- What is a numerus fixus?
- How do you get admitted to a numerus fixus programme?
- What is the application deadline for a numerus fixus programme?
- How do you know if you're admitted?
What is a numerus fixus?
First things first: what exactly is a numerus fixus? This Latin term literally means “fixed number.” A programme with a numerus fixus has a limited number of available places. If you apply for such a programme, you are not automatically admitted; instead, you must go through a special selection procedure.
The University of Twente offers two bachelor’s programmes with a numerus fixus:
How do you get admitted to a numerus fixus programme?
If you apply for a study programme with a numerus fixus, there are generally two ways to gain admission: through a selection procedure or through a lottery.
Admission through a selection procedure
In a selection procedure, your application will be assessed based on specific selection criteria. You take part in several activities to evaluate your skills, suitability and sometimes your motivation for the programme.
Universities are free to set up their selection procedures, so these can differ per programme. If you choose to study (the English track of) the Bachelor's in Psychology at the University of Twente, you will go through a selection procedure.
Admission through a lottery
In a lottery-based admission process, candidates are selected at random. If you apply on time and meet the programme’s admission requirements, you have an equal chance of being selected, just like all other applicants. For the Bachelor’s in Technical Medicine at the University of Twente, this admission method will be used from 2025 onwards. Please note: this is a Dutch-taught programme.
What is the application deadline for a numerus fixus programme?
An important difference compared to programmes without a numerus fixus: the earlier application deadline! Because of the admission procedure, you need to apply on time, earlier than for other programmes.
How do you know if you're admitteD?
Whether you took part in a selection procedure or a lottery, you will receive a ranking number on April 15, which will be published in Studielink, the Dutch application portal for higher education.
If your ranking number falls within the number of available places in the programme, you are admitted. Important: from that moment, you have two weeks to accept your place. If you decline or do not accept it, your place will immediately be offered to another candidate and you will lose your spot.
If your number falls outside the available places, there is still a chance to be admitted. In practice, some candidates withdraw, and in that case, you will be placed on a waiting list and notified if a spot becomes available. Make sure to check your email carefully, because you must accept any offer on time!
