Number of new students remains virtually unchanged

The number of new students at Utrecht University (UU) remains virtually unchanged this year (-0.1%), according to the preliminary enrolment numbers*.

The total intake of undergraduate students at UU decreases by -1%, especially the inflow of international undergraduate students (-14%). The inflow of master's students increases slightly by +2%, but the inflow of international master's students decreases (-6%). On average, this leads to an overall decrease in the preliminary intake of new students at UU of -0.1%.

Indispensable enrichment

Utrecht University greatly values the international composition of the student population, especially as enrollment declines. “In our educational setting, international students provide an indispensable enrichment”, says rector magnificus Henk Kummeling. “Additionally, the international classroom is a good preparation for the further careers after graduation. We cherish the international character of Utrecht University.”

In addition to enriching education, international students are important because, for example, they can help address structural workforce shortages if they stay in the Netherlands after their studies, and because they contribute to the economy.

Making work of bottlenecks

At the same time, it is clear that the growth of the growth of (international) student intake leads to bottlenecks, for example the shortage of student housing. “In order to retain the added value of internationalization, it is important to make work of the bottlenecks and to find a good balance in The Netherlands,” says Anton Pijpers, President of the Executive Board. 

In the coming years, Utrecht University expects a slight decrease in the total number of enrolled students.

*The numbers in this news item are preliminary numbers: until 1 December, mutations can still be made. The definitive numbers will become available in the first quarter of 2025 via UNL.