Most popular questions
When do the language courses start?
To check how many times per year a course starts, please read the ‘fast facts’ section for the language course of your choice. Please see the annual course schedule for more information.
Is there a registration deadline for the language courses?
There is no deadline as such. However, when we have received the maximum number of registrations, you can sign up for the waiting list. Therefore it is best not to wait too long. Most courses tend to fill up quickly.
My university schedule overlaps with my language course.
If your UM timetable overlaps with your language class, send an email to languagecentre@maastrichtuniversity.nl. We will do our best to put you in another time slot of the same course (provided there is more than one group and there are places available).
Can I switch levels after the start, if the course is too easy or difficult?
Usually not. Therefore, it is important to test your level before you register for a language course. You can find all relevant information regarding the course level check procedure here.
How can I cancel my registration?
You can only cancel your registration in writing (via email). We charge:
- €30 if you cancel more than 30 days before the start date
- 50% of the course fee if you cancel 7 to 30 days before the start date
- 100% of the course fee if you cancel fewer than 7 days before the course start or drop out during the course.
If you are entitled to reimbursement after settling the fee mentioned above, we will transfer the amount to your bank account.
General Information
Are the courses offered online or on campus?
The majority of our courses are offered on campus. When a specific course is taught online, it is indicated on the course page.
Are the lessons offered in a hybrid format?
All on-campus classes are fully in person; a hybrid format is not offered.
Will online lessons be recorded?
No, the classes can only be attended live.
Do you need a laptop or tablet with internet access to attend the lessons?
Yes, our teachers use online exercises and an online learning environment. Every UM building offers free Wi-Fi for guests.
Are the course exams online?
No, only in case of an online course the course exams are also online.
Is attendance required during your courses?
Yes, our courses have an attendance requirement. Please check the specific course page for the correct information. You will receive more information about this during the first lesson. If you are unable to attend a meeting due to health reasons, please report this to your language teacher.
What platforms do the online courses use?
This depends on the course. We often make use of Teams and/or Canvas (the UM online learning management system).
Who can take a test or course at the Language Centre?
Our courses, workshops, and tests are developed for adults (18+). This way, we can ensure that the content, teaching style, and learning environment meet the expectations of our main audience.
Course registration
How can I register?
At the bottom of the specific course pages, you can find our current course offer. Click on the course of your choice and on the next page, click on 'register'.
Is there a registration deadline for the language courses?
There is no deadline as such. However, when we have received the maximum number of registrations, you can sign up for the waiting list. Therefore it is best not to wait too long. Most courses tend to fill up quickly.
When do the language courses start?
To check how many times per year a course starts, please read the ‘fast facts’ section for the language course of your choice. Please see the annual course schedule for more information.
Can I switch levels after the start, if the course is too easy or difficult?
This is usually not possible. Therefore, it is important to test your level before you register for a language course. You can find all relevant information regarding the course level check here.
I want to switch to a different timeslot.
This is only possible before the starting date and only if there are places left in the group of your choice. You can check on the website which groups still have available spots (this is the case when you can still sign up for the course and not only for the waiting list). You can send your request to languagecentre@maastrichtuniversity.nl and state your preferred course, level and day/time.
Course information
Do I need to buy books for my course?
In the individual course description on the website, you can find the books required. One week before the start of your course, we will remind you about this via email. The costs for the books are not included in the course fee unless otherwise stated.
Where can I order my books?
You can buy the books at an online web shop or at the Dominicanen book store (Dominicanerkerkstraat 1) in Maastricht.
Do I need a paper book or can I use an eBook instead?
When eBooks are available, it is mentioned on the website.
What language will my course be taught in?
We aim at all times to deliver our courses and materials in the target language (i.e. the language you want to learn). This helps you better connect with the language and increase your communicative competence. English is used at all times in English courses, while in other courses limited English or Dutch explanations can be given where necessary. For Arabic, Chinese, and Russian, the course material is also in English; this means you must have B1 knowledge of English if you want to take a language course at the Language Centre.
How many participants are in each group?
In general, a minimum of 8 participants is needed to start, and there is a maximum of 14. For specifics please check the individual course description.
Where do the lessons take place?
Most courses take place in one of the UM buildings in the inner city of Maastricht. If a course takes place elsewhere, this is mentioned on the specific course page and upon registration. You will receive the precise location via email a week before the start of the course.
My university schedule overlaps with my language course.
If your UM timetable overlaps with your language class, send an email to languagecentre@maastrichtuniversity.nl. We will do our best to put you in another time slot of the same course (provided there is more than one group and there are places available).
I will miss the first session. Can I join another course for just once?
Unfortunately, joining another class for just one meeting is not possible. If you are taking a Dutch course, you can find your homework for the next class in the study guide. For other language courses, please contact your teacher about possible homework.
