So, you have decided to apply to university in the Netherlands. Similar to the common app, the Netherlands have a national application system known as Studielink. Now unlike the common app, it doesn't open until October 1st (the deadline is January 15). I am applying to Leiden University, for the English taught psychology bachelors degree. Before applying, you will most likely find a step by step walkthrough of the application process, found on the website for the specific university, that will walk you through what documents and requirements you need. The first step you want to take before opening the studielink application is check entry requirements for your chosen course. I have written a little about this before, and I will go over it more in another article later, but European schools prefer AP schools. Most schools accepting international students will have a list of general admission requirements that are equivalent to their home ones, you will also want to make sure you meet the language requirements. In Leiden's case, they want to see 3 AP test scores of a 4 or 5, or 4 AP scores of a 3-5. You will also need to submit transcripts, a resume, as well as proof that you have a valid passport (more on visas and travel to come).
When you first arrive at the Studielink website, it will ask if you want to log in with a "DigiD" or not, which is an identification number that Dutch nationals have. You will select login without DigiD. The next steps follow a similar process as most common applications. It will ask you to fill out your personal contact info and address, as well as asking about nationality. Then you will fill out the previous education section, select no when it asks if your diploma is complete, and for education type enter high school diploma. If you have also completed courses as part of a dual enrollment program, you will be able to select "add previous education" and type it in manually. The next stage is where things vary from the common app. Instead of adding each off your chosen schools, you will select the program at the school you are applying to. In my case I will search for the Psychology (Bachelor) at Leiden University. Then the application system will ask some school specific questions, this is where you specify that you're applying for the English-taught or international degree as well as verify your personal information and allow them to contact your current school. When you confirm your information Studielink will then divert you to their home page, where the status of your application can be found. Immediately after hitting confirm your application will likely be listed as "Submitted" this means your initial application information is being sent to the school. The next step, involving reporting test scores and grades, will be done directly through the university itself once they have received your studielink profile.
Inserting previous education to studielink:
Note: The university itself will request more specifics about your previous education.
Checking the status of your applications:
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