Admission requirements

Maastricht Science Programme (MSP) does not have any fixed additional requirements. However, as MSP offers a broad science programme, you need a profound interest in the sciences. This should be evident from the courses you completed in your prior education. Selection takes place on the basis of your quality and suitability. For this your motivation and prior qualifications are important. Please check below which requirements apply to you for academic year 2021/22.

All diplomas will be assessed by the Office of Diploma Evaluation. You will have to complete a selection procedure.

Open the pdf below for the requirements of academic year 2020/21 (start 1 September 2020 or 1 February 2021):
Requirements bachelor Maastricht Science Programme 2020/2021

Contact the MSP Office of Admissions

Send an email
+31 (0)43 388 1179
+31 (0)43 388 5190

1. VWO diploma or an international equivalent

You are eligible for admission to the MSP if you have a Dutch VWO diploma or an international equivalent thereof. Having a mathematics education including calculus, especially fundamentals of differentiation and integration, is highly recommended (This is equivalent to the Dutch wiskunde B VWO). Below you can find an overview of diplomas which are an international equivalent of the Dutch VWO diploma.

List of diplomas equivalent to the Dutch VWO diploma 2021/22 (Subject to approval by the Executive Board)

Apply now

2. Letter of motivation

All candidates should write a letter of motivation in English of 500-800 words. This is an important part of your application. It is a means to introduce yourself to the Board of Admissions. In the letter you have to explain why you want to study at Maastricht Science Programme and why you think you would be suited for Maastricht Science Programme. Include what subjects you are interested in, and what it is that makes these subjects interesting for you. You could also include plans you have for after graduation.

3. English proficiency

Language requirements for this English-language bachelor programme

As English is the language of instruction in this study programme, it is essential that your English language skills are good enough for you to undertake intensive and challenging academic courses that are taught and examined in English.

Answer the questions below to find out if you meet the language requirements.

Credit transfer

You can apply for a credit transfer if you have completed courses at a recognised and accredited higher education institution after secondary school.

Please note. Your request for credit transfer will only be taken into consideration when you have completed the admissions procedure and you are enrolled in the Maastricht Science Programme. Credits needed for meeting the basic admissions criteria cannot be considered for transfer.

The maximum amount of credits that can be transferred is 30 ECTS, or one semester. Only courses completed with a sufficiently high grade can be considered for credit transfer.

Prospective students who received their prior education in a non-EU/EEA country (handling fee)

Prospective students applying for this study programme who received their prior education in a non-EU/EEA country will have to pay a handling fee. More information on this handling fee and how to arrange this payment can be found on the Handling fee page.

Binding Study Advice

The Maastricht Science Programme has a Binding Study Advice in place. After one year (two semesters), you must have obtained a minimum of 45 out of 60 ECTS credits. As part of these 45 ECTS, you must successfully complete the academic core courses to be able to continue your studies.

Students who fail to meet these criteria will receive a negative Binding Study Advice that leads to exclusion from the programme for a period of six years. All students who are at risk of receiving a negative Binding Study Advice will receive a warning after the first semester.

Download the Maastricht Science Programme Education and Examination Regulations

Foundation Programme

International prospective students who do not meet the admission requirements: Foundation Programme

If you are an international prospective student, and you do not meet the admission requirements, then you may be eligible for the Foundation Programme. The Foundation Programme will provide you with intensive training in academic skills, courses relevant to your chosen bachelor's programme, and English language skills (depending on your level).

After successfully completing the Foundation Programme, you will be eligible for admission to this bachelor’s programme. Additionally, the Foundation Programme offers support outside of the classroom and organises events that will help you make new friends and adjust to life in the Netherlands and at Maastricht University.

Learn more about the Foundation Programme