QS World Ranking
#118
Acceptance Rate
55%
Annual Tuition (USD)
$12,000
On-Campus Housing
Available
QS Best Student City
#45
Leiden
Application Deadline
April 1
via Direct
Student Body
Total Enrollment
35,000
students
International Students
20%
US % data not publicly reported
Figures are approximate based on institutional reports and QS data.
Why This School
The Netherlands' oldest university (1575) in a beautiful canal city, with Rembrandt as one of its famous alumni.
QS Subject Rankings 2025
Rankings by academic subject — source: QS World University Rankings by Subject
Notes for US Students
Netherlands' oldest university (1575). Many English programs. Leiden is a charming historic city near The Hague.
Admission Criteria
Key requirements for US students applying to Leiden University
Acceptance Rate
55%
Moderately selective
Application System
Direct
Deadline
April 1
Instruction Language
English
School Type
Public
Annual Tuition
$12,000
Requirements Checklist for US Applicants
- Apply via Studielink by February 1
- High school diploma
- IELTS 6.5–7.0 or TOEFL 90–100 depending on program
- Motivation letter and CV for some programs
- No SAT/ACT required
Class Size
Academic Calendar
Requirements may vary by program. Always verify with the university's official admissions page.
Admission Details
- Language of Instruction
- English
- Estimated Annual Tuition
- ~$12,000 / year
- Application Deadline
- April 1
- Application System
- Direct
- School Type
- Public
- Acceptance Rate
- 55%
- QS Best Student City (Leiden)
- #45 globally
Programs Offered
Scholarships to Explore
- ✓Leiden University Excellence Scholarship
- ✓Holland Scholarship
Cost of Living — Leiden, Netherlands
Moderate CostEstimated monthly total
$1,440
vs. avg US college student
24% cheaper
US avg ~$1,900/mo
Leiden is cheaper than Amsterdam. A beautiful, compact historic city 30 min from Amsterdam and 15 min from The Hague.
Estimates based on 2025–26 student budgets. Actual costs vary by lifestyle and housing choice.
About Studying at Leiden University as a US Student
Leiden University is located in Leiden, Netherlands and is ranked #118in the QS World University Rankings. The school offers programs in Law, Arts & Humanities, Sciences, Social Sciences, Medicine. Instruction is offered in English. The estimated annual tuition for international students is ~$12,000 / year, with an acceptance rate of approximately 55%. Applications are submitted through Direct with a deadline of April 1. Scholarships available include the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship.