Zuyd University of Applied Sciences
Maastricht
About
Entry qualification
Accommodation
Zuyd University of Applied Sciences - study in the heart of Europe
Zuyd University of Applied Sciences is located in Maastricht - the most international city in the Netherlands, right at the border with Belgium and Germany. With 14,000 students, Zuyd offers 8 English-taught bachelor programs including business, European studies, and creative arts. The university is known for its small-group learning, hands-on approach, and truly European character.
Maastricht is unlike any other Dutch city. With its Burgundian culture, cobblestone streets, world-class restaurants, and location at the crossroads of three countries, it feels more European than typically Dutch. The city is incredibly international - over 50% of students in Maastricht come from abroad. Through Maastricht Housing (the official housing platform for both Zuyd and Maastricht University), finding accommodation is well-organized.
Welcome to Zuyd University
Students Speaking | Interdisciplinary Arts
Hear from students and alumni as they share their experiences of the Interdisciplinary Arts programme and its creative, future-focused approach.
Why students choose Zuyd
Study in the heart of Europe. Belgium and Germany are just across the border.
Join a highly international city. More than half of Maastricht’s students come from abroad.
Prepare for a real profession. Courses follow current skills and international career trends.
Learn in small groups. Receive direct attention from lecturers and study advisers.
Apply knowledge immediately. Work on practical assignments from your first study days.
Gain experience abroad. Some programs offer placements lasting at least ten weeks.
Explore several continents. Previous placement destinations include Africa, Asia and Latin America.
Use one official housing platform. Maastricht Housing combines thousands of student options.
Eligible working EU students may receive Dutch financial support. Learn more here.
Study programs at Zuyd
Zuyd offers 8 English-taught programs:
- Applied Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
- Circular Cities & Communities - Built Environment
- Classical Music
- European studies
- Interdisciplinary Arts - i-Arts
- International Business
- International Business | three year track
- Jazz
The exact list of bachelor and master programs available through the Kastu platform can be found at the top of this university description, next to the logo.
Maastricht - your student city
Maastricht is the most European city in the Netherlands. Located in the far south, at the border with Belgium and Germany, it has a unique character: Burgundian culture (great food, wine, and social life), beautiful historic architecture, cobblestone squares, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. The Maastricht Treaty (founding the EU) was signed here.
The city is compact, walkable, and full of life. With over 50% international students, you hear dozens of languages on the street. Brussels (1.5h), Cologne (1h), and Aachen (30 min) are all easily reachable for weekend trips. Maastricht has excellent restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and a relaxed southern Dutch lifestyle.
Quick facts
| Type | University of Applied Sciences (HBO) |
|---|---|
| Students | 14,000 |
| English programs | 8 bachelor programs; 4 master programs |
| Location | Maastricht (border NL/BE/DE - heart of Europe) |
| International students in city | 50%+ |
| Housing | Maastricht Housing (10,000+ living spaces) |
| Key strength | European character, small-group learning, practice-based |
FAQ
What makes Maastricht different from other Dutch cities?
Maastricht is unlike any other Dutch city. Located at the border with Belgium and Germany, it has a Burgundian culture - great food, wine, cozy cafés, and a relaxed southern atmosphere. The city is incredibly international (50%+ students from abroad), compact, and walkable. It feels more European than typically Dutch. The Maastricht Treaty (founding the EU) was signed here, reflecting the city's European identity. Brussels, Cologne, and Aachen are all within easy reach for weekend trips.
What is the difference between Zuyd and Maastricht University?
Both are in Maastricht, but they are different types. Zuyd is a university of applied sciences (HBO) - focused on practice-based education, small groups, and direct career preparation. Maastricht University is a research university (WO) - more theoretical and research-oriented. Zuyd is ideal if you prefer hands-on learning, real-world projects, and a direct path to the job market. Both share the same housing platform (Maastricht Housing) and the same amazing city.
Can I work while studying at Zuyd?
Yes! As an EU student, you can work alongside your studies without restrictions. Maastricht has excellent job opportunities - especially in hospitality, tourism, and international business (thanks to its border location and international character). The Netherlands has a financial support system for working students. Learn more about financial support here.
Bachelor
Entry qualification
- Transcript of Records – If you have not yet completed Secondary School, you must upload a transcript showing your current grades. You can find the transcript template here.
- Secondary School Leaving Certificate – If you have already completed Secondary School, you do not need to upload a separate transcript. Simply upload your Secondary School Leaving Certificate to the application.
Important! View the full requirements on the university’s official website. Requirements may vary depending on your nationality and the country where you completed your previous education.
