About Utrecht University

Founded in 1636 and located in the heart of the Netherlands, Utrecht University is one of Europe's leading research universities. Utrecht University is recognised internationally for our high-quality, innovative approach to research and teaching. About 30,000 students from 110+ countries work and study closely together, and learn to operate in an international environment from the outset. This is essential for scientists and scholars in our increasingly globalised world.

Top-100 university

Studying at Utrecht University means studying at one of the world's best universities. The Shanghai Ranking ranks Utrecht University as 1st in the Netherlands and 52nd in the world. The Times Higher Education Ranking places the university at number 75. The university has also been ranked as 42nd worldwide by the Taiwan Ranking. This ranking also places Utrecht University ahead of all other Dutch universities.

About reputation

The Nobel Prize is the most prestigious prize in science. The prize was first granted in 1901. Since that time, it has been awarded to 12 Utrecht University scholars.: G. ‘t Hooft, M.J.G. Veltman, P.J. Crutzen, N. Bloembergen, T.C. Koopmans, L.S. Ruzicka, P. Debye, C. Eijkman, R.Magnus, W. Einthoven, W.C. Röntgen en J.H. van ‘t Hoff.

Our education

At UU, students have the opportunity to learn, grow, and flourish in a top quality, world-class academic environment where teaching is closely linked to the latest research. Education is based on a strong interdisciplinary approach and courses are taught in small groups to foster exchange of ideas between students and lecturers.

Our academic staff have high expectations of their students, but also provide ample opportunities for students to develop their own views and talents. As a student at UU;

  • you are part of our academic community and your input forms a vital contribution
  • you will learn to think critically, state your own views, and participate in discussions

International environment

Over 100 of our Master’s Programmes and twelve of our Bachelor’s Programmes are taught in English. Every year, 2000+ international degree students and approximately 1200 Exchange students start their studies at UU. The university also invites top lecturers from abroad to teach in various courses. As a student at Utrecht University, you will enjoy an inspiring and international environment both inside and outside the classroom.

Utrecht University has signed the Dutch Code of Conduct (pdf) with respect to international students, which guarantees a proper recruitment, selection and coaching of international students.

Student facilities

At Utrecht University, you’ll have access to a wide range of facilities, social activities, career services and student couselling. University buildings all have modern facilities, with numerous computer and reading rooms for students’ use, and we offer excellent ICT facilities and two modern libraries. A number of university buildings also have spaces for rest and contemplation.

Student experiences

Follow this link to read the student experiences of Lauren (United States), Jacomien (South Africa),  Steven (Australia), Natalya and Viktoriya (Ukraine). 

It really has been so amazing, meeting so many people from all over the world.

Lauren Popko (USA)