Frequently asked questions

Below are a few frequently asked questions we receive from incoming and prospective LLM students. If you ever have a question that you are having difficulty finding the answer to, incoming students can email our LLM Study Advisers at LLM rug.nl and prospective students should fill in our information request form.

1. What does GPA mean?
GPA means Grade Point Average. This is the average of all the marks of your LLB. You cumulate all the marks you have, and divide this by the total number of marks. So if you for instance have 8 marks on your transcript of studies (2 sixes, 3 sevens, 1 eight and 2 nines, on a scale of 1 to 10), you will have to take the total of that (59) and divide that by the number of marks you have (8). Your GPA will then be 59 divided by 8, which is 7.3.

2. Are there any scholarship possibilities?
You can check the University of Groningen Grant finder for scholarship possibilities. Additionally, some EU students may qualify for a study loan from the Dutch government if meeting certain criteria.

3. How can I arrange my residence permit?
For full, and up-to-date information about all issues related to necessary permits and visas, please visit the visa and residence permit webpages of the university website, which are maintained by the Immigration Service Desk (ISD)

4. What is the difference between an MVV, a residence permit and a visa?
A (tourist) visa you will need when you stay in the Netherlands for less than three months. The MVV is needed when you stay longer than three months and is an entrance visa. It is a prerequisite for the residence permit.

5. How can I find accommodation?
The University of Groningen does not have a campus, nor offers dormitories for student acommodation. All students are responsible for securing their own accommodation for the duration of their studies. You can find more information and advise about accomodation here.

6. What about health insurance?
For more information about health insurance, please read here.

7. When will I be registered at the University?
Please follow the instructions in the Step-by-step guide for incoming LLM students to register for your studies.

8. How about a bank account?
Living in the Netherlands during your studies will require you to open a Dutch bank account for day-to-day practicalities. Please visit the bank affairs page of the website more information about banking options here in Groningen.

9. How much will the living costs be?
Living expenses for international students can vary based on choice of accommodation and personal preferences and needs. However, you can find a rough estimate of living costs for international students in Groningen here.

10. Can I get a part-time job in Groningen?
Part-time jobs can be hard to find in Groningen, especially when you do not speak Dutch and are only here for a one-year LLM programme. Please keep this in mind while calculating your financial situation for studying. Further information and advice about finding employment can be found here. Enrolled students seeking assistance and advice about employment after graduation can always contact the Careers Services Law.