How to prepare for the Hotel Management School Maastricht selection

During your application for Hotel Management School Maastricht, you'll need to successfully navigate the two-phased selection procedure.  We understand that this procedure can be tensive, so we have listed the following tips to help you prepare for the selection procedure. 

Phase 1 - online portfolio

After registering in Studielink, you’ll gain access to our online portal. At your own pace, you will complete a portfolio with the required documents. Make sure you know which documents are required and have these prepared. You can find them on the webpage of admission and selection.  

Tips for the first phase: 

• Check that you meet the admission requirements. Subject package and language criteria apply. Make sure to meet them.
• Register in Studielink. Registration opens on 1 October 2026. Don’t forget — this is your first step!
• Reach A2 level in your additional language. This shows your readiness for our multilingual curriculum. 
• Gain hospitality experience. A summer job, internship, or volunteering is a good way to do so. This can be ideally in a hospitality setting, in your own country or abroad. 
• Collect valid proof of your strengths. Think about language certificates, diplomas, awards, leadership roles, or other special accomplishments. Make sure everything is documented and easy to upload when you get started on your portfolio.
• Practise your basic numerical skills. Brush up on percentages, ratios, linear equations, and basic algebra. We recommend Khan Academy’s foundational maths.
• Reflect on your motivation. Why do you want to study hospitality? And why do you choose for HMSM? Be ready to express your goals clearly and personally. 
• Explore the hospitality industry. Read articles, watch videos, listen to podcasts. Follow global trends, innovations, and stories from the industry. 
• Understand HMSM's study programme and values. What makes us different? Think about how your personality, goals, and values align with our learning community. 
• Think about who could recommend you.  A teacher, coach, employer… Start identifying who knows you well and could support your application. You don’t have to ask them to write anything yet — once you are in the selection procedure we will provide a form.  

Phase 2 - Selection Friday

Did you pass the first selection round? Congratulations! If your online portfolio has a positive review and a high enough rank, you will move on to the next phase. You will receive an invitation for the Selection Friday. 

This day consists of a test to assess your numeracy skills, a group assignment with an innovative business challenge, and a reflection assignment and individual interview with assessors. During this day we will check whether there is a good match between you and the study programme of Hotel Management. 

Tips for the Selection Friday  

• Make sure to read your invitation beforehand, so you have all the necessary information, you know where to be and at what time.   
• Be sincere and open during your personal interview. 
• Dress representative, make sure your outfit is clean and fitting for HMSM. 
• Be yourself! 

Good luck!

Best of luck with your application! To ensure you meet all the requirements, please visit our selection and admission page. You'll find all the practical information you need to apply for Hotel Management School Maastricht, including the selection procedure dates. We hope to see you soon during our selection procedure or at one of our open days!