Educational Programs in the Netherlands for International Students
- Briefly about the Netherlands: Universities, Bachelor's and Master's
- Education System in the Netherlands
- Features of Education in the Netherlands
- Advantages of Education in the Netherlands
- Disadvantages of Education in the Netherlands
- How to Choose a University in the Netherlands
- Documents for Admission to the Netherlands
- Preparatory Programs in the Netherlands
- Bachelor's Degree in the Netherlands
- Master's Degree in the Netherlands
- PhD in the Netherlands
- English-Taught Programs in the Netherlands
- Student Visa for the Netherlands
- Tuition Fees in the Netherlands for International Students
- Scholarships in the Netherlands for International Students
- Job Search after Studying in the Netherlands
- Recognition of Dutch Diplomas Abroad
- Immigration Through Education in the Netherlands
- Is it Worth Getting an Education in the Netherlands?
- Frequently Asked Questions
MBA - Education
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesThe Master of Business Administration in Education is designed for professionals working in the field of education management, whether in the public or private sector. Those having at least three years of experience managing people or processes in the K-12, postsecondary, or higher education sectors…
MBA - Health and Social Care
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesThe Master of Business Administration in Health and Social Care will prepare you for a managerial position in the health and social care industry, whether you want to move up in your current position or enter the field for the first time.
This MBA was developed by a group of professors and…
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 of Business Management - Finance
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesThis engaging MSc, Master of Business Management, with concentration modules in Finance, pushes students to the highest academic standards through a rigorous curriculum that combines case studies and research. However, the degree program is also designed with a practical approach, requiring students…
MBA - Clean Technology Management
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesWittenborg University of Applied Sciences (WUAS) developed their Master of Business Administration (MBA) concentration in Clean Technology Management (Energy & Clean Tech) in response to a European Union (EU) Interregional-funded research project involving the United Kingdom, Ireland, Belgium, and…
MBA - Smart Industry
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesThe Fourth Industrial Revolution is about to begin, and it will have a profound impact on businesses and the way we all work. The industry is in for a major shakeup in the next decades as a result of this revolution, which is being spurred by the rapid rise of ICT innovation. Businesses and sectors…
MBA - Digital Transformation
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesFull-time and part-time students with a 'tech' background from the Netherlands and throughout the world can enroll in the Master of Business Administration program at Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences and choose to specialize in Digital Transformation.
The goal of this concentration…
MBA - Data Analytics
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesOur Master of Business Administration program at Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences has a concentration in data analytics for full-time and part-time students from the Netherlands and throughout the world with a 'tech' background.
In order to work with big data and integrate data…
Master Business Management - Human Resource Management
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesThis interesting Master of Science in Business Administration (MSc) program requires students to study at a rigorous academic level, integrating case studies and research, in order to earn a Human Resource Management concentration. Students do a short work placement that is typically directly related…
Master of Business Management - Logistics and Trade
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesThis interesting Master of Science in Business Management program, with a concentration in Logistics and Trade, requires students to study at a rigorous academic level, incorporating both case studies and research. Students perform a short work placement that is typically directly related to their…
Briefly about the Netherlands: Universities, Bachelor's and Master's
The Netherlands — a country that confidently ranks among the top popular destinations for obtaining higher education abroad. Over 1,150 educational programs are taught in English, and most of the country's leading universities are included in world rankings (QS, Times Higher Education). More than 100,000 international students choose to study in the Netherlands annually due to the high quality of education, convenient geographical location, international environment, and affordable tuition fee compared to other Western European countries.
The higher education system in the country is divided into:
- Applied universities (HBO — Hogeschool), which focus on practice, internships, and preparation for work in a specific field;
- Research universities (WO — Universiteit), which are oriented toward academic preparation and scientific research.
Bachelor's and master's programs are available in English, making the Netherlands particularly attractive to international students. Additionally, the country offers a wide selection of programs in engineering, IT, business, ecology, architecture, social sciences, medicine, and art.
The Netherlands is often called Holland, but this is only a part of the country — its two western provinces. In official and educational contexts, it is correct to use the name "Netherlands".
Education System in the Netherlands
| Level of Study | Duration | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Preparatory courses | 6—12 months | Suitable for students with insufficient language level or education <12 years |
| Bachelor's (HBO) | 4 years | Practical orientation, mandatory internships |
| Bachelor's (WO) | 3 years | Academic preparation, possibility to continue to master's |
| Master's (HBO) | 1—2 years | Career-oriented, includes applied research |
| Master's (WO) | 1—2 years | Research and theoretical base, suitable for PhD preparation |
| PhD | 3—4 years | Program based on scientific work, paid position at the university |
Features of Education in the Netherlands
- Study programs may be built on the PBL (Problem-Based Learning) principle — active student involvement, work on projects, case studies, and group tasks.
- Small study groups and close interaction with teachers.
- Wide selection of English-taught programs.
- Application of acquired knowledge in real situations (especially in applied universities).
- Universities actively collaborate with industries and businesses.
Advantages of Education in the Netherlands
- Internationally recognized diplomas.
- English-taught programs at all levels.
- Large selection of academic and applied fields.
- High quality of teaching.
- Extensive opportunities for internships and employment.
- Integration into the European educational and scientific space.
- Flexible visa conditions for students and graduates.
Disadvantages of Education in the Netherlands
- High cost of living, especially in large cities.
- Strong competition for popular programs.
- Entrance exams for some specialties (e.g., art, medicine).
- Not all programs are available without prior preparation.
- Adaptation to the education system and independent work takes time.
How to Choose a University in the Netherlands
- Determine which goal is more important — academic career or practical work.
- Study the difference between HBO and WO:
- HBO — profession-oriented;
- WO — research and theoretical preparation.
