Courses at a foreign university

Taking Master's courses at a foreign university (outside the Netherlands) is an optional component of your Master’s programme. However, you must obtain prior approval from the Board of Examiners.

How to request permission


To apply, send an email to the Board of Examiners with the following information:

  • The foreign course you intend to take.
  • Course description or a link to the course website.
  • A link to the website explaining the credit and assessment system of the foreign university.
  • Written approval from your programme coordinator, confirming that there is no overlap with other courses in your Master’s programme.

Make sure to submit your request at least two months before the course starts. The Board of Examiners will respond within six weeks, informing you whether the course can be included in your programme and specifying the number of credits awarded.

Registration of course results

Upon completion, the foreign university must send your Transcript of Records directly to the Board of Examiners. The transcript will state whether you passed, and the foreign university will indicate the passing grade.

The Board of Examiners will convert the foreign grade into a Pass/Fail result, while also recording the original grade and assessment scale in Osiris. These details will appear on your International Diploma Supplement.

The Board of Examiners will convert the grades of courses taken abroad into a Pass/Fail result, while also recording the original grade and assessment scale in Osiris. These details will appear on your International Diploma Supplement, which includes a link to the Nuffic website  for information about the education systems and grading scales of international universities.

Follow online courses from foreign universities (CHARM)

Would you like to gain international experience at a university abroad (without an in-person exchange)? Through the CHARM-EU alliance, it is possible to take online courses at partner universities across Europe. You can earn credits for the courses (provided you have prior approval from your examination board).