Global Challenges for Sustainability
Utrecht University offers this 18-month English-taught master's in Utrecht, ranked #106 by QS World 2025.
What it takes to get in
- English tests
- IELTS 7 · TOEFL iBT 100
- Deadline
- 22 Feb 2027
What it costs
Plan for roughly €38k–€41k per year all-in as a Non-EU student — tuition plus a normal Utrecht student life.
Living in Utrecht →
Rankings
- QS World 2025#106
- QS — Medicine 2025#67
- QS — Law 2025#77
- QS — Computer Science 2025#166
- QS — Business 2025#250
Visa & life in the Netherlands
The practical stuff — what's allowed, what's funded, what to expect after you graduate.
- Student visa
- Non-EU students need a residence permit (VVR), arranged by the university on your behalf. EU students only need to register with the local municipality.
- Post-study work
- Orientation Year (zoekjaar) visa — 12 months to find skilled work after graduation. No employer sponsorship needed during this period.
- Tuition
- Statutory fee around €2,500/yr for EU students; institutional fees for non-EU students typically range €14,000–26,000/yr depending on the field.
- Scholarships
- Holland Scholarship (€5,000), university-specific funds such as the Amsterdam Excellence and Justus & Louise van Effen scholarships, plus Erasmus+ for EU mobility.
About Utrecht University
Common questions
Is Global Challenges for Sustainability at Utrecht University taught in English?
Yes — the programme is taught entirely in English. Non-native speakers need IELTS 7 or TOEFL iBT 100 (minimum).
How much does Global Challenges for Sustainability at Utrecht University cost?
International tuition is €12,000 per year. Over the full 18-month programme that's roughly €18,000 in tuition, before living costs.
What is the acceptance rate at Utrecht University?
Not published. Most European public universities don't release acceptance rates — admission is requirements-based, so if you meet the stated requirements your application gets a full review rather than competing against a fixed quota.
Do I need GRE or GMAT scores?
No — GRE and GMAT scores are not required for this programme.
Can I work in the Netherlands after graduating?
Yes. The Netherlands offers a one-year Orientation Year (zoekjaar) residence permit to graduates of Dutch universities, letting you live and work in the country while looking for a job — no sponsor required during that year.
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is 22 Feb 2027. Deadlines can differ by nationality — confirm on the programme page.
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