Last Updated: 30 July 2026

Study in Netherlands: Student Visa, Universities, Costs and Post-Study Work

The Netherlands has become a popular study destination for Indian students. In 2025–26, around 129,764 international students from more than 160 countries were studying in full-degree programmes at Dutch universities. Around 12,500 Indian students were enrolled, the highest number recorded so far. New Indian master's enrolments also increased by 16.5%, even as the overall number of international students in the Netherlands declined for the first time since 2006.

There are several reasons why Indian students choose the Netherlands. The country offers more than 2,000 English-taught programmes, while master's tuition fees are typically €8,000–€20,000 per year, compared with £22,000 or more in the UK. After graduation, eligible students can apply for a 12-month Orientation Year permit within three years of completing their studies. Recent Dutch graduates may also qualify for a reduced highly skilled migrant salary requirement of €3,122 per month, compared with €4,357 for other highly skilled migrants under 30.

Highlights: Study in the Netherlands

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Why Study in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands is a popular study destination for international students, offering quality education, English-taught programmes, practical learning, and strong research opportunities.

• 12,500 Indian students: Around 12,500 Indian students are enrolled in Dutch higher education, reaching a record high.
• 16.5% growth: New Indian master's enrolments increased by 16.5% in 2025–26, despite an overall decline in international enrolments.
• 160+ nationalities: Students from more than 160 countries study in the Netherlands, creating a diverse international environment.
• 2,100+ English-taught programmes: International students can choose from a wide range of programmes taught in English across different fields.
• Affordable tuition fees: Dutch universities offer internationally recognised education at competitive tuition fees.
• Manageable living costs: Students can plan their budget based on accommodation, food, transport, insurance, and other monthly expenses.
• Top universities: The Netherlands has several internationally recognised universities known for quality education, research, and innovation.
• Wide course options: Students can choose programmes in engineering, technology, business, data science, sustainability, economics, and other fields.
• Practical education: Dutch education focuses on critical thinking, research, teamwork, and practical problem-solving.

Top Universities in the Netherlands

The top universities in the Netherlands constantly rank among the best, demonstrating the Netherlands well-structured education system and global position. Universities in the Netherlands, such as Delft University of Technology, University of Amsterdam, and Wageningen University, are internationally recognized for their academic quality and research in various disciplines.

These best universities in the Netherlands are assessed based on their faculty expertise, academic reputation, research output, and more. If you're looking to study in Netherlands, you'll find that universities in the Netherlands for international students offer a range of top-tier programs. Additionally, for those pursuing advanced studies, masters in the Netherlands for international students  provide excellent graduate-level options. Below is a list of universities that rank among the top universities in the Netherlands and have a global reputation worldwide.

Top-Ranked Universities in the Netherlands

Choosing a University in the Netherlands

Dutch higher education broadly includes research universities (WO) and universities of applied sciences (HBO). Research universities are academically and research focused, while universities of applied sciences generally place greater emphasis on professional and practical education.

International students should consider:

• Programme content and specialisation
• Academic and English-language requirements
• Tuition fees
• Scholarships
• Programme accreditation
• University location
• Housing availability
• Graduate employment opportunities
• Whether the institution is an IND-recognised sponsor

Popular Courses to Study in the Netherlands

Students pursuing higher education find the Netherlands an ideal option and an excellent host because of its good academic opportunities. The variety and quality of courses offered by Dutch universities are well reflected in their education system.

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In-Demand Courses in the Netherlands

Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence

Popular fields include:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Data Science
• Cybersecurity
• Machine Learning
• Computer Science

These programmes support careers in the Netherlands' growing technology and digital sectors.

Engineering and Technology

Popular options include:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering
• Mechatronics
• Industrial Automation

The Netherlands has a strong high-tech and advanced manufacturing ecosystem, particularly around cities such as Eindhoven.

Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Popular programmes include:

• International Trade
• Logistics Engineering
• Supply Chain Management

The Netherlands' location and major logistics infrastructure make this an important study and employment field.

