The Netherlands offers exceptional value for international students with 2,100+ English-taught programs, world-class universities, and a welcoming multicultural environment. Known for innovative teaching methods and high quality of life, the Netherlands is a top European study destination. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about studying in the Netherlands in 2026.
Why Study in the Netherlands?
English-Taught Programs
The Netherlands is a leader in English-taught education:
- 2,100+ programs in English
- Everyone speaks English (95% proficiency)
- No Dutch required for most programs
- Interactive, student-centered learning
World-Class Universities
Strong university rankings:
| University | QS Ranking 2026 |
|---|---|
| University of Amsterdam | #53 |
| Delft University of Technology | #47 |
| Utrecht University | #107 |
| Leiden University | #126 |
| Erasmus University Rotterdam | #176 |
European Location
Strategic advantages:
- Heart of Europe
- Gateway to EU job market
- Easy travel across Europe
- Major cities within reach
- International business hub
Quality of Life
High living standards:
- Safe and bicycle-friendly
- Excellent healthcare
- Work-life balance
- Multicultural society
- LGBTQ+ friendly
Top Universities in the Netherlands
Research Universities
University of Amsterdam (UvA)
- Largest research university
- Located in vibrant Amsterdam
- Notable programs: Media, Social Sciences, Humanities
- Strong international community
- City campus atmosphere
Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)
- Top technical university in Netherlands
- Strong engineering programs
- Notable programs: Engineering, Architecture, Design
- Industry partnerships
- Excellent facilities
Erasmus University Rotterdam
- Strong business and economics focus
- Rotterdam School of Management (top MBA)
- Notable programs: Business, Economics, Medicine
- Port city location
- Practical orientation
Leiden University
- Oldest university (1575)
- Strong humanities and law
- Notable programs: International Law, Archaeology
- Historic campus
- The Hague campus option
Utrecht University
- Comprehensive research university
- Strong sciences
- Notable programs: Veterinary, Geosciences, Life Sciences
- Beautiful castle campus
Universities of Applied Sciences
| Institution | Location | Strength |
|---|---|---|
| Amsterdam UAS | Amsterdam | Business, Technology |
| Rotterdam UAS | Rotterdam | Engineering, Business |
| The Hague UAS | The Hague | International Relations |
| Saxion UAS | Enschede | Engineering, Health |
| Fontys UAS | Eindhoven | Technology, Business |
Entry Requirements
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s)
Academic Requirements:
- Secondary school diploma equivalent to Dutch VWO
- Subject prerequisites vary by program
- A-Levels: AAB-ABB typically
- IB: 32-36 points
English Proficiency:
| Test | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.0-6.5 |
| TOEFL iBT | 80-92 |
| Cambridge | B2-C1 |
Graduate (Master’s)
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (180-240 ECTS)
- Related field of study
- Strong academic record
- Motivation letter
- Some programs: GMAT/GRE
Foundation Programs
If you don’t qualify directly:
- Foundation year programs available
- 1 year duration
- Academic and language preparation
- Pathway to bachelor’s degree
Student Visa (MVV/VVR)
Who Needs a Visa?
- Non-EU/EEA students studying 90+ days need MVV (entry visa) and VVR (residence permit)
- EU/EEA students: No visa needed
Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Admission | From recognized Dutch institution |
| Financial proof | €13,000-15,000/year |
| Health insurance | Dutch health insurance or equivalent |
| Valid passport | Valid throughout stay |
| TB test | For some nationalities |
Application Process
- University submits application to IND
- IND processes application (2-8 weeks)
- Receive MVV at Dutch embassy
- Arrive in Netherlands
- Collect residence permit
Work Rights
Students can work:
- 16 hours/week during academic year
- Full-time during summer (June-August)
- Work permit through employer
- Internships allowed
Cost of Studying in the Netherlands
Tuition Fees
| Student Type | Bachelor’s | Master’s |
|---|---|---|
| EU/EEA | €2,530 | €2,530 |
| Non-EU (Research uni) | €8,000-20,000 | €10,000-25,000 |
| Non-EU (Applied uni) | €7,000-12,000 | €8,000-15,000 |
| Non-EU (Business/MBA) | €15,000-50,000 | €20,000-70,000 |
Living Costs
| City | Monthly Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Amsterdam | 1,400-2,000 |
| Rotterdam | 1,200-1,700 |
| The Hague | 1,200-1,700 |
| Utrecht | 1,200-1,600 |
| Leiden | 1,100-1,500 |
| Groningen | 1,000-1,400 |
| Maastricht | 1,000-1,400 |
| Eindhoven | 1,000-1,400 |
Budget breakdown:
- Rent: €500-1,000
- Food: €200-350
- Transport: €50-100 (bike is free!)
