Study in the Netherlands: Essential Guide for Success in 2026

The Netherlands has grown into a global education hub that draws students from over 157 countries. Students learn in a multicultural setting where they connect with peers from different backgrounds and gain a broader worldview. Dutch might be the national language, but the Netherlands stands out as an ideal study destination. Nearly 95% of Dutch people speak English, making it the country with the second-highest English proficiency in continental Europe. This makes life much easier for international students who might struggle with language barriers elsewhere.

A multicultural and English-friendly environment

The Netherlands led the way as the first non-English speaking country to create higher education programmes in English to welcome international students. Today, students can choose from more than 2,100 English-taught study programmes in a variety of fields. These programmes lead to bachelor's, master's, PhD degrees, diplomas, or certificates. You can get quality education without learning Dutch, though picking up some simple Dutch phrases will make your experience even better.

The Netherlands takes pride in its open and welcoming society. Everyone gets a chance to voice their opinions freely. This openness shows up in education too, where students learn to think critically and join discussions actively. The 2014 Global Connectedness Index named the Netherlands as the world's most internationally connected country in economic and geographic terms, making it a true centre for global interaction.

Globally ranked universities and research focus

Dutch universities rank consistently among the world's finest educational institutions. The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026 lists twelve Dutch universities in its global rankings. All these universities place in the top 350 worldwide. Six of them even make it to the global top 100. These numbers show just how good Dutch higher education really is.

Dutch university research gets high marks both at home and abroad. The education system here delivers quality, and universities worldwide recognise their well-laid-out, modern courses and facilities. Students learn through teamwork and hands-on application of knowledge. This approach helps them build both academic and professional skills effectively.

The Dutch teaching style puts students first and encourages interaction. It helps students think critically and solve problems. Classes usually have 15-30 students, which lets professors and students build good relationships. Universities include practical training in their courses and work with Dutch and international companies. This keeps the education relevant to what industries need.

Is Netherlands good for Indian students?

Indian students find several benefits in the Netherlands. Study costs here are lower compared to English-speaking countries like the UK or US. Government subsidies keep tuition fees down while maintaining high standards. Non-EU students typically pay between €6,000 and €15,000 per year, depending on their chosen institution.

Student visa holders from India can work up to 16 hours weekly while studying. This helps cover living costs and builds valuable international work experience. The Dutch job market offers plenty of opportunities in technology, engineering, finance, and healthcare.

After graduation, Indian students can apply for an orientation year visa to look for jobs in the Netherlands. A Dutch university degree opens doors worldwide. Graduates find excellent career opportunities both in the Netherlands and globally. Your career prospects get a real boost with a Dutch diploma.

Understanding the Dutch education system

The Netherlands has a unique binary higher education system with two main types of institutions. These are research universities (wetenschappelijk onderwijs or WO) and universities of applied sciences (hoger beroepsonderwijs or HBO). Each institution has its own distinct approach to education and expected outcomes.

Research universities focus on theoretical knowledge and scientific research. They help students develop their academic inquiry skills. These universities offer traditional academic programmes that build students' analytical and scientific capabilities. Students complete their bachelor's degree in three years, followed by one or two-year master's programmes. The schedule at research universities includes fewer contact hours, and students spend more time on independent study.

Universities of applied sciences take a different approach. They provide hands-on, career-focused education that prepares students for specific professions. Students learn through practical projects and required internships. Bachelor's programmes here run for four years instead of three. The extra year gives students valuable practical experience. Students get more face-time with lecturers and work closely with their peers.

Each institution type has its own teaching style. Universities of applied sciences teach students "how" things work through practical instruction and regular student-teacher interaction. Research universities emphasise understanding "why" through theory. Students here need to be more self-reliant.

Popular courses for international students

Students from abroad can pick from over 2,000 English-taught programmes in a variety of fields in the Netherlands. These include bachelor's and master's degrees, certificates, diplomas, and summer courses.

