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This information applies for students who wish to start their pre-Master’s programme in September 2026.

Who can apply?

A pre-Master's Programme is only available for graduated hbo (ľ¹Ï¸£ÀûÓ°ÊÓ of Applied Science) students with a relevant Dutch educational background who do not need housing, and who do not have or require a residence permit for study purposes. When in doubt about your residence permit, you can send an email to Utrecht ľ¹Ï¸£ÀûÓ°ÊÓ's Admissions Office, including a copy of both sides of the permit. Do not forget to state clearly that you are referring to a pre-Master’s programme.

New focus of study

The pre-Master’s programme was developed for highly motivated students with a Dutch ‘hbo’ (college) degree in Economics or another relevant ‘hbo’-programme with a substantial link to Economics and Finance. For most ‘hbo’ students this will be a new focus of study, meaning that it is not directly aligned with the courses you have already completed, in terms of either content or working methods. You will need to bridge some gaps in a number of different areas in terms of methodology, knowledge and academic orientation (research elective).

Entry requirements

The pre-master’s programme has strict and specific entry requirements. 

Content

The pre-Master's programme is an English taught, 45 ECTS programme spread over one year and includes the following courses:

The pre-Master’s programme starts in the first week of September. 

Progress Requirements and Refund Policy

The pre-Master’s programme must be concluded in one year. Students who do not pass a course after the retake opportunity will not be allowed to continue in the programme. 
If the Board of Studies decides that you must discontinue your studies due to insufficient progress, you will receive a proportional refund. Please note that you are not eligible for a (partial) refund if you decide to discontinue the pre-Master’s programme on your own initiative after it has started.

Tuition Fees pre-Master’s programme

 on the tuition fees for pre-Master students.

Questions?

If you have questions about the pre-Master’s programme, please contact the Graduate School of Economics by email.