What is the deadline for the scholarship application?
Maastricht University currently offers UM students a limited amount of scholarships for an Advanced Dutch (B2 or C1minus), or a German & French (B2 or B2plus) language course. If you meet all the requirements, and if you are selected for a scholarship, the course fee will be reimbursed within one month after completion of the course. There is no deadline as such but the number of scholarships is limited and we work on a first come, first serve base.
Course cancellation
How can I cancel my registration?
You can only cancel your registration in writing (via email). We charge:
- €30 if you cancel more than 30 days before the start date
- 50% of the course fee if you cancel 7 to 30 days before the start date
- 100% of the course fee if you cancel fewer than 7 days before the course start or drop out during the course.
If you are entitled to reimbursement after settling the fee mentioned above, we will transfer the amount to your bank account.
What if the Language Centre cancels my course?
We need a minimum number of participants for each course to go ahead. If too few people have registered, we may cancel the course. We will inform you about this by email at least a week before it is due to start and reimburse your course fee. Please note that it can take a few days to process the reimbursement of the fee, so it may not be visible on your bank account immediately.
Course level check (how to check your level)
How do I know which level is best for me?
To determine your language proficiency and to make sure you sign up for the correct course, we advise you to do a course level check as soon as possible and before registering. You can find all information regarding the different language tests here.
Why do I need a course level check? (for all advanced courses)
The aim of the course level check is to determine your language level so that we can place you in the correct course. The meeting takes place online and is free of charge. You will meet with one of our teachers for 10 to 15 minutes and talk about your experience with the language and your learning goals. You may also be asked to take a brief test.
Is a course level check compulsory? (for all advanced courses)
Yes, unless stated otherwise in the individual course description. However, you will not need a course level check if you:
- passed the previous level at the Language Centre less than one year ago. If it has been longer than one year, we advise you have an intake, especially if your knowledge has improved.
- can provide a certificate from a course taken elsewhere to prove that you have the correct level.
Fees and payment
How much do the courses cost?
The fee is different for each course. Please check the individual course descriptions. Language courses as part of your study program are funded by your faculty. Check directly with your Office of Student Affairs (OSA)
How do I pay the course fee?
You will need to pay the course fee upon registration. Our website allows you to pay via iDEAL, bank transfer, Bancontact, Creditcard or PayPal.
My UM department/faculty is paying for my course. How can I register?
You can register via our website. When you have reached the payment webpage, you can select 'My organisation pays' and then select 'UM employees'. Make sure to fill in the requested information (P-number, budget number/WBS, name budget holder and department). Our financial department will take it from there.
My employer/authority is paying for my course. How can I register?
You can register via our website. When you have reached the payment webpage, you can select 'My organisation pays' and then select 'other'. Make sure to fill in the requested information (company name, address, contact person, VAT number, chamber of commerce no. etc.). Our financial department will send an invoice to your employer once it's certain that the course starts (this is decided one week before the start of the course).
Can I pay the course fee in instalments?
Unfortunately not. You must pay the full course fee at once.
Miscellaneous
Can the Language Centre help me to get a visa?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to get a visa when taking a language course. We do not offer long-term intensive courses and as such, are not entitled (i.e. we are not authorized by the immigration authorities) to issue letters of invitation or to assist in any other way to obtain a visa for the Netherlands.
Do you also offer IELTS courses?
At the moment we do not offer IELTS group courses. We do offer individual coaching to prepare you for the IELTS exam. Please note that the IELTS exam can only be taken with an official IELTS examination centre (which the UM Language Centre is not). For more information regarding individual coaching, please have a look at this webpage: https://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/education/tailor-made-language-course-individual-or-group.
How will I know if I passed the course?
You will receive a certificate via email after the course has finished and all grades have been processed. This might take a few weeks. In case you did not pass the course, your teacher will inform you.
Will the ECTS appear on my degree transcript?
As all UM faculties/schools have their own policy, you will need to address the examination board of your faculty (or home university, in the case of exchange students).
I want to learn Dutch as part of the ‘inburgeringstraject’/I have a DUO loan.
For more information on civic integration please go to: https://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/support/language-support-services/dutch-immigrants
Do you also offer private lessons?
Yes, we also offer (online) individual coaching or tailor-made (group) courses (e.g. for companies) tailored to your wishes. For more (contact) details, please have a look at the information here: https://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/education/tailor-made-language-course-individual-or-group
I need proof of my language proficiency (e.g. for study abroad)
It is possible to have your language proficiency tested in several different languages. For more detailed information, the costs and to make an appointment, please look here: https://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/support/services-and-facilities/language-support/evidence-language-proficiency