Study Abroad in Maastricht, The Netherlands

A Hidden European Treasure at the Crossroads of Culture
Nestled along the scenic Meuse River in the heart of Europe, Maastricht is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city that offers the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. With its cobblestone streets, medieval walls, 17th-century townhouses, and striking contemporary architecture, Maastricht is truly one of the most beautiful and historic cities in the Netherlands—a city where every street corner tells a story.

 

Despite its rich history, Maastricht pulses with youthful energy. Home to Maastricht University and a large international student population, the city is a hub of creativity, culture, and community. From live music and theatre to festivals and film screenings, there’s always something happening here. The cozy cafés, buzzing pubs, and riverside restaurants make it easy to connect with locals and fellow students alike.

 

What makes Maastricht truly unique is its unbeatable location. Situated at the southernmost tip of the Netherlands—just a stroll from Belgium and a short ride to Germany—this city is a springboard for European exploration. Hop on a train, bus, or cheap flight and in no time you'll find yourself in European capitals such as Paris, Amsterdam, or Berlin for the weekend.

 

Maastricht’s extensive green spaces and beautiful parks offer the perfect escape when you need a break from the city buzz, while its picturesque bike paths (some of the best in Europe) invite you to explore every inch of the city and surrounding countryside.

 

Multilingual and multicultural, Maastricht embraces its diversity. You’ll hear Dutch, German, French, English, and local dialects spoken throughout the city, giving it a truly global feel. It’s no wonder students from all over the world come here to learn, grow, and create lifelong memories.

 

In Maastricht, you won’t just study—you’ll live the European experience to its fullest, with beauty, adventure, and connection at every turn.

 

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Academics & Eligibility

Learn about the academic opportunities and requirements for this program.

Semester Course & Credit Information

  • AACSB accredited
  • Language Requirement: None. Classes are taught in English.
  • Possible U.S. Credits: 12-15 semester credits (24-30 ECTS). ECTS = European Credit Transfer System. 2 ECTS = approximately 1 U.S. semester credit. Normal course load is 4-5 classes.
  • Final Transcript: Issued by Maastricht University.
  • Study abroad students will enroll in the Maastricht University Center for European Studies (CES) which offers several academic tracks and integrates study trips with your courses. Study trips are designed to give you real-world applications for what you’re learning in the classroom. 

Summer Course & Credit Information

  • AACSB accredited
  • Language Requirement: None. Classes are taught in English.
  • Possible U.S. Credits: 6 semester credits (12 ECTS). ECTS = European Credit Transfer System. 2 ECTS = approximately 1 U.S. semester credit. Students take 2 courses. Classes are taken with American and other international students.
  • Final Transcript: Issued by Maastricht University.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Minimum GPA 3.0 (Students with a GPA between 2.80-2.99 will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Students with a 2.79 or lower will not be considered.)
  • Language requirement: None. Courses are taught in English.
  • At least 18 years of age
  • Completed at least 2 semesters at a U.S. or Canadian college/university before applying
  • Official Transcript from your college or university. If you have attended more than one institution, you must submit an Official Transcript from each institution. Official Transcript from current institution must show courses currently in progress.
  • One academic letter of recommendation from a professor or study abroad adviser at your college or university
  • Motivation Letter describing your reasons, goals, and desires for studying abroad at Maastricht University. Why were you drawn to this program? Do you have any academic highlights? Minimum of 1500 words, maximum of 3000 words.
  • ASA Application. To start a new application or continue an existing application, click here.
  • Scan of your valid passport that does not expire sooner than 6 months after the day you plan to return home from abroad. A scan of your valid passport is required before you can be accepted into this program. Please submit your passport application by expedited service if you do not have a valid passport.

Course Finder

Semester:

Before choosing your semester courses, review the Maastricht University Semester Course Offerings & Requirements.

  • Students choose one of 5 academic tracks:
    • Business & Economics in Europe
    • Humanities & Social Sciences in Europe
    • Politics, Law & International Relations in Europe
    • Psychology & Neuroscience in Europe
    • Psychology
    • Public Health & Medicine in Europe

  • You MUST have a total of 8 modules (courses) approved by your home institution. This will give you back-ups in case of changes in course availability or schedule conflicts. When you pre-register for classes (this happens after you’re accepted), you will have to list a total of 8 possible modules. Maastricht University will not process your academic enrollment unless you list the required number of courses on your registration form.


Summer:

Students will take 2 courses through this program - 1 from each block. Each course you take comes with a 1-day field trip related to the course. You MUST get a total of 4 courses approved by your home institution (2 from each block). This will give you back-ups in case of changes in course availability or schedule conflicts. When you pre-register for courses (this happens after you’re accepted), you will have to list a total of 4 possible courses (2 selections from each Block). 

 

COURSE OFFERINGS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. 

