Higher Education in Netherlands
There are many excellent reasons to study and get a great education in the Netherlands, including a state-funded education system and programmes taught fully in the English language. The students’ rating of the quality of life in the Netherlands and the welcoming nature of the country, as well as the fact that you experience one of the world’s happiest and safest nations to live in, all combine to make universities in the Netherlands among Europe’s finest. If you want to study in the Netherlands, this is the place to discover all you need to know about the student experience in the country.
Education System in Netherlands
In the Netherlands, a three-cycle educational system is in place since 2002. It consists of undergraduate degrees or Bachelor’s (first cycle), Master’s degrees (second cycle) and doctoral degrees or PHDs (third cycle). While the academic year here starts in September and ends in May/June the following year, some schools and programs continue to have full enrolment year-round.
Quick Facts
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Universities in Netherlands
Universities in the Netherlands are classified into two types: Universities of Applied Sciences (41), which train students for a particular occupational field; and Research Universities (14), which offer a more research-intensive education. Besides public universities, there are numerous private colleges and universities. Several popular academic disciplines in the Netherlands include space and aviation, engineering, business studies, art, history, tourism, and hotel management.
Major cities such as Amsterdam, Wageningen, Leiden, Groningen, Maastricht and Nijmegen have some of the top-tier colleges in the Netherlands. Below are some of the top-ranked universities in the Netherlands in 2021:
- Wageningen University and Research
- University of Amsterdam
- Leiden University
- Erasmus University Rotterdam
- Utrecht University
- Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)
- University of Groningen
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
- Maastricht University
- Radboud University
- Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e)
- Tilburg University
- University of Twente (UT)
Tuition Fee for non-EU/EEA students
(EU: European Union; EAA: European Economic Area)
Public Universities: For international students, i.e., not belonging to the member countries of EU/EEA, the tuition fee for a Bachelor’s program is between 6,000 and 15,000 EUR per year and that for a Master’s program is between 8,000 and 20,000 EUR per year.
Private Universities: Some of the study programmes offered by Dutch private universities cost around 30,000 EUR per year, with Medicine and Business being the most expensive courses.
Lifestyle in Netherlands
Living in the Netherlands as an international student has great benefits; after all, clean air, green surroundings… who wouldn’t want that? The Dutch are a pleasant, polite and art-loving people, like other Europeans. Every person in the Dutch society is supportive of the state and the law. Indian students might encounter a huge cultural shock when they arrive in the Netherlands but do not worry, no discrimination is observed. Most Indians live in the areas of The Hague, Rotterdam, Amsterdam, Utrecht, Zoetermeer, and Almere.
Living Expenses
To cover your expenses such as accommodation, food, books, transportation and other leisure activities, you would need somewhere around 800-1,200 EUR per month in the Netherlands. The cost varies from city to city. For example, while it could be 650 – 920 EUR/month in Enschede, it may increase to as much as 760-1,250 EUR/month in Rotterdam.
Specifically speaking about food costs, you are expected to spend around 150-170 EUR/month for food and groceries as an international student living alone in the Netherlands. While you must learn to cook by yourself to save a lot of bucks, you can opt to occasionally eat out at affordable restaurants where meals cost around 10-20 EUR.
If you are considering shopping, Groningen or Eindhoven are cheaper as compared to cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam.
Transportation Costs
Transportation Expenses: 35 – 70 EUR/month on an average.
A popular mode of transportation in the Netherlands is a bike/bicycle, the rent for which starts at 10 EUR per day. You may also opt to purchase a used bike as a low-cost alternative, which may be a better long-term investment.
Other Expenses
Books/study materials: 30 – 65 EUR/month
Social activities/entertainment: 50 – 60 EUR/month
Make sure to use your student card to get discounts at various places such as restaurants and theatres.
Safety in Netherlands
While safety is one of Netherland’s biggest strengths, certain petty offences like pickpocketing are not unheard of, especially in large cities like Amsterdam. Rest assured, violent crimes are very rare. People, especially first-time visitors, should never leave any luggage or valuables unattended in public places. If you travel, it is a good idea to have the embassy contact information for your nation handy in case you run into any difficulties.