- Familiarize yourself with rankings and reviews (QS, THE).
- Study the program content and list of disciplines.
- Compare the tuition fee, accommodation, and additional expenses.
- Pay attention to admission requirements (language, documents, deadlines).
- Check the availability of support for international students and career services.
Documents for Admission to the Netherlands
- High school diploma or bachelor's/master's diploma (depending on the level).
- Academic transcript with grades.
- Certified translation of documents into English.
- English language certificate: IELTS (minimum 6.0) or TOEFL (from 80).
- Motivation letter.
- Recommendation letters (1—2).
- Passport.
- Portfolio (for creative specialties).
- Some programs may require an entrance test.
Preparatory Programs in the Netherlands
Preparatory programs (Foundation Year, Pre-Bachelor, Pre-Master) are intended for international students who:
- do not have complete 12-year education;
- need to improve their English language level;
- want to adapt to the country's academic system.
Duration: from 6 to 12 months
Language of instruction: English
Tuition fee: from €6,000 to €15,000 per year
Fields: business, engineering, economics, art, social sciences
Programs are conducted at universities, and upon completion, automatic transition to the main study program is possible.
Bachelor's Degree in the Netherlands
WO (research university):
- Duration — 3 years
- Academic orientation
- Suitable for continuing to master's and science
HBO (applied university):
- Duration — 4 years
- Practice-oriented learning
- Mandatory internships and diploma project
Language: English and Dutch
Tuition fee: from €8,000 to €15,000 per year
Popular fields: engineering, IT, architecture, biotechnology, marketing, management
Master's Degree in the Netherlands
WO (research university):
- Duration — 1—2 years
- In-depth academic research
- Suitable for admission to PhD
HBO (applied university):
- Duration — 1—1.5 years
- Professional orientation, focus on career
Language of instruction: English
Tuition fee: from €9,000 to €20,000 per year
Popular fields: ecology, project management, urbanism, design, finance
PhD in the Netherlands
Duration: 3—4 years
Language: English
Format: independent scientific work under the guidance of a supervisor
Payment: PhD is a paid position at the university (~€2,000/month)
Requirements: master's diploma, developed research plan, motivation for scientific career
English-Taught Programs in the Netherlands
- Over 2,100 English-taught programs
- Wide selection at bachelor's and master's levels
- Admission to English programs — standard path for international students
- Language level: IELTS 6.0—7.0 / TOEFL from 80—100 points
- Quality of education in English is equivalent to Dutch-taught programs
Student Visa for the Netherlands
Requirements:
- Letter of acceptance from the university
- Financial means: at least €13,000 per year of study
- Proof of health insurance
- Passport and biometric photos
Key features:
- Right to work up to 16 hours per week
- Opportunity to travel within the Schengen zone
- Opportunity to stay for one year after graduation to search for work (Orientation Year)
Processing time: from 2 to 8 weeks
Tuition Fees in the Netherlands for International Students
| Program | Cost per Year |
|---|---|
| Preparatory courses | €6,000—€15,000 |
| Bachelor's HBO | €8,000—€12,000 |
| Bachelor's WO | €10,000—€15,000 |
| Master's | €9,000—€20,000 |
| Accommodation and meals | €800—€1,200/month |
Additional expenses: textbooks, transportation, insurance.
Scholarships in the Netherlands for International Students
International students can apply for a number of scholarships.
What scholarships cover: partially or fully — tuition fee, accommodation, insurance. Amount — from €5,000 to €25,000.
Main conditions: high GPA, knowledge of English, letter of acceptance.
Application period: most often from October to April.
Examples of scholarships:
- Holland Scholarship — €5,000, 1st year of study, bachelor's and master's.
- Orange Tulip Scholarship — possible full coverage; available in CIS countries and India.
- TU Delft Excellence — full scholarship for master's, especially for technical fields.
- University of Amsterdam Merit Scholarship — coverage up to full cost.
Some require a separate application through the university website or partner organization. Mostly available for master's, sometimes — for bachelor's.
Job Search after Studying in the Netherlands
During studies:
- Right to part-time work (up to 16 hours per week)
- Employer's permission (if required)
After graduation:
- Orientation Year — one year to search for work after graduation
- In-demand industries: IT, logistics, medicine, ecology, business analytics
Average graduate income: from €2,500 per month
Cities with best opportunities: Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Eindhoven, Groningen, Utrecht
Recognition of Dutch Diplomas Abroad
- Diplomas from Dutch universities are recognized in EU countries, USA, Canada, Australia.
- Dutch universities are accredited according to Bologna Process standards.
- Most programs are accredited by NVAO — the Dutch-Flemish accreditation organization.
Immigration Through Education in the Netherlands
- Orientation Year — legal way to stay in the country after graduation
- Official employment leads to a work visa
- After 5 years of legal residence — permanent residence
- After 5 years with permanent residence — possibility to obtain citizenship (if conditions are met)
Is it Worth Getting an Education in the Netherlands?
Pros:
- Internationally recognized diploma
- High standard of living and safety
- Real prospects for employment and immigration
Cons:
- Strong competition for some programs
- Need to adapt to independent learning
- Living expenses
Conclusion: The Netherlands is an excellent place to obtain quality European education with future prospects.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is it possible to enter a university in the Netherlands after 11th grade?
Yes, but a preparatory program (Foundation) or 12-year education will be required. - What level of English is needed for admission to a Dutch university?
Minimum — IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80. Some programs require higher. - Which Dutch universities are better: applied or research?
Depends on goals: applied (HBO) — for practice and career, research (WO) — for science and research. - Is it possible to work while studying in the Netherlands?
Yes, up to 16 hours per week during the semester and full-time during vacations. - Is it difficult to stay in the Netherlands after graduation?
No. Orientation Year allows legal job search and application for a work visa.