Study in Netherlands

Study in Netherlands offers international students access to a high-quality education system with over 2,100 English-taught programs across various levels. The country is known for its innovative teaching methods that emphasize interactive learning, critical thinking, and practical application, so Immigration to Netherlands is a wise decision.

With 13 universities consistently ranking in the global top 200, the Netherlands attracts around 12% international students in its higher education population. The academic year typically runs from September to June/July.

Key highlights about study in Netherlands:

• Affordable tuitions
• Safe and multicultural environment (95% of locals speak English)
• Efficient public transportation
• Post-study work opportunities

Netherlands Education System

The Dutch higher education system is divided into two main types:

1. Research universities (focusing on theoretical knowledge and research, offering three-year bachelor’s and one- or two-year master’s)
2. Universities of applied sciences (emphasizing practical, profession-oriented learning with four-year bachelor’s degrees, including internships)
3. University colleges for liberal arts-style education

The system promotes student-centered learning, with small class sizes and access to modern facilities. Programs are accredited by the NVAO, ensuring quality. The academic calendar is semester-based, with options for study abroad or internships.

➜ Bachelor’s Degree

• Duration:
  • 3 years (research universities)
  • 4-5 years (applied sciences)
• Entrance exam: None for most; selection for Numerus Fixus (e.g., exams, interviews)
• SAT and ACT requirements: SAT/ACT for some internationals; 1100+ SAT for UAS if diploma doesn’t match
• Possibility of studying in English: Yes, over 180 programs
• Language score: IELTS 6.0-7.0; TOEFL 80-100; Cambridge C1 Grade C+
• Number of course units:
  • 180 ECTS (3-year)
  • 240 ECTS (4-year)
• Cost: Non-EU: €6,000-€20,000/year; EU: €2,530.
• Prerequisites: Equivalent diploma (VWO/HAVO); funds; insurance.

Bachelor’s emphasize interactive learning; research universities for theory, UAS for practice with internships. Affordable, innovative, with post-study work options.

➜ Master’s Degree

• Duration: 1-2 years
• Entrance exam: None typically; tests for Numerus Fixus
• SAT and UAS requirements: Not applicable; work experience for UAS
• Possibility of studying in English: Yes, over 1,600 programs
• Language score: IELTS 6.5-7.0; TOEFL 90-100; Cambridge C1 Grade B+
• Number of course units:
  • 60 ECTS (1-year)
  • 120 ECTS (2-year)
• Cost: Non-EU: €8,000-€20,000/year; EU: €2,530
• Prerequisites: Relevant Bachelor’s, motivation/CV; funds/insurance

Master’s focus on research/practice; strong industry ties in tech/sustainability. English-dominant, with job market access via visas.

➜ PhD Degree

• Duration: 4+ years (full-time employee)
• Entrance exam: None; proposal/interviews
• SAT and UAS requirements: Not applicable (research universities only)
• Possibility of studying in English: Yes, most programs
• Language score: IELTS 6.5; TOEFL 90
• Number of course units: Not ECTS-based; research-focused
• Cost: Often free/salaried (€2,500-€3,000/month); €5,000-€15,000 for self-funded
• Prerequisites: Relevant Master’s, proposal, supervisor

PhDs as paid jobs with research/teaching; English theses, funding via grants. Competitive, globally recognized in innovation fields.

Best Universities in Netherlands

 3. University colleges

1. University College Utrecht
   •  Rank: =103 (parent Utrecht University)
   •  City: Utrecht
2. Amsterdam University College
   •  Rank: 53 (parent University of Amsterdam)
   •  City: Amsterdam
3. Leiden University College The Hague
   •  Rank: =119 (parent Leiden University)
   •  City: The Hague
4. University College Roosevelt
   •  Rank: =103 (parent Utrecht University)
   •  City: Middelburg
5. Erasmus University College
   •  Rank: =140 (parent Erasmus University Rotterdam)
   •  City: Rotterdam

❓ How to Choose the Best University in the Netherlands?

Choosing the best university in the Netherlands as an international student involves evaluating several key factors tailored to your academic goals, lifestyle preferences, and practical needs. With over 50 higher education institutions offering more than 2,100 English-taught programs, the process can be streamlined by following these steps:

1. Define Your Study Goals and Preferences
2. Research Rankings and Reputation
3. Evaluate Location and Student Life
   1. City vibe and cost of living
   2. Campus facilities and support
4. Assess Admission and Eligibility
5. Factor in Costs, Funding, and Career Prospects
   1. Tuition and living costs
   2. Post-study opportunities
6. Gather Insights and Make a Decision

Best Student City (Students Hubs)

The Netherlands is home to several excellent student cities, attracting over 90,000 international students annually. These hubs combine academic excellence, vibrant social scenes, efficient public transport, and multicultural environments where 95% of locals speak English.