Weather in Netherlands
The Netherlands has a typical maritime climate with pleasant summers and chilly winters. The weather tends to be rainy and windy year-round, where July and August experience the most rainfall. Because the nation is so tiny, its regions do not have drastically different climates. Well, regardless of whether it’s summer, winter or any other season, do pack your umbrellas and sweaters.
Student Housing in Netherlands
Students may stay in different kinds of housing, including private and university-owned facilities, in the Netherlands. International students should apply for a house or a room as soon as possible due to the scarcity of student accommodation in the Netherlands. If you’re looking for student accommodation in the Netherlands, you must know about these options:
Student Houses
Renting a room in student houses is the most popular option for most students in the Netherlands. These facilities accommodate three to six people and cost around 350 – 600 EUR/month per person.
Student Apartment
Private bedrooms and shared amenities are almost always included in student apartment rentals (living room, kitchen, bathroom etc.). Rent is often lower than student housing; however, an average of eight to twelve people reside in each unit. This type of accommodation would cost you around 500-1,000 EUR/month for a single studio apartment and 400-700 EUR/month for a rented apartment.
University Housing
Even though most Dutch universities have no campus, majority of them have their own student housing services. While the quality of the university-managed accommodation is about the same as the privately-owned counterparts, with pricing is the same as well, the former is different in a sense that they give foreign students the chance to extend their social circle by meeting other international students.
Student Housing Corporations
In the Netherlands, there are numerous organisations that specifically serve students. As a general rule, you will have to pay a particular amount of fee when you register with one of these organisations. The largest housing establishments are SSH Student Housing (student dormitory service) and DUWO Housing.
Rental Housing Agencies
If you decide to look for student accommodation in the Netherlands, you may want to consider utilising a rental housing agency. You may have to pay a fee when you deal with rental housing companies in the Netherlands.
In addition to the above options, finding an accommodation via the Internet may be of great assistance as well. So remember to browse on social media if anybody in the same vicinity as yours is searching for a roommate in the Netherlands.
Keep in mind to inquire what is included in a room rental and how much you will be paying each month for other utilities such as a Wi-Fi connection, which costs 30-50 EUR/month. You are expected to pay a security deposit that is typically equivalent to a month’s rent. You only receive your deposit back if you don’t damage the place.
Most importantly, don’t agree to a rental contract until you’ve read it first.
Orientation
Getting to know your institution and all of its resources is an important component of your university experience. As a result, you must register for the orientation week.
Other Activities
An essential aspect of the Dutch society is having interests outside of school. Keep a to-do list for fun things to do, as Dutch institutions as well as community centres offer various leisure activities to students. These include art, music, libraries, sports, and so on. Your college life would also include visiting theatres and concerts, as well as art galleries and museums.
Before You Apply
- Prior to choosing a degree from a Dutch institution, make sure that you thoroughly study the programme and that it is aligned with your personal and professional objectives.
- Your prior academic background and previous grade point average (GPA) will be evaluated to assess whether you fulfil the criteria for your chosen degree. Make sure to meet the university’s requirements for admission.
- You may choose to do an online eligibility check offered by universities to see whether you are qualified for a particular Master’s programme that you have selected.
- Verify whether you have to pay the Statutory tuition fee (this applies to students from the EU/EEA and a few exceptions) or the Institutional tuition charge (typically, for non-EU/EEA students). Non-EU/EEA students typically pay a higher tuition price.
- Keep your eyes out for scholarships to help with your expenses. Consult experienced counsellors at Edusky to know more about scholarships in the Netherlands.
Where to Apply?
Once you have checked the criteria for your chosen study programmes, you may visit the institutions’ websites to apply directly. Another option that enhances admission chances is to join the Numerus Fixus degree course lottery, which is an application system run by the Dutch government for higher education.
For some degree programmes with local restrictions, international students may also opt to apply through Studielink, through which you can apply to up to four courses at one time. You may change your decision and apply for any course of your choice till the registration deadline has passed. Remember, rejection from a university must not stop you from seeking out other institutions. You can always go ahead to apply to another one.
