Study in Holland: Learn all you need to know

Thinking about moving to the Netherlands for your studies? Great choice! The country offers a top-tier education system and an excellent quality of life. Plus, there are plenty of programs taught in English, and the international student community is vibrant and diverse. To help you make this dream a reality, we’ve put together a guide on how to study in the Netherlands as an international student. From securing a spot at a university to planning your move, we’ve got you covered.

We’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from the education system and cost of living to housing options and the key steps for settling into your new home. By the time you finish reading, you’ll be one step closer to starting your journey in Amsterdam, Utrecht, or Rotterdam. Let’s dive in and start shaping your future in the Netherlands!

How does the education system work in Holland?

Before committing to studying in the Netherlands, it’s worth taking a moment to understand how the education system works. The country is known for its innovative approach, high academic standards, and strong focus on career readiness. The Dutch system is structured into different levels, starting with primary and secondary education, followed by vocational training and university studies. Like in other European countries, universities in the Netherlands offer a variety of programs with flexible formats and durations, allowing students to tailor their education to their academic and professional goals.

One of the biggest draws for international students is the vast selection of programs available in English. With over 2,000 higher education programs taught in English, the Netherlands stands out as a top destination for those looking to study abroad without language barriers.

Dutch universities fall into two main categories: research universities (WO), which focus on academic and theoretical learning, and universities of applied sciences (HBO), which emphasize hands-on, career-oriented education.

The Dutch education system stands out for its flexibility and its focus on preparing students for the professional world while encouraging independence in learning.

Requirements to study in Holland as a foreigner

Just like studying in any other country, there are certain requirements you’ll need to meet before enrolling in a Dutch institution. Planning ahead is essential to avoid delays in admission or visa issues. To make the process easier for you, we’ve put together a list of the key requirements every international student should know before moving to the Netherlands. Here’s what you’ll need to have ready:

• Letter of admission: The first step is getting accepted into an accredited university or educational institution. This means submitting your application on time and meeting the specific admission requirements of your chosen school.
• Student visa or residence permit: If you’re not a citizen of the EU or EEA, you’ll need to apply for a student visa or residence permit before traveling. Since the process can take anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks, it’s best to start early to avoid any delays.
• Language test: Depending on the program you choose, you may need to prove your English proficiency with exams like IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge. If the course is in Dutch, some universities require certificates such as the NT2.
• Academic documentation: This includes certified and translated copies of your diplomas and transcripts. In some cases, these documents may need to be officially recognized before they can be validated.
• Financial Proof: To obtain a student visa, the Dutch government requires proof that you have enough funds to cover your stay. This can be shown through bank statements, scholarships, or sponsorship letters. Currently, the minimum amount required is around 13,000 euros per year ($13,400).
• Medical insurance: All international students are required to have valid health insurance for the duration of their stay in the Netherlands. If you’re coming from outside the EU, you’ll need to arrange for private insurance that covers medical and hospital care.
• Payment of application fees: Some universities charge an administrative fee to process your application. The cost varies by institution, but it generally ranges from 50 to 100 euros ($52 to $108).

Each university may have its own specific requirements, so make sure to check the details of the institution you’re interested in. It’s also wise to start the process early, especially when it comes to your visa and language proficiency.

Steps to study in Holland as a foreigner

Now that you have a better understanding of the education system in the Netherlands and the requirements to meet, it’s time to get started. The process might seem overwhelming at first, but taking it one step at a time will make it easier to manage. This approach will help you avoid any setbacks and ensure a smooth start to your academic journey. Let’s walk through the steps you’ll need to follow to get to your chosen Dutch university:

1. Evaluate universities and courses in Holland

Before starting your application, the first step is to decide what you want to study and which institution to choose. The Netherlands is home to prestigious universities like the University of Amsterdam, Utrecht University, and Leiden University. They all offer a wide range of academic programs, including bachelor’s degrees and specialized short courses.

For a better decision, check the requirements of each university on their official website, consult international rankings and, if possible, attend educational fairs to answer questions before submitting your application.

2. Review financing options to study in Holland

If you’ve decided what you want to study, the next thing to consider is how you’re going to cover the costs. Tuition fees in the Netherlands vary depending on the university and the program. For international students, undergraduate programs typically range from 6,000 to 15,000 euros per year ($6,200 to $15,500), while graduate programs can go over 20,000 euros ($20,600).

There are several options if you need financial support:

• Scholarships for foreigners: The Dutch government and some universities offer scholarships such as the Holland Scholarship, aimed at international students outside the EEA.
• Student loans: If you are an EU citizen, you can access study loans financed by the Dutch government.
• Private funding and sponsorships: Some companies and foundations offer partial funding for international students in specific programs.

Begin your search early to increase your chances of obtaining funding.

3. Apply to a study program in Holland

Once you’ve decided on the university and program, the next step is to go through the application process. In the Netherlands, most universities use Studielink, a centralized platform that allows you to apply to several institutions at once. To finalize your application, you’ll likely need to provide the following documents:

• Motivation letter: Explain why you want to study in that program and what you can bring to the institution.
• Certificates of previous studies: They must be translated into English or Dutch and, in some cases, certified.
• Language test: If the program is in English, you will be asked for an IELTS, TOEFL or Cambridge certificate. For programs in Dutch, you may need the NT2.
• Recommendation letters: Required for some master’s and graduate programs.
• Application fees: Some universities charge between 50 and 100 euros ($52 and $108) for processing the application.

Remember to check the application deadlines! They typically close between January and May for courses starting in September.

4. Apply for a visa to study in Holland

If you’re not an EU or EEA citizen, you’ll need a student visa or residence permit to study in the Netherlands. The good news is that many universities assist with this process for you.