Key cities include:

• Amsterdam: Rated 3.61/5 but QS global #20; capital with the University of Amsterdam.
  • Pros: Museums, canals, nightlife, and multinational companies.
  • Cons: High costs (€1,000-1,500/month), tourist crowds. Cosmopolitan for humanities/business, despite lower local satisfaction due to expenses.
• Leiden: Rated 3.70/5; scientific center with Leiden University (Europe’s oldest).
  • Pros: Individual attention, research quality; near Amsterdam/The Hague.
  • Cons: Accommodation shortages. Excellent for law/psychology, with English options.
• Rotterdam: Rated 4.04/5; multicultural port city with Erasmus University (top 100 worldwide).
  • Pros: Modern architecture, electronic music, diverse community.
  • Cons: Less traditional Dutch feel. Strong for business/governance internationals.
• Utrecht: Rated 4.15/5; central hub with Utrecht University (Nobel laureates).
  • Pros: Cultural events, terraces; easy nationwide access.
  • Cons: Underrated globally. Vibrant for arts/sciences internationals.
• Delft: Rated 4.20/5; picturesque canals with TU Delft (top 15 globally for engineering).
  • Pros: Historic charm, industry links.
  • Cons: Small size limits variety. Highly international for tech/architecture.
• Eindhoven: Rated 4.29/5; tech innovation center with Eindhoven University of Technology.
  • Pros: Start-up scene, Dutch Design Week; cheap airport flights.
  • Cons: Housing challenges. Perfect for STEM students, all courses in English.

Work While Study in Netherlands

Your Student Residence Permit allows you to work, but with restrictions:

• You may work a maximum of 16 hours per week during the academic year
• You can work full-time during the summer months (June, July, and August)
• Your employer must apply for a separate work permit (TWV) for you
• Working as a self-employed person is permitted without a TWV

Scholarships in Netherlands

The Netherlands offers numerous scholarships for international students, particularly non-EU/EEA, to offset tuition (typically €6,000–€30,000/year for non-EU) and living costs. Many are merit-based, with deadlines often February–May for September intake. Over 100 options exist via government, universities, and organizations like Nuffic. Key ones for 2025/2026 include:

❓ Study in Netherlands for Free: Is This Possible?

Studying in the Netherlands isn’t entirely free for most international students, but it’s affordable compared to the US/UK, with options to minimize costs through scholarships and low fees for eligible groups.

• EU/EEA/Swiss students, statutory tuition is just €2,601/year (2025/2026), often covered by grants/loans via DUO, making it nearly free with part-time work.
• Non-EU/EEA students face €6,000–€30,000/year tuition (recent 50% hikes at some unis to €24,000), but full-coverage scholarships like Maastricht’s (€34,000) or OKP can make it effectively free if awarded, covering tuition.

Apply to a University in the Netherlands (Admission)

Step 1
Research and Choose Program

• Use platforms like Study in NL’s Studyfinder or Mastersportal
• Check if the program is at a research university (WO, theoretical) or a university of applied sciences (HBO/UAS, practical)
• Determine tuition fees
• Explore scholarships and assess visa needs

Step 2
Prepare Required Documents

• Valid passport/ID copy
• Passport photos
• High school diploma/transcripts (for Bachelor’s) or Bachelor’s degree/transcripts (for Master’s)
• Proof of language proficiency
• Motivation letter/personal statement (500-800 words)
• CV/resume
• Proof of application fee payment (€50-100, if required)
• Optional/additional: Sample academic work, GMAT/GRE for business programs. For non-EU: Also prepare financial proof and health insurance for visa.

Step 3
Register and Apply via Studielink

• Create a Studielink account (www.studielink.nl)
• Select up to 4 programs (changeable before deadlines).
• Submit your enrollment request
• For numerus fixus: Apply by January 15, 2025 (23:59 CET); selection occurs January 15-April 15, with ranking notified April 15
• For regular programs: Apply by May 1, 2025 (non-EU, to allow visa time); some unis have February/March deadlines, apply by mid-April latest
• If the program isn’t in Studielink (rare for internationals), apply directly via the university’s portal

Step 4
Complete University-Specific Application

• After Studielink, log in to the university’s online portal to upload documents and complete forms.
• For selective programs: Submit essays, interviews, or tests
• Pay any application fee
• Track your status in Studielink and the university portal

Step 5
Receive Decision and Accept Offer

• Universities notify via Studielink/email
• For numerus fixus: Accept within 2 weeks of April 15 offer; if not selected initially, wait for possible spots from declines
• Pay tuition (first installment) to confirm enrollment
• If rejected, apply to alternatives (Studielink allows changes)

Step 6
Handle Visa, Housing, and Final Preparations

• Non-EU/EEA: University applies for your MVV entry visa/residence permit (€207 fee); provide docs like acceptance letter, finances, and insurance
• Arrange health insurance: EU use EHIC; non-EU buy Dutch policy (~€100-160/month)
• Secure housing early (university halls or private via platforms like Kamernet)
• Upon arrival: Register at the municipality for a BSN number; non-EU collect a residence permit
• Enroll officially before classes start (September)

Visa and Residence Options

A study stay in the Netherlands for international students is primarily regulated by the Student Residence Permit (VVR for study) and, for certain nationalities, an initial entry visa called the Provisional Residence Permit (MVV).

Final Note

The Netherlands offers international students a highly attractive study experience characterized by world-class universities and an exceptionally international setting. Key benefits include:

• Academic Excellence: Dutch universities frequently rank in global top 100 lists, and the education system is noted for its innovative, student-centered approach that focuses on practical skills, teamwork, and critical thinking.
• English Proficiency: The Netherlands offers the most English-taught programs in continental Europe, and over 95% of the Dutch population speaks English, making it one of the easiest non-Anglophone countries for international students to navigate daily life.
• Career Opportunities: The country’s strong economy and thriving start-up scene offer excellent post-study prospects. The Orientation Year residence permit ($\text{Zoekjaar}$) grants graduates one year of unrestricted access to the labor market to find a job or start a business, facilitating a transition to a long-term professional career.
• Multicultural Society: The culture is generally open, tolerant, and welcoming, creating a rich and inclusive environment for students from over 160 different countries.

FAQs