 

Use the filters above to search for courses or click "View All Courses" to browse available courses on this program.

Costs & Dates

Program pricing and important dates.

Program dates are subject to change. Although date changes are rare, they are typically changes made by the host institution and are, therefore, outside of ASA’s control. If any changes are made to your program dates, ASA is not responsible for fees or losses associated with changing or canceling your plane ticket, additional lodging and other travel costs, etc.

 

Please do not book a plane ticket until you are accepted to an ASA program and receive written notification of your program’s arrival and departure date.

 

* Prices subject to change. Financial aid available.

ASA is a small program, but that’s what makes it so great. The personal attention can’t be beat and I made plenty of friends outside of the group.

Chelsea Francis

I would recommend ASA to other students because not only was it a great price for what you get, but it was so much fun and the site director was great.

Morgan Pecknold

ASA is a very thorough program. It is well organized and structured, yet allows for plenty of independent activity and personal responsibility. There were many times where I felt foreign, but I rarely felt like a tourist. I engaged in the culture with the ASA program, I didn’t just take a picture and a souvenir

Aaron Bannasch

Housing

Your home away from home.

On-Campus Residence Hall

All students live in the Maastricht University residence hall called The Guesthouse. Meals are not included. The residence hall offers dorm-style living with double-occupancy bedrooms. Each hallway has its own kitchen and bathroom facilities, which are shared among the residents. The residence hall houses international students and ASA students. While the building is co-ed, individual hallways are single gender. Internet is included. The Guesthouse is located approximately a 15-minute walk from campus.

Housing FAQs

You may request to live with a friend by emailing ASA at hello@academicstudies.com and we will do our very best to accommodate you. Roommate requests must be mutual, so be sure your friend requests you back. However, Maastricht University is responsible for all hall allocations, so we can't guarantee that you can room with your friend. You'll meet your hall-mates upon arrival; they could be from the U.S., The Netherlands, or other countries.
Yes, rooms are double occupancy.
ASA will notify you of your living arrangements via email approximately 1-2 weeks before the start of your program.
A detailed list of what to bring (and what not to bring) will be included in your ASA pre-departure handbook, which will be emailed to you about a month before your program begins.
Meals are not included, but you'll have kitchen access and grocery stores within walking distance.
The food is great and will be typical of your host country. Be prepared to try new things! If you have any food allergies or dietary needs, please let ASA know as soon as possible and we'll be happy to advise you on your options.
The Guesthouse is located approximately a 15-minute walk from campus.

Excursions

Explore the region with organized trips and cultural activities.

ASA semester programs in Maastricht include 3 overnight excursions. Destinations may vary by term. Past terms have included trips to Berlin, Paris, and other parts of The Netherlands. 

 

Berlin, Germany

Berlin, Germany

Overnight

At the beginning of the semester, students will have the opportunity to explore Berlin. This trip services as both a traveling orientation and as an introduction to traveling Europe! It’s also a great opportunity to get to know the other students in your group.
A Weekend in The Netherlands

A Weekend in The Netherlands

Overnight

Enjoy a weekend getting to know your host country! Students will explore their choice of political or cultural highlights in The Hauge, absorb Dutch culture at the open air museum Zaanse Schans, and bond as a group while creating your very own Delft blue tile.
Paris, France

Paris, France

Overnight

Spend a fun-filled weekend exploring all that the City of Lights has to offer! Indulge in French cuisine, take in the museums and rich architectural beauty, and experience first-hand the enduring charm of this fabulous city.

Experiences

Unique cultural and educational experiences included in your program.

Getting out and exploring on your own is one of the best parts about studying abroad. Here are just a few of the unforgettable experiences you can have abroad with ASA!

 
Get Around by Bike

Get Around by Bike

Explore the streets of Maastricht.
Explore Dutch Cuisine

Explore Dutch Cuisine

Bake your own vlaai - this traditional Dutch treat can be filled with custard or fruit.
Enjoy a Boat Cruise

Enjoy a Boat Cruise

Take a boat cruise along the river for some beautiful city views and photo ops
Explore Maastricht Underground

Explore Maastricht Underground

Take a guided tour of Maastricht underground - a network of underground caves and vaults going back to the 13th century. Originally dug for mines, during WWII they were used to hide munitions, valuable paintings, as well as people who were trying to escape. On the cave walls, people left behind drawings and inscriptions which you can still see today
Try a Stroopwaffle

Try a Stroopwaffle

Enjoy a traditional Dutch stroopwaffle with your morning coffee at a local café - or on top of an ice cream cone!
Bookstore Dominicanen

Bookstore Dominicanen

The famous Bookstore Dominicanen is housed inside a 13th church with amazing vaulted ceilings. The atmosphere is so beautiful and inspiring, you will never want to shop for books anyplace else in the world
Market Square

Market Square

Experience a Wednesday afternoon at the Market Square and try out all the different Dutch foods for sale
Drilanenpunt

Drilanenpunt

Take a 30 minute bus ride to Drielandenpunt – the geographical meeting point of The Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany

Program Inclusions

What's included in your program fee.

