Studying in the Netherlands is an appealing option for international students. The quality of education at Dutch universities is among the best globally, with numerous programs offered in English. Compared to countries like the UK and the US, the Netherlands provides a more affordable education. According to Nuffic, the Dutch organization for internationalization in education, 122,000 students from 162 countries are currently pursuing degree programs at universities of applied sciences or universities in the Netherlands.
Netherlands
Why Study in the Netherlands?
Global School
Nyenrode Business Universiteit
The Hague University of Applied Sciences
University of Amsterdam
University of Twente
Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences
Top Courses
Netherlands is a great place for studying, offering some of the oldest and best universities with excellent access to both domestic and international opportunities. The QS World University Rankings 2019 includes 13 Dutch universities, all ranked within the world’s top 350, with seven of these in the global top 150. Universities in the Netherlands offer a wide range of courses that are often part of degree programs, certificate programs, or professional development series. Some popular courses include:
- Archaeology
- Economics
- Healthcare
- International Business
- Management
- MBA
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Social Media
Career Opportunities
If students wish to work while studying in the Netherlands, they need to apply for a Temporary Work Visa (TWV) from the Netherlands Employee Insurance Agency (UWV). This permit allows them to work a maximum of 10 hours per week or full-time for two months during the summer (June, July, and August). A work permit is not required for internships that are part of their course, but an internship agreement must be signed by the employer, the intern, and the educational institution.
After completing their studies, graduates can apply for a “search year” residence permit, which allows them to stay for one year to look for a job in the Netherlands. The Netherlands ranks highly in the OECD Better Life Index and offers a thriving economy with many career opportunities, making it an excellent place to work.
Education Cost
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees in the Netherlands vary based on the institution and program:
Tuition Fee Per Year (in Euros) | For EU Students | For Non-EU Students |
|---|---|---|
Preparatory Courses (1–12 months) | €6,000 – €12,000 | €6,000 – €12,000 |
Bachelor’s Programs (3–4 years) | €2,060 | €6,000 – €10,000 |
Master’s Programs (1–2 years) | €2,060 | €7,000 – €20,000 |
MBA Programs | Up to €50,000 | Up to €50,000 |
{1 Euro = ₹90 approx.}
Cost of Living
According to the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND), students need approximately €10,412 per year (€867.68 per month) to cover living expenses such as accommodation, food, health insurance, and transport during their studies in the Netherlands.
Accommodation
Most universities in the Netherlands offer short-term accommodation solutions for international students, especially those in exchange programs or international courses. Students can choose from:
- Student Houses: Privately-owned houses for 3 to 6 students.
- University Housing: Provided through university housing offices, with similar prices and facilities to private accommodations.
Scholarships
There are many scholarships available for Indian students wishing to study in the Netherlands. These scholarships cater to various education levels, fields of study, and students from nearly every country.
Holland Scholarship for Non-European Students
Introduced in 2015 by the Dutch government, the Holland Scholarship aims to attract more international students to the Netherlands. It is available to students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) who plan to pursue a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in the Netherlands. Each scholarship is worth €5,000 and is awarded to students in their first year to help cover study costs.
The scholarships focus on recognizing talent and are awarded to many international students annually (768 in 2015). The selection criteria depend on the Dutch institution where the student applies.
Application Procedure
The main intake for all colleges and universities in the Netherlands is in September.
English Requirement
Since English is the language of instruction at all higher education institutions, students must prove their English proficiency to be admitted. The minimum required scores are usually:
- TOEFL: 92 (Internet-Based Test)
- IELTS: 6.5
Note: The test results should not be older than 2 years.
Documents Required to Study in the Netherlands
- Passport
- Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s programs)
- 12th Marksheet (for Undergraduate programs)
- Transcripts from Secondary School (for Undergraduate programs)
- Transcripts from Bachelor’s Degree (for Master’s programs)
- Grading Scale
- Thesis/Abstract
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
- GMAT or GRE (depending on the program)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Financial Statement
- Portfolio
- Application fee
Education System in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands, education is compulsory for children from the age of 5 to 16, though many children start school at age 4.
Primary Education
Primary education is for children aged 4 to 12, with compulsory attendance starting at age 5.
Secondary Education
At age 12, students move on to one of the following types of secondary education:
- Preparatory Vocational Secondary Education (VMBO) – 4 years
- Senior General Secondary Education (HAVO) – 5 years
- University Preparatory Education (VWO) – 6 years
Visa for Studying in the Netherlands
Long Stay Visa (MVV) / Residence Permit
To study in the Netherlands, Indian students need a Long Stay Visa (MVV) or a Residence Permit. This visa allows students to begin their study abroad experience in the Netherlands.
- When to Apply: Apply at least a few months before your university program starts. After applying, it typically takes 1 to 90 days for a decision.
- Application Process:
- After being accepted to a university, the university applies for the visa and residence permit on your behalf.
- If approved, you must make an appointment at the Dutch embassy in India to collect your MVV and provide biometrics (fingerprints, photos).
- You will need to take a tuberculosis test after arriving in the Netherlands, as required.
Additional Information:
- Biometrics: Indian students must provide fingerprints and photos during the visa application.
- Visa Interview: You will need to attend an interview as part of the process.
- Visa Validity: The Long Stay Visa (MVV) is valid for up to 3 months. You may need to renew your visa annually to cover the entire duration of your degree.
- Post-Graduation: To stay in the Netherlands after graduation, you will need to apply for a different visa or renew your current one.
Visa Fees:
- The visa fee is 317 EUR, payable online, at a visa application center, or via bank transfer.
Health Insurance:
- Indian students do not need to obtain health insurance for the Dutch visa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What options do I have for studying in the Netherlands?
You can enroll in English-taught Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD programs, or short courses in the Netherlands.
What is the difference between Universities of Applied Sciences and Research Universities?
- Research Universities focus on research-oriented academic work, but many programs include a professional component, and most graduates find work outside of research.
- Universities of Applied Sciences focus on the practical application of Arts and Sciences. Internships are a key part of their professional study programs.
What documents are usually required for admission?
- For Bachelor’s Programs:
- High School Diploma
- List of subjects with grades
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS)
- For Master’s Programs:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- List of subjects with grades
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS)
- For PhD Programs:
- Master’s degree in a relevant field
- List of subjects with grades
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS)
Additional documents such as a Motivation Statement, CV, Recommendation Letters, or a copy of your Passport may be required. Some programs also require GRE, GMAT, or a portfolio.
What level of English do I need to study in the Netherlands?
- IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0 (some programs may require 6.5 or 7.0).
- TOEFL: Minimum score of 90 (IBT), 550 (PBT), or 213 (CBT).
How can I finance my studies?
While studying in the Netherlands may seem expensive compared to India, you can rely on family funds, bank loans, scholarships, sponsorships, and bursaries to cover costs.
Are bank loans available?
Yes, many nationalized banks offer student loans at competitive rates. They may require collateral security. You can also consider international bank loans. For more details, ask your NEF Global counselor.
Do I need to speak Dutch to study in the Netherlands?
No, there are over 2,100 programs taught entirely in English. Dutch people speak English fluently, so you can manage in daily life with just English.