The Netherlands has become one of Europe's most popular study destinations for international students — thanks to a large number of English-taught programmes, world-ranked universities, and a central European location. In 2026, more than 115,000 international students study in the Netherlands.
Why Study in the Netherlands?
English-taught degrees: The Netherlands offers more than 2,200 English-taught bachelor's and master's programmes — more than any other non-English-speaking country in Europe.
Research-intensive universities: Dutch universities consistently rank in the world's top 200. Delft University of Technology, Wageningen University, and the University of Amsterdam are internationally recognised.
Gateway to Europe: Located in the heart of Europe, the Netherlands offers easy access to Germany, Belgium, France, and beyond — ideal for internships, travel, and post-study career opportunities.
Post-study work: Graduates can apply for a 1-year Orientation Year (Zoekjaar) visa to look for work in the Netherlands after graduation.
Top Universities in the Netherlands
| University | Location | Known For |
|---|---|---|
| Delft University of Technology | Delft | Engineering, Architecture |
| University of Amsterdam | Amsterdam | Business, Social Sciences, Law |
| Wageningen University | Wageningen | Agriculture, Life Sciences |
| Eindhoven University of Technology | Eindhoven | Engineering, Technology |
| Leiden University | Leiden | Law, Medicine, Humanities |
| Utrecht University | Utrecht | Sciences, Social Sciences |
| Erasmus University Rotterdam | Rotterdam | Business, Economics, Law |
| Maastricht University | Maastricht | Problem-Based Learning, Business |
Tuition Fees
EU/EEA students: Approximately €2,314 per year for accredited programmes.
Non-EU/EEA international students:
- Bachelor's degrees: €6,000–€15,000 per year
- Master's degrees: €10,000–€20,000 per year
- Technical programmes (TU Delft, TU Eindhoven): up to €25,000 per year
Living Costs
| Expense | Monthly (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | €600–€1,200 |
| Food | €300–€450 |
| Transport | €80–€120 |
| Health insurance | €110–€140 |
| Personal/leisure | €150–€250 |
| **Total** | **€1,240–€2,160/month** |
Amsterdam and Utrecht are the most expensive cities. Groningen, Nijmegen, and Tilburg are significantly more affordable.
Student Visa for International Students
EU/EEA/Swiss students do not need a visa.
Non-EU international students need a Residence Permit for Study (MVV + VVR):
- Your university applies for your MVV on your behalf
- You collect the MVV sticker from the Dutch embassy in your country
- On arrival, collect your residence permit card (VVR) from your university
Documents required: valid passport, proof of admission, proof of financial means (approx. €900/month), health insurance, passport photos.
Processing time: 4–8 weeks.
English Language Requirements
Most Dutch universities require IELTS 6.0–7.0 for bachelor's and 6.5–7.5 for master's. TOEFL iBT 80–100 is also accepted.
Post-Study Opportunities
After graduating, non-EU graduates can apply for the Orientation Year (Zoekjaar) visa — 1 year to look for work. If you find a job earning above the Dutch skilled migrant threshold (approximately €4,840/month in 2026), you can switch to a Skilled Migrant Visa (Kennismigrant).
Scholarships for International Students
- Holland Scholarship: €5,000 for the first year — for non-EU students in bachelor's or master's programmes
- Orange Tulip Scholarship: Country-specific funding for students from India, China, Indonesia, Vietnam, and others
- Erasmus Mundus: Joint degree scholarships with a Netherlands component
- University-specific grants at TU Delft, Leiden, and Wageningen
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I study in the Netherlands in English?
Yes — the Netherlands offers more than 2,200 English-taught bachelor's and master's programmes. You do not need to learn Dutch for most international programmes.
How much does it cost to study in the Netherlands for international students?
Non-EU students pay €6,000–€25,000 per year in tuition depending on the institution and programme. Living costs are approximately €1,200–€2,160 per month.
Do I need a visa to study in the Netherlands?
EU/EEA/Swiss students do not need a visa. Non-EU students need an MVV entry visa and residence permit (VVR), which your Dutch university applies for on your behalf through the IND. Processing takes 4–8 weeks.
Can I stay in the Netherlands after studying?
Yes — non-EU graduates can apply for a 1-year Orientation Year (Zoekjaar) visa to look for work. If you find a job above the Dutch skilled migrant threshold, you can switch to a Kennismigrant (Skilled Migrant) visa.
What are the best universities in the Netherlands for international students?
TU Delft (engineering), University of Amsterdam (social sciences, business), Wageningen University (life sciences), Utrecht University, Leiden University, and Erasmus University Rotterdam are the most popular for international students.
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