Sustainability and Environmental Science

Students can consider:

• Renewable Energy
• Climate Change Studies
• Environmental Science
• Sustainable Development

Business and Economics

Popular programmes include:

• Business Analytics
• International Business Administration
• International Finance
• Economics
• Management

Master's Degree Programes in the Netherlands

International students can pursue master's programes at Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences. A master's degree can help students develop specialised knowledge, professional expertise, analytical skills, and research capabilities.

Depending on the programe and institution, master's programes typically last one to three years. Research universities generally offer academically focused master's degrees, while universities of applied sciences may provide programes with a stronger professional or industry orientation.

Admission requirements vary by programe and can include academic qualifications, English-language scores, relevant undergraduate subjects, professional experience, GRE/GMAT scores, portfolios, or other programe-specific requirements.

Study Intakes in the Netherlands

Dutch universities primarily offer admissions for the September intake, while selected programes may also have a February intake. September generally offers the widest choice of programes. Students should begin researching programes well before the application deadline because university admission, document preparation, financial arrangements, legalisation, housing, and the TEV procedure can take several months.

Netherlands University Application Deadlines

Applications for the September 2027 intake open on 1 October 2026 via Studielink. Two important national deadlines apply to Dutch bachelor's programes:

Applicants can submit a maximum of two numerus fixus applications per academic year. Many universities set earlier institutional deadlines for non-EU/EEA students to allow enough time for admission, finances, and immigration procedures.

Common Non-EU/EEA Bachelor's Deadlines

Important Deadlines After Application

Indian and other non-EU students also need to pay attention to post-application deadlines.

• TU Delft: Placement closes 15 June for non-EU/EFTA applicants.
• University of Twente: Non-EEA numerus fixus applications without a place by 1 June are cancelled.
• Radboud University: Enrolment must be completed by 1 June.
• Maastricht University: IND submission before 1 July.
• University of Groningen: Non-EU documents due by 1 July.

A €100 application fee for applicants holding a non-Dutch diploma applies at TU/e, Utrecht University, University of Groningen, and University of Twente. Always check the exact programe deadline on the university's official programe page and Study in NL before applying. Universities publish year-specific 2027 information from October 2026, and some programe-specific deadlines may change.

Master's applicants: The 15 January and 1 May national deadlines above apply to bachelor's admissions. Master's deadlines are set by individual universities and programmes. Non-EU master's deadlines commonly fall between 1 December and 1 April for a September start.

Netherlands Study Visa for Students: Types, Requirements & Process

Indian students who plan to study in the Netherlands for more than 90 days generally require an MVV and residence permit. MVV stands for Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblijf. It is the long-stay entry visa that allows an eligible student to enter the Netherlands. For higher education, the student's recognised educational institution normally submits a combined immigration application under the TEV procedure.

After arriving in the Netherlands, the student registers with the municipality and collects the residence permit card, known as the VVR, from the IND. The VVR is a type I temporary regular residence permit. It is not permanent residence. The IND can issue the student residence permit for a maximum of five years, with validity normally extending three months beyond the official duration of the programme.

Types of Netherlands Study Visa

• Netherlands Short-Stay Visa: Students coming to the Netherlands for a course or training programme lasting up to 90 days may require a Schengen short-stay visa depending on their nationality.
• Netherlands Student Residence Permit: Students undertaking longer programmes generally require a residence permit for study. For students who also need an MVV, the institution submits the MVV and residence permit application together through the TEV procedure.

TEV Procedure

You do not apply for your Dutch higher-education student residence permit yourself. Your university applies on your behalf. For study at a Dutch university or HBO institution, the application must be submitted by an educational institution recognised by the IND as a sponsor, known in Dutch as an erkend referent. The institution also has legal obligations towards the IND while you study in the Netherlands. The combined immigration procedure is called TEV, Toegang en Verblijf, or Entry and Residence.

It covers:

1. MVV — Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblijf: the long-stay entry visa sticker placed in your passport.
2. VVR — Verblijfsvergunning Regulier: the residence permit card you collect after arriving in the Netherlands.

How the TEV Procedure Works

What Indian Students Should Know?

