Student life in the Netherlands: housing, work, weather and culture
Work and money
16 hours a week during term (employer needs a work permit) or full time in June, July and August, at €14.06 an hour minimum wage for over-21s (2025). Living costs of €1,000 to €1,500 a month.
Where students live
| City | Student areas | Room rent |
|---|---|---|
| Amsterdam | Amsterdam-Noord, Zuidoost and Diemen. | €700 to €1,100 for a room |
Everyday life
- 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.
Health cover
Student insurance, budgeted above.
Figures 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.
Get this checked for your case
Rules change and every application is different. A counsellor confirms the current position for your country and course. Free.
Talk to a counsellorRelated questions
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.