Leiden University (Faculty of Law)

Leiden Law School, founded in 1575, is the Netherlands’ oldest law faculty and part of Leiden University, a global institution with 33,000 students and a tradition of academic excellence. The faculty’s 300 teaching staff serve a diverse student body through programs in law and criminology that integrate rigorous scholarship with pressing societal challenges. Its dual locations—historic Leiden and international The Hague—provide distinct environments for advanced legal study.

With a mission focused on multidisciplinary insight and societal relevance, the school connects law, criminology, and economics to global issues. Its long-standing legacy, strengthened by a 450-year historical foundation, underscores its position as a leading center for legal education.

Leiden Law School’s graduates benefit from a robust professional network rooted in centuries of engagement with Dutch governance and global legal institutions. Alumni hold influential roles in international courts, government ministries, NGOs, and multinational firms. Close ties to The Hague’s organizations—including the International Court of Justice—provide valuable pathways for internships, clerkships, and employment.

The school’s strong reputation in civil, international, and European law supports high employability. Career services help students navigate evolving legal landscapes through mentorship, skills workshops, and sector-specific guidance. This integrated ecosystem ensures graduates are well-positioned for leadership across policy, legal practice, diplomacy, and academia.

Leiden Law School appeals to students seeking a blend of tradition and forward-facing innovation. Its status as the oldest law faculty in the Netherlands provides unmatched continuity and credibility, strengthened by the university’s scholarly achievements and global academic partnerships. The faculty’s strengths in civil and international law position graduates for success in competitive global markets.

Programs emphasize multidisciplinary thinking, connecting legal study with economics, technology, and criminology. Small advanced LL.M. classes, international environments, and proximity to global institutions allow students to engage with real-world issues meaningfully. This combination of heritage, expertise, and strategic location makes Leiden a compelling choice for ambitious learners.

Leiden Law School advances societal impact through research addressing contemporary legal challenges such as AI discrimination, welfare reform, and global security. Its academic projects link legal theory with technology, policy, and economics, helping shape frameworks for emerging issues like space law and digital governance. These initiatives reflect the university’s broader goals for sustainability and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Innovation hubs and research centers within Leiden and The Hague foster cross-sector partnerships. Publications, public-engagement platforms, and faculty expertise reinforce the school’s leadership in advancing legal thought. Its commitment to impactful, future-oriented scholarship defines its role in shaping a just and secure society.

What advantages do international students gain? They benefit from English-taught programs, small classes, and access to The Hague’s institutions, enabling strong professional development.

What research opportunities exist? Students can join projects on AI, criminology, and international law, supported by extensive faculty expertise and modern facilities.

Is legal experience required for advanced programs? Yes. Advanced LL.M. tracks expect a full law degree plus relevant experience, while bachelor’s programs allow broader entry.

Admission requirements differ by program level. Bachelor’s applicants must meet Dutch secondary standards, while LL.M. candidates need a full law degree; advanced programs require professional experience. Applications include transcripts, motivation statements, CVs, and English proficiency results when applicable. Deadlines are typically early spring for September entry.

Tuition ranges from €2,300 for EU/EEA bachelor’s students to higher fees for non-EU master’s programs. Scholarships such as the Leiden Excellence Scholarship support top applicants. Housing is offered through DUWO, and international students receive visa and orientation assistance. Average living costs run around €1,000 per month.