Tourism and Hospitality Programs in the Netherlands for International Students
- Advantages of studying tourism and hospitality in the Netherlands
- Formats and levels of tourism and hospitality programs in the Netherlands
- Top universities for tourism and hospitality in the Netherlands
- Additional recommended universities for tourism and hospitality in the Netherlands
- How to apply for tourism and hospitality programs in the Netherlands
- Language of instruction and preparation for tourism and hospitality programs in the Netherlands
- Tuition fee for tourism and hospitality programs in the Netherlands
- Career prospects after studying tourism and hospitality in the Netherlands
- Is it worth studying tourism and hospitality in the Netherlands?
- Frequently asked questions
Bachelor - Hotel and Hospitality Services Management
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesAll students in the BBA Hospitality Business Administration programme at Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences complete a set of broad business modules to supplement their chosen specialisations.
This module programme leads to a management career in the fascinating field of hotel management…
Bachelor
Netherlands
Apeldoorn
4 years
9,800 EUR/year
Campus
Bachelor - Event Management
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesEvent management is a burgeoning and dynamic field that allows you to plan everything from a small business conference to a huge music festival. A degree in Business Administration with a specialisation in Event Management will get you started in this exciting field.
All BBA Hospitality…
Bachelor
Netherlands
Apeldoorn
4 years
9,800 EUR/year
Campus
Bachelor - Tourism Management
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesThis internationally focused degree combines academic tourism studies with practical management skill development to provide you with a well-rounded start to your career. It is an academic course with significant vocational application.
This Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences curriculum…
Bachelor
Netherlands
Apeldoorn
4 years
9,800 EUR/year
Campus
Bachelor - Sport Business Management
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesOur BBA speciality in Sport Business Management, which is part of the Hospitality Business Administration (HBA) programme, is designed for students who are interested in sport and want to learn management and leadership skills in this expanding and fascinating business.
Your research will…
Bachelor
Netherlands
Apeldoorn
4 years
9,800 EUR/year
Campus
Bachelor - Hospitality Management
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesAll BBA Hospitality Business Administration students at Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences study a set of broad business modules to supplement their chosen specialisations. Those who pursue the Hospitality Management specialisation are educated in both academic hospitality studies and the practical…
Bachelor
Netherlands
Apeldoorn
4 years
9,800 EUR/year
Campus
Master of Business Management - Hospitality Management
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesThis fascinating Master of Science in Business Administration (MSc) program requires students to study at a rigorous academic level, incorporating both case studies and research. Students do a short work placement that is typically directly related to their final project as part of the degree's professional-based…
Master
Netherlands
Apeldoorn
1,5 years
18,300 EUR
Campus
Advantages of studying tourism and hospitality in the Netherlands
- High quality of education: Dutch universities consistently rank in global rankings for Hospitality & Tourism, providing modern program content.
- International environment: studies are primarily in English, with participation from students from Europe, Asia, and CIS countries, creating a multicultural setting.
- Practice-oriented approach: internships at hotels, travel agencies, and cruise companies allow students to gain experience while still studying.
- Innovative technologies: curricula include programs on digital tourism, sustainable development, and tourism supply chain management.
- Flexible education system: diverse formats—from bachelor's to master's degrees and short professional courses.
Formats and levels of tourism and hospitality programs in the Netherlands
- Bachelor's degree (3–4 years) – academic foundation and practical training, often with preparatory semesters.
- Master's degree (1–2 years) – specializations: hotel business management, sustainable tourism, digital marketing, data analytics.
- Professional and certificate courses (6–18 months) – intensive modules, focus on practice and industry involvement.
- Internships and work placements – mandatory at various stages of programs, increasing employment chances.
Top universities for tourism and hospitality in the Netherlands
| University | Program | Tuition fee for international students | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Amsterdam | BSc Tourism & Hospitality Management | €15,000–20,000/year | #1 in the Netherlands for Hospitality & Tourism; strong academic foundation |
| NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences | BBA International Hospitality Management | €13,000–16,500/year | Top for applied programs and internships, industry collaborations |
| The Hague University of Applied Sciences | BSc International Tourism & Hotel Management | €14,000–17,000/year | International environment, practical training in restaurants and hotels |
| Breda University of Applied Sciences | BSc Hotel Management | €13,500–16,000/year | Ranked among Europe's top 10 creative universities in hospitality |
| Fontys University of Applied Sciences | BSc International Tourism Management | €12,000–15,000/year | Focus on sustainability and digital tourism |
Additional recommended universities for tourism and hospitality in the Netherlands
| University | Program | Tuition fee | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences | BBA International Hospitality Management | €13,000–15,500/year | English-taught program, internships, and industry connections |
| Webster University – Netherlands | MSc International Hospitality & Service Management | €16,500/year | Global brand, accreditations, focus on managerial level |
| University of Europe in Amsterdam (UEA) | BSc Tourism & Leisure Management | €12,500–14,000/year | Hub for creative industries, projects with city administration |
How to apply for tourism and hospitality programs in the Netherlands
- Choose a program – decide on the level and specialization.
