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NETHERLANDS · MAASTRICHT

Maastricht University

public · Founded 1976 · Languages: English, Dutch

In short

Maastricht University is a highly international Dutch public research university founded in 1976, renowned for its Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approach. It offers programmes across various fields in a historic European city.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1976
Students: 21,085
International students: 12,000
Acceptance rate: 65%
Tuition (intl): €10–18k/yr
Languages: ENGLISH, DUTCH
Location: Maastricht, Netherlands

Maastricht University (UM) is a Dutch public research university founded in 1976, known worldwide for its Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approach. With 21,000+ students from 110+ countries, it is one of Europe's most international universities. UM offers programmes across business, law, medicine, psychology, humanities, and governance. QS ranks it #239 globally. Its position in Maastricht — at the crossroads of the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany — gives it a distinctly European character and an unmatched international atmosphere.

Why study here

World-famous Problem-Based Learning methodology builds critical thinking and collaborative skills employers value highly
One of Europe's most international campuses — over 55% of students are from outside the Netherlands
QS World University Ranking #239 (2024); strong league-table performance in law, business, and medicine
Maastricht is a safe, historic, and vibrant city with easy rail access to Amsterdam, Brussels, Cologne, and Paris
English-taught programmes across all faculties make it highly accessible for international students

Student life

Maastricht University fosters a close-knit international community. The city's compact historic centre is walkable and bike-friendly, filled with cafés, restaurants, and cultural venues. Housing is available through the official Maastricht Housing platform and the UM Guesthouse; the university advises starting the housing search early due to demand. The Studium Generale cultural programme, over 130 student associations, and a rich calendar of sports and events ensure an active campus life.

Fees

InternationalNon-EU/EEA students: approximately €9,800–€18,000/year depending on faculty and programme level. Some selective master's programmes carry premium fees.

HomeEU/EEA students: statutory tuition fee ~€2,530/year (2025–26 rate). Many EU students are eligible for Dutch tuition fee loans.

LivingEstimated €900–€1,200/month in Maastricht for rent, food, transport, and personal expenses — one of the more affordable Dutch cities.

Students requiring a parking permit pay €6.82/month for the commuter scheme (2025 rate). Maastricht is primarily a walking and cycling city; a bicycle is the most popular form of transport.

Admissions

UndergraduateEquivalent of Dutch VWO diploma or recognised secondary school certificate; programme-specific subject requirements apply

Master'sRelevant bachelor's degree with strong GPA; some programmes require GMAT/GRE; specific prerequisites vary by faculty

Medicine (FHML)Numerus fixus (selection lottery + merit); additional entrance requirements apply

IELTS6.5 overall (min 6.0 per band)

TOEFL iBT90

Cambridge C1 Advanced180

Rankings

QS World University Rankings 2024239

THE World University Rankings 2024401–500

U-Multirank 2023A (Excellent) in Teaching & Learning

University scholarships

UM High Potential ScholarshipFull tuition + €11,000 living stipend for non-EEA master's students

Holland Scholarship€5,000 one-time grant for non-EEA bachelor's and master's students

Orange Tulip Scholarship (select countries)Partial to full tuition waiver; country-specific

Accreditation

Accredited by the Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders (NVAO). Law School holds ABA and IEP accreditation; SBE holds EQUIS and AACSB accreditation.

For international students

Netherlands

Student 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.

SourcesIND — Fees and required amounts for 2026 · Erasmus University Rotterdam — Working as a non-EU/EEA student · IND — Residence permit for orientation year · Study in NL — Admission requirements · StudyPath — Cost of living in the Netherlands (2026)

Programs

a selection

View top programs →

Maastricht University · Netherlands

Arts and Culture

The Bachelor of Arts and Culture program at Maastricht University offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding contemporary societal challenges through the lens of Western culture. You will explore the interconnectedness of art, science, media, and politics, and learn how these elements shape our world. This program combines insights from the humanities and social sciences to provide a comprehensive understanding of culture and its impact. This full-time, three-year program is designed for curious and critical thinkers who are eager to explore complex issues from multiple perspectives. You will develop strong analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills, preparing you for a future career in the cultural sector, education, research, or policy. The program utilizes Maastricht University's unique Problem-Based Learning (PBL) method, encouraging independent and team-based study.

