If you are looking at the Netherlands for your next degree, Leiden University is one of those names that keeps coming up for a reason. It is the first university established in the Netherlands, founded in 1575, and today it runs as one university in two cities: Leiden and The Hague.
In this blog, I will keep it simple and practical: what Leiden is like, the best scholarship (LExS), deadlines, and the exact steps to apply.
Quick intro: why Leiden feels different
Leiden has a strong “classic university” vibe: old buildings, canals, libraries, and a calm student city energy. Then The Hague campus gives you the “international city” side of the Netherlands, especially if you are into governance, diplomacy, policy, law, and global issues. Leiden University has seven faculties, and they are active across both cities.
The scholarship you should know first: LExS (Leiden University Excellence Scholarship)
Leiden’s most famous funding option for international Master’s students is the Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS).
Who is it for?
- Full-time Master’s programmes starting in September
- Mostly aimed at non-EEA / non-EFTA applicants (with a few programme exceptions listed on the official page)
How much funding do you get?
LExS is a tuition fee reduction, and the official award levels include:
- €10,000
- €15,000
- €17,500
- €18,500
- €19,000
This is awarded for the duration of the study programme.
Important reality check (so you plan smart): LExS is not a full scholarship, so you still need a personal budget and, for visa/residence permit, you must show proof of sufficient funds.
Deadline (very important)
The official LExS page shows the deadline as 2 February (for the September intake). They also warn the portal may have limited access close to deadline dates, and recommend submitting earlier.
Leiden application deadlines (admission)
Scholarships usually depend on your admission application, so you should also know the admission deadlines.
Leiden’s general Master’s deadlines include:
- Starting in September
- If you need a visa/residence permit: apply by 1 April
- If you do not need a visa/residence permit: apply by 15 May
- Starting in February
- If you need a visa/residence permit: apply by 15 October
- If you do not need a visa/residence permit: apply by 15 November
Not every programme follows the same date, so always check the deadline shown inside your programme page.
Key deadlines table (easy view)
| What you are applying for | Intake | Official deadline to remember |
|---|---|---|
| LExS scholarship | September | 2 February |
| Master’s admission (visa needed) | September | 1 April |
| Master’s admission (no visa needed) | September | 15 May |
| Master’s admission (visa needed) | February | 15 October |
| Master’s admission (no visa needed) | February | 15 November |
How to apply for LExS (real steps, no confusion)
Leiden keeps the process inside your online application, which is actually nice because you do not need a separate portal.
Step-by-step (based on the official process):
- Apply online for admission to a Leiden Master’s programme.
- After submitting your admission application, go back to your application and open Scholarships.
- If eligible, you will see LExS there.
- Upload your LExS motivation letter (PDF, max 500 words).
- Submit the scholarship application before the deadline.
Tip that saves people every year: Leiden notes that it may take time to create/submit the application, so do not start on the final day.
Documents checklist (prepare before you start)
Most Master’s applications will ask for a combination of:
- Passport
- Academic transcripts + degree certificate
- CV
- Motivation letter (programme)
- References (if required by programme)
- English language proof (if required)
Your scholarship motivation letter is separate and should answer one simple question:
Why you, and why this programme, and why now?
Keep it honest. One strong story beats ten “fancy” lines.
Student life and housing: a quick heads-up
Housing in the Netherlands can be challenging, especially in peak months. Leiden’s official guidance is clear: students usually arrange housing themselves, but the university reserves a limited number of rooms for new international students and it is essential to request housing early if you want a chance.
Simple tips to increase your LExS chances
LExS is competitive, so focus on what you can control:
- Apply early for admission (do not fight the deadline rush).
- Write a motivation letter with:
- One clear goal (career or research direction)
- Evidence you can handle the programme (projects, thesis, publications, internships)
- Why Leiden is the right environment for you (course fit, faculty fit, track fit)
- Keep your CV clean and achievement-focused.
- If your grades are good but not perfect, highlight your proof of impact (research, awards, leadership, strong portfolio).