Degree from a Dutch university of applied sciences (HBO)
This page outlines the step-by-step process for completing your application to a Master's programme at Utrecht University. Please read this information thoroughly before starting your application.
This is a selective Master's programme. You will be considered for admission to the Master's programme Climate Physics if you hold a bachelor degree of a Dutch University of Applied sciences and can demonstrate a high level of knowledge and command of methods & skills in the relevant field.
Additionally we consider:
- Motivation and talent (also on the basis of average grade and past studies progress);
- General high level of professional and intellectual ability;
- Command of the English language (see below).
Specifically, you should possess:
- Solid basic knowledge in classical mechanics, especially (geophysical) fluid dynamics, and, more importantly, knowledge in the mathematics required for the study of such topics at an advanced level. These essential mathematical knowledge includes calculus, linear algebra, vector calculus and (partial) differential equations.
- Basic knowledge of programming, ideally in Python.
- The ability to work independently as well as in groups on solving physical problems, present the results of solving problems and to read (English) physics literature at the level of graduate textbooks.
- Intermediate problem-solving skills in the main fields of physics and/or their applications.
Bachelor programmes that most likely meet the requirements are:
- A BSc degree in Physics,
- A BSc degree in Physics and Astronomy,
- A BSc degree with a major in Physics,
- A major in Science with a strong component in physics.
Applicants with a BSc and background in related fields like chemistry, earth sciences, geophysics, mathematics can be admitted if their background level in physics and mathematics is sufficient.
In all cases completion of an advanced course on geophysical fluid dynamics e.g. is beneficial for your eligibility and study progress during the master if admitted.
English language requirements
You are exempt from the English language requirement because you obtained your previous degree from a Dutch University of Applied Sciences.
Selection procedure
The Admissions Committee reviews all requests for admission and selects students that meet the entry requirements. The Admissions Committee also assesses whether you will be able to successfully complete the Master’s programme within the set time frame. This means the decision on your application is based on a thorough analysis.
You will receive a written notification of the decision of the Admissions Committee. You will be notified if you still have to fulfill certain conditions. In some cases you may be obliged to first complete a Pre-Master’s programme.
Please contact the Programme Coordinator with questions regarding eligibility for this Master’s programme.
There is no set Pre-Master’s programme at Utrecht University; however, your Master’s programme will allow you to use up to 15 EC (2 courses) to learn the necessary skills within the Master’s Programme. Regularly, this deficiency course is an introduction to Geophysical Fluid Dynamics.
A pre-Master's programme of 30 ECTS is usually necessary to gain the required proficiency in mathematics.
The Admissions Committee will determine whether to offer you admittance to the programme and whether a Pre-Master is required.
This Master's programme admits students based on the following requirements:
- motivation, talent and learning ability;
- level of knowledge and general and research skills in the relevant field.
- general academic level of thinking and working;
- command of the language or languages of instruction.
We will also assess whether you are capable of completing the Master's programme within the set period. If deficiencies are found with regard to the required knowledge and skills, which can be remedied with a course load of max 30 ECTS, you first must successfully finish a premaster programme before you can start this Master’s programme. The Admissions Committee will determine which courses are required in your specific case. Read more about the fees for a pre-master programme.
Please note: a Pre-Master's Programme is only available for:
- Dutch students
- Non-Dutch students with a Dutch educational background who do not need housing, and who do not have or require a residence permit for study purposes
- Refugee students with a Dutch residence permit or a W-document who do not need housing
When in doubt about your residence permit, you can send an email to Utrecht University's International Student Admissions (ISA), including a copy of both sides of the permit. Please state clearly that you are inquiring about a Pre-Master’s programme.
Programme starts in September
Applications open | 1 October |
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Application deadline for scholarship recipients | 1 February |
Application deadline for Non-EU passport holders | 1 April |
Application deadline for EU passport holders | 1 June |
Programme starts in February
Applications open | 1 July |
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Application deadline for Non-EU passport holders | 1 September |
Application deadline for EU passport holders | 15 October |
All deadlines expire at 23:59 [Central European Time] on the specified date. You must complete the application process (including submitting your application documents in OSIRIS Online Application and paying the application fee) by this time.
The following documents must be uploaded before the application deadline:
Diploma or certified graduation statement (with graduation date and without any conditions)
Certified transcript (including courses, grades and GPA)
Please make sure the document has a stamp/signature and contact information of the institute.
Visit Studielink and complete the registration process. You can find all information on how to use Studielink here. After completing your Studielink application, you will receive login details for OSIRIS online application within 2 working days.
Apply via StudielinkAfter submitting your application to Studielink, you will receive an email with login details for OSIRIS Online Application. Here you can upload all required documents and check the status of your application.
After you upload all documents in OSIRIS, the Graduate School will evaluate them. We strive to inform you of our decision within 20 working days.