Leiden University is the oldest higher education institution in the Netherlands and consistently ranks among the top universities in the country. So, what is Leiden University’s QS World Ranking? For students considering applying, understanding its QS ranking, tuition fees, and application process provides essential guidance for study abroad planning. GROVE Education has compiled key information on Leiden University’s ranking, tuition, and application highlights to help you quickly grasp the essentials.
Background of Leiden University
Leiden University, established in 1575 and located in the cities of Leiden and The Hague, is the oldest research university in the Netherlands and one of Europe’s most historic and prestigious institutions.
Over the centuries, Leiden University has consistently ranked among the world’s leading universities. Its 400-year history has established a reputation for excellent teaching and world-class research, attracting numerous Nobel laureates and leading scholars, including Albert Einstein. The university has also educated members of the Dutch royal family and national leaders, such as the current King Willem-Alexander and former Prime Minister Mark Rutte.[1] Its teaching and research focus on five core areas: Global Humanities, Learning Societies, Science, Technology and Society, Health and Life Sciences, and Peace, Justice, Democracy and Governance, combining historical humanistic scholarship with a modern international learning environment.
Leiden University maintains close collaborations with top global institutions and research centres and offers a highly international campus, with students from over 120 countries.[2] As one of the Netherlands’ leading international universities, it places great emphasis on academic freedom, freedom of thought, and freedom of expression, encouraging students to explore new perspectives and address global challenges.
Source: Leiden University
Leiden University QS World Ranking
According to the 2026 QS World University Rankings, Leiden University is ranked 119th globally,[3] highlighting its strong standing in international higher education. Over the past few years, its QS ranking has fluctuated slightly but has consistently remained within the top 150, such as 141st in 2025,[4] 126th in 2024,[5] and 131st in 2023.[6] These historical rankings demonstrate Leiden University’s ongoing efforts to enhance its academic influence and international reputation, reflecting steady development momentum.
In addition to its overall ranking, Leiden University has several subject areas ranked within the top 25 globally, including:
- Archaeology: #4
- Classics and Ancient History: #6
- History: #18
- Politics and International Studies: #17 [7]
- Pharmacology and Pharmacy: #22
- Law: #25
These subject-specific rankings reflect Leiden University’s strong capabilities, particularly in the humanities, social sciences, and law, underscoring its deep academic foundation and interdisciplinary research strengths.
Leiden University Programmes
Leiden University comprises seven faculties: Archaeology, Humanities, Medicine / Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Law, Social and Behavioural Sciences, Governance and Global Affairs, and Science,[8] offering almost 50 bachelor degree programmes across multiple disciplines.[9]
As a renowned research university with strong QS rankings, Leiden University emphasises both theory and practice, as well as intellectual, ideological, and academic freedom. Faculty and students engage not only in academic exploration but also in addressing global social challenges. With access to extensive resources and professional networks, students can collaborate with experts in their fields or pursue independent research projects, cultivating critical thinking, independent research, and problem-solving skills.
The university actively promotes interdisciplinary and internationalised education, providing students with abundant academic resources and global collaboration platforms to broaden their perspectives and develop cross-cultural competitiveness—key reasons many choose to apply to Leiden University. Additionally, the university offers honours programmes, dual bachelor degrees, electives in the arts, and a wide range of overseas exchange and internship opportunities, encouraging students to expand their expertise and international experience. Comprehensive academic advising and personalised guidance are also provided to ensure full support for both academic and personal development.
Leiden University Tuition Fees
For students from European Economic Area (EEA) countries, Suriname, or Switzerland, Leiden University applies statutory tuition fees. For the 2025/26 academic year, the fee is €2,601 per year. Students attending Leiden University College The Hague are required to pay an additional €2,892.[10]
International students who do not hold EEA, Surinamese, or Swiss nationality, and who do not have a Dutch residence permit with DUO student financing, must pay tuition fees according to their faculty and programme. Tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year are as follows:
| Faculty | Annual Tuition Fee (2025/26) |
|---|---|
| Archaeology | €13,800 |
| Humanities | €13,800 |
| Governance and Global Affairs | €13,800 |
| Leiden University College The Hague + Additional Fee | €13,800＋€2,892 |
| Law | €13,800 |
| Social and Behavioural Sciences | €13,800 |
| Science | €18,100 |
| Medicine / LUMC – Biomedical Sciences | €18,100 |
| Medicine / LUMC – Medicine | €29,300 [10] |
Source: Leiden University
Leiden University Entry Requirements
The minimum requirement for applying to Leiden University is at least equivalent to the Dutch pre-university diploma (VWO) or an equivalent qualification. The university also specifies recognised international diplomas from various countries with minimum requirements.