International students often choose these disciplines:

• Business, economics, commerce, management and accounting (247 programmes)
• Humanities, social sciences, communication and arts (514 programmes)
• Mathematics, natural sciences and computer science (191 programmes)
• Engineering (93 programmes)
• Health care and social services (101 programmes)

Amsterdam leads with 333 programmes, while Leiden offers 214, Groningen 208, Nijmegen 126, and Utrecht 118. This spread lets students experience different Dutch cities while getting quality education.

Study in the Netherlands in English: what to expect

The Netherlands became the first non-English speaking country to offer degree courses taught in English. About 95% of Dutch people speak English, so language barriers are minimal.

Dutch education values interactive and independent learning. Students take charge of their own education. You'll need to join discussions, share your views, and manage your study schedule instead of just listening to lectures.

Dutch universities have a less formal structure than many other countries. Students and professors maintain friendly relationships. This setup encourages open dialogue and critical thinking. Everyone can share their views, no matter their position.

Studying here means doing lots of self-study and planning. Though this might seem challenging at first, it helps develop independence that's valuable after graduation.

Cost of studying and living in the Netherlands

Dutch universities have different fee structures based on your nationality. Students from EU/EEA countries, Switzerland and Suriname pay the statutory tuition fee of €2,530 for the academic year 2024-2025. You'll get this lower rate if you haven't already earned a similar degree from a Dutch institution.

Students from other countries pay much higher tuition fees. Bachelor's programmes cost between €9,000 and €20,000 per year, while master's programmes range from €12,000 to €30,000 annually. Research universities charge more than universities of applied sciences, and top institutions ask for premium fees.

Some Dutch institutions ask non-EEA students to pay an application or handling fee of €75 to €100. These fees aren't the same everywhere, so check with your chosen university about their specific requirements.

Cost of studying in Netherlands for Indian students

Indian students are in the non-EU/EEA category and pay higher tuition costs. Bachelor's programmes typically cost €6,000–€15,000 (about ₹5.4L–₹13.5L) yearly, while master's programmes cost between €8,000–€20,000 (about ₹7.2L–₹18L) per year.

Universities of applied sciences are usually cheaper, with fees starting at €7,000-8,000 and rarely going above €10,000. Research universities charge more, especially for specialised programmes like medicine or business, which can cost over €30,000 yearly.

Indian students need to budget €243 (about ₹24,533) for their student visa.

Living expenses: rent, food, transport

Students in the Netherlands spend between €800 and €1,200 monthly on average. This covers basic living costs but doesn't include tuition fees.

Housing takes the biggest chunk of your budget, costing €450 to €900 monthly depending on where you live. Amsterdam and other major cities have higher rents than smaller towns like Enschede or Nijmegen. You can choose between student housing (€300-€600), shared apartments (€400-€700), or private rentals (€800-€1,200).

Food costs run between €150 to €250 monthly. Home cooking saves money compared to eating out, where student meals cost around €12.50. Common groceries cost: milk (€1.09/litre), rice (€2.80/kg), and chicken fillets (€14.31/kg).

Cycling is your cheapest way to get around. You can buy a second-hand bike for €80-€150. Public transport costs more, with monthly passes between €35 and €120 depending on your city. Single bus tickets cost about €2.

You must have health insurance, which costs €100-€120 monthly. You'll also need money for study materials (€50-€80/month), phone bills (€26/month), and fun activities (€100-€200/month).

Budgeting tips for international students

Buy used items from thrift shops or Facebook Marketplace. Students who are leaving often sell their furniture, kitchenware, and bikes at great prices.

Head to farmers' markets or street markets that happen twice a week in most cities. You'll find fresh produce, eggs, cheese, and other items cheaper than supermarket prices.

Your student card gets you deals on transport, restaurants, museums, and cultural activities. The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) offers benefits both in the Netherlands and abroad.

Shop at budget stores like Lidl, Aldi, or Dirk instead of pricier ones like Albert Heijn. Use store cards and bonus programmes to get special deals.

Cook your meals at home instead of eating out. Meal prep helps you save both time and money.

Write down what you spend to spot patterns and find ways to save. This habit helps you manage your money better.

