Study in the Netherlands
With English-taught courses, renowned Dutch institutions, and affordable tuition, the Netherlands offers international students the perfect opportunity for academic and cultural growth
Famous for its tulips, windmills, and canals, the Netherlands is a cultural European hub with numerous museums, art galleries, and a dynamic nightlife scene, making it an ideal destination for students. The most efficient way to explore this multicultural country is by bicycle, the nation's favoured mode of transport.
After experiencing all the Netherlands has to offer, students are well-positioned to explore the rest of Europe - popular tourist destinations such as Paris, Brussels, and Berlin are easily accessible by train.
The Dutch culture is known for its open-mindedness and directness. This extends to the classroom, where an interactive and collaborative learning style is embraced. Students are encouraged to express their thoughts and opinions freely in discussions.
Dutch universities
The Netherlands is home to two main types of institution:
- Research universities - offering research-based qualifications in an academic setting at Bachelors, Masters and PhD level. There are 14 of these.
- Universities of Applied Science (UAS) - the country's 40 UAS institutions offer more vocational courses, focused on practical application of training and education in the arts and sciences. UAS courses offer more opportunities for internships and work experience placements.
Universities in the Netherlands excel in world rankings, with 12 institutions appearing in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025.
Delft University of Technology leads the way at 56th, followed by the University of Amsterdam and Utrecht University at 58th and Wageningen University & Research 66th.
Leiden University and the University of Groningen round out the top 100 at 73rd and 80th respectively.
The grading system in the Netherlands differs from the UK's familiar system. Programmes are assessed on a 10-point scale, where one signifies very poor work and 10 denotes exceptional achievement. The majority of students earn grades ranging from four to eight.
The academic year runs from September to June.
Get access to world-class research facilities and staff while studying one of 35 English-taught Masters degree programmes in 11 disciplines.
Degree courses in the Netherlands
Dutch undergraduate courses offer both full-time and part-time options. While the length of study varies by subject, full-time degrees usually take three years to complete.
With subjects ranging from architecture to zoology, you'll find a variety of courses to choose from. However, the country's most popular programmes are in:
- language and culture
- engineering
- behaviour and society
- economics.
Popular student cities in the Netherlands include:
- Amsterdam
- Rotterdam
- Utrecht
- Groningen
- Maastricht.
Each institution in the Netherlands sets its own entry requirements for higher education courses. To apply, you'll typically need to submit transcripts of your previous qualifications, a CV and cover letter, and proof of your language proficiency if the course isn't taught in your first language.
Use the Study in Holland - Studyfinder tool to search for degree courses in the Netherlands and apply through the central applications portal Studielink.
Masters degrees
The Netherlands offers a number of Masters qualifications:
- Academic Masters - aims to develop the skills you'll need for employment as well as your knowledge of one or many subject areas.
- Research Masters - involves scientific research and gives you the chance to hone your analytical skills.
- Teacher training Masters.
Academic Masters typically take one year to complete while research Masters, teacher training programmes, and courses in agriculture, science, math, and engineering usually take two years.
Masters programmes at universities of applied science last between one and four years. They prepare you for managerial or leadership roles in a specific profession. Most students on these courses work full time and study part time, allowing them to apply their learning directly to their jobs and bring real-world experiences into the classroom.
Most Masters courses require a Bachelors degree (or equivalent) and proof of language proficiency. Check with specific institutions for entry requirements.
Search postgraduate courses in the Netherlands with Prospects and Studyfinder - Study in Holland.
PhDs
A PhD in the Netherlands involves working closely with a supervisor to research and write a dissertation. This typically takes four years.
All PhD students are part of either a graduate school or a research school, a partnership between multiple research universities and institutions. Some universities also work with private sector businesses, although this isn't as common.
After submitting your dissertation, you'll face a public defence. Unlike the UK, this is a formal ceremony where you present your paper and answer questions from an audience, supported by staff. Your PhD must be published beforehand.
