Flag of Netherlands

Study in the Netherlands

Dutch universities were among the first in continental Europe to teach widely in English. Problem-based learning in small groups prepares students for international workplaces.

Main intakes
September is the main intake; some programmes start in February
Student visa
Entry visa (MVV) and residence permit
Region
Europe
Country
Flag of NetherlandsNetherlands

The education system in Netherlands

Research universities (WO) offer three-year bachelor’s and one- to two-year master’s degrees. Universities of applied sciences (HBO) offer four-year, practice-oriented bachelor’s degrees.

Why students choose Netherlands

  • A large number of English-taught programmes
  • Problem-based learning in small groups
  • A search year (orientation year) for eligible graduates

Popular courses and study areas

These fields are well established in Netherlands. Availability, language of instruction and entry requirements still vary by university and level.

  • Logistics & Supply Chain
  • Water Management
  • Engineering
  • Design
  • Social Sciences
  • Business

Universities in the Netherlands

A few of the well-known universities students often consider. Drag or swipe to see more.

Listed for reference only — this is not a list of partner institutions. We shortlist from all recognised universities in Netherlands based on your profile, budget and goals.

Choosing a university in Netherlands

Rankings are a starting point, not the answer. When we build a shortlist for Netherlands, we compare:

  • Course modules, teaching style and any placement or project components
  • Entry requirements against your marks, backlogs and test scores
  • Total cost — tuition, living costs in that city and visa funds
  • Intake dates and deadlines that fit your timeline
  • Recognition of the institution and what your final certificate will state

See how we approach this in course and university selection.

Admission requirements

Most applications are made through Studielink and then the university’s own portal. Some bachelor’s programmes have numerus fixus (limited places) with early deadlines.

Typical documents are listed in our guide to preparing university application documents.

Language requirements

IELTS Academic and TOEFL iBT are commonly accepted; requirements differ between universities.

Not sure which test to take? Compare IELTS, PTE, TOEFL iBT and the Duolingo English Test.

Tuition fees and living costs

Non-EU students pay institutional fees, which vary by programme. You must show sufficient funds for the residence permit.

Fees and required funds change, so we don’t publish fixed figures here. We confirm current costs for each programme on your shortlist using the university’s and government’s own websites.

Scholarships and funding

NL Scholarship

Formerly the Holland Scholarship, awarded through participating institutions to non-EEA students.

University scholarships

Several universities offer excellence scholarships for international students.

Eligibility, amounts and deadlines are set by each provider and change yearly. Read more about scholarship planning or ask about education loan guidance.

Student visa: Entry visa (MVV) and residence permit

Your university, as a recognised sponsor, usually applies to the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) on your behalf.

Official resources

Application timeline

September is the main intake; some programmes start in February.

  1. 1
    10–12 months before

    Research & tests

    Profile review, destination and course research, book language or admission tests.

  2. 2
    8–10 months before

    Shortlist & documents

    Finalise your shortlist, prepare statements and request recommendations.

  3. 3
    6–9 months before

    Apply

    Submit applications and scholarship applications.

  4. 4
    3–6 months before

    Offer, funds & visa

    Accept an offer, arrange funds and apply for the Entry visa (MVV) and residence permit.

  5. 5
    1–2 months before

    Get ready to fly

    Accommodation, travel and our pre-departure briefing.

  6. Intake

    Start your course

Information on this page was last reviewed in October 2026. Always confirm requirements on the official websites linked above.

FAQs about studying in Netherlands

Get Free Consultation Today !

Enter your details and a counsellor will contact you to talk through your study plans — destinations, courses, costs and timelines.

  • 100% free consultation — in person or online
  • We aim to respond within 24 hours
  • Your details stay private
  • Office in Coimbatore — or counselling online

Prefer to talk now? +91 96001 11484