Study in Netherlands
Looking for a country that combines world-class education with a vibrant, multicultural lifestyle? The Netherlands is one of Europe’s most popular study destinations, offering thousands of English-taught programmes, strong career pathways, and a welcoming environment for international students.
Why Students Choose the Netherlands?
The Netherlands offers an ideal mix of academic quality, global exposure, and career relevance.
English-Taught Programmes:
One of Europe’s leaders in English-taught Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees across disciplines.Innovative Education Style:
Strong focus on problem-solving, group work, critical thinking, and practical application.Strong Global Rankings:
Dutch universities consistently rank high in business, engineering, social sciences, and technology.Career-Oriented Economy:
Home to multinational companies, startups, and Europe’s largest logistics hubs.International Environment:
Highly multicultural, inclusive, and welcoming for international students.
Intakes in Netherlands
September Intake (Primary)
- Applications open: October
- Deadlines: January 15 (Selective programmes)
- 'Deadlines: April 1 (General programmes)'
February Intake
- Applications open: July
- Deadlines: October 1
Top Fields of Study in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is known for innovation-driven, globally relevant programmes.
Business & Economics
Engineering & Architecture
Tech & AI
Sustainability & Environment
Design & Creative Arts
Types of Universities in the Netherlands – Comparison
| Category | Research Universities (RU) | Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS) | Private Universities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition fee | €10,000 – 20,000/year | €6,000 – 15,000/year | €10,000 – 30,000/year |
| Bachelor Language | English / Dutch | English / Dutch | English |
| Master Language | English | English | English |
| Competition | High | Medium | Medium |
| Ideal For | Academic & research-focused students | Practical, applied learning | Flexible & niche programs |
| Scholarships | Government + University | Limited | Merit-based |
Top 5 Universities in the Netherlands
Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)
Strengths: Engineering, Technology, Architecture, Computer Science
Admission Difficulty: High
Tuition (approx): €19,906 (BSc) – €25,633 (MSc) per year
University of Amsterdam (UvA)
Strengths: Social Sciences, Business, Data Science, Law, Humanities
Admission Difficulty: Medium to High
Tuition (approx): ~€15,000–€26,000 per year
Utrecht University
Strengths: Sciences, Life Sciences, Medicine, Environmental Studies
Admission Difficulty: Medium
Tuition (approx): ~€10,000–€18,000 per year
Leiden University
Strengths: Law, Humanities, Social Sciences, International Relations
Admission Difficulty: Medium
Tuition (approx): €14,300–€18,700 per year
Erasmus University Rotterdam
Strengths: Business, Economics, Management, Social Sciences, Medicine
Admission Difficulty: Medium (Highly selective for Business)
Tuition (approx): €13,500–€21,000 per year
Eligibility Requirements
Academic Requirements
- Most universities expect 60–70% or higher with relevant subject preparation.
- Research universities and selective programmes may require stronger academic profiles.
Language Requirements
- English-taught programmes: IELTS 6.0–6.5 or equivalent.
- Dutch-taught programmes: Dutch proficiency required for limited courses.
Work Experience
- Bachelor’s and most Master’s programmes: Not required.
- MBA programmes: 1–3 years of relevant work experience may be required.
Portfolio Requirements
- Architecture, design, and creative programmes may require portfolios and project assessments.
Application Process - Simple Steps
| Category | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Living Costs | ~€950 per month |
| Accommodation | ~€450 per month |
| Health Insurance | ~€40 per month |
| Transport & Utilities | ~€90 per month |
Part-time Jobs in the Netherlands
International students are allowed to work part-time.
Work Rules
- Up to 16 hours per week during semesters
- Full-time work allowed during vacations
- Common jobs include retail, cafés, warehouses, and campus roles
- Part-time income helps with living expenses but should not be relied on for tuition
Frequently asked questions
Myths vs Reality
- Myth
- Reality
- Myth
- Reality
- Myth
- Reality
The Orientation Year guarantees me a job.
I need to speak Dutch to study.
The Netherlands is cheap because it’s a small country.
