Global Studies

If you have one of the diplomas stated below then, in principle, you qualify for admission:

• Dutch VWO diploma
• HBO or OU propaedeutic diploma
• HBO diploma

If you have a non-Dutch diploma that is equivalent to the Dutch VWO diploma you, in principle, qualify for admission to this programme. Check if this applies for your diploma.

List of diplomas equivalent to the Dutch VWO diploma 2026/27

If your diploma is not included in this list, it must be evaluated by UM first.

Entrance exam, Colloquium Doctum
If you do not have the required diploma, or do not meet the additional requirements, you can still qualify by passing an entrance exam (the so called Colloquium Doctum).

If you pass the Colloquium Doctum and submit the requested proof of language proficiency, you will qualify for admission to the bachelor’s programme.

Read more about the Colloquium Doctum

• A recent portrait picture
  This picture must satisfy certain requirements. You can find these requirements in the task description 'Upload portrait picture' in the MyApplication portal.
   
• A copy of your valid passport or your EU/EEA identity card
  Make a copy of the page with your personal details. Save this copy as ‘passport copy’ and not as ‘passport picture. 
   
• A copy of your most recent grades transcript AND/OR a copy of your diploma if you have obtained it.
   
• A letter of motivation in English of up to 600 words, submitted as a PDF or Word document. Applicants should include their name at the top right corner of the document.
  This letter is used to get a better insight into your motivations and to help the Board of Admissions determine whether Global Studies is the right kind of career step for you.
  All applicants should write a letter answering questions such as:
  • Why would you like to join Global Studies?
  • How suitable is the semester-theme approach for the way you like to study?
  • What are your plans after graduation?
     
• An essay in English of up to 400 words, submitted as a PDF or Word document. Applicants should include their name at the top right corner of the document.
  All applicants should write a short essay, describing a complex global problem and how it matters for them, their home community or home country locally. This essay will give the Board of Admissions a first impression of your ability to provide a well-reasoned, written argument. Please ensure that your essay addresses both parts of the question - describing the global problem and showing its local relevance! Using proper spelling and grammar (UK or US English), as well as referencing any quotes will be helpful to your application. You are free to choose what you consider your home community or your home country for the purpose of this essay.

• Outcome of your language test with sufficient result (if applicable)
  Answer the questions concerning language requirements under ‘Language requirements for English-language programmes’ on this webpage to find out if you need to provide additional documentation. The outcome of your answers will indicate which documents you can use to prove your proficiency.
   
• Evidence of additional courses or tests in the required subjects (if applicable)
   
• A request for credit transfer (if applicable)
   
• Permission for document verification form
  If your diploma is not verified by DUO (Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs, the Dutch government agency responsible for education-related matters), you will need to upload the form ‘Permission for document verification’ in the MyApplication portal. This form allows Maastricht University to verify your diploma, grades transcript or other required documents directly with the issuing institution or relevant qualification registry.