Do not submit a higher-education study permit application directly to the IND when your recognised university is required to sponsor you. Check whether your institution appears in the IND Public Register of Recognised Sponsors, Study before accepting an offer and paying major fees.

Your university's international office is normally your main point of contact during the immigration procedure. Students must also make sufficient academic progress. Generally, you must obtain at least 50% of the required credits for each academic year. Your educational institution monitors your progress and can report insufficient progress to the IND.

Documents Required for Netherlands Study Visa Application

The exact documents can vary depending on your institution and personal circumstances. Your university will provide the final immigration checklist.

Typical documents can include:

• Valid passport
• University admission or acceptance confirmation
• Completed immigration forms/declarations requested by the university
• Passport photograph meeting Dutch requirements
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Proof of tuition payment or arrangements where required
• Academic certificates and transcripts
• TB-test declaration where applicable
• Additional university or IND documents depending on your circumstances
• Copies and, where required, legalised or translated versions of supporting documents
• Biometric information
• IND application fee of €254 in 2026, normally paid through the university

Proof of Funds for a Netherlands Student Visa

The IND sets a fixed amount that international students must demonstrate is available for living expenses. This amount is called the study norm (studienorm). The amount is reviewed periodically by the IND.

What Indian Applicants Should Know?

The study norm covers living expenses only. Tuition is separate and must also be paid or demonstrated according to your institution's requirements. Universities may ask students to transfer the required funds to a designated university account or follow another accepted method of demonstrating funds. Some institutions can request slightly more than the IND minimum to account for bank charges or exchange-rate movements.

Financial documents should meet your university's and IND's requirements for recency, language, ownership, accessibility, and verification. Applicants should also be able to explain the source of funds where required. Large unexplained deposits made shortly before the immigration process can create additional questions.

How to Apply for a Netherlands Study Visa?

Step 1: Research universities and programmes, check admission requirements, and submit your application before the relevant deadline.

Step 2: After receiving an offer, complete the university's acceptance procedure and meet any tuition deposit or payment requirements.

Step 3: Provide your passport, proof of funds, declarations, and other documents requested by the university's international office.

Step 4: Pay the €254 IND fee for 2026 to your university. The university forwards the applicable fee when submitting your application to the IND.

Step 5: Your recognised educational institution submits the immigration application to the IND on your behalf.

Step 6: The IND assesses the application. The statutory decision period can be up to 90 days.

Step 7: After receiving approval through your university, complete the required MVV appointment and biometrics/formalities in India.

Step 8: After receiving your MVV, travel to the Netherlands within its validity period.

Step 9: Register with your municipality, obtain your BSN, and collect your residence permit card from the IND.

Netherlands Student Visa Fees

For a higher-education study application, the student generally pays the IND fee to the university, which submits the application as the recognised sponsor.

Why Netherlands Student Visa Applications Get Refused?

Dutch study applications are pre-screened by recognised educational institutions before submission to the IND. However, applications can still face problems when immigration requirements are not met.

1. Insufficient Funds: You must meet the applicable IND study norm. For HBO and university students, the 2026 amount is €1,130.77 per month, excluding tuition.

2. Unclear Source of Funds: Large recent deposits without supporting evidence can lead to questions about whether the funds are genuinely available for your studies.

3. Financial Documents Do Not Meet Requirements: Outdated, incomplete, unverifiable, or incorrectly prepared financial documents can delay or affect the application.

4. Documents Are Not Properly Prepared: Documents may need legalisation, apostille, or certified translation depending on the document and circumstances.

5. Institution Is Not an IND-Recognised Sponsor: For the recognised-sponsor higher-education route, your educational institution must be authorised to sponsor international students.

6. Programme Does Not Meet Applicable Requirements: Students should confirm the recognition/accreditation status of the programme before committing to study.

7. Academic Path Raises Questions: Universities may examine academic history, study gaps, previous qualifications, and whether the selected programme fits the student's academic and professional goals.

8. Starting Too Late: University admission, document preparation, legalisation, financial transfers, IND processing, and MVV formalities all take time. International students should begin well before the programme starts.

