Early Bird Applications
If you are applying for a Bachelor’s degree at the Faculty of Science and Engineering or the Faculty of Arts and have a non-Dutch or international diploma, you can take advantage of the Early Bird application option.
To apply, simply submit your application through Studielink and the Progress Portal between October 1 and February 28. If you complete your application on time, you will receive a decision on your (conditional) admission within one month.
When does your application meet the Early Bird requirements?
- You apply for a regular Bachelor’s programme (not fixed quota)
- You apply as a first-year student
- You apply for a programme at either the Faculty of Science and Engineering or the Faculty of Arts
- You apply based on a non-Dutch or international prior education
- You complete your application in Studielink and the Progress Portal - including all requested application information and documents - between 1 October and 28 February
- You have paid the application fee between October 1 and February 28
Why is it smart to apply early?
-
More time to arrange housing and other practical matters
The student housing market is tight. Starting your search early significantly increases your chances of finding a room. Landlords often also require proof of (conditional) admission. -
More time to meet all requirements
If you are conditionally admitted, it means you need to meet certain requirements to be enrolled. This could include getting specific certificates, like a language certificate or a deficiency certificate in subjects such as mathematics, biology, physics, or chemistry. The earlier you find out what is required, the more time you will have to study, prepare, and (hopefully) get those certificates! -
More time to handle all immigration procedures
Completing your application early gives you more time to arrange your residence permit (and your mvv visa if travelling from outside the EU/EEA).
And if you meet the Early Bird requirements, you will receive a digital information package. If you start studying at the UG on 1 September, you could win a €20 I-Shop voucher to spend on goodies or gadgets in the UG shop.
How can I apply?
You can apply via Studielink. More information about the application process can be found on our website.
Where should I send the information and documents about my prior education?
After applying in Studielink, you will receive instructions on how to complete your application in the Progress Portal. Want to know more? Visit our website.
I have a regular Dutch prior education. Why doesn’t the Early Bird option apply for me?
We usually receive information about Dutch qualifications automatically through DUO. Therefore, we generally know quickly whether you can be admitted to a programme at the UG with your prior education.
I missed the Early Bird deadline. Can I still study at RUG next year?
Yes, you can still apply. However, you no longer meet the requirements to receive your decision within a month. Make sure to submit your application as soon as possible, but no later than 1 May.
Does the Early Bird procedure also apply to IRIO?
No, the Early Bird option does not apply to IRIO, since it is a numerus fixus programme with its own separate application deadline. If your programme offers an Early Bird option, you will find the details on its programme page.
I applied for a programme at another faculty. Does the above information apply to me?
No, this academic year, the Early Bird deadline only applies to the Faculty of Science and Engineering and the Faculty of Arts. But do not worry, we make sure every application is reviewed carefully and as quickly as possible.
The Liberal Arts and Sciences programme at University College Groningen and the Global Responsibility and Leadership programme at University College Fryslân have their own Early Bird process, with a deadline of January 15. See the links for more information.
Am I fully enrolled if I am (conditionally) admitted?
No, to become fully enrolled, you first need to be fully admitted. You will also need to arrange the payment of your tuition fees and, if you are from outside the EU, complete the immigration procedure successfully.
You can find more information here.