The Utrecht Summer School, founded in 1986 by Utrecht University, is the largest academic summer programme in the Netherlands and is one of the biggest summer schools in Europe. It is characterised by its strong academic courses covering a wide range of subjects. In 1986, Utrecht Summer School started with one course: Dutch Culture and Society. Nowadays, 37 years on, the summer school has developed a broad selection of about 150 courses in many different disciplines.

Who can apply?

The Utrecht University Summer School is open to undergraduate and postgraduate taught students only. Postgraduate Research students are excluded from this offer.

Courses offered

Utrecht University Summer School offer the following courses with a full fee waiver: European Politics and Economy European Cultures and Identities The Making of Europe: From Middle Ages to Modernity The Golden Age of Dutch Art Dutch Culture: Society and Current Issues Dutch Art from Van Gogh to Mondrian The 20th Century: Europe in Three Wars More detailed information on these courses can be found in the link below. Students can take opt to take additional courses from the full course offering, however, they will need to self-fund for the additional course, and will receive a 10% discount on selected courses.

Programme dates

The programme dates are as follows: European Politics and Economy: Monday 6th July 2026 - Friday 17th July 2026 European Cultures and Identities: Monday 6th July 2026 - Friday 17th July 2026 The Making of Europe: From Middle Ages to Modernity: Monday 20th July 2026 - Friday 31st July 2026 The Golden Age of Dutch Art: Monday 20th July 2026 - Friday 31st July 2026 Dutch Culture: Society and Current Issues: Monday 3rd August 2026 - Friday 14th August 2026 Dutch Art from Van Gogh to Mondrian: Monday 3rd August 2026 - Friday 14th August 2026 The 20th Century: Europe in Three Wars: Monday 3rd August 2026 - Friday 14th August 2026

Application deadlines

If you wish to apply for a place on the Utrecht University Summer School Programme, you will need to submit your Global Summer Exchange application by 11:59pm on Monday 5th January 2026. If your application is successful, you will be required to apply directly to Utrecht University Summer School by Monday 1st June 2026.

What are the costs?

Housing fee: 200 EUR per week Optional Social Programme fees Students who are successful in their application will receive a tuition fee waiver, but will be responsible for all other costs, including, flights, accommodation, visas, health/medical insurance (if compulsory), living expenses and those listed above.

Accommodation

On-campus accommodation is offered. Please see the Utrecht student housing information webpage for more information.

The information on this web page is accurate for 2026 entry.