Student visas & studying Netherlands 2026
€2,314 EU tuition, €9K-20K non-EU, 2,200+ English programs, housing crisis, orientation year path to PR
The Netherlands attracts over 125,000 international students annually, offering world-class universities, English-taught programs, and a welcoming international atmosphere. However, navigating the Dutch education system, visa requirements, tuition costs, and housing crisis requires thorough planning. This comprehensive guide explains everything international students need to know about studying in the Netherlands in 2026.
Key takeaways
- Choose the right institution type. Research universities (WO) are for theoretical, academic paths. Universities of applied sciences (HBO) are for practical, career-focused education. Both are high quality.
- Plan finances realistically. The official minimum (€12,280/year) is tight. Budget €14,400-€18,000/year (€1,200-€1,500/month) for comfortable living. Housing is your biggest expense (€500-€900/month).
- Start housing search immediately. The Netherlands has a severe student housing crisis. Apply to university housing the moment you're admitted. Register with housing corporations (SSH, DUWO) even with long waiting lists. Prepare for temporary housing if needed.
- Non-EU students face high costs. EU students pay €2,314/year statutory tuition. Non-EU students pay €9,000-€20,000/year institutional tuition. Factor in total costs: €25,000-€35,000+/year for non-EU students.
- Visa process takes 3-4 months. Universities sponsor student visas (MVV + VVR). Apply immediately after admission. Start early to avoid delays.
- Orientation year is golden opportunity. After graduation, apply for 1-year orientation year permit to job search. Full work authorization. Lower HSM salary threshold (€37,440/year vs €52,284/year). Use this year to secure HSM job and transition to long-term residence.
The Dutch higher education system explained
Types of institutions
1. Research universities (universiteiten, WO)
Also called: Universities, research universities, WO institutions
Number of institutions: 14 research universities
Focus: Academic research, theoretical knowledge, scientific thinking
Degree types: Bachelor's (3 years), Master's (1-2 years), PhD (4 years)
Program structure: Research-oriented, emphasis on independent study and critical thinking
Examples: University of Amsterdam (UvA), Leiden University, Utrecht University, Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), Erasmus University Rotterdam, University of Groningen (RUG)
Best for: Students planning academic careers, research roles, or theoretical fields (sciences, humanities, law, medicine)
2. Universities of applied sciences (hogescholen, HBO)
Also called: HBO institutions, polytechnics, universities of applied sciences
Number of institutions: ~40 HBO institutions
Focus: Practical application, professional skills, vocational training
Degree types: Associate degree (2 years), Bachelor's (4 years), Master's (1-2 years, limited programs)
Program structure: Internships, work placements, practical projects, professional orientation
Examples: Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (HvA), Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences (Hogeschool Rotterdam), The Hague University of Applied Sciences (THUAS), Fontys University of Applied Sciences
Best for: Students seeking practical, career-focused education in business, engineering, arts, health, education
3. International education institutes (IE)
Also called: International Education institutions
Number of institutions: Small number of specialized schools
Focus: Specific sectors (agriculture, arts, social sciences)
Degree types: Bachelor's, Master's
Examples: IHS Erasmus University Rotterdam (urban management), UNESCO-IHE (water education)
Key distinction: Research universities (WO) are more theoretical and prestigious for academic careers. HBO institutions are more practical and career-focused. Both are excellent quality (choice depends on your career goals, not prestige).
English-taught programs
The Netherlands offers 2,200+ English-taught programs across all levels:
Bachelor's programs in English
- • ~240 fully English-taught Bachelor's programs
- • Mainly at research universities
- • Concentrated in: International Business, Engineering, Liberal Arts & Sciences, Economics, Computer Science
- • Some require Dutch language proficiency after first year (check specific program requirements)
Master's programs in English
- • ~2,000+ English-taught Master's programs
- • Available at both WO and HBO institutions
- • Almost all fields have English options
- • Most popular: Business Administration, Data Science, Engineering, International Relations, Environmental Science
Dutch language requirement
- • Most English-taught programs do not require Dutch for admission
- • English proficiency required: IELTS 6.0-7.0, TOEFL 80-100, or equivalent
- • Some Bachelor's programs introduce Dutch in later years
- • Learning Dutch strongly recommended for daily life and job market (see our integration exam guide for language resources)
Student visa requirements and application process
Who needs a student visa?
