Matching and the Study Choice Check (Studiekeuzecheck) in the Netherlands

What matching is

For non-selective Dutch programmes (those without a cap), applicants can take part in a 'matching' step, also called the study choice check (studiekeuzecheck). Its purpose is to help you and the programme check whether the course is a good fit before you start — not to filter applicants out.

Matching is primarily a guidance activity rather than a competitive selection. Generally, applicants who apply on time and meet the entry requirements can enrol; matching simply helps make sure you understand the programme and that it suits your interests and expectations. The exact rules differ per programme, so check the specific programme's page.

What the activity involves

The exact format is set by each programme, but matching commonly includes a questionnaire about your background and motivation, information about the course content and study load, and sometimes a campus day, online session, sample assignment or short task.

For international applicants the activity is often online. It is designed to give you a realistic preview of the programme — what you will study, how it is taught and what is expected — so you can make an informed choice. Check the specific programme's page for its matching format and whether participation is required.

• Often a motivation/background questionnaire plus course information.
• May include a campus or online day, a sample task or a short activity.
• Frequently online for international applicants.
• Format and whether it's required are set per programme — verify on its page.

The advice you receive

After matching, the programme typically gives you a study-choice advice. For applicants who applied on time, this advice is generally non-binding: it might suggest the course is a good fit, or raise points to consider, but it generally does not block you from enrolling if you meet the requirements.

Take the advice seriously even though it is usually not a rejection — it is an early, honest signal about fit that can save you from starting a programme that is not right for you. Note that timing can matter (see below): applying late can change your entitlement to the check and how any advice is treated, so confirm the rules on the official programme page.

Timing relative to the 1 May deadline

Matching is tied to the application timeline for non-selective programmes, which commonly use a 1 May deadline for the September intake. Applying on time generally secures your right to take part in matching; the activity then typically happens in the months before the academic year begins.

Applying after 1 May can affect whether you are entitled to the study choice check and how any advice is treated, so do not rely on a late application. Exact dates, the order of steps and any consequences vary by programme and year — confirm the live deadline and matching schedule on the official programme page and in Studielink so you do not miss a required step.

• Non-selective programmes commonly use a ~1 May application deadline — verify.
• Applying on time generally protects your entitlement to the study choice check.
• Late applications can change the rules — confirm on the official programme page.

How matching differs from numerus fixus selection

Matching and numerus fixus selection are different things and apply to different programmes. Matching is for non-selective programmes: it is mainly guidance, the advice is generally non-binding for on-time applicants, and qualified on-time applicants can usually enrol. Numerus fixus is for capped programmes: it is a competitive process with a strict 15 January deadline, applicants are ranked, and only those high enough on the ranking are admitted.

If your programme is capped, you go through the numerus fixus process (and are ranked); if it is not capped, you go through matching (and receive study-choice advice). Check whether your chosen programme is numerus fixus on its official page so you follow the right process and deadline.