Health programs in the Netherlands for international students

Advantages of studying health programs in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is rightfully considered one of the best countries in Europe for health education. The country's healthcare system ranks among the top 10 in the world for efficiency and accessibility (according to the Euro Health Consumer Index report). Dutch universities actively collaborate with medical centers, pharmaceutical companies, and research organizations, providing students with opportunities to participate in cutting-edge projects.

Key advantages of studying include:

• High international university rankings;
• Wide selection of English-taught health programs;
• Integration of theory and practice from the first year;
• Access to modern research laboratories and clinics;
• Post-graduation job search program (Orientation Year Visa).

Formats and levels of health programs in the Netherlands

Programs are divided by level:

• Bachelor – 3–4 years; initial stage of professional development.
• Master – 1–2 years; deepening knowledge, scientific research.
• PhD – 3 to 5 years, focused on an academic career.
• Professional and applied programs – emphasis on skills and practice.

Fields of study include:

• Public Health
• Biomedical Sciences
• Health & Technology
• Epidemiology, Hygiene, Physiotherapy

Top universities for health programs in the Netherlands

How to apply for health programs in the Netherlands

The application process involves several steps:

1. Choosing a program and university, checking accreditation via the NVAO website.
2. Registration through Studielink.nl – required for all public universities.
3. Preparing documents, typically including:
   • Certified translation of diploma or certificate;
   • Language proficiency certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo);
   • Motivation letter;
   • Academic recommendations (for master's and higher);
   • CV.
4. Interview or entrance exam (not always required).
5. Receiving an acceptance letter and applying for a visa (MVV).

Some programs, especially in biomedicine, may require additional exams (e.g., GRE or internal entrance tests).

Language of instruction and preparation for health programs in the Netherlands

Most health programs are available in English, especially at the master's level. English-taught courses are offered by both academic and applied universities. Language proficiency must be confirmed:

• IELTS – minimum 6.0–6.5;
• TOEFL iBT – from 80;
• Duolingo – from 105 (accepted by many universities);
• Some universities may accept Cambridge Certificates.

For students with insufficient English proficiency, the following are available:

• Foundation Year (preparatory year);
• Pre-Master – for master's admission.

Some universities also offer summer courses to help adapt to the academic environment.

Tuition fee for health programs in the Netherlands

Average costs for international students:

• Bachelor's: €8,000–€14,000 per year;
• Master's: €11,000–€18,000 per year;
• PhD: May be free with a research grant.

Additional expenses:

• Housing: €450–€900/month;
• Food: €200–€350/month;
• Transportation: €50–€100 (with OV-card);
• Health insurance: ~€50/month;
• Other expenses (books, personal costs): ~€100–€150/month.

Total annual expenses range from €10,000 to €14,000.

Scholarships and grants for health programs in the Netherlands

International students can apply for the following support:

• Government scholarships:
  • Holland Scholarship – one-time payment of €5,000 for non-EEA students.
  • Erasmus+ – scholarships for semester exchanges or research work.
• University grants and scholarships:
  • Amsterdam Merit Scholarship (UvA) – based on academic merit.
  • Maastricht University High Potential Scholarship – covers tuition and living expenses.
  • Radboud Scholarship Programme – partial tuition waiver.
• Financial aid:
  • Based on family income and financial documents.
• Research and assistant positions:
  • Available for master's and PhD students, include payment or tuition discounts.

Deadlines are crucial – applications are typically open from December to March, depending on the university.

Career prospects after studying health programs in the Netherlands

Graduates pursue in-demand careers:

• Public Health Specialist
• Healthcare Data Analyst
• Biomedical Researcher
• NGO Medical Project Coordinator
• Health Policy Consultant

Top employers:

• Philips Healthcare
• Erasmus MC
• RIVM (National Institute for Public Health and the Environment)
• World Health Organization (European offices)
• International pharmaceutical companies (MSD, Roche, Novartis)

Starting salaries range from €2,500–€3,200 per month (gross).

Is it worth studying health programs in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands offers a balanced combination of quality, affordability, and career prospects. Unlike the US or UK, where costs can be 2–3 times higher, Dutch education remains accessible at a comparable level. Compared to Germany or France, the Netherlands provides more English-taught programs and a streamlined application process. This makes the country particularly attractive for international students pursuing a global career in health.

Frequently asked questions

1. Which Dutch universities offer health programs?
Universities such as Universiteit van Amsterdam, Erasmus University, Utrecht University, Maastricht University, Radboud University, and Wittenborg University offer high-quality English-taught health programs.

2. What documents are needed to apply for health programs in the Netherlands?
Required documents: diploma/certificate, language certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo), motivation letter, recommendations, CV, and sometimes test scores (GRE, SAT – depends on the university).

3. What level of English is required for health programs in the Netherlands?
Minimum requirements: IELTS 6.0, TOEFL iBT 80, Duolingo 105. Master's programs may require higher scores.

4. What scholarships are available for international students in health programs in the Netherlands?
Holland Scholarship, university-specific grants (e.g., AMS, UM HPS), and research assistant positions.

5. How much does it cost to study health programs in the Netherlands?
Bachelor's – from €8,000/year, master's – up to €18,000/year. Plus living expenses (~€1,000–€1,200/month).

6. Are there preparatory courses for health programs in the Netherlands?
Yes, many universities offer Foundation Year and Pre-Master programs for students needing to improve their academic or language skills.

7. Can I stay in the Netherlands after graduation to look for a job?
Yes, the Orientation Year Visa allows graduates 12 months to search for work without restrictions.

8. How in-demand are health professionals in Europe?
Highly in-demand, especially in public health, biomedicine, medical analytics, and health policy development.

9. Are there health programs at applied universities in the Netherlands?
Yes, for example, Wittenborg University offers a BSc Health and Social Care with a practical focus.

10. What is the minimum age to apply for health programs in the Netherlands?
Minimum age: 17–18 (after high school). There is no upper age limit.