Welcome to Leiden University

Welcome from the Rector Magnificus of Leiden University

Dear prospective student,

It’s wonderful to see that you’re considering studying at Leiden University. Choosing where to study is an important decision, and I’m delighted you’re exploring what our university has to offer.

At Leiden University, you’ll be joining a community that combines 450 years of academic tradition with a strong commitment to addressing the challenges of today and tomorrow. Our students and staff are driven by curiosity and a shared ambition to create a better world.

With a broad range of disciplines and degree programmes, Leiden University offers countless opportunities to shape your academic journey. You can deepen your knowledge in electives and honours programmes, develop your leadership skills or broaden your outlook in one of our many international exchange programmes and interdisciplinary minors.

Each of our cities has its own character and atmosphere. Leiden is a vibrant city, rich in tradition and student life. The Hague, the international city of peace and justice, places you close to government, international organisations and NGOs. Whichever programme you choose, you will be part of an academic community where students and staff from around the world learn from one another.

Collaboration lies at the heart of our university. We believe that the best ideas emerge when different perspectives, backgrounds and disciplines come together. Our community values openness, academic freedom and mutual respect – principles that have guided us for centuries and are reflected in our motto, Praesidium Libertatis, Bastion of Freedom.

As a Leiden University student, you will develop not only strong academic skills, but also the ability to collaborate across disciplines, think critically and make a positive impact on an increasingly interconnected world.

I wish you every success with finding the right programme for you and hope to welcome you soon to Leiden University.

Professor Sarah de Rijcke
Rector Magnificus Leiden University