Why Leiden University?

Curious? Perfect. At Leiden University, you'll have the space to explore, ask questions, and make an impact. Since 1575, we've challenged students to push boundaries and find solutions to today's challenges. Your curiosity opens doors to labs, courtrooms, publishers, and places you've never been before. Ready to shape your future?

Find answers to big questions

The world is full of challenges: climate, health, justice. How do you tackle them? At Leiden University, you'll discover how your studies contribute to solutions. In our video series, students share how current themes resonate with their programmes and what resonates with them personally.
Watch the series and be inspired.

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Why choose Leiden University?

Curiosity as a driving force
At Leiden University, everything revolves around asking questions and discovering. You'll learn to think critically, research, and find solutions to the challenges of today and tomorrow. Curiosity is what drives us and what will take you further.
Tradition and Innovation
We are the oldest university in the Netherlands, established in 1575. But it is precisely this tradition that makes us innovative. From historical discoveries to current themes like sustainability and AI: here you help build knowledge that changes the world.
Contributing to Major Issues
Society faces complex challenges such as climate, health, migration, and security. At Leiden, you learn to contribute to solutions from different perspectives and you contribute yourself through research and debate.
Space to Develop Yourself
Here, you have the freedom to develop your own ideas, explore perspectives, and form your own opinions. We encourage open dialogue and diversity, so you learn to lead instead of follow.
International and Personal
With campuses in Leiden and The Hague, you study in an environment that is both international and intimate. You meet students and lecturers from all over the world, yet remain part of a community where people know each other.
Vibrant Student Life
Leiden is a historic student city with a lively atmosphere and active student associations. The Hague offers a metropolitan vibe and international opportunities. Together, they create a unique blend of tradition, conviviality, and ambition.
Broad Programme Selection
From law to anthropology, from languages to technology: our wide range of programmes gives you ample opportunity to broaden your horizons and combine disciplines. This way, you develop the knowledge and skills that are right for your future.

Lenard Johannsen (student Data Science and Artificial Intelligence): 'Leiden University has been an incredible journey for me, filled with valuable lessons and unforgettable experiences. If you’re considering studying abroad, I wholeheartedly recommend Leiden. It’s a place where you can grow academically, socially, and personally.'
Nikolas Stratopoulos: ‘I was really surprised by how much is possible in Leiden. Be it associations, sports, skills, language learning, part-time jobs or internships, there are so many opportunities here to develop yourself, take on new challenges and discover who you are. Personally, I have an active student life, in both a Dutch and an international student association.’
Wilke Geurds: ‘I’ve always been an avid photographer. I photograph student rooms and take pictures at student galas. Thanks to a partnership between Leiden University and the Royal Academy of Art in The Hague, I’ve taken several photography courses. I think it’s very unique that you get opportunities to develop yourself outside your studies.’
Zeineb Romdhane: 'I would describe myself as an idealist who wants to improve the world. That is why, for example, I am a volunteer at Amnesty International and I founded the MENA Student Association. We organise events about the Middle East and want to offer people from that region a safe place and to take away the feeling that they are disadvantaged by ethnicity, gender or sexual orientation.’
Sanne Heynen: ‘I decided to study Arts, Media and Society because I have a passion for art and culture. I’m active in the organisation of Leiden’s Museum Night. That event is entirely organised by students. I think that’s extraordinary; in every other city, the event is organised by professionals. It just goes to show how much students can do!’