Bachelor European Law School - numerus fixus
General
What is a numerus fixus?
A numerus fixus is a restriction on the number of places available in popular bachelor programmes. If the number of applicants for a fixus programme exceeds the number of available spots, a lottery or selection process determines who is allocated a place.
Why is there a numerus fixus for the European Law School?
Due to its distinctive curriculum and educational approach, the European Law School has experienced rapid growth in popularity in recent years. A fixus has been implemented to ensure we can cater to our students and maintain the same high quality of education we have consistently provided. We offer 700 places in total, supplemented by a number of reserve spots.
What is an unweighted lottery system?
The unweighted lottery system is used to determine who will be granted a spot in the programme. Unlike common selection methods that rank applicants based on abilities and performance, the unweighted lottery relies on random selection. This ensures that all applicants have an equal chance of being admitted, regardless of their background, academic performance, or other criteria.
More information on how the unweighted lottery works is always provided during our information events. If you’re curious to learn more, check out what we have planned for the coming period.
What are the key dates I need to remember?
Please visit this page to consult the important dates and updated deadlines.
Application
When do I need to apply?
The deadline for completing the entire application process for both EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA applicants is January 15th, 2026, 23:59 CET.
What should I do if I miss the January 15th application deadline?
Unfortunately, late applications are not accepted. If you do not complete your application on time you will have to apply the following year.
Is there a difference in the application process for Dutch and non-Dutch students?
No. Unweighted lottery is based on 100% equal opportunity for all applicants and no differentiation is made between Dutch and non-Dutch students.
Lottery
When will the ranking numbers be announced?
Applicants will receive their personal ranking number on April 15th, 2026. The list of rankings is established in a random order. If you have obtained a spot within the European Law School bachelor, you must redeem your proof of placement in Studielink within two weeks of receiving your ranking. Each student has two weeks to respond; if they do not accept within this period, their spot is passed on to the next person in line. This means that not being drawn in the initial ranking does not necessarily mean you will not be offered a spot later on. If you are offered a place in the European Law School bachelor, you must redeem your proof of placement in Studielink within two weeks of receiving your ranking.
What are my chances of getting accepted?
While we cannot provide guarantees regarding individual outcomes, it is worth noting that during the 2025 placement period, all applicants were ultimately offered a place (over the entire placement period). Students receive regular updates on how the ranking list progresses throughout the process.
If you have any questions about the numerus fixus please contact bachelors-law@maastrichtuniversity.nl
If you have questions specifically about admission and registration please contact study@maastrichtuniversity.nl