For some degree programmes with local restrictions, international students may also opt to apply via Studielink, through which you can apply to up to four courses at one time. You may change your decision and apply for any course of your choice till the registration deadline has passed. DUO (part of the Dutch Ministry of Education) oversees the placement of students in quota-controlled degree programmes, and it may request that you provide copies of your academic records to support your admission.
Admission Process
Language: Students applying for an English-taught degree must have either of the following certifications:
- TOEFL iBT
- IELTS Academic
- PTE Academic
- C1 Advanced
Be sure to prepare for your exams in advance, as it may take you around two to four months to be ready for the exam, depending upon your English proficiency.
Documents: Depending upon the university you choose, you will be required all or some of the following documents:
- A copy of your passport/ID card
- Your passport photo/s
- Personal Statement explaining your motivation for the course, suitability and future aspirations.
- Letter/s of Recommendation
- CV/Resume
- Academic documents, including marksheets, degrees, transcripts, and so on.
- Sample of academic written work
- English language proficiency proof
- Proof of application fee payment (50 – 100 EUR)
Application Deadlines
In order to apply to any university, be sure to check the application deadline directly with the institutions you are interested in. For most courses in the Netherlands, the deadline for application is the 1st of May. Others set the 1st of February or that of March as their application deadlines. If you are applying through the Numerous Fixus and DUO platform, you must apply by the 15th of January, which is usually their deadline for application.
Deadlines may be sooner if you have applied for a restricted quota programme. Generally, students are advised to apply by the mid of April as this leaves them ample time to arrange for their Visa and housing.
After receiving your application, you will have to carry out a few additional steps. One of these is to make sure your health insurance is valid, otherwise you will have to spend about 80-160 EUR each month to cover this. Non-EU students are required to get their residence permit as well. Make sure you’ve arranged for these in prior. Feel free to contact the team at Edusky to consult for any admission processes as well as other requirements.
Scholarships
- Holland Scholarship for International Students in Netherlands
The Holland Scholarship caters to international students from outside the EU countries who apply for Bachelor or Master’s Degree at participating Holland universities. Students receive the scholarship amount of € 5,000 in the first year of their studies.
- Netherlands Fellowship Programme
Netherlands Fellowship Programme provided by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs offers scholarships to support training and education for professionals. Fellowships are provided to students of Master’s studies, PhD, and short courses.
- Erasmus University Holland Scholarship
Financed by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, and Erasmus University Rotterdam, the Erasmus University Holland Scholarship funds for foreign students outside the European Economic Area (EEA) wishing to do their Bachelor’s or Master’s in Holland.
Other Scholarships Sponsored by College/University
- Leiden University Excellence Scholarships
Leiden University scholarships provide €10,000 of the tuition fee, €15,000 of the tuition fee or total tuition fee minus the home fee for international students enrolled in their MA, MSc, and LLM programs.
- University of Maastricht High Potential Scholarships
Master’s applicants at the University of Maastricht, except those enrolled in the School of Business and Economics, can get this scholarship, which covers cover tuition fee, expenses for living in the Netherlands, insurance, as well as visa costs.
- TU Delft Excellence Scholarships
This Scholarship is offered to international MSc students at TU Delft with a cumulative Grade Point Average of of 80% or higher in their bachelor’s degree. It covers tuition fees, monthly allowance, along with one-time travel expenses.
- Amsterdam Excellence Scholarships
Up to 15 full scholarships of €25,000 are awarded annually as part of the Amsterdam Excellence Scholarships program.
You may also learn about:
- University of Twente Scholarships (€6,000 – €25,000 for one year)
- VU University Amsterdam Fellowship Programme (€15,000 for non-EU students)
- The Hague World Citizen Talent Scholarship for Bachelor’s programmes
- Radboud University Scholarship Programme
- Utrecht University Excellence Scholarships
Educational Loans to Study in Netherlands
Educational loans in India are mainly distinguished between those that are ‘secured’ and those that are ‘unsecured’. Loan applicants must put up collateral such as property papers or assets as security under the Secured Loan type, provided by government banks or public banks in India. Loans with no collateral required are called unsecured loans. A majority of the education loans in India are provided by NBFCs (Non-Banking Finance Companies).
