The University Council of the IUR is a participatory organ based on the Dutch Higher Education and Scientific Research Act.

The Executive Board gives the University council the opportunity at least twice a year to discuss the general affairs within the university. The Council has the authority to introduce all the affairs concerning the University to inform, and communicate its opinions to the Executive Board. The council meets once a month on a regular basis. The council has advisory rights. The purpose of this council is to promote the orderly conduct of affairs within the University. The councils may discuss all matters pertaining to the University. The councils also have the task of considering within the framework of the University the visions and interests of the personnel. The council has the right of approval with regard to the University plan, the educational and research capacity of the University, and the regulations for management and administration, the rules with regard to welfare, safety, and health.

The university council consists of 13 members. These are chosen from the academic staff (5), the auxiliary and management staff (3), and the students (5).