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens
- • No visa required (freedom of movement)
- • Can study, work, and live in Netherlands without permit
- • Must register with municipality (BRP) within 5 days of arrival
- • Obtain BSN (citizen service number)
- • Arrange health insurance within 4 months
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens
- • Student visa required (MVV - Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblijf)
- • Followed by residence permit (VVR - Verblijfsvergunning)
- • Process takes 3-4 months typically
- • University must be recognized sponsor (erkend referent)
MVV and residence permit application process (10 steps)
Apply to Dutch university (6-12 months before start)
Apply directly to university via their admissions portal. Common deadlines: May 1 for September start (non-EU students), August 1 for some programs, January 15 for February start. Submit required documents and pay application fee (€50-€100 typically).
Receive conditional acceptance
University sends conditional offer letter. Conditional on: visa approval, English proficiency proof, payment of tuition, payment of visa fees.
University initiates visa application (3-4 months before start)
University applies on your behalf as your sponsor (erkend referent). Entry visa (MVV) and residence permit (VVR) processed together. You supply required documents to university, who submits to IND.
Pay fees
MVV (entry visa): €328 + Residence permit: €211 = €539 total. Some universities charge additional service fee (€50-€150). Separate from tuition fees.
Wait for IND processing
Processing time: 2-4 months typical (can extend to 5 months). IND checks admission validity, financial proof, purpose of stay. Apply early to avoid delays.
Receive MVV decision
If approved: MVV stamp placed in passport at Dutch embassy/consulate in home country. Valid for 90 days for entry. Pick up at embassy (sometimes mailed).
Travel to Netherlands
Enter Netherlands within 90-day MVV validity. Bring: passport with MVV, admission letter, proof of accommodation, financial documents, health insurance proof.
Collect residence permit (VVR)
Within 2 weeks of arrival, go to IND desk at your university (or local IND office). Provide biometrics (photo, fingerprints). Receive residence permit card (typically within 2 weeks). Residence permit valid for 1 year (renewable annually).
Register with municipality
Within 5 days of arrival, register at municipality (gemeente). Bring passport, residence permit, proof of address (rental contract). Receive BSN (citizen service number), essential for everything (bank, phone, insurance). See our BSN registration guide.
Renew residence permit annually
Apply 3 months before expiration. Show continued enrollment, passing grades (studiefortgang), financial means. Critical: If you fail to progress (fail too many courses), permit may not renew.
Financial proof requirement (most critical)
Minimum required (2026): €12,280 per academic year
This is the statutory amount set by Dutch government. Must cover living costs, health insurance, books, etc. (tuition NOT included, separate requirement).
How to prove financial means:
- Option A: Bank account in your name with €12,280+ balance (statement dated within 3 months, must remain available)
- Option B: Bank guarantee or blocked account (Dutch or foreign bank guaranteeing €1,023/month for 12 months)
- Option C: Scholarship letter from recognized organization stating monthly amount and duration
- Option D: Sponsor declaration (parent/guardian) with sponsor's bank statements showing sufficient funds, signed declaration, proof of relationship
Many students use combination (e.g., partial scholarship + parent sponsor + own savings).
Critical: Financial proof is #1 reason for delays or rejections. Ensure documentation is clear, complete, and meets exact requirements.
Work rights on student visa
Allowed working hours:
- • During academic year: Maximum 16 hours per week
- • June, July, August: Full-time allowed (no hour restriction)
- • Employer must have TWV (work permit) for you unless exempt
- • Many student jobs are TWV-exempt (university jobs, internships)
Earning potential: 16 hours/week × 36 weeks × €13/hour = ~€7,500/year + summer work (12 weeks full-time) = ~€6,200. Total realistic: €10,000-€14,000/year working maximum allowed hours.
