Admission

PhD candidates at Leiden University must be admitted to one of its Graduate Schools. The admission procedure varies between Graduate Schools. General information about PhD admission you will find on the PhD admissions page. There are different forms of studying for a PhD. And you may choose to do a double doctorate at Leiden University.

Living in Leiden or The Hague

Apartments are available in Leiden and The Hague for PhD candidates at Leiden University who are looking for accommodation. 

Studying for a PhD

You have chosen to do a PhD at Leiden University. What do you need to know when your start studying for a PhD? Read more about:

• the admission procedure
• PhD regulations
• PhD guidelines that lay down the minimal requirements for the supervision, training and available facilities for PhD candidates
• training and supervision plan
• courses and training programmes for PhD candidates
• submission and defence of your dissertation
• role of the supervisor
• role of the dean
• dissertation layout requirements
• PhD candidate networking
• PhD introductory meeting

Publishing your doctoral dissertation

To submit your doctoral dissertation you have to meet certain requirements. For instance, you have to complete two forms: form V (online) and form VI (print). Here you will read the steps to submit your preliminary dissertation. After publication Strategic Communication and Marketing (SC&M) at Leiden University and the press office at Leiden University Medical Center can inform the press about your PhD research. 

PhD ceremony

Your PhD studies culminate in a ceremony. Find out about the PhD ceremony and what is expected of you as a PhD candidate. The PhD ceremony at Leiden University usually takes place in the Senate Chamber of the Academy Building.

Job market exploration

We advise you to already start thinking about your further career in the third year of your PhD programme. Important steps you can take is to visit the PhD Career Platform, and get individual advice from a career coach. If you dream of an academic career after your PhD, a postdoc job is the logical choice. Some faculties offer talented researchers who have a PhD and wish to specialise further the opportunity of a research fellowship.

University doctor, psychologist and Confidential Counsellor

Unfortunately, during your PhD you may experience psychological difficulties. Or you may face other problems, for instance with your supervisor. The university doctor and the Confidential Counsellor for PhD students offer support.