What is a binding recommendation (BSA)?

As from the academic year 2012-2013, the University of Twente will be enforcing a Binding Recommendation on continuation of studies (in Dutch: Bindend Studie Advies (BSA)) for all Bachelor’s programmes with the exception of Mechanical Engineering and Civil Engineering. This means that you will not be able to continue your studies if you have earned fewer than 45 ECs (course credits) in your first year.

The main objective of the BSA is to confirm at an early stage that a student has chosen the right study programme or to divert the student to a more suitable programme if necessary. The University of Twente believes that earning insufficient course credits is an indication that a student is unsuitable for the study programme. Students completing their first year with fewer than 45 ECs (of the total of 60ECs) will be given a negative BSA and are expected to leave the programme. Personal circumstances will, however, be taken into consideration when formulating the recommendation.

As it is the university’s aim to enable all suitable students to graduate successfully, we have ensured that - besides the BSA - you will receive intensive support both during your first year and thereafter. Each programme has a study adviser who can help you with any study-related issues and many programmes also have a tutor or student mentor system. More information about the BSA specifically for your study programme van be found here.

Information on the reasoning behind the BSA, regulations and special circumstances (Hyperlinks) can be found at the next pages.