Faq

Frequently Asked Questions

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All General Admission Process Student Safety Programs and Courses Scholarships and financial aid Location and Accommodation Post Study Work Visa

What is Wageningen University & Research best known for?

Wageningen University & Research is consistently ranked as the number one university in the world for Agriculture & Forestry, and is also a world leader in the fields of Environmental Sciences, Plant and Animal Sciences, and Food Technology. Its core mission is "To explore the potential of nature to improve the quality of life."

What makes the student life in Wageningen unique?

Wageningen offers a very intimate and international student community, where a large proportion of the city's population are students. The social life is heavily centered around numerous student clubs and associations, creating a tight-knit and vibrant atmosphere despite the city's small size.

Is the entire study programme taught in English?

Almost all Bachelor's and Master's programmes at Wageningen University & Research are offered entirely in English. This fosters a truly international classroom environment and prepares students for global careers.

What are the English language requirements for Master's programmes?

For most Master's programmes, the requirement is an IELTS overall score of 6.5 (with a minimum of 6.0 for speaking, writing, reading, and listening) or a TOEFL iBT score of 92. Some programmes may have higher requirements, so it is essential to check the specific programme page.

What is the application deadline for international students?

For international students from outside the EU/EEA, the application deadline for most programmes starting in September is 1 May. For EU/EEA students, the deadline is 1 June. It is always recommended to apply as early as possible.

How do I know if my previous education is sufficient for admission?

The Admissions Office conducts a thorough evaluation of each international diploma to determine its equivalence to the Dutch education system. You can use the Student Service Centre's diploma calculator as a preliminary guide, but the official admission decision is always made by the Admissions Office.

How safe is the city of Wageningen for students?

Wageningen is generally considered a very safe and peaceful city, both day and night. The crime rate is low, and the community is known for being friendly and welcoming. However, as in any place, it is always wise to take standard precautions with personal belongings.

What security measures are in place on campus?

The campus and university buildings are monitored and have security personnel present. The university has a comprehensive set of protocols for emergencies and provides a security app for direct contact with security services. Well-lit pathways and emergency phones also contribute to a secure environment.

What support is available if I feel unsafe or experience harassment?

The university has a confidential advisor for unacceptable behaviour who provides support and guidance to students who experience any form of harassment, bullying, or aggression. Students can also always contact their study advisor or the student psychologists for confidential help.

Can I combine courses from different programmes?

Yes, there is often flexibility to choose elective courses from other related programmes, allowing you to tailor your degree to your specific interests. This must be done in consultation with and approved by your study advisor to ensure it aligns with your programme's learning outcomes.

How much of the study programme is based on group work?

Group projects and collaborative work are a fundamental part of the educational model at WUR, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of solving real-world challenges. You can expect a significant portion of your coursework to involve team-based projects and assignments.

Are internships a mandatory part of the programmes?

For most Master's programmes, completing an internship or thesis research project is a compulsory component. This provides invaluable hands-on experience and is a key step in preparing for a professional career. The university's extensive network provides excellent opportunities for placements.

What is the Holland Scholarship and am I eligible?

The Holland Scholarship is a scholarship financed by the Dutch Ministry of Education for excellent international students from outside the EU/EEA. Eligibility requires applying for a Bachelor's or Master's programme at WUR and meeting specific academic excellence criteria.

Are there any scholarships available for EU students?

Yes, while options are more limited than for non-EU students, there are some possibilities. These include the Erasmus+ Master Loans and certain country-specific scholarships. It is recommended for EU students to also investigate funding options in their home country.

When should I apply for a scholarship?

The application for a scholarship often runs parallel to the application for the study programme itself and typically has an early deadline. For many scholarships, you must first be (provisionally) admitted to a programme before your scholarship application can be processed.

Does the university guarantee housing for international students?

Wageningen University & Research, through its partner housing corporation Idealis, guarantees accommodation for all first-year international Bachelor and Master students from outside the EU/EEA, provided they apply before the specific housing deadline.

What is the average cost of a student room in Wageningen?

The average cost for a single room in a shared apartment varies, but typically ranges from approximately €350 to €600 per month, excluding utilities. Self-contained studios are generally more expensive. The university-managed rooms through Idealis offer a range of options.

How do I travel to other major cities from Wageningen?

Wageningen does not have a direct train station. The main connection is by bus to Ede-Wageningen station, which is a major train hub with direct connections to cities like Utrecht (25 mins) and Amsterdam (60 mins). Many students use a bicycle for local travel combined with public transport for longer distances.

What is the Orientation Year Visa for international graduates?

The Orientation Year Visa (or Zoekjaar in Dutch) is a residence permit that allows non-EU/EEA graduates from Dutch universities to stay in the Netherlands for up to one year after graduation to search for a job or start a business.

What are the conditions for the Orientation Year Visa?

The main conditions are that you have successfully completed a accredited Bachelor's, Master's or PhD programme at a Dutch educational institution, and that you apply within three years of graduation. You must also have valid health insurance and sufficient financial means to support yourself.

Can I work freely during the Orientation Year?

Yes, during the Orientation Year, you are permitted to work without a separate work permit and without any restrictions on the number of hours. This gives you the freedom to take any employment to support yourself while you search for a high-skilled job that qualifies for a subsequent residence permit.