What's Included

  • Exclusive "A World of Care" Student Support Suite

  • Housing in residence hall with kitchen facilities and FREE laundry facilities. Meals not included.

  • Tuition for the maximum number of credits or courses indicated on the program course offerings page. Enrolling in more than the maximum number of credits/courses (if permitted by the host institution) will result in an additional fee.

  • Academic Credits: Students who receive pre-approval from their home institution can transfer the credits they earn to their home institution.

  • Official Transcript: Final transcript is issued by Maastricht University. Upon completion of the program, ASA will provide one free shipment of your final transcript to your U.S. institution.

  • Excursions: Semester programs include 3 overnight excursions. Summer programs include 1 day excursion. Locations to be decided.

  • Internet Access: Students will have free Internet access at their host institution and in their program housing.

  • Airport Pick-Up: Group ground transportation is provided from Brussels International (BRU) airport for students who arrive on the official arrival date, by the designated time.

  • Site Director: Students will have an on-site director to assist them with any academic or cultural difficulties they may encounter.

  • Medical Insurance: Comprehensive international medical insurance is included. Click here for details on benefits and coverage.

  • Residence Permit for Programs Over 90 Days

  • Visa Advising: Please click here and scroll down to "Student Visa Information" for details.

  • Pre-Departure Handbook & On-Site Orientation

  • Subscription to Safeture Safety-Enhancing Mobile App

  • Subscription to Mindhamok: a 24-7 service designed to support your mental, physical, and social wellbeing throughout your program. You can find out more about Mindhamok in our Pre-Departure Guide for All Programs

  • $150 Returning Student Credit toward your next ASA Summer program! (Up to 2 Summer programs)
  • $350 Returning Student Credit toward your next ASA Semester program! (Up to 2 Semester programs)

Not Included

  • Round trip airfare and travel expenses to and from the program location.

  • Books, materials, lab fees

  • Local transportation

  • Personal expenses

  • Meals

  • Meals on excursions.

  • Residence Permit, if required.

  • Transportation from the airport if the student does not arrive on the official arrival date by the designated time.

  • Transportation back to the airport at the end of the program.

For academic year students and those enrolling in more than one session, housing, medical insurance, and other ASA services and benefits are not provided during the break between sessions. For academic year students, medical insurance during winter break can be purchased for an additional fee, if it is required to get your visa.

Program Calendar

Important dates and deadlines for this program.

Program dates are subject to change. Although date changes are rare, they are typically changes made by the host institution and are, therefore, outside of ASA's control. If any changes are made to your program dates, ASA is not responsible for fees or losses associated with changing or canceling your plane ticket, additional lodging and other travel costs, etc.

Please do not book a plane ticket until you are accepted to an ASA program and receive written notification of your program's arrival and departure dates.

  1. January 16, 2026

    Arrival and Housing Move-in

    For group airport pick-up, students should arrive at Amsterdam International Airport on Jan. 16. Airport pick-up is before 11 am.
  2. January 17-30, 2026

    Orientation Week

  3. January 21-23, 2026

    Induction Program - Dutch Discovery Trip

  4. Feb. 2

    Classes begin - Block 4

  5. Apr. 3

    Classes end - Block 4

  6. Feb. TBA

    Berlin Cultural Day Trip

  7. Apr. 6

    Classes begin - Block 5

  8. Apr. TBA

    Paris Cultural Weekend

  9. June 5 or 12 (depending on course selection)

    Classes end - Block 5

  10. Jun. 6 or 13 (depending on course selection)

    Housing move-out; students depart

  1. June 19, 2026

    Arrival and Housing Move-in

    For group airport pick-up, students should arrive at TBA on Jun. 19 Airport pick-up is before 11 am.
  2. TBA

    Orientation

  3. June 19, 2026

    Classes begin - Block 1

  4. Jul. 10

    Classes end - Block 1

  5. Jul. 10

    Classes begin - Block 2

  6. Jul. 31

    Classes end - Block 2

  7. Aug. 1

    Housing move-out; students depart

Accessibility & Inclusion

We are committed to making study abroad accessible to all students.

Diversifying study abroad is a priority for ASA. If you have questions or concerns about how any of your identities may impact your study abroad experience, please contact us.

 

  • Culture & Ethnicity

  • Disability Accommodation

  • Food & Diet

  • Financial Aid & Money Matters

  • First Generation

  • Gender Identity & Sexuality

  • Mental Health

  • Non-traditional Students

  • Religion

Ready to Apply?

Take the next step in your study abroad journey. Contact our team to learn more about our programs and start your application today.

Apply Now