9. Insufficient Study Progress After Arrival: Students generally need to obtain at least 50% of the required study credits each academic year. Insufficient progress without an accepted reason can affect residence status.

What Happens If Your Application Is Refused?

A formal objection, or bezwaar, may be possible following an IND decision. The applicable deadline is generally stated in the decision and must be followed strictly. Because the university submits the higher-education application, contact its international office immediately after a negative decision to understand the reason and available next steps.

Average Tuition Fees for International Students to Study in Netherlands

Tuition fees depend on the university, programme, degree level, and student's nationality/status. Indicative annual tuition ranges for non-EU/EEA international students can be:

Students should always check the current tuition fee directly on the university programme page.

How to Pay Tuition Fees

Universities may accept tuition payments through bank transfer, digital authorisation, or other approved methods. Payment rules for students requiring immigration sponsorship can differ from those for Dutch or EU students. Your university may require full or partial payment before it submits the residence permit application. Follow the payment instructions provided by the institution rather than assuming that instalment payments are available.

Scholarships for International Students in the Netherlands

Studying in the Netherlands for international students can have different costs depending on their country of origin, the chosen field, and various universities in the selected study levels.

That is why it is essential to inquire directly with the higher education institution of interest for accurate information regarding tuition fees. Several Netherlands scholarships for international students are offered to those who choose to study in the Netherlands, which are either government-funded or provided by the University of Choice based on merit.According to statistics by International Cooperation in Higher Education, there are over 800 Netherlands scholarships for international students every year. 

Popular Scholarships in the Netherlands

The value of these Dutch scholarships usually ranges from 5,000 to 20,000 EUR per year. On top of that, several Netherlands study abroad scholarships are available for international students, which might also cover extra things like housing, travel, and living expenses.

For Indian students, there are also specific opportunities under the umbrella of Netherlands scholarships, which can help cover many Netherlands study costs. Here's a list of funded and non-funded scholarships and the amounts they offer:

Can Indian Students Get Dutch Student Finance (DUO)?

In most cases, Indian students holding a temporary residence permit for study should not assume they qualify for Dutch student finance. Dutch student finance, known as studiefinanciering, is administered by DUO. Eligibility depends on factors such as nationality and residence status.

A type I temporary residence permit for study does not normally provide entitlement to the basic grant, supplementary grant, or student travel product. Eligibility may change if a student's residence status changes, such as after obtaining another qualifying residence permit or permanent residence. EU/EEA and Swiss students have different eligibility rules. Some students who do not qualify for full student finance may have access to other DUO financing options depending on their circumstances. Check directly with DUO before relying on student finance.

How Indian Students Can Fund Their Studies?

Important: Expected income from part-time employment cannot replace the funds you must demonstrate for your immigration application. The required money must be available at the time of the application.

Student Housing in the Netherlands

Studying in the Netherlands gives students opportunities to live in a diverse international community of the Netherlands and experience its rich culture. Dutch value work-life balance a lot, at the same time they take time for personal projects or just to relax. However an international student always has to struggle for getting an Student accommodation in the Netherlands without overpaying, especially in the expensive Dutch cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam.

Finding the right student housing and accommodation requires a lot of careful planning and research. Students must consider their budget, preferred lifestyle, and the location of their university when choosing housing in the Netherlands. 

Types of accommodations and housing options in the Netherlands:

• A single room: Shared apartments are the most common rental/housing accommodation in the Netherlands for both international students and working professionals. They are a cost-effective way of living and are closer to the city center, therefore saving money on commutes. A single room in the Netherlands can range from €600 -€1000 without including the utilities.
• Studio apartments: International students who study in the Netherlands also rent studio apartments as it offers a lot of privacy. Renting a studio apartment in the Netherlands can be a little expensive as it can range from €1200 to €1500. When looking for a studio apartment in the Netherlands, some of the best websites for rental properties are Pararius and Funda. You can also join Facebook groups, as the listings are put by people who require roommates.
• Entire Apartment / Flat: For some students, privacy is the primary concern, so they can opt for a separate apartment. Because of the competition and demand for entire apartments, it is always advised to look for them well in advance. The whole apartment or flat can cost you €1500+ a month.

