Explore Netherlands
Study in Netherlands.
Imagine cycling along canals to an international classroom. Explore the Netherlands through the programmes and cities that suit you.
At a glance
Studying in Netherlands, at a glance.
Main intakes
September (main), with some February starts
Bachelor’s degree
3 years at research universities, 4 at universities of applied sciences
Master’s degree
1 to 2 years
Teaching language
Many English-taught programmes
Tuition (indicative)
Often around €8,000 to €27,000 a year
Institutional fees for non-EU students vary by university and programme. EU students pay the statutory fee (€2,601 in 2025/26).
Living costs (indicative)
Often €1,000 to €1,500 a month
A typical estimate. Housing is scarce in many cities, so start your search early.
General guidance, reviewed in November 2026 against official and published sources. Fees, living-cost figures and requirements change and differ by institution and course, so always confirm with the institution and official sources such as Study in NL and Studielink before making decisions.
Why Netherlands
What draws students to Netherlands.
English-taught choice
One of the widest ranges of English-taught programmes in continental Europe.
Interactive teaching
Small-group, problem-based learning is common.
Compact and connected
Short distances between cities and easy access to the rest of Europe.
Study opportunities
Subject areas with a wide choice of programmes.
Research universities focus on academic study; universities of applied sciences on professional practice. Start with what you want to learn, then check each course’s modules, teaching approach and entry requirements.
- Business and economics
- Engineering and technology
- Social sciences
- Water management and environmental studies
- Agriculture and life sciences
- Design
Where to study
Examples of well-known institutions in Netherlands.
In no particular order. These are examples to start your research, not rankings or recommendations, and many other excellent institutions exist.
University of Amsterdam
- City
- Amsterdam
- Type
- Public research university
Delft University of Technology
- City
- Delft
- Type
- Public technical university
Leiden University
- City
- Leiden
- Type
- Public research university
Utrecht University
- City
- Utrecht
- Type
- Public research university
Erasmus University Rotterdam
- City
- Rotterdam
- Type
- Public research university
University of Groningen
- City
- Groningen
- Type
- Public research university
Check programmes, entry requirements and fees on each institution’s official website.
Admission requirements
What applications usually ask for.
Requirements are set by each institution and course. Use this as a starting checklist, then follow the official course page.
Most applications
- Academic transcripts and certificates from your previous study.
- Evidence of your proficiency in the language of instruction.
- A personal statement or statement of purpose, written in your own words.
- One or two academic or professional references.
- A CV, particularly for postgraduate applications.
- A valid passport.
Specific to Netherlands
- Many applications are made through Studielink, then the institution’s own portal.
- Programmes with limited places (numerus fixus) often have a 15 January deadline.
- English language evidence as required by the institution.
Scholarships
Scholarships worth researching.
Public information only. Eligibility, deadlines and amounts are set by each provider; WINAR does not provide or arrange funding.
NL Scholarship
A Dutch Government scholarship for non-EEA students, offered through participating institutions.
University scholarships
Many Dutch universities offer their own excellence scholarships.
Student life
Everyday life in Netherlands.
Housing first
Finding accommodation can take months; start as soon as you apply.
Cycling culture
A bicycle is the main way to get around.
International community
Large international student communities in most university cities.
Visas and immigration
Visa and immigration rules are set by the government of Netherlands and change regularly. WINAR does not provide immigration advice or services. Read the official guidance published by Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND), and speak to a suitably qualified and regulated adviser if you need advice on your own circumstances.
Questions, answered plainly
Questions about studying in Netherlands.
What would your Netherlands chapter need?
Discuss your study goals, the information still to verify and possible next steps with WINAR. Support scope and destination coverage are subject to confirmation.