Purple clothing and a pride flag flying from all University buildings: Leiden University is once again taking part in Purple Friday. How do people experience this day? We asked some employees and students of the Faculty of Humanities.

Cornald Maas was able to ‘pioneer’ in Leiden. This Dutch Studies graduate, presenter, programme maker and publicist combined an active student life with studying hard.

It is a full classroom: more than 30 pupils from 5 and 6 vwo are present to listen to political scientist Leila Demarest's lecture. She gives a brief introduction on the topic she is about to discuss: democracy in the global North and South. At first, the group seems a bit quiet, but when she asks questions…

In a world beset with war, climate problems and skyrocketing energy prices, it is good to have some 'slack time' now and then. That was Dean Mark Rutgers' message at the Faculty of Humanities' New Year reception.

Investigations conducted by several Dutch child protection bodies within family situations are inadequate. Due to lack of knowledge, time and money, these investigations are not carried out properly, with major consequences for the families involved.

When university lecturer Martine Bruil was on exchange in Ecuador as a teenager, she fell in love with the area's ancient languages. Now, more than 20 years later, she is starting a research project on the kinship of the language Awapit with the Quechua language that was spread by the Incas.

Scientists have discovered that starlings and parrots can imitate the complex sounds of Star Wars droid R2-D2 remarkably well. Their study reveals how the structure of a bird’s vocal organ determines its vocal abilities – and how citizen science helps uncover it.

As a student, you can access a range of other software free of charge or for a reduced tariff. These include office tools, cloud storage, anti-virus software and much more.

Toelichting op de terminologie m.b.t. studeren met een beperking

During your time as a student, you will encounter various challenges. As part of your well-being, here are some options that we hope will help support you in your well-being.

Education administration offices

Lecture, Com(parative) Syn(tax) Series

A minor allows you to develop your knowledge beyond the boundaries of your study programme, or to specialise further in your own field of study. You can follow a minor in Leiden and also in Delft or Rotterdam.

When deciding what to study you undoubtedly read a lot of information about your study programme. Leiden University employs various systems to provide information about programmes and courses and to facilitate communication between lecturers and students.

Participation bodies function as bodies of consultation, advice, information and communication. They represent the interests of staff and students. We have listed some of them for you.

Do you have money worries? Or are you struggling to pay your bills? You're not alone. Nearly half of all students find it difficult to make ends meet. Find out where you can turn for free help and advice.

If you could use some extra support during your student time, we have a few more options for you.

Books and study materials

Other facilities

Books and study materials

To arrange before departure

Below you can find the most frequently asked questions and answers provided by staff and students themselves.

Some study programmes have a coordinator who is specialised in assisting students with internship and research matters.

Some programmes or faculties may require students to have other cards, in addition to their student and LU-Card, to access facilities or identify themselves.

Have you fallen behind in your studies due to association board membership, top-level sport, or circumstances beyond your control such as illness, disability, pregnancy or family issues? In some situations, you may be eligible for financial support from the university.

In addition to compulsory elements, most degree programmes also have elective credits. These are credits you can earn in a variety of ways, for example by taking elective courses, studying abroad or doing a minor.

Study abroad: when?

As a participant, you receive an allowance for your time and efforts. The volunteer allowance can vary from €7.50 to €25 per hour, depending on the type of research you take part in.

A part-time job can help to boost your income during your studies. If you do an internship, this can also have financial consequences. Find out more.

On top of its regular study programmes and courses, Leiden University offers a variety of online courses.

Once you complete your Bachelor’s or Master’s degree you will be awarded your diploma during a celebratory graduation ceremony. Some study programmes also have ceremonies for the awarding of first-year (propedeuse) diplomas or other important achievements. The awarding of your diploma is always arranged…

Some bachelor's programmes help you monitor your own academic progress by assisting you in drawing up a study plan at the end of your first year.

Our research studies take place at different locations.

Study abroad: where and when?

A study association is a good way to combine study-related activities with pleasure. Every faculty has one or more study association.

Study abroad: where and when?

At a study association, you get to know fellow students and combine socialising with study-related activities. We have listed some of them for you.

Schedules

Find out how to register for the International Experience Week

During your studies you'll acquire a good theoretical basis. But what about practical experience? By doing an internship you can gain a clearer picture of a particular position or sector. For some study programmes an internship is a compulsory part of the curriculum.

Are you thinking of doing an entire master’s programme at a university abroad? Find out what you need to take into consideration.

Do you want to request a change to the academic requirements set by your bachelor's or master's programme? Perhaps you want to be exempted from a particular course, because you think you have already acquired the knowledge elsewhere. Or do you want academic credits earned at another institution to be…

Is one study programme not challenging enough, or are you having trouble choosing between two programmes? If so, a double study programme might be the solution.

Preparations

A paper during her master's degree put student Luca Andrea on the trail of Roman coins. While on an internship at the Teylers Museum, she organised the coin collection and came across some fascinating stories. 'Coins have had all kinds of functions.'