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 Gender Studies if you have a Bachelor’s diploma from a Dutch university (or international equivalent) and can demonstrate the following knowledge, insight and skills:
- A clear interest in gender studies and/or postcolonial studies, which is shown by having taken at least 45 EC of components in these fields with above-average results and/or by equivalent work/research experience (elaborated in your CV).
- Knowledge of the main types of research issues, methods, and basic concepts within the broad field of Gender Studies in the Humanities and/or Social Sciences, with special focus on the intersecting categories of gender, race, class, sexuality and religion.
- A strong motivation to carry out cutting-edge academic research and the ambition to follow a programme that trains you to become a starting researcher in today’s globalised societies (demonstrated in your motivation letter).
- Good knowledge of English, as demonstrated by your motivation letter, your writing sample and your interview.
Selection procedure
The Admissions Committee reviews your application. Based on the documents you submit, the committee will assess whether you have the skills and knowledge required to successfully complete the Master’s programme within the nominal duration. The committee takes into account the following criteria:
- 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.
In addition, an interview may be part of the selection procedure.
The research MA programme in Gender Studies admits a maximum of 20 students each year. If the number of applications meeting the admission criteria exceeds the number of available places, the Admissions Committee will select those candidates who best combine academic achievement, (inter)disciplinary study background and capacity for graduate-level research. In their overall selection, the committee will also strive for inclusivity and a balance between international and Dutch students.
Previous education
The following Bachelor’s programmes are a good preparation for this Research Master’s programme:
- Any Bachelor’s degree, preferably within the Humanities or Social Sciences.
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 Coordinators 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.
Writing 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.