Application strategy
RSM IBA and ESE Economics are both numerus fixus programs requiring application via Studielink by January 15. IB students typically need 34+ points with Mathematics at HL or SL (minimum grade 5). A-Level applicants need ABB-AAB depending on program, with Mathematics required for all business and economics tracks. RSM uses a selection procedure evaluating grades, motivation letter, and cognitive ability test rather than a pure lottery. ESE ranks applicants on academic performance and a mathematics assessment. English proficiency at C1 level is required (IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 90+). For competitive programs, demonstrating quantitative aptitude is critical. Non-EU graduates benefit from the Dutch orientation year visa (zoekjaar) allowing 12 months of job searching post-graduation, combinable with the 30-percent ruling tax benefit if employed by a qualifying employer.
Who fits
- Aspiring management consultants and corporate strategists targeting Benelux/EU multinationals
- Quantitative economics and finance students seeking world-class research training via Tinbergen
- International students wanting English-taught business programs with strong European corporate pipelines
- Health economics and policy students leveraging Erasmus MC clinical research environment
- Students seeking affordable top-tier European education with post-graduation work visa access
Who should think twice
- Students targeting US/UK investment banking where LSE, LBS, or Oxbridge carry stronger brand recognition
- Those seeking a traditional historic European university town experience (Rotterdam is modern and industrial)
- Students needing guaranteed campus housing (EUR covers only 25 percent of incoming international students)
- Applicants uncomfortable with selection lotteries and numerus fixus uncertainty in BSc admissions
- Those prioritizing a small intimate liberal arts experience over a large research university setting