Frequently Asked Questions
about studying in the Netherlands
Can I study in the Netherlands in English?
The Netherlands were the first country in continental Europe to introduce English language programs at universities. Currently in the Netherlands over 2500 bachelor’s and master’s programs are taught in English with a growing number of international students. This also attracts large numbers of international staff which accounts to on average approximately 40% faculty and academic staff at Dutch universities. Practically everybody in the Netherlands speaks English which makes life in general easy and comfortable for the English-speakers.
How do universities in the Netherlands rank in the world?
According to Times Higher Education ranking in 2022 10 out of 13 Dutch universities were among the Top-200 and 7 were among the Top-100 universities globally. On top of that many individual programs rank at the very top in their specific fields. Such examples include Media & Communications at the University of Amsterdam - #1, Architecture at Delf Technical University - #2, Veterinary at Utrecht University - #4.
What are the costs of studying in the Netherlands?
The cost of studying in the Netherlands for international students is considerably lower compared to the UK, USA or Canada. Bachelor’s programs cost on average between 7,000 and 10,000 EUR per academic year and take 3 to 4 years to complete.
Master’s programs cost between 14,000 and 22,000 EUR per academic year and usually take between 1 and 2 years.
Naturally, this does not include housing and cost of living. Housing may cost typically between 300 and 1,000 EUR per month while the cost of living depending on the life style will amount to 400 EUR or more per month.
There is no free education in the Netherlands, however there are several options for scholarships to cover at least part of the cost of studying in the Netherlands. You can ask UniHolland about what are the realistic options, how you can qualify and how to apply for a scholarship.
What are the admission requirements at Dutch universities?
If you are finishing school with an IB diploma, British A-levels or with other European diplomas after at least 12 years of study, you can apply to any Dutch university. Academic grades requirements vary among universities and individual programs as well as educational systems. The Dutch Organization for Internationalization in Education (NUFFIC) provides an excellent overview of country specific requirements.
Most programs require CV and motivation letter. Admission to some programs with Numerus Fixus may require additional program specific exams, creative programs typically require a portfolio.
There are many differences in requirements among individual programs. Ask UniHolland to equip you with the most reliable and up-to-date information, including strict deadlines.
What is the difference between research universities and universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands?
The confusion in terminology stems from the translation. The Dutch term for a university of applied sciences is Hogeschool, or Higher School, while research university is called simply Universiteit. Both types of universities offer bachelor’s programs.
The main difference between the two types of universities is in that Hogeshools are more focused to provide students with practical skills and knowledge in a specific field, where as studies at a Universiteit are typically lecture-based, more theoretical, require more self-studies with a potential for scientific or research career such as doctorate.
Admission requirements vary between Hogeshools and Universiteits.
If you are not sure which type of university suits better your personal academic level and future career aspirations, you can ask UniHolland to help you make the best possible choice.