Student Eligibility for Study Loans in India:
To match the general eligibility criteria followed by all the banks in India, you must bear in mind the following points:
- You are required to be an Indian national
- You are required to have a strong academic record
- You are expected to be applying for a job-oriented course
- You must have received your offer letter from a foreign university/institution
- You must be above the age of 18 years. If not, your parents can apply for the loan
You may apply for a loan of a minimum of 1.5 months in advance to when you require funds to begin your education in the Netherlands. You will be required to submit your acceptance letter from your university and the mark sheet of your last academic qualification. Make sure to confirm of documentation requirements from your bank, as this may vary.
Re-payment of the loan begins only after the programme ends and mostly after you have secured a job. The loan is usually re-paid over the course of 5-7 years, although the maximum loan payback duration could exceed to 10 years, depending upon the bank you have taken your loan from.
Study Visa
A Provisional Residence Permit, also called as a ‘Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblifj’ (MVV)’, is your entry Visa for which you need to apply at the Dutch officials in your selected country of residence. This application usually takes some time to process, generally about two weeks or longer. You must apply at least three months before the date you plan to move to the Netherlands. Visit the http://www.vfs-nl-in.com to submit your application and schedule your appointment at the Visa application center. Students also have the option of applying for MVV via their host institution, with application costs ranging from €250 to €350.
Documents required for the MVV:
- Valid passport
- Proof of provisional acceptance to pursue your education at a recognized Netherlands university.
- A completed MVV form
- Proof you have adequate financial funds (bank statement and scholarship letters also accepted)
- Medical test reports
Students travelling to the Netherlands should bring their university’s official letter describing their learning method, since this document details that their learning method is not online. A student visa for online studies in the Netherlands will be refused.
Spouses and children may be allowed to live in the Netherlands while you study, but this is subject to certain conditions. You must meet the basic financial needs while maintaining a living space in the Netherlands. The Netherlands embassy takes the final decision, but you should be prepared to explain your situation and reasons well to get consideration for your case.
Work Permit
According to the Dutch law, students are allowed to work for up to 10 hours a week in the Netherlands. You may work full-time from June through August throughout the summer months. Students who come from abroad may work at universities while they are studying. To ensure academic achievement while providing job experience, the terms and conditions of employment are tailored to each student’s programme needs.
Checklist before Departure
- Flight and travel arrangements
- Accommodation Arrangements
- Travel and health insurance
- Arrangement for transportation from the airport to your residence in the Netherlands
- Check luggage and customs restrictions
- Settle all paperwork
Make photocopies of the following essential documents and pack them in your bag along with other things.
- Passport
- Travel insurance certificate
- Airline tickets
- Offer letter
- Address proof/ID proof
- Bank statement
- Prescriptions for medication/s, if any
- Traveler’s cheques, if applicable
- Medical and vaccination certificates/records
- Academic/university transcripts
Graduated. What Next?
Placements
The odds of landing your dream job in the Netherlands are high when you have learnt Dutch during your education period. During college itself, start consulting your career advisors and attending relevant workshops that make you job-ready. Remember, ‘Campus Placement’ may be popular in India but that is not the case with universities in the Netherlands. However, your institution will surely help you prepare for your career through traineeship or internship offered as part of your course. As an international student, you would not require a work permit (werkvergunning) to pursue your traineeship/internship as your student Visa makes you eligible for such opportunities.
Your orientation year starts after you graduate and allows an additional year to practice as a professional in the Netherlands. After that one year, however, you may want to transfer to a Highly Skilled Migrant (kennismigranten) Visa. This requires a separate application.
Need more information for your big study abroad dreams? Get in touch with Edusky counsellors, because we know your dreams are waiting in the Netherlands. Until we meet, wij wensen u veel success.
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