Types of visas include:

• MVV (Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblijf): An entry visa for international students who plan to stay more than three months in the Netherlands.
• Student Residence Permit: Once in the Netherlands, you will need this document to be able to live legally in the country during your study period.

To apply, you’ll need a few documents: an admission letter from a Dutch university, proof that you have enough funds for your stay, and the application fee (around 210 euros / 215 dollars). The process usually takes 4 to 8 weeks, so it’s best to start early.

5. Moving to Holland

Once your visa is approved and your university is confirmed, it’s time to start planning your move. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Accommodation: Rent in cities such as Amsterdam or Utrecht is high, with prices ranging from 700 to 1,500 euros per month ($725 to $1,550). Websites such as Kamernet and HousingAnywhere can help you find options.
• Transport: The Netherlands has an excellent public transportation system, and bicycles are the students’ go-to choice. You can get an OV-chipkaart to travel by train, tram, and bus.
• Local customs: Meal times in the Netherlands are different from those in many other countries. Dinner is typically served between 6:00 and 7:00 PM. It’s also common to split the bill at gatherings with friends or classmates.

Make sure you have all important documents on hand before traveling, such as your visa, admission letter and accommodation booking.

6. Connectivity in Holland

Before wrapping up your move to the Netherlands, take a moment to consider how you’ll stay connected. Having reliable internet from the get-go will make it much easier to handle paperwork, navigate your new surroundings, and keep in touch with your university.

To ensure a stable connection, we recommend the Holafly Connect subscription plans. With these, you’ll be online as soon as you land, without needing to buy a local SIM. They also work in over 170 locations, so you can easily stay connected if you decide to travel around Europe while you’re in the Netherlands.

Depending on your connectivity needs while studying in the Netherlands, you can choose from several options. And if your needs change later on, don’t worry—you’ll be able to cancel or switch plans whenever you like. Here are the available options:

• 10 GB plan: Ideal for basic tasks such as browsing, emails and maps. Monthly cost of 39.90 euros ($40.93).
• 25 GB plan: Ideal for video calls and collaborative platforms. Monthly cost of 49.90 euros ($51.19).
• Unlimited plan: Designed for those who need constant connection on several devices. Monthly cost of 64.90 euros ($67.90).

When and how to homologate degrees and courses in Holland?

If you’re planning to study in the Netherlands with a degree obtained abroad, you might need to have it recognized to ensure it’s valid within the Dutch education system. This is especially important if you’re looking to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree. In some cases, it can also be useful for short courses or professional certifications.

The agency responsible for evaluating and recognizing degrees in the Netherlands is Nuffic. It is an independent body that helps match international qualifications with the Dutch education system. To begin the recognition process, you’ll need to submit the following documents:

• Certified copy of the academic degree obtained in your country.
• Transcripts translated into English or Dutch, with details of the subjects taken and credits achieved.
• Description of the study program, including information about timetable and content of the subjects.
• Valid passport or identity card.

The cost of degree recognition can differ based on the level of study and the institution you’re applying to. In most cases, if you go through Nuffic, the process itself is free. However, you may still need to pay for certified translations or other administrative fees, which can range from 150 to 500 euros ($155 to $520).

The processing time varies by case, but it typically takes between six weeks and three months. If you need to have your degree recognized to start university, it’s best to begin the process well in advance to avoid any delays with your admission.

How much does it cost to study in Holland as a foreigner?

Now that you’re moving forward with your preparations, you might be wondering how much living and studying in the country will cost. Keep in mind that while universities offer reduced fees for EU citizens, international students often face higher tuition fees.

On top of that, you’ll also need to consider the cost of living in cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, or Rotterdam, where expenses for housing, food, and transport can add up. Here’s an overview of the approximate prices you can expect:

Academic costs in Holland

University tuition:

• For EU/EEA citizens: Ranging from 2,500 to 4,500 euros per year ($2,600 to $4,700).
• For students from outside the EU/EEA: Ranging from 6,000 to 20,000 euros per year ($6,200 to $20,700), depending on the university and program of study.

Short courses and specializations:

• Can cost between 500 and 5,000 euros ($520 and $5,180), depending on the duration and area of study.

The cost of living in the Netherlands depends on the city you choose to study in. While cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam can be quite expensive, student-friendly places like Groningen, Utrecht, and Leiden offer more affordable options.

The following is a summary of the approximate monthly expenses you might have as a student in the Netherlands:

Study online in Holland as a foreigner

Are you interested in studying in the Netherlands without relocating? It’s definitely possible. The country offers a flexible education system that lets you study online from anywhere around the globe. Institutions like the University of Amsterdam, Utrecht University, and the Open University of the Netherlands provide virtual programs in areas such as business, technology, engineering, and social sciences.

Studying online in the Netherlands offers a lot of benefits. You can save on living expenses, have more flexibility with your schedule, and access top universities without needing a visa. That said, there are also some challenges. Online learning demands more discipline, less in-person interaction with professors and peers, and a reliable internet connection to keep up with your studies.

What options are available to study online in Holland?

Several universities and platforms offer online programs in the Netherlands. Some of the most outstanding institutions include:

• Open University of the Netherlands: Specialized in online education, with a varied offer of bachelor’s and master’s degree courses.
• University of Amsterdam: Offers online learning programs in areas such as business and law.
• Leiden University: Offers virtual options in the humanities and social sciences.
• Delft University of Technology: Perfect for those seeking online training in engineering and technology.

You can also take supplementary courses through platforms like Coursera and edX, which partner with Dutch universities to offer certified programs.

The requirements are usually similar to those for on-campus studies. You’ll need to provide academic transcripts translated into English or Dutch, language proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL, and motivation letters. The main difference is that, since you’re not moving, you won’t need to apply for a student visa.

Frequently asked questions about studying abroad in Holland

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