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University of Groningenfounded in 1614  -  top 100 university
Education The Faculty Graduate Schools Graduate School of Behavioural and Social Sciences PhD programme

Eligibility requirements

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Before beginning a PhD project, please ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements, which depend on your degree and English language proficiency.

Requirement master’s degree

An internationally recognized master’s degree in a relevant field (equivalent to a Dutch master's degree). All European MSc degrees are accepted.

Requirements English language

A strong command of the English language, as only candidates proficient in English will be considered for PhD positions.

Overall
Reading
Listening
Speaking
Writing
IELTS (Academic)
7.0
7.0
7.0
TOEFL IBT (internet based)*
100
25
25
Cambrigde English
C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency with a minimum score of 185 (C1) or 200 (C2)
Pearson Academic
71
64
75
LanguageCert Academic
75
75
75

* TOEFL Home Edition is not accepted

Exemptions from proving proficieny in English

  • completed a secondary education (HAVO or VWO certificate) in the Netherlands;
  • are a native English speaker;
  • completed a Bachelor’s or a Master’s degree program, which was fully taught in English.
Last modified:28 November 2025 12.09 p.m.