Documents Needed for Securing Student Housing in the Netherlands:

• A valid passport and copy of the passport’s information page
• Recent employer’s statement or an employment contract (only if applicable)
• A residence permit, Depending on your nationality and duration of stay
• 3 recent payslips  (only if applicable)
• University Acceptance Letter confirming student’s enrollment at a Dutch university
• Proof of Financial Means including three most recent bank statements

Can International Students Work While Studying in the Netherlands?

Yes. Non-EU/EEA international students with a Dutch student residence permit can work subject to immigration and employment rules. For most Indian students, your employer must obtain a work permit (TWV) before you start working. The TWV is the employer's responsibility. Working without the required authorisation, or exceeding the permitted working hours, can affect your residence status.

You must choose one of the following employment options:

• Work for a maximum of 16 hours per week throughout the year, OR
• Work full-time during June, July and August only

You cannot combine both options. Different rules apply to EU/EEA and Swiss nationals. A TWV is generally not required when you work as a genuine self-employed person, although you must comply with business registration, tax, and immigration conditions. A traineeship that forms an integral part of your study programme can also be subject to different rules. Students should not rely on part-time employment to meet the IND study norm.

Part-Time Jobs for International Students in the Netherlands

Students may find work in areas such as:

• Retail
• Hospitality
• Customer service
• Tutoring
• University support roles
• Administration
• Warehousing and logistics
• Delivery
• Technology and specialised roles

Actual wages depend on age, employer, industry, experience, location, and applicable Dutch minimum-wage and employment rules. Students should confirm the employment conditions and TWV requirements before accepting a job.

Netherlands Post-Study Work Visa: The Orientation Year

After graduating, eligible international students can remain in the Netherlands to search for employment through the Orientation Year residence permit, known in Dutch as zoekjaar hoogopgeleiden. It provides eligible graduates with 12 months to work, look for employment, freelance, start a business, or transition to another residence route.

Orientation Year: Key Facts

Unlike your student residence permit, you apply for the Orientation Year yourself rather than through the university. Depending on your circumstances, the application can be made online using DigiD or through the applicable IND application procedure.

*Want to apply for a Netherlands work visa? Let Y-Axis guide you with the steps. 

Who Is Eligible for the Orientation Year?

You may qualify if, within the three years before applying, you completed an eligible programme or research activity such as:

• Accredited bachelor's or master's degree at a Dutch higher education institution
• Eligible Dutch post-master's programme
• PhD or doctorate in the Netherlands
• Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's programme
• Qualifying programme under specified Dutch cultural or development policies
• Qualifying scientific research in the Netherlands
• Eligible master's, doctoral, or post-master's programme from a designated foreign university

You cannot receive another Orientation Year permit based on the same programme or research activity.

Top-200 Foreign University Route

Graduates of certain highly ranked foreign universities may qualify for the Orientation Year if they satisfy the IND's ranking and qualification requirements. The requirements include the institution being ranked within the top 200 under the applicable IND rules using recognised ranking publishers such as:

• Times Higher Education
• QS
• ShanghaiRanking

The university must meet the ranking conditions applicable on the applicant's graduation date. Foreign qualifications may also need to be evaluated through Nuffic/IDW, and language requirements can apply depending on the programme and circumstances. Indian graduates considering this route should check their university, programme, ranking year, qualification, and English-language evidence against the IND rules before applying.

Why the Three-Year Window Matters?

You do not necessarily have to apply for the Orientation Year immediately after graduating. An eligible graduate could complete a programme, leave the Netherlands, gain work experience elsewhere & later apply, provided the application is still made within the qualifying three-year period and all other requirements are satisfied.

What Can You Do During the Orientation Year?

Orientation Year permit holders have free access to the Dutch labour market.

You may:

• Work for an employer
• Work full-time or part-time
• Change employers
• Freelance
• Work as a self-employed person
• Search for a highly skilled migrant role
• Prepare to launch a business

Your employer does not need a TWV while your Orientation Year permit is valid.

