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. We ideally seek candidates who have analytical and empirical research skills, particularly in the social sciences. You will be considered for admission to the Master’s programme in Conflict Studies and Human Rights if you can demonstrate the following knowledge, insight, and skills:
- A relevant Bachelor’s degree in the humanities, law, and/or one of the social sciences.
- Knowledge of Conflict Studies and Human Rights, to be demonstrated by at least 30 EC in coursework. In your motivation letter, explain to us in a detailed and compelling way why you believe that the coursework you have completed is relevant for your application into our programme.
- The ability to present a feasible and relevant preliminary research idea for your Master’s thesis.
- Excellent scholarly abilities, demonstrated by an academic track record of high grades.
- Demonstrable practical or professional experience with work or research in conflict zones is an advantage to a prospective applicant.
- A good knowledge of English is required.
In addition, all applicants must submit an example of their critical, analytical, and structured essay-writing skills in the form of an essay, thesis, or published article, written in English.
Along with your application, submit two letters of recommendation from persons who know your academic or professional work well (e.g. former university tutor, former employer, public officials who know you personally, etc.), and who can explain what qualities they believe you possess that make you an ideal candidate for this international Master’s programme.
Selection procedure
The Admissions Committee will decide on your application. Based on documents submitted by you, the committee will assess whether you will be able to successfully complete the Master’s programme within the nominal duration. The committee also takes into account:
- Motivation and talent.
- Level of required knowledge and the mastery of methods and techniques used in the subject area.
- General high level of professional and intellectual ability.
- Command of the language(s) used in the programme.
The programme admits a maximum of 60 students each year. If the number of applications exceeds the number of available places, the Admissions Committee will select the most eligible candidates. Ranking takes place on the basis of the above criteria. The committee aims for an internationally diverse cohort.
English language requirements
Utrecht University uses the EMI (English Medium of Instruction) system to assess 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-experienced.
Please visit our EMI-experienced page for Master's degree programmes to find the accepted tests, required scores and exemptions for EMI-experienced programmes.
Not sure if you are eligible?
Please 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 it.Relevant courses, at an equivalent of 30 EC
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.