You’ll need a BA or BSc degree (or equivalent) to be admitted to any of Leiden University’s master’s programmes.

English-language proficiency
For admission to most master’s programmes you must be proficient in English. The types of English test accepted are listed below. For detailed information, including exemption criteria and methods of submission, refer to English language proficiency. 

English tests accepted
Note that English test results may not be more than two years old and must be obtained in one single test. The following types of English test are accepted*: 

• IELTS: Academic modules only, on paper or on computer.
  • We do not accept new IELTS Academic Online.
  • We do not accept IELTS General Training, IELTS Indicator, or IELTS One Skill Retake
• TOEFL: internet based
  • We do not accept the following types of test: TOEFL My Best ™ scores (multiple test scores combined), TOEFL Essentials™  or institutional tests such as ITP.
  • We do not accept The TOEFL IBT Home Edition™, except in the following situation only:
    you are unable to take an in-person test on location because test centres are inaccessible or closed due to unsafe conditions in a country.
• Cambridge English Exam C2 Proficiency or C1 Advanced, depending on admission criteria

*New TOEFL grading scale 2026
In January 2026, TOEFL introduced a new grading scale. Test certificates issued in 2026 and 2027 will show overall scores in both the old grading scale (0-120) and the new grading scale (1-6). Component or band scores will only be shown in the new grading scale.
Leiden University’s 2026-2027 overall score requirements will continue to be based on the old grading scale. If you took your test on or after 21 January 2026, you must meet the overall score requirement shown on our website in the old grading scale (0-120), and the component score requirements shown on our website in the new grading scale (1-6).

Proficiency in other languages
For some master’s programmes you must also be proficient in other languages. You can find the exact language requirements for your chosen master’s programme in the programme description.

The specific academic and professional entry requirements for each master’s programme are listed under each programme description.