Degree from a non-Dutch university
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.
Please note: 60 credits equals one year full-time study load (European Credit Transfer System, ECTS).
Competencies
This is a selective Master's. You will be considered for admission to the research Master’s programme in Comparative Literary Studies if you have a Bachelor’s degree from a Dutch university (or foreign equivalent) and can demonstrate the following knowledge, insight, and skills:
- Familiarity with the academic study of culture, shown by the fact that you have taken 45 EC of relevant courses in your Bachelor, including at least 30 EC relating to literature.
- Knowledge of the methods and theories applied in the study of culture in general, and literature in particular (as acquired in specific courses taken in your Bachelor).
- An excellent level of academic achievement (as shown in your grades).
- Intellectual curiosity and highly developed analytical skills (as demonstrated in your letter of motivation and writing sample).
- Strong motivation to pursue further training in literary research from a comparative perspective (as demonstrated in your letter of motivation).
- The ability to use English as a working language and an international orientation (as shown in your letter of motivation and CV).
Selection procedure
The Admissions Committee will decide on your application. Based on the documents you submit, the committee will assess whether you have the competencies required to successfully complete the Master’s programme within the nominal duration. In addition, an interview may be part of the selection procedure.
The programme admits a maximum of 20 students each year. If the number of applications exceeds the number of available places, the Admissions Committee will select those candidates who best combine academic achievement and capacity for research. In their overall selection, the committee will also strive for a balance between international and Dutch students.
Previous education
Any Bachelor’s in the humanities or liberal arts will make you eligible to apply for admission as long as it includes a strong component in the study of culture (45 EC), including at least 30 EC in the field of literature. Students with a Bachelor’s in Comparative Literature, a modern language, or Cultural Studies are particularly suited.
If you are currently enrolled in a different Bachelor’s programme and thinking about applying for this Master’s programme, please contact the Programme Coordinator for more information. By planning your studies carefully and taking the appropriate courses, you may be admissible.
English language requirements
Utrecht University uses the EMI (English Medium of Instruction) system to asses applicants’ English language skills, which distinguishes three proficiency levels: EMI-ready, EMI-experienced and EMI-advanced.
The required English level for admission to this Master’s programme is EMI-advanced.
Visit our EMI-advanced page for Master’s degree programmes to find the accepted tests and required scores. Here, you can also see which diplomas qualify for an exemption from this requirement.
Not sure if you are eligible?
You can contact the Programme Coordinator with questions about your eligibility.
| Applications open | 1 October |
|---|---|
| Application deadline for scholarship candidates | 1 February |
| Application deadline for Non-EU passport holders | 1 April |
| Application deadline for EU passport holders | 1 April |
All deadlines expire at 23:59 [CET/CEST] 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:
A scan of your diploma (if necessary with official translations) or Proof of anticipated degree
A scan of your transcript (if necessary with official translations)
A scan of your official English language test report or certificate
Passport copy
Contact details of two referees Please ensure your referees fill in the required form prior to the application deadline.
Preliminary idea for a research project (max 200 words).
Formulate a concise research question relevant to the field of study and indicate the research methods you would use to answer itWriting sample: Research paper, essay or BA thesis on a subject relevant to the field of study, written in English
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, check the status of your application, enter contact details of your referee(s) and pay your application fee.
After you upload all documents in OSIRIS, International Student Admissions will verify them and send them to the Graduate School for evaluation. We strive to inform you of our decision within 30 working days after the application deadline.
Your admission letter will describe the next steps towards enrollment, and you will be asked to accept your offer. In most cases admission is conditional, which means you have to fulfill additional requirements such as sending certified digital copies or completing additional courses. These conditions, as well as the deadline, are clearly stated in your offer letter.
After accepting your offer, our Visa Office will guide you through the visa and/or residence permit process (if applicable).
When preparing your arrival prioritize the search for housing. Finding accommodation in Utrecht can be difficult and is often underestimated. Please note that if you have not found housing before the start of the academic year, we advise you to reconsider your enrolment.