Master's students
Studying is already a lot of work, so on this page you'll find the most sought-after information for master's students. Do you feel something important is missing? Let us know via the feedback button, and we'll improve it for the next student.
Essential Matters
Is your student life at Leiden University about to begin? Here you'll find all the information you need to start your studies off right, such as what you need to arrange before your studies begin, information about the start of the academic year, and the most important facilities.
When writing your thesis, you draw on the insights you’ve gained during your courses and studies so far. You may also conduct a literature review or carry out your own research to write about. Before starting your thesis, you’ll take an introductory course as preparation. Theses must comply with faculty regulations, and there are rules on plagiarism and academic integrity.
The more you write and practice, the better your papers will become. Not only factual information but also logical argumentation and clear structure are important.
Do you need help with your thesis? You can make a free appointment with a trained peer tutor at the Writing Lab. Additionally, the Writing Lab organizes free workshops and thesis events every semester to improve your writing skills and help you successfully complete your thesis.
Almost finished with your studies and thinking about graduation? Make sure to submit the graduation form no later than the last working day of the month before your planned graduation. The formal diploma date will be the last working day of the month in which all components are completed. For students who achieve their final result after June, there is an option to have the diploma date set as the last working day of August. The form must be submitted by June 1 at the latest.
To view your schedule, you can use MyTimetable, where you can create your personal timetable. If you are enrolled in any courses through uSis, they will also be shown there.
Curious about your days off and holidays? Check the faculty calendar to plan your well-deserved breaks.
At the university, you can use various libraries and study spaces spread across the city. Printing facilities are available in almost all libraries and buildings. For individual study, quiet spaces are ideal, while group workspaces and collaboration areas are perfect for projects and joint study. Discover your ideal study spot and make the most of the available facilities!
All regular students must register for courses (lectures and seminars) and exams they wish to take via MyStudymap in the student portal. Only for the master’s thesis do Humanities students not need to register.
Your enrollment as a student automatically ends at the end of the academic year. If you want to withdraw earlier, you must deregister yourself via Studielink.
You may want to stop your studies temporarily or permanently for various reasons, such as not wanting to complete your program, avoiding a negative binding study advice (BSA), or being unable to continue studying due to personal circumstances. Be sure to discuss your situation with your study adviser first.
Solutions
If you encounter challenges during your studies or have personal circumstances affecting your well-being or academic progress, contact your study adviser.
The university also has student psychologists who can help with both study-related and personal issues. During the first appointment, you will discuss the best next steps together.
Student psychologists do not diagnose or treat serious psychological/psychiatric issues. If you need specialized or long-term help, contact your general practitioner for a referral.
Everything about student well-being
Studying with a disability can require extra time and effort. A significant number of students have some form of physical or mental limitation. We are happy to assist you with support that suits your needs, such as extra time or enlarged font during exams.
It's helpful to arrange this support quickly. You can do this through an intake at Fenestra. They handle the intake for students with a disability or chronic illness and provide advice on all matters related to your limitation. They issue a statement that grants you access to additional facilities or support.
Sometimes circumstances can cause you to fall behind in your studies. This happens to more students than you might think. It is important to seek help immediately to minimize the impact. In exceptional circumstances, you may qualify for additional support or funding. Your study adviser can assist you with this.
No matter what your problem is, we're here to help. The university has various support offices:
| Type of Problem | Office |
|---|---|
| Academic issues | Study adviser |
| Mental health issues | Student psychologist |
| Disability-related issues | Fenestra |
| Unwanted behavior | Confidential councillor |
| Unfair treatment | Ombuds officer |
Additional activities
Being a board member of a student (sports) association or organization is a great way to gain work experience while having an unforgettable time with your fellow students. As a board member, you’ll receive a certificate from the university and may also qualify for financial support.
Participation bodies represent the interests of students and staff by critically monitoring university policies and their implementation. They play an advisory and co-decision-making role. Each faculty has its own council, and there is a central university council. There are annual elections in May for the student representatives, in which every student can participate. You can also join your program's educational committee.