Observership at Erasmus MC

An observership at Erasmus MC offers international medical students and healthcare professionals the opportunity to gain insight into clinical practice within one of Europe's leading academic medical centres. By observing healthcare teams in their daily work, participants can learn more about the Dutch healthcare system, multidisciplinary collaboration, and the organisation of patient care in a university hospital setting. 

Observerships are designed for educational purposes and provide valuable exposure to a clinical specialty without direct involvement in patient care. They can be an excellent way to explore a field of interest, gain international experience, and exchange knowledge with healthcare professionals and fellow trainees from around the world. 

Eligibility and Duration 

Observership opportunities are available to a limited number of participants from partner institutions and through approved exchange programmes. 

Please note that: 

• Observers are not permitted to provide patient care or perform clinical activities; 
• Participation is limited to observation of clinical practice and educational activities; 
• The duration of an observership varies by department and is subject to availability; 
• Additional department-specific requirements may apply; 
• Participants may be required to complete health screening and administrative procedures before the start of the observership. 

As places are limited, requests are assessed on a case-by-case basis and placements cannot be guaranteed. 

Available Departments 

Below you will find an overview of the departments that may offer observership opportunities for international visitors. Availability varies throughout the year and depends on departmental capacity and supervision possibilities. 

We encourage prospective participants to review the available departments and eligibility requirements carefully before submitting a request. 

Application process

The application process consists of the following steps:

Step 1 – Submit your internship request
Complete the online application form and provide all required information about your proposed internship, home institution, and funding arrangements.

Step 2 – Availability check by Erasmus MC
After receiving your application, Erasmus MC will review your request and check whether a suitable placement is available within the requested department and period.

Step 3 – Request for supporting documents
If a placement is available and your application can be considered further, you will be contacted by the International Office and asked to submit the required supporting documents (this varies per department).

Step 4 – Submit your documents
Please combine all requested documents into one PDF file and send it by e-mail to the International Office within the specified deadline.

Step 5 – Assessment of your application
Once all required documents have been received, Erasmus MC will assess your application and inform you of the outcome.