English language requirements
You may not need to take IELTS or TOEFL. University usually allow you to prove your English proficiency in one of the following ways:
- TOEFL iBT*
- IELTS Academic
- A Cambridge English qualification
- A national English examination listed on your secondary school leaving certificate
- An English subject and grade on your secondary school leaving certificate that meet the university’s requirements
- Secondary education completed in English in a country or school qualification accepted by the university
- An International Baccalaureate (IB) or European Baccalaureate (EB) diploma
- Other
Important: Accepted methods and minimum results depend on study programme, your secondary school qualification and the country where you completed your education. Check the official requirements for your chosen study programme.
*Use the Kastu promo code LTU1000102 when registering for TOEFL iBT and receive a 5% discount.
Master
Entry qualification
- ECTS transcript – If you are still completing your Bachelor’s degree, upload an ECTS transcript showing the subjects you have studied, your grades, and the number of credits awarded. Your Bachelor’s diploma must be uploaded later, as soon as you receive it.
- Bachelor’s diploma – If you have already graduated, upload your Bachelor’s diploma. A separate ECTS transcript is not required.
Note: Your Bachelor’s degree must be in the same or a related field as the Master’s programme you are applying for. The university will check whether you have completed enough relevant subjects and ECTS credits.
Important! View the full requirements on the university’s official website. Requirements may vary depending where you completed your bachelor education.
English language requirements
Applicants have to prove their English language skills either by an internationally recognized language test or upon previous studies. Usually English language skills can be proved by the following documents:
- TOEFL iBT*
- IELTS Academic
- A Cambridge English qualification
- Higher education degree completed in English
- Secondary education completed in English in a country or school qualification accepted by the university
- An English subject and grade on your secondary school leaving certificate that meet the university’s requirements
- Other
Important: Accepted methods and minimum results depend on study programme and the country where you completed your education. Check the official requirements for your chosen study programme.
*Use the Kastu promo code LTU1000102 when registering for TOEFL iBT and receive a 5% discount.
Finding your home in Maastricht
Maastricht Housing is the official housing platform for both Zuyd University and Maastricht University. For a one-time fee of 35 EUR, you get access to over 10,000 living spaces in Maastricht. This well-organized system makes finding accommodation much easier than searching independently.
Maastricht is a compact, walkable city where most student housing is within cycling or walking distance of the Zuyd campus. The city is more affordable than Amsterdam or Utrecht, and the housing market is well-organized thanks to the Maastricht Housing platform.
Finding Student Housing in Maastricht
Learn how MaastrichtHousing.com helps international students find rooms and housing options in Maastricht before starting their studies.
Your housing options
Maastricht Housing (recommended) - the official housing platform for Zuyd and Maastricht University. Over 10,000 living spaces. Register for 35 EUR and search for rooms, studios, and shared apartments.
Private housing - websites like Kamernet and HousingAnywhere list rooms in Maastricht.
Facebook groups - search for "Student Housing Maastricht" or "Kamers Maastricht" for additional options.
Practical details
- Maastricht Housing: 10,000+ living spaces (35 EUR registration fee)
- Typical rent: 400-650 EUR per month for a student room
- Maastricht is more affordable than Amsterdam or Utrecht
- Compact, walkable city - most housing within cycling distance of campus
- Register at Maastricht Housing as soon as you receive admission
- Border location means you can also look for housing in nearby Belgian or German towns
Remember: the Netherlands has a financial support system for EU students who work alongside their studies. Learn more about financial support here.
FAQ
How does Maastricht Housing work?
Maastricht Housing is the official housing platform for both Zuyd and Maastricht University. Register for a one-time fee of 35 EUR and get access to over 10,000 living spaces - rooms, studios, and shared apartments. The platform is well-organized and specifically designed for students. Register as soon as you receive your admission to start searching early.
Is Maastricht affordable for students?
Maastricht is more affordable than Amsterdam, Utrecht, or The Hague. Student rooms typically cost 400-650 EUR per month. The city's border location is an advantage - you can shop in Belgium or Germany for lower prices on some items. The Burgundian food culture means great restaurants at reasonable prices. Combined with the Dutch financial support system for working students, studying in Maastricht is financially manageable. Learn more about financial support here.
Can I live in Belgium or Germany and study at Zuyd?
Technically yes! Maastricht is right at the border with Belgium and Germany. Some students live in nearby towns like Aachen (Germany) or Liège area (Belgium) where housing can be cheaper. However, most students prefer living in Maastricht itself for the convenience and social life. The city is compact enough that you can walk or cycle to campus from most neighbourhoods.
For complete information about housing at Zuyd, visit the official page.
