Study In Netherlands

The Netherlands is one of Europe’s most popular study destinations, offering 2,000+ English-taught programmes, innovative teaching and a friendly, international environment. With many Dutch universities ranked in the global top 200, and tuition fees often lower than other English-speaking countries, it’s a great option for international students aiming for quality and affordability.
EdMIUM supports you at every step – from choosing the right Dutch university to securing your visa and settling in.

• Globally ranked universities
 Up to 13 Dutch universities are ranked in the world’s top 200, recognised for research, innovation and industry ties.
• Most English-taught programmes in Europe
 Dutch universities offer over 2,100 programmes entirely in English, and around 95% of the population speaks English, making daily life easier for international students.
 • Affordable compared to other destinations
 Tuition and living costs are often lower than the UK or US, while still providing high living standards and strong academic quality.
 • Great for international students
 The Netherlands hosts thousands of students from all over the world; in some universities, international students make up a large share of first-year enrolments.
 • Gateway to Europe & strong job market
 With a central location, excellent transport and many multinational companies, graduates have access to good internship and career opportunities, plus options to stay and work after studies.  
These universities are well-known for high academic standards, strong employment prospects and international learning environments:
  • Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences
     Business and Management specialists. Highly international with strong internship and job support.
  • University of Amsterdam
     One of Europe’s top universities — especially strong in Social Sciences, Business, Media & Humanities.
  • Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)
     World-leading institution for Engineering, Architecture, Computer Science and Applied Sciences.
  • Leiden University
     The oldest university in the Netherlands — highly respected for Law, Politics, Biomedical Sciences and Research.
  • Utrecht University
     Top-ranked and research-intensive — diverse course options across Sciences, Arts and Business.
  • Erasmus University Rotterdam
     Excellent reputation in Business, Economics, Global Management and Medical Sciences.
• Business, Economics & International Management
 • Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Aerospace)
 • Computer Science, Data Science & AI
 • Life Sciences, Agriculture & Environmental Studies
 • Architecture & Urban Planning
 • Social Sciences, Psychology & International Relations
 • Hospitality, Tourism & Creative Industries
There are typically two major intakes:
  • September intake (main) – highest number of programmes and scholarships; most students apply for this intake.
  • February intake – selected programmes and universities.
Application deadlines are usually:
  • January–May for September start
  • September–November for February start
Exact dates vary by university and programme; EdMIUM helps you plan your timeline.

Academic Requirements

• For bachelors: recognised Class 12 qualification equivalent to Dutch pre-university education.
• For masters: a relevant bachelor’s degree with required GPA and subject background. • Some programmes (e.g., Engineering, Business, Data Science) may ask for specific maths or subject grades.

English / Language Requirements

Most programmes taught in English require: • IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge (CAE/CPE) or PTE with minimum scores specified by the university.
Some programmes in Dutch require proof of Dutch language proficiency (e.g., NT2, CNaVT).

Application Documents

• Academic transcripts & certificates
• Valid passport
• CV / Resume
• Statement of Purpose / Motivation Letter
• Letters of Recommendation
• Portfolio (for design/architecture, where needed)
EdMIUM helps you structure and polish all documents to match Dutch university expectations.

Tuition Fees & Cost of Living in the Netherlands

For non-EU/EEA international students: • Tuition fees (approx.):
• Bachelor’s: €6,000 – €20,000 per year
• Master’s / MBA: €8,000 – €25,000+ per year
• Living costs:
On average, students need €800 – €1,500 per month, depending on city and lifestyle, including accommodation, food, transport and personal expenses.

Scholarships to Study in the Netherlands

The Netherlands offers a variety of government and university scholarships, including:
• Holland Scholarship for non-EEA students
• Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP)
• University-specific merit scholarships (e.g., Leiden, Utrecht, TU Delft, Maastricht, Erasmus, etc.)
These may cover partial or full tuition fees, and in some cases living costs. Criteria usually include academic performance, motivation and programme choice.

How EdMIUM helps:
• Identifying best-fit scholarships
• Aligning your timelines with scholarship deadlines
• Reviewing SOPs and documents to maximise your chances

Work While Studying & Post-Study Options

• International students are allowed to work part-time alongside studies, usually with a maximum number of hours per week, and may need a work permit depending on nationality.
• After graduation, you can apply for an orientation year residence permit (zoekjaar) that allows you to stay in the Netherlands and search for a job or start a career.
Q1. Is the Netherlands good for international students?
Yes. With 55+ higher-education institutions, thousands of English-taught programmes and a multicultural environment, the Netherlands is one of Europe’s top destinations for international students.

Q2. How much does it cost to study in the Netherlands?
Expect €6,000 – €20,000 per year for bachelor’s programmes and €8,000 – €25,000+ for master’s, plus monthly living costs of €800 – €1,500 depending on city and lifestyle.

Q3. Do I need IELTS to study in the Netherlands?
Most English-taught programmes require IELTS, TOEFL, PTE or Cambridge scores. Some universities may offer waivers if your previous education was in English.

Q4. Can I stay in the Netherlands after my studies?
Yes. Many graduates apply for the orientation year (zoekjaar) permit, which lets them stay for up to 12 months after graduation to find a job or start a business.

 

How EdMIUM Helps You Study in the Netherlands

 

  • Free Counselling & Profile Analysis – Understand your goals, background and budget.
  • Course & University Mapping – Shortlist Dutch universities and programmes best aligned with your profile.
  • Application Building – Support with SOP/motivation letter, LORs, CV and online forms.
  • Scholarship & Funding Guidance – Identify suitable Dutch and university-level scholarships.
  • Visa Assistance – Step-by-step help with Netherlands student visa/residence permit, financial proofs and health insurance.
  • Pre-Departure & Arrival Support – Guidance on accommodation, banking, Dutch culture basics and part-time work search tips.