To be accepted into a PhD programme, you'll need a Masters degree or equivalent and proof of health insurance (GHIC or private). Many universities employ PhD students as full-time researchers, so you'll also need to demonstrate your research capabilities.
Search for PhD programmes at Study in Holland - Studyfinder and Academic Transfer.
Student exchanges
Students at UK universities can participate in the government's Turing Scheme to study in the Netherlands. This programme offers funding for overseas placements and study abroad experiences.
This scheme, backed by over £100million, empowers thousands of students from schools, colleges, and universities to gain study and work experience abroad.
Your university must have a formal agreement with a Dutch partner institution to participate in this programme. Be sure to confirm that your university is involved and offers this scheme.
Course fees
Students from European Union (EU)/European Economic Area (EEA) countries pay a fixed €2,530 (£1,902) tuition fee per year, the same as Dutch students. Other students, including those from the UK, pay higher fees. Bachelors cost €9,000-€20,000 (£7,524-£16,720) per year, while Masters cost €12,000-€30,000 (£10,032-£25,078).
Beyond tuition, consider the cost of living. Budget €800-€1,200 (£689-£1,033) monthly for housing, transport, food, etc., especially in cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam.
The Dutch are known for cycling, so adopting this local practice can be a cost-effective way to get around.
Funding to study in the Netherlands
EU Masters students under 55 can apply for a postgraduate loan from the Dutch government. You'll need a Dutch bank account and a citizen service number, which you'll receive after registering your permanent address in the Netherlands. The loan covers tuition fees and is paid monthly into your bank account. You're responsible for paying the university, and interest starts accruing from the day you take out the loan.
Following graduation, you will have a two-year grace period during which no repayments are required. After this period, the loan must be repaid in full within 15 years. Interest rates are fixed every five years. Unlike the Student Finance system in England, the loan is not cancelled after the repayment period.
There are a number of grants and scholarships on offer to international students in the Netherlands - visit Study in Holland - Find a scholarship to search for opportunities.
Alternatively, if you're looking for PhD funding you can use the European Commission's (EC) researcher funding service EURAXESS.
Student visas
If you're from outside the EU (like the UK), you'll need both an entry visa (MVV) and a residence permit (VVR) to study in the Netherlands. Apply through your university and collect the necessary documents from the Dutch embassy or consulate in your home country. In the UK, this would be the Netherlands Embassy in London.
Citizens of the EU and the EEA are permitted to study in the Netherlands without the need for a visa. Your university will undertake the responsibility of registering your attendance with the Dutch immigration authorities.
If your intended stay in the Netherlands exceeds four months, you are required to register with the Dutch council Personal Records Database (BRP) at your local town hall within five days of your arrival in the Netherlands.
How to apply
Contact your chosen university to find out whether you need to apply directly or through Studielink. Aim to apply early, as most courses start in September. Some universities offer Numerus Fixus programmes, where the course has a certain set capacity, and for these, the application deadline typically falls in January. It's best to start preparing your application up to a year in advance.
Some universities have limited places, and for these the application deadline is typically in January. Check with your university for the specific dates.
Language requirements
Dutch universities offer over 2,000 courses in English, and 95% of the population speaks English at a basic level. This means you won't need to be fluent in Dutch to study there.
However, if you're applying for a course taught in a language other than your native tongue, you'll need to prove your language proficiency by taking a recognised test.
If you're a non-native English speaker enrolling on a course taught in English, you should take either the:
If you're a non-native Dutch speaker enrolling on a course taught in Dutch, you can take the:
Studying in the Netherlands is a great opportunity to learn Dutch, even if you don't need it for your course. Many universities offer beginner-level language courses for international students.
Comparison to UK qualifications
Dutch institutions generally accept qualifications gained in other European countries. Likewise, UK employers and other international institutions should recognise Dutch qualifications.
Visit Nuffic, the Dutch strand of credentials evaluator ENIC-NARIC, for more information on having your qualifications recognised.
Find out more
- Discover what it's like to work in the Netherlands.