Quick Summary
Based in Utrecht, Netherlands, Utrecht University is a public research university with roots dating back to 1636. Ranked #105 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 39120 students including 15% from outside Netherlands. Known for strengths in Veterinary Science, Geography, Earth Sciences, it maintains an acceptance rate of 20%.
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Institutional Profile
Who they are
Utrecht is consistently ranked as one of the best universities in the Netherlands and Europe, offering a high-quality, research-led education in one of Europe's most beautiful canal-filled cities.
Subject Strengths
Veterinary ScienceGeographyEarth SciencesPharmacyLife SciencesPsychologyEducation
Founded1636
TypePublic Research University
Total Students39120
Intl Students15%
Faculty Ratio15.4
CampusUrban / Utrecht Science Park
Campus SizeLarge
Affiliated HospitalsUniversity Medical Center Utrecht (UMCU)
AccreditationNVAO (Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders)
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Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#105
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#105
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#52
Academic Ranking
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Academics & Research
What you can study
Bachelor's, Master's, PhD, Executive Education
Programs
Available
PhD Programs
Limited (Summer Schools and MOOCs)
Online Programs
Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, Helmholtz Institute, Hubrecht Institute
Research Centers
Very High
Research Output
NVAO (Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders)
Accreditation
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Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate20%
IELTS6.5
TOEFL92
Min GPA3
GRENot Available
GMATNot Available
SATNot Available
ACTNot Available
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · April 1 (Non-EU), June 1 (EU)
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Focus on high academic grades in relevant subjects and ensure your motivation letter aligns with the specific Dutch teaching style (PBL). Early application is vital for housing.
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Cost Ledger
Amounts in Euro
UG Tuition
€11,500/yr
per year · EUR
Living Cost
€13,800/yr
per year · EUR
PG Tuition
€19,000/yr
per year · EUR
Application Fee
$108
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
€32,900/yr
tuition + living + essentials · EUR
Scholarships AvailableUtrecht Excellence Scholarship, Holland Scholarship, Orange Tulip Scholarship
Avg Scholarship$12,000
Financial AidDUO (for eligible EU students)
Work-StudyAvailable
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Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Bachelor's, Master's, PhD, Executive Education programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Sustainability and Geosciences | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Life Sciences | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Humanities | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Veterinary Medicine | MBA | 12-24 MO |
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Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$48,000
Average Salary After Graduation
91%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementStrong, via Career Services and industry networks
Industry Connections
Strong links with BioTechSustainabilityand Public Policy sectors
Notable Alumni
René Descartes, Nicolaas Bloembergen, Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, Peter Debye
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Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
Yes (limited, through SSH)
Sports Facilities
Olympos Sports Centre
Student Clubs
Over 150 student associations and clubs
Library Resources
Utrecht University Library (City Centre and Science Park)
Exchange Programs
Erasmus+, LERU, Worldwide Exchange Partners
Summer Programs
Utrecht Summer School (Largest in Europe)