- Health insurance: €40-120
- Entertainment: €100-200
Housing Shortage
Important: The Netherlands has a severe housing shortage!
- Start searching immediately after acceptance
- Use university housing services
- Try: Kamernet, HousingAnywhere, Facebook groups
- Consider nearby towns
- Budget €500-1,000/month
Scholarships
Dutch Government Scholarships
Holland Scholarship
- €5,000 one-time grant
- For bachelor’s or master’s first year
- Many participating universities
- Apply through university
Orange Knowledge Programme
- For students from selected countries
- Full funding available
- Focus on development-related fields
University Scholarships
University of Amsterdam:
- Amsterdam Merit Scholarships
- Amsterdam Excellence Scholarships (full tuition + living)
Delft University of Technology:
- Justus & Louise van Effen Excellence Scholarships
- Faculty-specific awards
Erasmus University:
- Erasmus University Holland Scholarship
- Rotterdam School of Management Scholarships
Tips for Scholarships
- Apply early (6-12 months before)
- Check university-specific deadlines
- Strong motivation essential
- Academic excellence required
- Leadership experience valued
Application Timeline
September Intake
| Month | Action |
|---|---|
| October-December | Research programs, prepare documents |
| January-April | Submit applications via Studielink |
| April-May | Receive decisions |
| May-June | Accept offer, arrange housing |
| June-July | Apply for visa |
| August-September | Travel to Netherlands |
February Intake
Limited programs available for February start. Check individual universities.
Application Platforms
- Studielink: Central application system
- University portals: For supporting documents
- Apply before April 1: For non-EU students
- May 1 deadline: For EU students
Living in the Netherlands
Cities
Amsterdam:
- Capital city, most diverse
- Cultural hub
- Highest costs
- Best nightlife
Rotterdam:
- Modern architecture
- Port city
- Lower costs than Amsterdam
- Business focus
Utrecht:
- Beautiful historic center
- Central location
- Student-friendly
- Moderate costs
Maastricht:
- Southern, near Belgium/Germany
- International atmosphere
- Lower costs
- Strong community
Groningen:
- Student city (25% population students)
- Lowest costs
- Young, vibrant atmosphere
- Northern location
Dutch Culture
- Direct communication style
- Punctuality important
- Work-life balance valued
- Cycling is king
- Gezelligheid (cozy, convivial atmosphere)
Transportation
- Bike: Essential! Buy a used bike (€50-150)
- OV-chipkaart: Public transport card
- Trains: Excellent network, expensive
- NS Flex: Student discounts available
Career After Graduation
Orientation Year (Zoekjaar)
After graduation:
- 12 months to find work
- No job required to apply
- Can work any job during search
- Apply within 3 years of graduation
Highly Skilled Migrant Visa
For qualifying jobs:
- No labor market test required
- Salary threshold: ~€4,500/month (under 30: ~€3,300)
- Fast processing
- Path to permanent residence
Job Market
Strong sectors:
- Technology and IT
- Finance and Banking
- Engineering
- Agriculture and Food
- Creative Industries
- Logistics
Key Takeaways
- 2,100+ English programs - Study entirely in English
- High quality, lower cost than UK/USA - Better value
- Housing is challenging - Start searching early!
- 1-year post-study visa - Orientation year for job search
- Strategic European location - Travel easily
- Bike culture - Get a bike immediately!
Next Steps
Ready to begin your Dutch education journey?
- Explore Dutch universities in our school directory
- Check your eligibility with our admission calculator
- Compare costs using our cost calculator
- Get personalized guidance through our contact form
This guide is updated regularly. Last updated: January 2026.
Have questions? Chat with our AI advisor or contact us directly for personalized guidance.
Topics covered
Netherlands Holland student visa universities English programs 2026 study abroad Europe
