Webster University in the Netherlands

The Netherlands, as its name suggests, is low-lying territory, with one-quarter of the country at or below sea level. Since it is one of the most densely populated areas in the world many areas are protected from flooding by dykes and sea walls. The country also has strong artistic roots, producing many of the world's most famous artists — from Rembrandt and Vermeer in the 17th century to Van Gogh in the 19th century. Perhaps the best way to get around laid-back Amsterdam and the other Dutch cities, as well as to explore the countryside, is by bicycle. In fact, it is rumored that the Netherlands has more bicycles than people — over 18 million of them!

When you choose to study at Webster Leiden, you are joining students from 45 different nationalities in an ideal, student-centered environment that focuses on personalized learning. Small class sizes ensure that it is easy to build relationships with your fellow classmates, faculty and staff. All courses are taught in English by highly qualified faculty. Students do not need to know Dutch to apply.

Undergraduate students of all majors are welcome to study abroad at Webster Leiden even if their major is offered in full at the campus. Students can choose to take courses specific to their academic major or courses from the Global Citizenship Program (GCP), Webster’s globally-focused general education program. GCP courses are regularly offered at Webster Leiden, allowing for a vast selection of general education courses. Undergraduate students can study abroad for one term, a summer, a semester or a full academic year.

When looking for courses, be sure that you are looking at courses for undergraduate students only and that you are looking at classes in the correct term of study. Webster operates on a quarter system, so be sure to select courses in both fall/spring I and II. You will need to be sure that you are registered as a full time student according to Webster and Sacred Heart University. That means you will take 12-15 SHU credits (4-5 courses) while studying at Webster.

Eligibility

You must have an overall GPA of 2.5+ and be in good disciplinary and financial standing with SHU.

Courses

Semester course offerings (see academics section)

Course Credit

SHU approved courses taken on this program will count towards your general graduation total. Course grades will also factor into your cumulative Grade Point Average (courses are not available for Pass/Fail).

Students can reference the Course Equivalency Database to see which courses have already been approved. Approval for courses not yet approved can be requested through Global Engagement. Email studyabroad@sacredheart.edu for more information.

Orientation

Upon acceptance to the program, you will be required to attend a mandatory pre-departure orientation. The pre-departure orientation will be conducted at the end of April for the fall term abroad and in November/early December for the spring term abroad. Upon arrival in Leiden, you will attend an additional mandatory orientation, on-site at the local campus. You will receive information about the campus, the culture and the expectations as a student. You will also have a chance to mingle with the local students as well during Webster's orientation.

Housing is not included as part of your SHU study abroad program fees. Housing is paid online, directly to Webster University through your Webster student account.

Study abroad students are housed off campus in the Living and Learning Center (LLC), located just across the street from Webster Leiden's main building, in the heart of the old city center. The building was built in 1929 and was initially used as a vocational school for young women and most recently housed a language school. In keeping with this educational tradition, it is now home to Webster Leiden's Living and Learning Center.

Single and double occupancy rooms are available in the LLC. Each student will have their own bed (with linens), desk, nightstand, lamp and closet. Each room is furnished with a kitchenette and private bathroom. Students have access to on-site laundry facilities, bike storage, cable internet, a student lounge and a beautiful courtyard. The student lounge features a snack vending machine, microwaves, refrigerator, a television and complimentary wifi.

Learn more about housing at Webster University in Leiden

Webster University Leiden, Netherlands: Fall 2025 - Spring 2026

Additional Expenses

All costs subject to change.

Fees include:

• Program orientation
• Arrival airport transfer
• Mandatory basic international health insurance

Fees do not include:

• Travel to/from host country
• Major medical insurance
• On-site course fees
• Visa/resident permit fees
• Program materials
• Personal expenses

Additional Billing Information

All expenses are subject to change based upon currency fluctuations, flight demand, personal spending habits, etc. Actual expenses may be more or less than the listed estimates.

Program withdrawal fees, penalties and refunds are subject to the withdrawal policies of each program.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Scholarships are a great way to support the cost of your study abroad experience. In an effort to encourage you to study abroad, and to make a study abroad experience more accessible, Global Engagement prepared a list of scholarships and financial resources. This is not a conclusive list but it will help you start your search process. Global Engagement encourages you to apply and take advantage of as many relevant scholarship opportunities as possible.

Speak with Student Financial Assistance to determine how your aid package will apply towards studying abroad.

Ensure applications for the Welch Tuition Waiver, Thomas More Honors Program Scholarship and/or Matthew R. Dalling Scholarship are submitted by the specified deadline. Applications and corresponding deadlines can be found in your Study Abroad Account. Failure to submit applications by the specified deadline may cause the scholarship dispersal to be significantly delayed.

If you receive scholarships, grants, or financial aid through SHU, these awards are posted to your Student Account according to the normal disbursement schedule.

Contact Global Engagement directly for further information.

The Webster WINS Travel Award is available to students participating in a Webster University study abroad program. The award covers up to $1,000 towards your round-trip airfare. For more information visit the WINS award website.

Students in the Thomas More Honors Program are eligible to use a one-time study abroad scholarship of $500 towards the cost of their program. Students will need to apply for this scholarship post-acceptance within their study abroad accounts.

Fall 2025

• Arrival: August 18
• Orientation: TBD
• Classes: TBD
• Move Out: December 12 (dependent on dates of final exams)

Spring 2026

• Arrival: January 19
• Orientation: TBD
• Classes: TBD
• Move Out: May 15 (dependent on dates of final exams)

Webster University Leiden Academic Calendar

Webster University will communicate directly to enrolled students all move-in, orientation and move-out dates.

All dates are subject to change. Do not book your flight until you have been accepted by Webster University and your move-in and move-out dates have been confirmed.