Bachelor's Programs in the Netherlands for International Students

Advantages of Studying Bachelor's Programs in the Netherlands

Education in the Netherlands is in high demand among students from around the world. It combines high academic standards with an international focus and relative affordability. For international applicants, studying for a bachelor's degree at Dutch universities provides access to modern methodologies, an international academic environment, and promising career prospects in Europe.

Advantages include:

• Academic quality: many universities in the country rank among the top in world rankings (QS, THE).
• English-taught programs: over 2,100 bachelor's programs are available in English across all fields of study.
• International environment: about 100,000 international students annually, comfortable adaptation, and multicultural campuses.
• Innovative teaching methods: emphasis on practical learning, group work, and interdisciplinary approaches.
• Opportunities for further growth: after a bachelor's degree, students can pursue a master's or stay in the country to seek employment.
• High academic standards: diplomas are recognized throughout Europe.

Formats and Levels of Bachelor's Programs in the Netherlands

Bachelor's programs in the Netherlands are represented by two main formats.

1. HBO (Hoger Beroepsonderwijs) — applied universities (Hogeschool):

• Duration: 4 years;
• Focus on practical learning and internships;
• Excellent for those oriented toward a career and employment after graduation.

2. WO (Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs) — research universities:

• Duration: 3 years;
• Academic orientation, focus on theory and research;
• Suitable for those planning to pursue a master's or scientific activities.

Both formats are available to international students, including Russian-speaking and Indian applicants.

Top Universities for Bachelor's Programs in the Netherlands

How to Apply for Bachelor's Programs in the Netherlands

The application process includes several steps:

1. Choosing a university and program through the Studielink.nl platform (unified application system);
2. Preparing documents according to requirements and submitting an application;
3. Taking entrance exams or interviews (if required);
4. Waiting for results (from 2 weeks to 2 months);
5. Applying for a visa and preparing for departure.

It is important to observe deadlines: applications are usually open until May 1, but for programs with limited enrollment (Numerus Fixus) — until January 15.

Documents Required for Applying to Bachelor's Programs in the Netherlands

Standard document package includes:

• High school diploma;
• Academic transcript with grades;
• IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo certificate (depending on the university);
• Passport with sufficient validity;
• CV (sometimes — optional);
• Motivation letter;
• Recommendation letter (optional);
• Portfolio — for creative specialties.

Some universities may require entrance exams, especially for competitive programs.

Language of Instruction and Admission to Bachelor's Programs in the Netherlands

Bachelor's programs are taught in two languages: English or Dutch. The main language of programs is English (requires IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL 80). International students have access to over 400 English-taught programs.

For those who do not meet the language requirements or lack 12 years of school education, preparatory courses are available:

• Foundation Year
• Pre-Bachelor Programme
• International Foundation Year

Preparatory programs last 6—12 months and are conducted at universities. Upon completion, automatic enrollment to the chosen bachelor's program is possible.

Tuition Fee for Bachelor's Programs in the Netherlands

Cost depends on the university and field of study:

• HBO tuition fee: €8,000—€12,000 per year;
• WO tuition fee: €10,000—€15,000 per year.

Additional expenses (per month):

• Accommodation: €500—€900;
• Food: €200—€300;
• Transportation: €50—€100;
• Insurance: €50—€100.

Minimum bank balance for visa:

• Approximately €13,000 for 1 academic year.

Scholarships and Grants for Bachelor's Programs in the Netherlands

Dutch universities offer various scholarships to international students. Here are some of them:

• Holland Scholarship:
  • Amount: €5,000 (one-time);
  • Criteria: academic performance, motivation;
  • Suitable for students from CIS and India;
  • Deadline: March—May (depending on the university).
• Orange Tulip Scholarship (OTS):
  • Only for select countries, including Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, India;
  • Coverage: 25% to 100% of tuition fee;
  • Requires separate application + motivation + academic achievements.
• University scholarships:
  • For example, VU Fellowship Programme, University of Groningen Scholarship;
  • Conditions vary but often require high GPA and motivation.

Scholarship applications are often submitted simultaneously with admission. A motivation letter and sometimes recommendations are required.

Career Prospects After Bachelor's in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is a country with a strong economy and high demand for qualified professionals. Holders of Dutch diplomas also gain an advantage when applying for master's programs in Europe or other countries.

• After graduation, students can stay in the country for Orientation Year (up to 1 year) to seek employment without visa restrictions;
• During studies, students can work up to 16 hours per week and full-time during vacations;
• Graduates receive competitive salaries starting from €2,500 per month;
• In-demand fields: IT, engineering, finance, logistics, marketing;
• Popular companies hiring graduates: Philips, ASML, Booking.com, ING, Unilever, Shell, Heineken;
• Bachelor's graduates can apply for master's programs in the Netherlands and other EU countries;
• Education provides competitive advantages for obtaining permanent residence and citizenship.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it possible to apply for a bachelor's program in the Netherlands after 11th grade?
   Yes, but in most cases, a preparatory program or diploma equivalent to 12 years of education will be required.
2. Are entrance exams required for bachelor's programs in the Netherlands?
   For most programs — no, but some (art, medicine) require entrance tests.
3. What level of English is needed for bachelor's programs in the Netherlands?
   IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80. Some programs require higher.
4. What are the application deadlines for bachelor's programs in the Netherlands?
   Usually from October to April. Some programs close earlier.
5. Can students work while studying for a bachelor's degree in the Netherlands?
   Yes, up to 16 hours per week. During vacations — without restrictions.
6. Are there opportunities to stay after completing a bachelor's degree in the Netherlands?
   Yes. The Orientation Year program provides legal status for job searching.
7. Which bachelor's programs in the Netherlands are most popular?
   Business, IT, engineering, ecology, urban studies, international relations.
8. How much does a bachelor's degree in the Netherlands cost?
   From €8,000 to €15,000 per year, depending on the university and field.
9. Is there free education for bachelor's programs in the Netherlands?
   No, but scholarships are available that partially or fully cover the tuition fee.
10. Can parents accompany bachelor's students to the Netherlands?
    No, a student visa does not allow accompanying persons. Parents may enter on a tourist visa.