Students will be shortlisted and selected based on the criteria listed below.
Previous Education
Applicants should hold an academic bachelor degree (of comparable level to a Dutch academic bachelor degree obtained at a Dutch Research University) in fields such as geography, urban/regional planning, environmental science/engineering, economics, tourism, political science or related fields. Additionally, a minimum of at least 10 ECTS in statistics or equivalent statistical knowledge is required.
Grade Avarage
Strong academic performance is a key factor. Applicants should typically have excellent study results with high grades at the university level (A range), usually within the top 10%. This is comparable to the Dutch grading system, with an average grade of at least 7.0 and at least 7.5 for a Bachelor thesis.
Language Test
English on Dutch VWO level or one of the following equivalents:
IELTS overall band 6.5, no less than 6.5 on each section
TOEFL internet based: Overall: 90 Reading: 21 Listening: 21 Speaking: 21 Writing: 24
Please note that TOEFL MyBest Scores are not considered in the Admissions procedure
Cambridge English: Cambridge certificate C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency (formerly known as CAE/CPE)
European Baccalaureate, English level L1 or L2
Alternatively, you can request an exemption from the Admissions Board after you have been admitted to the programme.
Automatic exemptions are available for native speakers or students with (to be) completed undergraduate programmes in one of the following countries: USA, UK, Ireland, New Zealand, Australia, Canada (English speaking provinces/territories), Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia and St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Assessment Interview
Shortlisted applicants will undergo an interview as part of the admission procedure, during which their attitude, motivation, orientation and competence for a career in (scientific) research are evaluated. The interview will be scheduled after the Admissions Board has received and reviewed the required documents.
Professional Experience
Professional experience is not a mandatory requirement for admission. Professional experience can also not substitute for not meeting the academic requirements in terms of level of the previous education.