Study in the Netherlands
The largest catalogue of English-taught degrees in continental Europe, a one-year orientation visa, and universities built around problem-based learning.
Why students choose the Netherlands
The Dutch practically invented English-taught higher education outside the English-speaking world. Research universities rank high, universities of applied sciences are close to industry, and teaching is discussion-led. The Orientation Year gives graduates twelve months to find work in a market that speaks English fluently. Housing in Amsterdam and Utrecht is tight, so we start the room search on the day you apply.
Intakes
Main intake. Apply by 1 May (1 April or earlier for many master's; 15 January for numerus fixus programmes).
A smaller number of programmes.
What international students study in the Netherlands
After you graduate
Graduates of a bachelor's, master's or PhD can apply for the Orientation Year residence permit any time within three years of graduating, giving 12 months to find a job without a work permit. A qualifying salary then leads to a Highly Skilled Migrant permit.
Orientation Year (Zoekjaar) residence permit
12 months. Apply within 3 years of graduation. Work freely during the year.
Part-time work
16 hours a week during term (employer needs a work permit) or full time in June, July and August. Wages of €14.06 an hour minimum wage for over-21s (2025).
Employment by sector
Technology and software (high), Engineering and high-tech manufacturing (high), Logistics and trade (high). Full picture.
What it costs to study in the Netherlands
Living costs of €1,000 to €1,500 a month. Tuition of €8,000 to €15,000 for non-EU students for undergraduate and €12,000 to €22,000 for postgraduate study. Medicine and dentistry run higher; universities of applied sciences are slightly cheaper.
| Monthly cost | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | €500 to €1,000 (Amsterdam and Utrecht highest) |
| Food and groceries | €200 to €300 |
| Transport | €40 to €100; most students cycle |
| Utilities and phone | €80 to €140 |
| Health insurance | €30 to €50 for student insurance, or Dutch basic insurance if you work |
Fees and costs are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.
MVV entry visa and residence permit, applied for by the university
Documents you will need
- Admission letter
- Proof of funds (transfer to university or bank statements)
- Passport and photo
- Antecedents certificate
- TB test after arrival for some nationalities
- Diplomas and English test (IELTS 6.0 to 6.5)
Funding for international students in the Netherlands
| Scholarship | What it offers | Who awards it |
|---|---|---|
| NL Scholarship | €5,000 in the first year for non-EEA bachelor's and master's students at participating institutions. | Dutch Ministry of Education |
| Orange Tulip Scholarship | Country-specific awards for students from India, Indonesia, China and others. | Nuffic |
| University excellence scholarships | Full or partial tuition at Amsterdam, Leiden, Utrecht, TU Delft and more. | Universities |
the Netherlands in eight facts
Over 90 percent of Dutch people speak English.
Research universities (WO) and universities of applied sciences (HBO) award different bachelor's degrees.
Numerus fixus programmes have capped places and an earlier deadline.
Students cycle everywhere; a second-hand bike costs €80 to €150.
The housing shortage is real; universities warn students not to arrive without a room.
A DigiD digital identity is needed for most official services.
Grades run from 1 to 10; an 8 is excellent and a 10 almost never given.
Problem-based learning at Maastricht means small groups and no lectures.
Where to study in the Netherlands
Everything else about studying in the Netherlands
Student visa
How to get a Netherlands student visa: fees, funds, documents and timeline
Cost of studying
What it costs to study in the Netherlands: tuition, living and one-off fees
Cost of living
Monthly cost of living for students in the Netherlands
Scholarships
Scholarships for international students in the Netherlands
Work after graduation
Working in the Netherlands during and after your degree
Education system
How the Dutch education system works
Student life
Student life in the Netherlands: housing, work, weather and culture
Best student cities
Best cities to study in the Netherlands
Exams required
Which exams you need to study in the Netherlands
Master's degrees
Studying a master's in the Netherlands
Studying in the Netherlands: what students ask
Do Dutch universities need IELTS?
Yes in most cases, typically 6.0 for HBO and 6.5 for research universities. Some accept TOEFL, Cambridge or a degree taught in English.
How hard is it to find housing in the Netherlands?
Very hard in Amsterdam, Utrecht and Leiden. Universities have limited reserved rooms; apply for them the day you accept your offer. We help students search from home and avoid scams.
Can I stay after graduating?
Yes, the Orientation Year gives 12 months to look for work. Many students use it to move into a Highly Skilled Migrant permit.
Ready to plan the Netherlands?
A counsellor who knows this country's rules builds you a shortlist and a timeline. Free.