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.
This is a selective Master's programme. You will be considered for admission to the Master's programme Theoretical Physics if you hold a University bachelor degree 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 of classical mechanics, quantum mechanics, electrodynamics and thermal physics, as well as of the mathematics required for the study of such topics at an advanced level. Students typically qualify for admission if they have successfully completed advanced courses in quantum mechanics, statistical physics, and electrodynamics (typically the second courses on these topics in a physics curriculum), and preferably also a course on solid-sate or condensed-matter physics.
- The ability to work independently as well as in groups on solving physical problems and presenting the results, and the ability to read (English) physics literature at the level of graduate textbooks;
- The ability of writing a research report in English, such as a bachelor thesis, is strongly advised.
Bachelor programmes that most likely meet the requirements are:
- A BSc degree in 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
English language requirements
- IELTS, Academic Module. Minimum score: 6.5 overall band, at least 6 for writing, speaking, listening and reading.
- TOEFL, iBT. Minimum score 93 with at least a score of 24 reading, 22 listening, 20 speaking, 20 writing (internet-based test), institutional scores are not accepted.
- Cambridge Certificate (not available to students from China):
- Cambridge English C1 Advanced (CAE). Minimum score: 176 total, 169 writing
- Cambridge English C2 Proficiency (CPE). Minimum score: 180 total, 169 writing
You are exempt from the English language requirement if:
- You obtained your previous degree from a Dutch Research University
or - You obtained your secondary school diploma or Bachelor's degree in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, UK, USA or South Africa
or - You obtained an English-taught International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma or European Baccalaureate (EB) Diploma.
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.
Please contact the programme director or coordinator if you have questions regarding your eligibility for this programme.
Questions about the application procedure?
Please check our FAQ or contact the International Student Admissions.
There is a Pre-Master's programme available for this Master's.
Programme starts in September
| Applications open | 1 October |
|---|---|
| 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 |
|---|---|
| Application deadline for Non-EU passport holders | 1 September |
| Application deadline for EU passport holders | 15 October |
Your application is complete when you have (1) fully submitted your OSIRIS application, (2) uploaded all required documents and (3) paid the application fee (if applicable). After the deadline has passed, incomplete applications will be cancelled.
De volgende documenten moeten vóór de deadline worden geüpload:
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
Visit Studielink and complete the online enrolment application.
Afterward, you will receive login details for OSIRIS online application, where you can upload the required documents. You can find all information on how to use Studielink here.
After 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 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 20 working days.
If you are admitted, your admission letter will describe the next steps towards enrollment. In most cases your admission is conditional, which means you will have to submit certified digital documents.