- Check requirements – bachelor's: high school diploma and exam results; master's: bachelor's degree.
- Language tests – IELTS (≥ 6.0–6.5) or TOEFL (≥ 80–90) are usually required.
- Additional tests – sometimes a motivation letter, interview, or recommendations are needed.
- Prepare documents – academic transcripts, CV, motivation letter, passport copies, language test results.
- Submit online application – through the university website and Studielink platform (for bachelor's).
- Meet deadlines – usually between February 1–May 1 (fall intake); check exact dates yearly.
- Receive confirmation and student visa – the university initiates the MVV/D-visa process.
Language of instruction and preparation for tourism and hospitality programs in the Netherlands
- Primary language – English: over 90% of tourism and hospitality programs are taught in English.
- Dutch – not required for studies but useful for daily life and internships.
- Preparatory courses – Pre-Master or Pre-Bachelor courses (usually 6–12 months) for those with insufficient grades or language skills.
- Online language preparation – intensive programs included in some courses before the main studies.
Tuition fee for tourism and hospitality programs in the Netherlands
- Program: €12,000–20,000 per year (bachelor's and master's).
- Housing: €400–700/month (student residences); private apartments cost more.
- Food: €200–300/month.
- Transport: €30–60/month (OV-chipkaart pass).
- Health insurance: €350–600/year.
- Other expenses (books, leisure): €100–200/month.
Total cost: approximately €18,000–25,000/year, including all expenses.
Scholarships and grants for tourism and hospitality programs in the Netherlands
- Academic scholarships – based on grades and portfolio; available from universities and foundations.
- Financial aid – for students from low-income countries; criteria include financial status and motivation.
- Merit and leadership scholarships – awarded by universities or partner organizations.
- University grants – cover part of the tuition fee or offer discounts.
- Assistantship/research positions – paid roles at universities for graduates and PhD students.
Deadlines – usually until February–March for spring intake, May–June for fall intake.
Career prospects after studying tourism and hospitality in the Netherlands
- Fields: hotel management, event agencies, tour operators, airlines, advertising, sustainable development.
- Internships: often at hotels like Accor, Hilton, or platforms like Booking.com, KLM; potential for employment.
- Specializations: revenue management, digital marketing, customer experience, sustainability manager, event planner.
- Companies: Booking.com, KLM, Rabobank, Heineken (events), Accor, cruise and specialized agencies.
Is it worth studying tourism and hospitality in the Netherlands?
Studying tourism and hospitality in the Netherlands combines high-quality education, English-taught programs, a multicultural environment, and excellent career opportunities. With the right approach, students can achieve their dream of an international career in hospitality.
- Advantages: strong educational foundation, international internships, excellent career prospects in Europe.
- Comparison: other leaders include the UK, Switzerland, and the USA. The Netherlands stands out for flexibility, cost, and proximity to key European markets.
- Conclusion: studying in the Netherlands is a smart choice for those who value practical experience, an international setting, and career opportunities in hospitality.
Frequently asked questions
- What levels of tourism and hospitality programs are available in the Netherlands?
Bachelor's, master's, preparatory, and professional courses. - How much is the tuition fee for tourism and hospitality programs in the Netherlands?
On average, €12,000–20,000 per year, excluding living expenses. - What are the language requirements for tourism and hospitality programs in the Netherlands?
English: IELTS from 6.0, TOEFL from 80, Duolingo—upon university request. - Which Dutch universities are best for tourism and hospitality?
Top universities: University of Amsterdam, NHL Stenden, Breda, Fontys, The Hague University of Applied Sciences. - Are there English-taught tourism and hospitality programs in the Netherlands?
Yes, most programs are fully in English. - Can I study tourism and hospitality in the Netherlands after high school?
Yes, with a high school diploma and English proficiency. - What scholarships are available for tourism and hospitality students in the Netherlands?
Academic and merit-based scholarships, as well as university grants. - How to apply for tourism and hospitality programs in the Netherlands?
Through university websites and Studielink, meeting deadlines. - What internships are available for tourism and hospitality students in the Netherlands?
Internships at hotels, travel companies, airlines, and international chains. - What are the career prospects after graduating from tourism and hospitality programs in the Netherlands?
High chances of employment in Europe's hotel and tourism industry.