NETHERLANDS
DUTCH ADMISSION
EU/EEA students pay the statutory tuition fee (~€2,530 for 2024/2025) and have access to the same programs as Dutch students. Admission requires a foreign secondary diploma (for Bachelor’s) or a recognized Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s); HBO Master’s may require work experience. English-taught programs still require IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent. EU/EEA nationals do not need a student visa/residence permit. Use Studielink for applications and check official deadlines (Jan 15 or May 1). For detailed requirements, see Study in NL or university sites.
DUTCH UNIVERSITIES
EU/EEA students should explore programs via Study in NL. Each university sets its own criteria: high school diplomas for Bachelor’s, Bachelor’s degrees for Master’s (HBO Master’s may require work experience). Some programs have entrance exams or limited places. English-taught programs still require IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent. Apply through Studielink before general deadlines (e.g. Jan 15 or May 1). Visit Study in NL or university websites for details on application periods and requirements.
WHY
THE NETHERLANDS?
The Netherlands is renowned for its high-quality education and many internationally ranked universities. EU/EEA students benefit from low statutory tuition fees, and there are numerous scholarships for international students. Dutch universities offer a wide range of English-taught programs and emphasize innovative, student-centered learning. International students may work part-time (up to 16 hours/week with a student visa) and have 1 year after graduation (the “orientation year”) to find a job or start a business. The country’s high standard of living, strong support for students, and focus on research and technology make it an attractive study destination.
ADVANTAGES
- High academic reputation: Dutch universities rank highly worldwide, especially in engineering, agriculture, and social sciences.
- Affordable tuition for EU/EEA students: Statutory fees (~€2,530) are much lower than in many countries, and moderate fees for others with many scholarships available.
- Many English programs: A wide array of Bachelor’s and Master’s courses are taught in English across disciplines.
- Excellent quality of life: The Netherlands has strong public services, infrastructure, and student support networks.
- Safe and stable: It is considered one of the safer countries in Europe with low violent crime rates.
- Part-time work allowed: International students can work (up to 16 h/week, full-time in summer) under their student permit.
- International community: Welcoming multicultural environment with students from around the world.
- Great location: Centrally located in Europe with easy travel to other EU countries.
- Innovation and research: Strong focus on R&D and technology transfer (e.g. in tech hubs like Delft and Eindhoven).
DISADVANTAGES
- Weather: The climate can be rainy, cloudy and windy; winters are milder than Scandinavia but can feel damp.
- Cost of living: Cities like Amsterdam or Utrecht have high housing and living costs compared to some EU areas.
- Language barrier for locals: Outside university, Dutch is widely spoken; knowledge of Dutch is important for part-time jobs and social integration.
- Housing shortage: Student accommodation in popular cities is limited, requiring early planning.
- Visa bureaucracy: Non-EU applicants must navigate detailed permit procedures with the IND.
- Competition for top programs: Popular programs (e.g. Medicine) are highly competitive with limited spots.
- Cultural adjustment: Dutch direct communication style and social norms may require adaptation.
- Public transport outside cities: Rural areas rely on less frequent buses; many students use bicycles or cars in smaller towns.
- Application deadlines: Unlike Finland's joint system, applications are individual and deadlines vary by institution.
Important Admission Information
Admission requirements are set by each Dutch institution and vary by program. Generally, Bachelor’s applicants need a secondary school diploma equivalent to the Dutch pre-university (VWO) or preparatory college (HBO) level. Master’s applicants need a relevant Bachelor’s degree. Dutch universities do not use SATs or mandatory entrance exams for most programs, but some competitive programs (e.g. Medicine, Dentistry) have strict numerus fixus admissions. Applicants must meet English-language requirements, typically proven by tests like IELTS or TOEFL (often IELTS ≥6.0, TOEFL ≥550 or 213 iBT). Prospective students should use the Study in NL portal or university websites to check specific criteria for their chosen program.Regular University OR University of Applied Sciences
In the Netherlands, “HBO” institutions (universities of applied sciences) focus on practical, profession-oriented training. HBO Bachelor’s programs typically take 4 years and include applied projects and internships. Research universities (“WO”) emphasize theoretical academic education; Bachelor’s programs are usually 3 years, and universities offer Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees. Research universities involve more independent study and research projects, preparing graduates for both professional careers and further academic studies. Both types maintain high standards, but they differ in teaching style and program length.