Study in Netherlands
Study in Netherlands is a smart move for a global career because of its well-known educational system, innovative hub and open culture. Explore your future in the country of pioneers.
A Smart Choice: Why should we choose to study in Netherlands?
For a long time, the Netherlands has led the way in innovation, education and international cooperation. As it provides a unique learning environment where critical thinking and practical application come together as a destination for international students. When you decide to study in Netherlands, you are not just enrolling in university, but you are also joining a forward-thinking society that always values creativity, open-mindness and sustainability. Here’s why the Netherlands is the perfect place for you for study:
- Pioneering Education System: Dutch universities are known for their high academic standards and unique problem-based learning. You will be urged to work together on practical projects rather than memorize facts in your heart only, which will help you build the abilities required for today’s job market.
- A Hub for English-Taught Programs: Netherland offers a high number of English-Taught courses in the Continental Europe. Your Netherland study abroad experience will be seamless and smooth both inside and outside because more than 90% of the population speaks English fluently.
- Competitive Costs and Quality of Life: In comparison to other English speaking countries the cost of study in Netherlands is remarkably low. It provides an amazing return on your investment of your education together with a high quality of life and safe and welcoming environment.
- A Gateway to Europe: Netherlands provides great exploration for travel and exploration, as it is situated in the heart of Europe. With its excellent transportation you can easily visit neighbouring countries, boosting your academic experience with cultural adventures.
- A Truly Global Community: The Netherlands has international students coming from over 150 countries. This multicultural environment will broaden your perspective and allow you to build a powerful international network of friends and future colleagues, this makes your Netherlands study abroad journey truly evolutionary.
Your Academic Journey: How to Study in Netherland
The path to study in Netherlands will be straightforward with our expert guidance. Our Experts will help you in each step from choosing the perfect program to preparing for visa application.
Academic Excellence in a Global Context
The Netherlands provides numerous courses for you, if you are interested in technology, business, social science or arts. Some of the most in-demand courses include.:
- Engineering and Technology: The Netherlands is known for its innovation and is a leader in fields like robotics, renewable energy and water management.
- Business and Economics: Dutch universities prepare you for a global career with their top-notch programs in Finance, Supply Chain Management and International Businesses.
- Social Science and Humanities: The Netherlands provides world-class programs for those students who are passionate about addressing global challenges. The International Institute of Social Studies Netherlands is a good example. This prestigious university, which is a part of Erasmus University Rotterdam, is a leader in policy-oriented social science and is located in The Hague, the city of peace and justice. For students who are interested in social justice and global development, Institute of Social Studies the Hague Netherlands offers a distinctive educational setting. The Institute of Social Studies Netherlands provides specialized Master’s and PhD programs that are well-known globally.
Your Official Gateway: The Netherlands Study Visa Process
The application process of your Netherlands study visa is mainly handled by your University on your behalf, this is to simplify the process. You will need a Provisional Permit (MVV) and a Residence Permit (VVR), for a stay more than 90 days of your visit.
Essential Requirements of Netherland Study Visa for Indian Students
To secure your Netherland study visa, you must prepare the essential documents beforehand. Here are the lists of the essential documents that your university will submit to the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND).
- Confirmed Admission Letter: A formal and valid acceptance letter from a Dutch university is the most important document.
- Language Proficiency: A valid and standardized English Proficiency test score like IELTS or TOEFL is usually required. However some universities may offer an exception for you if your previous education was in English.
- Proof of Financial Means: You must show that you have enough funds in your account to cover your tuition fees and living expenses. For 2025 the required amount is approximately €850 per month, which your university will verify through your bank statement.
- Health Insurance: It is mandatory to have a health insurance that is valid in the Netherlands.
- Passport: Your passport must be valid for your entire duration of your stay.
Post-Study Opportunities: The Netherlands Post Study Work Visa
One of the biggest advantages of a Netherlands study abroad experience is the smooth and seamless way to your academic to professional career. The Netherlands post study work visa, also known as the ‘Orientation Year’ Visa that is also known as Zoekjaar, will allow you to stay in the country and search for a job after your graduation.
- Duration: This visa is only valid up to one year, this is specially for International students who have graduated and want to enter the Dutch Job Market.
- Eligibility: International students are eligible to apply for this visa, if they have completed the Master’s or PhD course from a Dutch University. A special benefit is that they can apply for the Orientation Year visa within three years of their graduation, giving them a chance to travel and then return to the Netherlands.
- Job market: With a high demand for skilled professionals in fields like technology, engineering and social sciences, the Dutch economy has been a strong and stable one. Your study in Netherlands degree will give you the competitive advantage in securing a job.
The Institute of Social Studies The Hague Netherlands: A Special Focus
The International Institute of Social Studies Netherlands offers a unique opportunity, for those who are interested in global policy social change. Located in the Hague, the world’s legal capital, this well known institute provides an ideal environment for students to engage themselves in complex global issues. The Institute of Social Studies The Hague Netherlands is a part of Erasmus University Rotterdam that attracts the diverse mixture of students and faculty from around the world. A Program at this institute is more than a degree, as it also gives the chance to be at the front in policy-oriented research and action.
Ready to Begin Your Dutch Journey?
With our study in Netherlands expert guidance, your Netherlands study visa journey will be smooth and stress-free ensuring that this will not hold you back from your dream.
Call to Action Button: Get Free Consultants with Our Netherlands Experts
Success Stories
Student
I always dreamed to study in Netherlands for Indian students, and NEF made it possible. Their team even explained the Netherlands post study work visa, giving me full clarity for my future.
Student
For my admission at the Institute of Social Studies Netherlands, NEF gave complete guidance. Their experts explained everything about the Institute of Social Studies The Hague Netherlands.
Student
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.
NEF guided me step by step on how to study in Netherlands. From applications to the Netherlands study visa, the process was smooth. The best choice for students planning their education abroad.