Maastricht University · Netherlands

Bachelor of Laws (LLB) - Rechtsgeleerdheid

This Bachelor of Laws (LLB) program offers a comprehensive introduction to the Dutch legal system within a small-scale, personal learning environment. You will develop essential skills for analyzing and resolving legal issues. The program emphasizes active learning through Problem-Based Learning (PBL), where you collaborate in small groups to apply theory to real-world cases, enhancing both engagement and effectiveness. The faculty is ranked among the top 25 law faculties globally.

Maastricht University · Netherlands

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Become a 'techmaker' and help advance supercomputers, smart devices, robotics, and quantum computers. This Bachelor's program in Computer Science focuses on developing secure, efficient, and user-friendly software. You'll collaborate with fellow students and learn from real tech scientists, fostering a critical mindset adaptable to new technologies. The program is designed to prepare you for a future in various sectors where critical systems and technology are essential.

Maastricht University · Netherlands

Bachelor of Science in Psychology

Discover the intricacies of human behavior, the processes within our brain, and the factors that influence them. This Bachelor's program in Psychology will equip you with essential skills, including critical thinking, academic writing, teamwork, and professional competencies relevant to the field of psychology. You will explore why people act the way they do, gaining a deep understanding of the human mind and behavior.

Maastricht University · Netherlands

Biomedical Sciences (BSc)

Explore the intricacies of the human body, diseases, and treatments in this Bachelor of Science program. You will learn how to improve health at molecular, cellular, organ, and whole-body levels. This full-time, three-year program is taught in English and offers excellent career prospects in biotechnology, the pharmaceutical industry, and research upon graduation. The curriculum emphasizes understanding biological processes and contributing to healthcare from a laboratory perspective.

Maastricht University · Netherlands

Business & Economics in Europe

The Business & Economics in Europe programme provides a comprehensive understanding of international business practices within Europe and the economic policies of the European Union. Located in Maastricht, a city known as the birthplace of the Euro and strategically positioned between major economic hubs like Brussels, London, and Amsterdam, this program offers an ideal environment for aspiring global business leaders and economists. The curriculum combines rigorous academic study with practical, hands-on experiences, including field trips and unique learning opportunities designed to enhance your understanding of European business and economic dynamics.

Scholarships

for Netherlands

Browse all scholarships →

full funding

Dutch 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.

Nuffic (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.

University 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.

Maastricht 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.

Maastricht 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.

Delft 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).

Frequently asked questions

What is Maastricht University known for?

Maastricht University (UM) is globally recognized for its innovative Problem-Based Learning (PBL) methodology, which emphasizes critical thinking and collaboration. It is also one of Europe's most international universities, with a diverse student body from over 110 countries.

What are the tuition fees for international students at Maastricht University?

Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students range from approximately €9,800 to €18,000 per year, depending on the faculty and programme level. Some selective master's programmes may have premium fees. EU/EEA students pay a statutory fee of around €2,530 per year.

What are the living costs like in Maastricht?

Estimated monthly living costs in Maastricht are between €900 and €1,200, covering rent, food, transport, and personal expenses. This makes it one of the more affordable Dutch cities for students.

Does Maastricht University offer scholarships for international students?

Yes, Maastricht University offers several scholarships for international students, including the UM High Potential Scholarship, the Holland Scholarship, and the Orange Tulip Scholarship, which can cover partial to full tuition fees and provide living stipends.

What are the English language requirements for admission?

For admission to English-taught programmes, international students typically need an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (with a minimum of 6.0 in each band), a TOEFL iBT score of 90, or a Cambridge C1 Advanced score of 180.

Last updated 3 July 2026