Science and medicine-related programmes have higher entry requirements and specific subject prerequisites. For example, Computer Science requires strong mathematics results, while Medicine requires excellent grades in Biology, Physics, and Chemistry. Applicants are advised to consult Leiden University’s official information for detailed programme-specific requirements.[11]
| Diploma | Required Grades |
|---|---|
| US High School Diploma | GPA 3.5, with at least 3 AP subjects at level 4, or 4 AP subjects at level 3 |
| SAT／ACT | SAT above 1,300 or ACT above 28 |
| IB Diploma | No specific score threshold listed; a total score of 36 or higher is recommended; individual IB subjects not accepted |
| GCE A-Level | 3 subjects graded A to C; vocational subjects not accepted |
| HKDSE | At least 2 subjects at level 4, 1 subject at level 5, remaining subjects at least level 4; core subjects must include Chinese, English, and Mathematics; pass in Citizenship and Social Development required[12] |
Language Requirements
Students who have studied in an English-taught country or hold an English qualification equivalent to IB English A HL (Higher Level) may be exempt from providing additional English proficiency evidence. Otherwise, Leiden University requires proof of English language ability, with minimum scores of IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80. Competitive programmes may require higher scores, such as IELTS 6.5–7.0.[13] Applicants should check the English entry requirements for their chosen programme to ensure they meet the criteria. Minimum English proficiency requirements are as follows:
| Test | Required Score |
|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | Overall 6.0, no component below 6.0 |
| TOEFL iBT | Minimum 80, with no component below 20 |
| Cambridge C1 Advanced / C2 Proficiency | 169 [13] |
Applicants intending to enrol in Dutch-taught programmes must demonstrate proficiency in both Dutch and English, usually by passing a recognised Dutch language test such as the TUL exam.
Leiden University Application Process
The application process is primarily divided into two steps. Applicants must first register and submit their application through the Dutch higher education system, Studielink, and then submit the complete application documents via Leiden University’s uSis system.[15] As application deadlines vary by programme, students are advised to prepare well in advance to avoid missing the deadlines. The steps and required documents are as follows:
- Submit Application via Studielink: The Studielink platform opens on 1 October each year. Applicants must upload identification documents and select their desired programme.
- Submit Documents via uSis: Applicants must upload required documents, including copies of diplomas and transcripts (in English or Dutch), language proficiency proof, a 500-word motivation letter, and answers to application questions.[15]
- Pay Application Fee: A fee of €100 is required to apply.
- Wait for and Confirm Admission Outcome: The university usually reviews applications within 4–6 weeks. Accepted students must confirm or decline their offer through uSis in a timely manner.
For programmes with a Compulsory Matching Module, applicants must also complete an online matching process. This process helps determine whether the chosen programme aligns with the applicant’s expectations and abilities. Students watch a series of course introduction videos and answer questions related to academic skills and motivation. If the matching score is low, applicants are advised to reconsider other suitable programmes.[16]
Due to differences in programme type, visa status, and other special requirements, Leiden University has multiple application deadlines. Applicants must check deadlines based on their chosen programme and personal situation:
| Programme Type | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Numerus Fixus Programmes | 15 January |
| Leiden University College The Hague | 15 March |
| Students requiring a new or renewed student visa/residence permit | 1 April |
| Programmes with Compulsory Matching Module | 1 May [16] |
Source: Leiden University
Study in the Netherlands – Contact Grove Education for Advice
With its consistent QS World Ranking and extensive academic resources, Leiden University offers students a high-quality academic environment and a wide range of learning opportunities. Whether you are interested in its entry requirements or tuition fees, understanding this information will help you navigate the application process more effectively and improve your chances of success.
If you are planning to apply to Leiden University, we invite you to contact Grove Education. Our team provides professional guidance and personalised support to help you gain admission to your ideal university.
Reference：
1. Wikipedia - List of Leiden University people
2. Leiden University - Facts and figures
3. QS Top Universities - QS World University Rankings 2026: Top global universities
4. QS Top Universities - QS World University Rankings 2025: Top global universities
5. QS Top Universities - QS World University Rankings 2024: Top global universities
6. QS Top Universities - QS World University Rankings 2023: Top global universities
7. Leiden University - Rankings
8. Leiden University - Faculties
9. Leiden University - Education
10. Leiden University - Tuition fee
11. Leiden University - Specific diploma requirements for science and medical programmes 2025-2026
12. Leiden University - General admission: diploma requirements 2025/2026
13. Leiden University - Language requirements - Bachelor’s programmes
14. Leiden University - Application procedure
15. Leiden University - Required documents
16. Leiden University - Matching
17. Leiden University - Application deadlines