FAQ Pre-Master's programmes
Check below the frequently asked questions about the Pre-Master's programmes at the Faculty of Economics and Business.
What are the 30 and 45 EC Pre-Master’s programmes?
These programmes consist of 45 EC max, but have a reduced number of 30 EC credits for HBO students with specific educational background. Check the overview of Pre-Master's programmes.
I want to apply for one of the new 30/45 EC programmes, can I choose myself In Studielink whether I want to do 30 EC or 45 EC?
No, you cannot choose this yourself. When you apply for one of the Pre-Master’s programmes, we will check whether you are eligible for the 30 EC or the 45 EC programme and then send you an offer. Please read the section ‘How to apply’.
I have a Dutch WO Bachelor and want to apply for one of the Pre-Master's programmes. I see that I have to do a programme of 45 EC or less. What does that mean? Can I apply for a 30 EC programme?
For students with an academic Bachelor's, we always start with the 45 EC programme and look individually whether elements of the programme are already covered in your earlier studies. For example, statistics is a course that most Bachelor's students have had adequate training in. You should pro-actively make a request for exemptions by filling in this form, as soon as you have enrolled in Studielink for the Pre-master, but, before July 1st. Clearly indicate the specific Pre-Master's courses (including course codes) you wish to be exempt from with the corresponding courses from your earlier education. Provide adequate information such as course descriptions, course manuals, and your Bachelor's or Master's thesis to support your request
What are the mathematics requirements?
If you are interested in the Pre-MSc Economics or EORAS, your mathematics level will be assessed during your application process.
For all other Pre-MSc programmes we have recommended levels of mathematics that students need to successfully complete the Pre- Master. It is your own responsibility to have the recommended mathematics skills.
For students with an international diploma, the admissions board will look at your mathematics background, so provide clear information about that with your application.
Please check the entry requirements page to find out the Mathematics levels we recommend for the Pre-Master of your choice.
For all students that are uncertain about their mathematics skills we advise to take the FEB spring or summer math course.
Do I need to send an English certificate?
I will obtain an international diploma. Do I have to send an English language proficiency certificate?
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Yes, it is necessary to send proof of your English language proficiency if you have an international degree. The tests and the scores are presented on this page.
Can I get exempted from providing an English language proficiency certificate?
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If you have obtained a Dutch WO or a HBO degree, you are exempted from providing an English language proficiency certificate.
Can I apply with an international diploma?
I am a student with an international diploma degree. Can I apply for a 30 EC programme?
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No, the 30 EC Pre-Master’s variants are only available for students with a Dutch HBO degree from specific study programmes. You might be eligible for the 45 EC variant. Please note that if you have obtained an international diploma, the application procedure is different. You cannot apply directly to the Pre-Master, but you have to first apply to the Master's programme of your choice.
If I am an international student with a Dutch HBO-diploma, can I apply for the Pre-MSc?
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Yes, you can apply to our Pre-Master’s programmes. More information on ‘Dutch diploma -> HBO diploma’.
When will I hear back about my Pre-Master's application?
Students with a Dutch diploma
If you applied for one of the standard Pre-Master’s programmes, the university can only process and assess your application once you have finished your HBO degree or WO degree. For most students, this might mean that their applications will be processed during the summer months. Please note that the deadline to apply for all Pre-master's programmes (September start) is 1 July.
Students with an international diploma
If you have an international diploma, you cannot apply directly to the Pre-Master’s programmes. You have to apply for a regular Master's programme at the Faculty of Economics and Business. Once you have completed your application, it will be reviewed by the Admissions Office and the Admissions Board. Please note that the deadline to apply is 1 May. Assessment for the Master's application may take up to 6 weeks - or longer during the busy application months. If you are eligible for the Pre-Master's, the Admissions Office will inform you by email including the next steps you need to take.
At the moment I am doing a Master's programme at another faculty, can I also follow a Pre-Master's?
Yes, you can. However, you can only participate in Pre-Master’s courses (which are officially Bachelor courses) with a Bachelor enrolment. So if you are not enrolled in a Bachelor's at the University of Groningen, you have to register for the Pre-Master’s through Studielink and you can start per 1 September of the next academic year. If you have a Dutch Master, please also contact the Pre-MSc management to discuss specific entry requirements for you through premsc.feb@rug.nl.
I (partially) completed a similar Pre-Master at another Dutch University, can I get direct access to the Master?
Pre-Master programmes are specifically designed by universities to match their Master programmes. So Pre-Master programmes from other institutions usually do not give direct access to any of our Master programmes. However, you may be eligible for exemptions. Please send an email to premsc.feb@rug.nl to discuss your situation.
Do you have any further questions?
Fill in the contact form and we will help you find the answer.
Last modified: | 28 February 2025 3.27 p.m. |