Study in the Netherlands

The Netherlands offers internationally recognised qualifications, innovative teaching methods and approximately 2,000 English-taught higher-education programmes. Students also benefit from a multicultural environment, strong links between universities and industry, and excellent access to other European countries.

The Netherlands has two main types:

• Research universities focus on academic study, research and theoretical knowledge.
• Universities of applied sciences offer career-focused education, practical projects and internships.

The right choice depends on your academic background and career objectives.

Yes. Many bachelor’s and master’s programmes are taught entirely in English. Students can search for suitable English-taught courses through the official Study in NL programme database.

Requirements vary by institution and programme, but commonly include:

• Academic certificates and transcripts
• Proof of English-language proficiency
• Passport copy
• CV or résumé
• Motivation letter
• Academic or professional references
• Portfolio for certain creative programmes
• Relevant bachelor’s degree for master’s admission

Selective programmes may also require an interview, entrance examination or additional assessment.

Universities generally accept IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT or Cambridge English qualifications. The required score differs by programme. Many courses ask for an IELTS score around 6.0–7.0, but applicants must confirm the exact requirement with their chosen institution.

Most students apply through Studielink, the Netherlands’ central enrolment platform. Some universities also require applicants to complete an additional application through the institution’s own portal.

The usual process is:

1. 1Select a suitable course and institution.
2. 2Review the entry requirements.
3. 3Prepare and submit the required documents.
4. 4Complete any assessment or interview.
5. 5Receive and accept the admission offer.
6. 6Pay the required tuition fee or deposit.
7. 7Begin the immigration and accommodation process.

The general deadlines are:

• 15 January for numerus fixus programmes with limited places
• 1 May for many other programmes

However, deadlines can be earlier for non-EU/EEA students who require immigration support. Applicants should always follow the deadline published by the university. Official application guidance

A numerus fixus programme has a limited number of available places. Applicants usually participate in a competitive selection process and must apply by 15 January. Medicine, psychology and certain business or technology programmes may operate this system.

For the 2026–2027 academic year, the statutory tuition fee for eligible students is €2,694. Different conditions apply, and many international students pay institutional fees instead.

Average fees for non-EU/EEA students are approximately:

• Bachelor’s degrees: €9,000–€20,000 per year
• Master’s degrees: €12,000–€30,000 per year

Fees vary considerably by university and subject. Official tuition-fee information

International students should generally budget approximately €1,000–€1,500 per month, excluding tuition fees. This may cover accommodation, food, transport, insurance, study materials and personal expenses.

A student room can cost approximately €450–€1,000 per month, depending on the location and facilities. Amsterdam and other major cities are usually more expensive. Student living- cost guidance

Yes. Funding may be offered by the Dutch government, individual universities and external organisations. The NL Scholarship, for example, provides €5,000 during the first year to selected non-EEA students at participating institutions. It is not a full-tuition scholarship.

Scholarships are competitive, so students should prepare strong academic records, motivation letters and references. NL Scholarship information

EU/EEA and Swiss nationals generally do not require a student visa or study residence permit.

Most non-EU/EEA students studying for longer than 90 days require a residence permit. Some nationalities also require an MVV, or provisional residence permit. The Dutch educational institution normally submits the immigration application as the student’s recognised sponsor. IND student residence-permit guidance

Non-EU/EEA applicants normally need to demonstrate that they have enough money for tuition and living expenses. The required amount is reviewed periodically by the Dutch immigration authorities. Students should confirm the latest figure with their university and the Immigration and Naturalisation Service.

EU/EEA and Swiss students generally have unrestricted access to the Dutch labour market.

For most non-EU/EEA students with a study residence permit, the employer must obtain a work permit. Students may normally work:

• Up to 16 hours per week during the academic year; or
• Full-time in June, July and August

Students must continue meeting the academic-progress conditions attached to their residence permit. Official employment rules

No. The Netherlands has a serious student-housing shortage, and university accommodation is limited. Students should begin searching as soon as they receive an offer and should secure suitable accommodation before travelling.

Applicants should also be alert to scams and avoid transferring money before verifying the landlord, property and tenancy agreement. Official housing guidance

Yes, appropriate medical insurance is essential. The correct policy depends on whether the student is only studying or is also employed. Students who begin working in the Netherlands may be required to obtain Dutch basic health insurance. The university and Dutch authorities can advise which arrangement applies.

Eligible graduates may apply for an orientation-year residence permit. This allows them to remain in the Netherlands for up to one year to search for employment or establish a business. After finding suitable employment, the graduate may apply for an appropriate work residence permit. IND orientation-year guidance

Depending on the student’s nationality and residence status, a spouse, partner or child may be able to apply for a family residence permit. Separate financial, documentary and immigration conditions apply, and family members do not automatically receive unrestricted working rights.

Yes. The country is highly international, widely English-speaking and well connected by public transport. However, students should plan carefully for tuition fees, living expenses and accommodation before accepting an offer.

Edu Consultancy can assist with:

• Initial eligibility assessment
• Course and university selection
• Application preparation and submission
• Motivation letter and CV guidance
• Scholarship application support
• Visa-document preparation
• Accommodation guidance
• Pre-departure and post-arrival support

Ready to study in the Netherlands? Contact Edu Consultancy to arrange an initial assessment and receive a personalised study plan based on your qualifications, budget and career objectives.

Financial figures and immigration requirements were checked in August 2026 but may change. Applicants should confirm current requirements before applying.