the IND requires proof of at least €1,130.77 per month (the 2026 study norm) for living costs, held by the student or guaranteed by the institution. Students must also keep satisfactory progress — at least 50% of annual credits — to retain the permit.
Working while you study
Non-EU students may work a maximum of 16 hours per week during the academic year, or alternatively full-time during June, July and August. In either case the employer must first obtain a work permit (TWV) from the UWV before the student starts; the student cannot apply for it themselves. Internships that are a formal, graded part of the degree are exempt from the TWV requirement when a tri-party agreement is in place, as is volunteering with a Volunteer Declaration.
After you graduate
After a bachelor’s, master’s or PhD at a Dutch institution, non-EU graduates may apply for the orientation year permit (zoekjaar), valid for one year and not extendable. During this year the holder may work freely — no employer TWV is needed — and may also freelance or start a business. The application must be made within three years of graduating. Graduates of a foreign university ranked in the global top 200 can also qualify with English proficiency at IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.
English tests
- IELTS6.0–6.5 for bachelor’s; 6.5–7.0 for most master’s; specialist master’s up to 7.0–7.5
- TOEFL iBT80–90 for bachelor’s; 90–100 for master’s; some research universities require 100
Main intakes
SeptemberFebruary
Typical living cost
€1,200/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
Scholarships
for Netherlands
full fundingDutch Research Council (NWO)
NWO Rubicon Programme
For researchers who have recently completed (or are about to complete) a PhD, who want to gain research experience at a foreign institution (or at a Dutch institution if coming from abroad). It is a postdoctoral programme; applicants must have obtained their doctorate within the last ~12 months and apply through NWO with a host.
full
Funding
€180k
Max
Mar 31, 2027
Deadline
full fundingNuffic (Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) Scholarships
Open to mid-career professionals who are nationals of, and currently living and working in, one of the listed OKP partner countries. Applicants must have proficiency in English or French, be in work that aligns with one of the priority areas designated for their country, be able to show they will use and transfer their new knowledge within their employing organization, and agree to comply with the obligations and conditions of the OKP. A limited number of awards is granted to motivated female and male professionals.
full
Funding
€40k
Max
Mar 31, 2027
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of Groningen
Welcoming International Talent (WIT) PhD Fellowship
Open to Early-Stage Researchers of any nationality who, at the call deadline, have no more than four years of full-time-equivalent research experience and have not yet been awarded a doctoral degree. Applicants must hold a qualification that grants access to doctoral studies, meet the MSCA mobility rule (not having lived or worked in the host country for more than 12 months in the previous three years), and have at least certified B2-level English.
full
Funding
€32k
Max
Mar 18, 2027
Deadline
full fundingMaastricht University
UM Brightlands Talent Scholarship
Open to non-EU/EEA and Swiss nationals under 35 who have conditional admission to a participating master's programme affiliated with a Brightlands campus, have not previously enrolled in Dutch higher education, and demonstrate strong academic performance.
full
Funding
€31k
Max
Feb 1, 2027
Deadline
full fundingMaastricht University
Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship
Open to talented students from outside the EU/EEA, Switzerland and Suriname who have applied for admission to a participating full-time Master's programme at Maastricht University, meet the programme's admission requirements, have not previously studied for a degree in the Netherlands, and are no older than 35 on the cycle's start date.
full
Funding
€30k
Max
Feb 1, 2027
Deadline
full fundingDelft University of Technology (TU Delft)
Justus & Louise van Effen Excellence Scholarship
For exceptional non-EU/EEA students applying for an MSc programme at Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) with an excellent academic record. The scholarship is merit-based and competitive; you apply for it after applying for admission to an eligible TU Delft master's, by the deadline (commonly 1 December).
full
Funding
€30k
Max
Dec 1, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What is the Islamic University of Rotterdam (IUR)?
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The Islamic University of Rotterdam is a private institution founded in 1997, specializing in Islamic theology and applied sciences. It prepares graduates for roles such as imams, chaplains, and Islamic educators within Western European contexts.
What programs does the IUR offer?
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The IUR focuses on programs that integrate classical Islamic scholarship with contemporary European realities. Its curriculum is designed to equip students to serve Muslim communities effectively in the Netherlands and beyond.
What are the admissions requirements for international students?
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International students typically need a recognized secondary school diploma or equivalent. Depending on the program, proficiency in Dutch or Arabic may be required, and some foundational knowledge of Islamic studies might be necessary.
What is the estimated cost of studying and living in Rotterdam for international students?
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Tuition fees for international students range approximately from €4,500 to €7,000 per year. Monthly living costs in Rotterdam, including accommodation, food, and transport, are estimated to be between €900 and €1,100.
What kind of student life can I expect at the IUR?
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Student life is community-focused and closely integrated with the Muslim community in Rotterdam. The university's small size fosters close relationships between students and faculty, with activities including theological study circles and practical placements.
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