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 Netherlands an Excellent Place to Study
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.
University Intakes in The Netherlands
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.
Applying for the Autumn 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 |
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Step 2: August – September |
Prepare for the international exams and interviews. |
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Step 3: September – October |
Appear for the exams |
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Step 4: October – November |
Start applying to the educational institutes. |
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Step 5: November – December |
Appear for university interviews |
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Step 6: December – January |
Begin your student visa application, prepare for financial support |
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Step 7: January – February |
Arrive in The Netherlands |
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Step 8: February |
Session commences |
Top Universities in The Netherlands
Following is the list of the best universities present in the Netherlands:
- Delft University of Technology
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.
- University of Amsterdam
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.
- Wageningen University & Research
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.
- Utrecht University
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.
- University of Groningen
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.
- Leiden University
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.
The Documents Required for a Netherlands Student Visa
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.
Here is the document checklist for a Netherlands Student Visa:
- Visa Application Form (Completed)
- Valid Passport
- Two Photographs
- Birth Certificate
- Academic Certificates, Mark sheets/Transcripts
- Offer Letter from the University/College/School
- Proof of Financial Support
- Travel and Health Insurance
- Biometric Information
- Tuberculosis test for students of some particular countries
- Photocopies of all the original documents
- NID
- Police clearance Certificate https://pcc.police.gov.bd
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
- An entry visa (MVV) is a student visa to seek an entry permit into The Netherlands.
- Its validity usually lasts until the first six months after your arrival.
- But the course duration is generally more than one year. Hence a residence permit is required to stay for the entire course period.
- The only condition is that the student scores at least 50% of the credit throughout that time.
Admission Requirements to Study in the Netherlands
- Besides a residence permit and a student visa. You will be required to sit for a language examination to prove your English proficiency. You can take IELTS, TOEFL, or any other language test which your chosen university accepts.
- Other than this, all the students must have their medical insurance done. If you’re a non-EU, non-EEA, or if you’re from Switzerland, you must have your EU Health Insurance Card.
The Application Process for a Student Visa
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.
Getting a Student Visa without IELTS
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.
Getting a Student Visa for the Netherlands
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.
Cost of Living in The Netherlands
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.
Cost of Studying in The Netherlands
The cost to study in the Netherlands depends upon your nationality and the course.
- For non-EU and non-EEA students the tuition fees in public universities might range between 6000 – 15000 Eurosper year for a bachelor’s degree.
- While for a master’s program, it might cost you8000 – 20000 Euros per year.
- If you’re planning to study at a private university., you might need to expand your budget up to even 30000 Euros per year.
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:
- Erasmus+
- Holland Scholarship
- MENA Scholarship Programme
- NN Future Matters Scholarship
- Orange Knowledge Programme
- Orange Tulip Scholarship Programme
- Sino-Dutch Scholarship
- StuNed Scholarship
- The Desmond Fortes Scholarship
FAQs
The quality of education in any university is decided by its ranking and accreditation. These two key elements are excellent when it comes to the Netherlands. The country has some of the finest universities around the globe that implements problem-based learning systems. When it comes to the infrastructure and such services, Holland is one of the best destinations to study in. Their universities have massive libraries and advanced research centers. Even restaurants and theatres are included in the campus of numerous universities. The Netherlands is known for providing generous sponsorship to international students. In need of financial support. There are numerous options to avail of them. You can even contact your university. And ask them if they have their private scholarship programmes. Compared to other European countries. The Netherlands is slightly expensive because of its top-notch universities and highly qualified teaching faculties. But you can always apply for scholarship tests for financial support. Or, you can also take an education loan for the same. While for some people it might be a benefit. For others a disadvantage. As a student pursuing a particular degree in Holland. You will have to be under a lot of pressure. Regarding the deadlines, assignments, research, extra-studies, etc. To get permanent residence in Holland after studies. You need to stay in the country for five consecutive years without any criminal record. And with a good source of income. You must know about the Dutch community. Their culture and be able to speak their language. Besides these basic pointers. There are many other factors that you must keep in mind before you apply for a PR. Which you can find on the official website of the country. After fulfilling all these criteria. You can apply for a PR online by submitting your application to the IND. No, you cannot. You need to have a legit source of income strong enough to support you. And you must have stayed five years consequently in the country. Some of the top dutch universities for technology are as follows:
Pros Understanding the Pros Language The Netherlands was the first country in its entire continent to have commenced teaching courses in universities in the English language. University Rankings Infrastructural Facilities Financial Aid
Here are the Pros and Cons of studying in the Netherlands:Cons Understanding the Cons High Cost Extensive Studies