After the Netherlands Orientation Year

The Orientation Year itself cannot simply be extended after 12 months. However, you can switch to another residence permit when eligible.

Common options include:

• Highly Skilled Migrant Permit: Graduates can move to the highly skilled migrant route when they find a qualifying job with an eligible recognised sponsor. Recent graduates may benefit from the reduced highly skilled migrant salary criterion. For 2026, the reduced criterion is €3,122 gross per month, compared with €4,357 gross per month for highly skilled migrants under 30, subject to the applicable IND rules.
• European Blue Card: Graduates meeting the qualification, salary, and employment requirements may consider the European Blue Card.
• Start-Up Permit: Graduates developing an innovative business may qualify for the Dutch start-up residence route.
• Self-Employed Residence Permit: Those establishing a business may explore the self-employed residence route if they meet the relevant conditions.

Can You Get a Second Orientation Year?

Yes, a new Orientation Year may be possible after completing another qualifying study programme or doctorate, provided the new qualification meets the IND requirements and was completed after the previous Orientation Year was granted/used as required by the rules.

*Also, read...

What are the most in-demand jobs in the Netherlands for the next 10 years?

Cost of Living in the Netherlands for International Students

Living expenses vary considerably depending on the city, accommodation, lifestyle, transportation, insurance, and personal spending.

Students should budget for:

• Accommodation
• Food
• Transport
• Health insurance
• Utilities
• Internet/mobile
• Study materials
• Personal expenses
• Leisure

The IND study norm of €1,130.77 per month for HBO/university students in 2026 is an immigration funds requirement and should not be treated as a guarantee that this amount will cover every student's actual monthly expenses. Students living in cities with expensive housing may need a higher budget.

Common Monthly Expenses

Actual costs can be substantially higher depending on accommodation and city.

Accommodation

Housing is usually one of the largest monthly expenses.

Transportation

The Netherlands has extensive train, tram, bus, metro, and cycling infrastructure. Cycling is particularly common among students and can reduce daily transport expenses.

Healthcare

Health insurance requirements depend on the student's circumstances, particularly whether they work in the Netherlands. Students should confirm which insurance they require based on their study, employment, and residence situation.

Study Cost Calculator

Tips to Manage Study and Living Costs

• Affordable Housing: Look to settle outside major cities like Amsterdam, where rental prices tend to be higher. 
• Medical Coverage: It’s crucial to plan for medical expenses, as healthcare in the Netherlands can be expensive. 
• Create a Budget: It’s important to establish a budget covering all necessary living costs, including food, utilities, and communication.
• Student Discounts: International students should take advantage of student discounts available through their university or with an international student ID card whenever possible. 

Learning Dutch as an International Student

Many university programmes are taught in English, and English is widely spoken in the Netherlands. However, learning Dutch can make daily life easier and can improve long-term employment prospects.

Why Learn Dutch?

• Better Employment Opportunities: Many international companies operate in English, particularly in major cities and technology/business hubs. However, Dutch-language skills can significantly expand the number of jobs available to you.
• Easier Social Integration: Understanding Dutch can help students participate more fully in conversations, local activities, and community life.
• Better Understanding of Dutch Culture: Language can help students understand local customs, humour, communication styles, and social expectations.
• Long-Term Career Benefits: Students who plan to remain in the Netherlands after graduation may find Dutch particularly valuable when applying for jobs outside English-only international roles.

How Y-Axis Can Help You Study in the Netherlands?

Y-Axis supports students planning to study abroad with guidance across university selection, applications, documentation, coaching, and visa preparation.

Support can include:

• Free Counselling: Guidance on universities, programes, and study destinations
• Course Recommendation: Help identifying programes aligned with academic and career goals
• Application Guidance: Support with the university application process and documentation
• Coaching: IELTS and other test preparation support where applicable
• Campus Ready Program: Fly to the Netherlands with the best and ideal course. 
• Student Visa Guidance: Assistance understanding the Netherlands study visa and TEV process
• Pre-Departure Support: Guidance to help students prepare for studying and living in the Netherlands