Universiteit Leiden

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Bilingualism

The University aims to be bilingual, and provides its information in Dutch and English wherever possible. This has consequences for the information provided on the University websites.

In most cases, information on the web is provided in both languages. In some cases, a translation of the header and a note saying that the item is only available in one language with a link to the page in that language will suffice. In general, the language used depends on the target group. Information for the general public is always provided in Dutch and whenever possible in English.

Content and preferred language

These are the types of content together with the preferred language:

  • Event

    If the event will be held in Dutch or English only, the full text does not need to be in both languages. The translation of the header and possibly the lead will suffice.
  • Research dossiers

    Research dossiers are always provided in Dutch and English.
  • Policy information about research

    Policy information on research is always provided in Dutch and English.
  • Research programmes (according to SEP)

    • Information for the general public is provided in Dutch and in English. This therefore means the introduction.
    • Information for peers is provided in one or both languages, depending on the discipline.
  • Research descriptions

    • Information for the general public is provided in both languages. This means the first paragraph.
    • Information for peers is provided in one or both languages, depending on the discipline.
  • International students and staff

    Information about the Netherlands and practical matters and procedures (accommodation, visa, residence permit, insurance) is provided in English only.
  • News articles

    News articles are always provided in Dutch. If they are also of interest to an international audience, they are translated into English.

The link to a page in another language must be provided in the language in question. So: more information is available in Dutch and meer informatie is beschikbaar in het Engels.

Try not to mix languages

It is not a good idea to mix Dutch and English information on a single web page. Most Dutch visitors will be able to read a mixture of Dutch and English, but a mixture of Dutch and English information makes the page unclear to international visitors.

English usage

The University uses British English. English translations are available of the terminology used at the University and in the academic world.

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