The influx of new students at the University of Twente remains broadly stable, although figures show a slight decline compared to last year. This is evident from the intake data for the current academic year. Today, the umbrella organisation Universities of the Netherlands published the figures for all Dutch universities.
Slight decline
At UT, bachelor enrolment has decreased by 3%, which equals 59 fewer students than in 2024. Master intake shows a stronger decline of 9% (110 fewer students). The share of international students continues to increase: while 39% of new students came from abroad in 2023, this has risen to 42% in 2025 — one percentage point higher than last year.
Overall, UT’s efforts to improve visibility and outreach are showing positive results. In addition, activities related to the Beethoven programme are taking shape. This programme, a collaboration between universities, universities of applied sciences and vocational institutions, focuses on educating additional technical talent for the semiconductor and chip industry.
Bachelor intake: stable overall, but regional differences
The Dutch bachelor intake has remained stable since 2022. In the eastern part of the Netherlands, student numbers have stayed almost the same, while a slight decline is visible in the west. The shrinking population of pre-university (VWO) students calls for targeted recruitment efforts and more diversified outreach channels. Internationally, intake remains stable, with a notable 16% growth among non-EEA students. At the same time, housing constraints, political regulations, and limited visibility in certain regions continue to pose challenges for further growth.
In 2025, nine bachelor programmes show growth compared to last year, while twelve have declined. The strongest increases are seen in Creative Technology (+44%) and Technical Medicine (+18%), both recovering after a dip in 2024. Psychology shows a strong rise in Dutch student numbers (+42%). Mechanical Engineering (UT) remains the largest bachelor programme with 297 students.
Master intake: decline calls for targeted and coordinated approach
The master intake faces a challenging year in 2025. The total October intake (master’s students can also start in January) has decreased by 9% compared to 2024, amounting to 1,154 students — 110 fewer than last year. This decline is mainly due to fewer UT bachelor graduates continuing into a master’s programme (-6%) and a decrease in intake from universities of applied sciences. International intake shows a mixed picture: EEA countries remain stable, but non-EEA intake has dropped by 19%, making international recruitment increasingly crucial.
While popular master’s programmes have managed to maintain their intake, smaller programmes require targeted attention and support. The Beethoven programmes (focused on chip technology) offer an important strategic opportunity to strengthen master recruitment.
In 2025, 11 master’s programmes show growth compared to 2024, while 18 programmes show a decline. Business Administration has the largest intake with 140 students. The strongest increases are seen in Applied Physics (+41%), Business Administration (+8%), and Water Technology (+43%).
Keeping student intake strong
To maintain healthy student intake levels, the University of Twente focuses on three key priorities: keeping its educational portfolio attractive, engaging prospective students throughout their orientation and decision-making process, and implementing targeted marketing efforts.
