What and why?
Characteristics of exchange programmes
- You will apply via Leiden University and must meet certain eligibility criteria.
- There are limited spaces available, so you are not guaranteed a place on an exchange programme. Leiden University selects students on the basis of their grades and motivation.
- You will remain registered as a student of Leiden University and won’t need to pay additional tuition fees to your host university.
- If you get advance permission from your Board of Examiners, the credits you earn can be counted towards your study programme at Leiden University.
Two types of exchange
There are two types of exchange programme:
- University-wide
- Via a faculty or study programme
Characteristics of university-wide exchange
- As a rule, for students of all disciplines. Conditions may apply.
- Also open to master students, though restrictions generally apply at both Leiden University and partner universities.
- At your host university, you can generally follow courses offered by any programme or faculty.
- All destinations are outside Europe.
- The programme is organised by the international exchange coordinator for university-wide exchange, whom you can contact with any questions.
Characteristics of exchange via a faculty or study programme
- Only for students from specific study programmes or faculties.
- You may only follow courses offered by specific study programmes or faculties at your host university.
- Destinations are both within Europe (Erasmus+) and outside Europe.
- The programme is organised by the international exchange coordinator at your faculty or programme, whom you can contact with any questions.
Exchange Programmes
As a Psychology student you can sign up for a university-wide exchange programme (outside of Europe) or an exchange programme organised by the Institute of Psychology (within Europe).
Questions? Make an appointment
Please make an appointment with your exchange coördinator Psychology
University-wide exchange programmes
Information about university-wide exchange programmes can be found on the “General” tabs.
Make sure to also read the Psychology tabs:
These include important information for all psychology students who are interested or selected for an exchange semester. For a complete overview of all the necessary steps in the study abroad process, please use this Checklist.
Faculty exchange programmes
The Institute of Psychology has a large network of student exchange partnerships within Europe. These are the so-called Erasmus+ partnerships.
- Where? Find your destination using the world map for both the university-wide exchange program and the Erasmus+ exchange program through the Institute of Psychology;
- When? will give information about the best possible time to go abroad;
- Approval and Application: Information about the requirements, application process and deadlines;
- To arrange before departure lists all steps need to take before you leave;
- To arrange upon your return explains the final steps, for instance how to apply for recognition of your credits.
Other options
Apart from an exchange semester, it is also possible to independently apply to a university of your choosing. These students are called 'Free movers'. For more information see Going Abroad Independently.
Summer or winter schools usually take place during the summer or winterbreaks and may be the perfect option to study abroad if your time is limited.
During your master’s it also is possible to do an internship or thesis research abroad. It is not possible to follow an internship as part of your bachelor Psychology.