In short, international students can expect to study in such an inclusive and global environment rarely by studying abroad at one of the best education systems worldwide. The Netherlands is also a top country for education that specialises in unique ways of teaching, diversity and overall good support groups expected from an international student. This complete guide provides the university related, cost and other information which are essential factors in regard to studying at this location.
Why Study in the Netherlands?
For students from around the world the Netherlands provides an inclusive globally-focused education with a number of advantages.
- International Environment: Students from all over the world find the Netherlands to be the perfect place to study because of its many English-taught programs and friendly international culture
- Student Life and Community: Dutch universities offer active clubs, student communities and events that promote social interaction and cross-cultural learning.
- Interactive Learning: Dutch education places a strong emphasis on self-directed active learning with a casual student-teacher relationship creating a laid-back yet inspiring learning atmosphere.
Culture in the Netherlands: Although Dutch is the official language many Dutch people are fluent in English, French and German. For international students this multilingual culture facilitates communication and adaptation both inside and outside of the academic setting.
The Netherlands top universities for International Students
These are some of the most well known Dutch universities renowned for their outstanding academic records and wide range of programs that are appropriate for students from other countries:
- University of Amsterdam – Internationally renowned for its business humanities and social science research is the University of Amsterdam.
- Wageningen University and Research – A top institution for life sciences, environmental studies and agriculture.
- Utrecht University – Utrecht University is famous for social sciences law and environmental sciences.
- Delft University of Technology One of the Best Engineering & Technology Universities in Europe.
- University of Groningen- This university has an excellent engineering economics and science program.
- Tilburg University – The areas of expertise at Tilburg University are Law business and social sciences.
- University of Twente – This university is Well-known for its engineering, social science and management programs.
- Leiden University – Leiden university in the Netherlands offers robust programs in the social sciences, law and humanities.
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam – Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is well known for its business, social science and health sciences research.
Radboud University Nijmegen – The areas of expertise at Radboud University Nijmegen are medicine, social sciences and psychology Radboud University Nijmegen excels.
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Tuition Fees in the Netherlands
Tuition costs for bachelors degrees for international students typically range from €6000 to €20000 annually while masters degrees can cost anywhere from €8000 to €30000 depending on the university and program. There may be a limited number of scholarships offered by universities or government initiatives to exceptional students.
Required Documents for University Applications
Most universities in the Netherlands require the following for application:
- Copy of your passport or ID
- Recent passport photo
- Transcripts and diplomas from secondary education
- Proof of English or Dutch language proficiency
- Application fee (usually around €100)
Additional documents may include:
- CV or resume
- Motivation letter
- Reference letters
- Academic portfolio (if applicable)
Top Degrees/Programs in Netherlands 2025-26
These top courses which are renowned for their excellent instruction and widespread recognition are anticipated to be highly sought after in the Netherlands.
- Engineering and Technology
2. Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
3. Business and Economics
4. Environmental Science and Sustainability
5. Psychology and Behavioral Sciences
6. Medicine and Health Sciences
7. Law and International Relations
8. Architecture and Urban Planning
These courses offer promising career paths and are offered by well-regarded institutions across the Netherlands.
Netherlands Scholarships For International Students 2025-26
The students who are aspiring to study in the Netherlands, for these international students scholarship programs provided by the Dutch government further extend them a helping hand with financial support which they require not only pay their tuition fees but also lead an appropriate living-style simultaneously. These Dutch higher education institutions also have scholarship programmes available for prospective students to help with those dream masters. There are grants to check out for below;
Holland Scholarship.It is a one-time award of €5000 and only for first year undergraduate or master degree students who are non-EU/EEA partitioners.
Erasmus Mundus Scholarships: These scholarships, which are part of the Erasmus program, provide students with financial aid to help fund study in any number of joint masters programs from a consortium containing Dutch universities.
Orange Tulip Scholarship: Offered to students from specific nations, the Orange Tulip grant is regulated by Nuffic Tender and gives appropriations between portions or a large portion of education costs dependent on Programme/University requirements.
Since eligibility requirements and availability differ by university be sure to review the precise scholarship information and application deadlines on the website of your preferred institution.
The Netherlands cost of living
The cost of living is highest in Amsterdam where shared housing starts at about €750 a month. Options in smaller cities are more affordable; shared rooms can be found for as little as €250–€500 a month. A further €75–175 is added each month for utilities. Based on the city living expenses typically range from €800 to €1200 per month including rent, food and transportation.
Work and study in the Netherlands
During the academic year non-EU/EEA students are permitted to work up to 16 hours per week and in June, July and August they are permitted to work full-time. The employer must apply for the necessary work permit. Indeed, LinkedIn and any university job portals are popular places to find part-time work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why study in the Netherlands?
Well, given that the Netherlands is a great place to earn an education and has one of the best work-life balances in Europe alongside part-time employment possibilities — absolutely.
What is the average cost of studying in the Netherlands?
Living Expenses — this depends on your location but you want to budget between €800 and €1200 per month to cover all living costs.
What criteria do I need to meet to study in the Netherlands?
Depending on your nationality you may also require a set of documents that include language proficiency, educational transcripts and possibly a visa.
Can I obtain a permanent residence while I'm a student?
You may apply for permanent residency in the Netherlands including study periods after five years of continuous residence.
In the Netherlands which courses are the best to take?
There are more than 1700 bachelors masters and other student programs in the Netherlands. In the Netherlands the most popular academic disciplines are accounting, Technology engineering, health care and social science law.
In 2025–2026 the Netherlands is a great option for students looking to advance academically and personally because it provides a stimulating educational experience in a friendly international environment.
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