Leiden University

Leiden University, founded in 1575, holds the distinction of being the oldest university in the Netherlands. For nearly four and a half centuries, it has served as a prominent center of learning, playing a pivotal role in the European scientific and intellectual landscape. With a motto of Praesidium Libertatis (Bastion of Liberty), the university has a long-standing reputation as a sanctuary for free thought and critical inquiry.

A Legacy of Excellence

Leiden’s history is inextricably linked to the birth of the Dutch Republic. It was gifted to the city by William of Orange as a reward for its resistance during the Spanish siege. Since then, it has been the academic home to some of history’s most influential thinkers, including René Descartes, Hugo Grotius, and Albert Einstein, who was a frequent visiting professor. To date, the university has been associated with 16 Nobel Prizes, underscoring its enduring impact on global research.

A Modern Global Research Institution

Today, Leiden University is a member of the prestigious League of European Research Universities (LERU). It operates across two locations—the historic city of Leiden and the international hub of The Hague—fostering a unique environment where tradition meets contemporary global challenges.

The university is organized into seven faculties:

• Archaeology: One of the most highly-regarded archaeology programs in the world, with a strong focus on both field research and scientific analysis.
• Governance and Global Affairs: Based in The Hague, this faculty connects academic research with the practical world of international diplomacy, security, and law.
• Humanities: A world leader in the study of languages, cultures, and history, particularly in Asian and Middle Eastern studies.
• Law: Home to the Grotius Centre for International Legal Studies, maintaining Leiden’s status as a premier destination for international law.
• Medicine (LUMC): A center for medical innovation and high-quality patient care.
• Science: Focused on fundamental research across disciplines like astronomy, mathematics, and physics.
• Social and Behavioural Sciences: Investigating the complexities of human behavior and societal structures.

Commitment to Society

Beyond the classroom, Leiden University is committed to the "valorization" of knowledge—ensuring that academic research is translated into societal benefit. Through partnerships with industry, government, and international NGOs, the university addresses pressing issues such as climate change, public health, and social justice.

The Student Experience

With over 30,000 students from approximately 130 countries, the university maintains a vibrant, international atmosphere. The "Leiden approach" emphasizes small-scale teaching, personal contact, and a strong link between education and active research, preparing students to become global citizens and critical leaders in their fields.