Scholarships and financial aid options

The Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science provides the NL Scholarship (formerly Holland Scholarship) through Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences. Students receive a one-time payment of €5,000 in their first year. This scholarship provides partial financial support rather than covering full tuition.

The Orange Tulip Scholarship takes a different approach. Nuffic, which handles Dutch education internationalisation, targets talented students from specific countries with Netherlands Education Support Offices (Neso). These countries include Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Russia, South Africa, South Korea and Vietnam. Indian students can receive tuition coverage ranging from 25% to 100%, depending on their chosen university.

University-specific scholarships

Dutch universities have created their own scholarship programmes. Radboud University's Scholarship Programme reduces tuition fees from €18,000 to €2,695 and covers visa, residence permit, and insurance costs. Maastricht University awards 21 full scholarships worth €34,000 each through its NL-High Potential programme for talented non-EU students.

Technical universities award field-specific scholarships. TU Delft's QuTech Scholarships cover full tuition and living expenses for outstanding international students in quantum technology. Students need exceptional academic records with a GPA of 80% or higher to qualify for these specialised scholarships.

How to apply for scholarships in the Netherlands

Start looking for scholarships at least a year before your planned start date. Competition for these scholarships is fierce. NL Scholarship applications open on November 1st for the next academic year.

You must apply to a Dutch study programme before submitting scholarship applications. Your application needs either an admission offer or proof that you're being considered for admission.

Most scholarship applications need a CV/resume, motivation letter, recommendation letters, transcripts, and proof of English proficiency. University scholarships usually require two reference letters from professors or employers (not family members) and proof of academic excellence.

Application process and visa requirements

You must meet Qualification requirements before you can start your Dutch education experience. The Nuffic website will help evaluate your foreign diploma to find its Dutch equivalent.

Academic criteria need sufficient academic qualifications and English proficiency proof. Your chosen school will check if your previous education meets their requirements.

You must provide Financial proof to show you can support yourself during studies. Non-EU students must have about €870 monthly.

How to study in the Netherlands: step-by-step

Start your Research phase by finding your programme on Studyfinder. Look through more than 2,000 English-taught programmes to find what suits you best.

Most Application submissions happen through Studielink, the central Dutch university application portal. Check with your school first since some use different methods.

Application deadlines change based on programme type. Most courses accept applications until May 1st, though some schools set earlier deadlines of February 1st or March 1st. Numerus fixus (limited capacity) programmes close on January 15th.

Your Programme selection might involve restricted-capacity courses. You can apply to just two numerus fixus programmes per academic year.

Language tests and academic documents

You must prove your English proficiency through recognised tests. Dutch universities usually accept:

• TOEFL iBT (minimum 90-100)
• IELTS (minimum 6.5-7.0)
• Cambridge English exams

Score requirements vary by programme and school. Research universities usually want IELTS scores of 6.5-7.0, and some programmes ask for minimum scores in each section.

Get all your Document preparation done early. Keep documents in their original language with official translations if not in English, Dutch, German, or French.

Document legalisation will make your credentials valid. Your home country's authorities must legalise foreign documents or give them an apostille stamp.

Student visa process for non-EU students

Non-EU students who plan to study more than 90 days must get an Entry visa (MVV) and residence permit (VVR).

Your school handles the Application procedure as your sponsor. Students cannot apply for residence permits themselves.

The IND processes applications within 2 weeks usually, but might take up to 90 days.  to start your course on time.

You must provide Biometric information for your application. You'll get your residence permit at an IND office after arrival.

Things you should prepare in advance

You must complete Municipal registration for stays longer than 4 months. This gets you a citizen service number (BSN) for banking, healthcare, and other services.

Health insurance rules depend on your situation. EU/EEA students can use their European Health Insurance Card. Non-EU/EEA students must get appropriate coverage.

You might need a Tuberculosis test within 3 months of getting your residence permit, unless your country has an exemption.

A complete Checklist helps smooth your transition. Remember to find accommodation, register with your municipality, collect your residence permit, open a bank account, and get a Dutch SIM card.