
Discover business opportunities and services in the Netherlands, offering expert guidance, local insights, and support to help you thrive in this dynamic European market.
The Netherlands or Holland is a European country situated on the north-western side of the continent. The mesmerizing routing of canals forms the concentric bells around Amsterdam, the capital.
Not only for its enrapturing beauty but, the Netherlands is also one of the most preferred study destinations for students from all across the world. Read along to know more about why students choose the Netherlands for higher education.
The education sector of The Netherlands is not only robust and advanced, but also less expensive when compared to The USA, Australia, or The United Kingdom.
The quality of education in the Netherlands is never compromised justifying its world-renowned education system.
Almost every university in The Netherlands permits two intakes.
This takes place in February and September.
AUTUMN INTAKE
The academic year commences in September. It is considered the primary intake since all the courses are available for the students.
WINTER INTAKE
The secondary intake begins in February. It does not offer all the courses as compared to the primary intake.
The Dutch follow the “first come, first take” rule. So, do not delay and start your application process at least 3 months in advance.
The timeline for the February (Winter) intake
For the winter intake admission cycle, refer the table given below:
|
Step1: February – July |
Research various dutch universities and colleges |
|
Step 2: August – September |
Prepare for the international exams and interviews. |
|
Step 3: September – October |
Appear for the exams |
|
Step 4: October – November |
Start applying to the educational institutes. |
|
Step 5: November – December |
Appear for university interviews |
|
Step 6: December – January |
Begin your student visa application, prepare for financial support |
|
Step 7: January – February |
Arrive in The Netherlands |
|
Step 8: February |
Session commences |
Following is the list of the best universities present in the Netherlands:
It is one of the finest educational institutes in the country. It has one of the biggest campuses in the world. Running over 161 hectares. It has facilities like cycle paths, flight simulators, restaurants, and botanical gardens. As per the QS World University Rankings, it is the 57th-best university in the globe.
This university has various study programmes. Like Psychology, Law, Artificial Intelligence, Business, Social and Behavioural Sciences. Students from all over the world seek admission to this university. To widen their prospects through good quality education.
Another name in the list of the top universities. The Netherlands is Wageningen University and Research. According to the QS World University Rankings. It is the best educational centre you can choose. For studying Agricultural and Forestry in the entire world.
Ranked 121 globally. It is situated in the city of Utrecht. It offers 12+ English-taught Bachelor’s degree programmes. And 90+ courses for a Master’s in English. Established in 1636, it is a research university that gave 12 Nobel prize winners to the world.
With quite an impressive reputation. This university has given the Netherlands its first female student. The first female lecturer. The first Dutch astronaut and the first president of the European Central Bank. It is located on the northern side of the country. And the research mainly centres around Healthy Ageing, Energy, and a Sustainable Society.
Ranked sixth in the world. For its excellent quality of Classics. And the Ancient History program, at Leiden University, is situated in the city of Leiden. And offers innumerable graduate and postgraduate degrees.
Research Universities
A Research University primarily focuses on executing research programmes. Through Bachelor’s, Doctoral, and Master’s Degrees. The Bachelor’s, as well as Master’s programme, are taught in English majorly.
Universities of Applied Sciences
These universities offer only a Master’s and Bachelor’s Degree in courses like arts, design, and applied sciences. They highlight the practical aspect of the subject in the program. With a more concrete structure.
Institutes for International Education
Designed for international students. Institutes for International Education consists of cross-cultural give and take of knowledge. Under the guidance of highly qualified teaching faculties.
Some international students are required to apply for an entry visa (MVV) as well as a residence permit (VRV). Depending upon their nationality and duration of stay to study in The Netherlands. International students belonging to certain nations like Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Monaco, the USA, and Vatican City can enter Holland without any MVV or VRV.
Note: If your stay period is less than 90 days, you will not be required to issue a student visa and a residence permit. You can arrive in The Netherlands using a short-stay visa or Schengen visa.
Difference between an Entry Visa and a Residence Permit
Admission Requirements to Study in the Netherlands
For knowing the application process for the student visa (MVV) in detail. Go through the following steps:
Step 1: Select the University and the specific course.
Step 2: Check your eligibility for the course.
Step 3: Seek help from a consultant to begin the application process.
Step 4: Wait for your document verification.
Step 5: Attend the visa interview at the Embassy.
And now, the last thing you need to do is wait for your visa and plan for your travel to the Netherlands.
If your university allows you to sit for any language test other than IELTS then yes, you can get a student visa based on the results of the other examinations. The crux is that the type of language test might differ, but you will have to sit for either of the exams.
If all the steps mentioned above are followed correctly before deadlines, you shall face no hurdles during the procedure. For more efficiency consider hiring a visa consultancy to help you out with the applications and policies you might not know.
Before leaving for studying in Holland, students must pay attention to his/her financial condition and ensure they have sufficient resources to support their lifestyle abroad.
| Service or Item | Living Expenses (in Euro) |
| Rent | 350 – 800 |
| Food | 180 |
| Study Materials | 50 |
| Clothes/Entertainment/Miscellaneous | 100 |
| Health Insurance (in case you don’t have the EU Health Insurance Card) | 80 |
To have an idea regarding the monthly living costs in The Netherlands refer to the table given below:
To sum it up, your monthly expenditure can range from 1000 to 1400 euros. Moreover, it also depends upon the city you will be living in. For example, if your university is situated in Enschede. Your monthly budget will not exceed 1000 Euros. But if you’re choosing to live in Amsterdam, it might increase by 500 Euros.
The cost to study in the Netherlands depends upon your nationality and the course.
Scholarship Options to Study in the Netherlands
Holland provides a plethora of financial aid to sponsor international students. Based on their talent, skills, and credits.
Some of them are:
Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated on the latest developments.