Frequently asked questions
As a result of the corona virus situation, the information in these FAQs may be incorrect or incomplete. Go to the corona FAQ for the latest information.
Frequently Asked Questions
I am not able to log in with my student account. What should I do?
There are several reasons why you may not be able to log in:
- You haven’t yet received a user name and/or password. Request an account.
- You have forgotten your user name and/or password. Request them again.
- Your account has not yet been activated. Activate your account.
- Your password has expired. Reset your password.
- Your ULCN account is no longer active. You can only access uSis and Brightspace using your ULCN account up to 60 days after your student registration has been cancelled.
If you know your user name and password, keep the following points in mind:
- You must log in with your user name, not your uMail address.
- Use lower case letters to enter your user name, not capital letters (e.g. s1234567).
- Make sure you haven’t accidentally put CAPS LOCK on.
If you still can’t log in, do the following:
- Change the language on the log-in page, from Dutch to English or vice versa, and try again.
- If you can log into one application but not another, the issue concerns the application and not your account. Contact the ISSC Helpdesk.
- If none of the above-mentioned tips work contact the ISSC helpdesk.
How do I request a Statement of registration (enrolment)?
- Log into uSis using your student number.
- Click on the 'Communication' tile.
- If you do not see the message you are looking for, click on the little x in top-right corner of your screen.
- Click on ‘Your registration is final’ to download your Statement of registration.
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Is there a template for my motivation letter?
No, there is no official template. Your motivation letter is a personal statement in which you explain why you wish to study at Leiden University and why you have chosen this particular study programme. It is an opportunity for you to convince the faculty of your qualities and goals. The letter should contain approximately 700-1500 words.
Note: if you are applying for a programme at Leiden University College (LUC) you should instead complete and submit an LUC motivation letter form.
Which documents should be sent by post?
Documents only need to be sent by post if this is requested by the Admissions Office during the application process, or if this is stated in your admission statement.
The following documents may be requested by post:
- Certified copies of your diploma & transcripts;
- Results of the English proficiency test, to be sent by the test organisation;
- Signed recommendation letters on official letterhead paper.
How long does it take before a decision on my application is issued?
It generally takes about 4 to 6 weeks from the date on which you are informed that your application is complete until you receive a decision. If additional information is required during the application process it may take a little longer. Please make sure your application is complete and is submitted as early as possible.
Once a decision on your application has been made, you will receive a formal statement from the faculty by email.
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I am too late to enrol (register) for a study activity in uSis. What should I do?
You should contact your faculty or study programme's Education Administration Office.
More informationI would like to combine two study programmes. Is that possible?
When should I arrange my student housing?
We advise you to begin arranging housing as soon as you start your application to the university. There is limited availability of affordable accommodation, both via the university and in the private sector, and house hunting can be very time-consuming. Start your search as early as possible!
If you want to request housing via Leiden University's Housing Office, be aware that the number of housing applications always greatly exceeds the number of rooms available. Accommodation is offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so apply early! Unfortunately the Housing Office cannot guarantee accommodation, even if you request a room before the housing deadline.
Read more about when to arrange housing and how to apply for accommodation via Leiden University Housing Office.
What happens to applications received after the deadline?
We encourage students to submit their applications as early as possible. If we receive your application after the relevant deadline you will be asked whether you wish to withdraw your application or defer your application until the next possible start date. Only in exceptional cases will late applications be considered. Decisions concerning the processing of late applications are made on a case by case basis in consultation with the faculty in question.
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Under what circumstances do I qualify for a tuition fee refund if I did not study for the entire academic year?
If you end your student registration via Studielink before 31 May, you are entitled to a refund of tuition fees for the months in which you are not registered. More information can be found on our webpages about de-registering as a student.
Note that If you cancel your student registration in Studielink before the official start date of your study programme, you will not be liable to pay any tuition fees.
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