Tuition fees 2026 by nationality and program type
EU/EEA/Swiss students - Statutory tuition
2026-2027 statutory tuition fee: €2,314 per academic year
- • Fixed by Dutch government
- • Same price for all EU/EEA/Swiss students at all public universities
- • Covers both WO (research universities) and HBO (universities of applied sciences)
- • Same fee for Bachelor's and Master's programs
- • One of the cheapest university education systems in Europe for EU students
Examples: Bachelor's in Computer Science at TU Delft: €2,314/year • Master's in International Business at Erasmus: €2,314/year • HBO Bachelor's at Amsterdam UAS: €2,314/year
Non-EU/EEA students - Institutional tuition
Non-EU students pay "institutional fees" set by universities. These are significantly higher than statutory fees.
Bachelor's programs (2026-2027)
Research universities (WO):
- • Social sciences, humanities: €9,000-€12,000/year
- • Sciences, engineering: €13,000-€16,000/year
- • Medicine: €17,000-€20,000/year (6 years total)
Examples:
- • International Business (UvA): €10,500/year
- • Computer Science (TU Delft): €15,250/year
- • Medicine (Erasmus): €19,500/year
Master's programs (2026-2027)
Research universities (WO):
- • 1-year Master's: €11,000-€20,000
- • 2-year Master's: €22,000-€40,000 total
- • MBA programs: €30,000-€60,000+ total
Examples:
- • MSc Data Science (TU Delft): €18,750/year
- • MA International Relations (Leiden): €13,400/year
- • MSc Business Admin (Erasmus): €18,900/year
Scholarships and financial aid
Holland Scholarship
€5,000 one-time payment (first year only) • For non-EU students • Not available at all universities • Competitive (not guaranteed) • Covers ~30-40% of non-EU tuition for one year
University excellence scholarships
€5,000-€25,000/year for top candidates. Examples:
- • Amsterdam Excellence Scholarship (UvA): €25,000/year (full tuition + living)
- • TU Delft Justus & Louise van Effen: €5,000-€15,000
- • Utrecht Excellence Scholarships: €10,000/year
- • Erasmus Trustfonds: Various amounts, need and merit-based
Selection criteria: High grades (GPA 3.5+/4.0 or 8.0+/10.0), strong motivation letter, relevant extracurriculars, leadership potential
Reality check: Most non-EU students pay full tuition. Excellence scholarships (full tuition): 1-5% of applicants. Partial scholarships: 10-20% of applicants. Competition increasing yearly. Plan finances assuming no scholarship, treat scholarship as bonus if received.
Tuition payment schedules
Most universities offer payment options:
- Option A: Full payment upfront - Pay full year tuition before September 1. Some universities offer small discount (€50-€100) for full payment.
- Option B: Installments (most common) - 10 monthly installments (August-May). Automatic debit from Dutch bank account. Example: €2,314 statutory fee = ~€231/month.
- Option C: Semester payments - Two payments (September, February). Less common, not all universities offer.
Late payment: Universities strictly enforce payment deadlines. Late fees: €25-€100. Extreme cases: Enrollment cancelled, lose residence permit. Always arrange payment before deadlines.
Living costs for students in 2026
Official minimum (required for visa): €12,280/year (€1,023/month)
Realistic budget: €14,400-€18,000/year (€1,200-€1,500/month)
Comfortable budget: €18,000-€21,600/year (€1,500-€1,800/month)
The official minimum is tight. Most students need €1,200-€1,500/month to live comfortably.
Sample monthly budgets
Budget student (Amsterdam)
- • Rent (shared room): €700
- • Utilities (if not included): €75
- • Groceries: €200
- • Health insurance: €110
- • Phone: €15
- • Transport (bike + occasional tram): €20
- • Books: €70
- • Personal/entertainment: €80
Total: €1,270/month (€15,240/year)
Average student (Rotterdam)
- • Rent (shared room): €600
- • Utilities: €70
- • Groceries: €280
- • Eating out: €100
- • Health insurance: €115
- • Phone: €20
- • Transport: €50
- • Books: €70
- • Personal/entertainment: €150
Total: €1,455/month (€17,460/year)
Comfortable student (Groningen)
- • Rent (shared room): €500
- • Utilities: €60
- • Groceries: €300
- • Eating out: €150
- • Health insurance: €110
- • Phone: €25
- • Transport (bike): €10
- • Books: €70
- • Gym: €35
- • Personal/entertainment: €200
Total: €1,460/month (€17,520/year)
Student with studio (Utrecht)
- • Rent (studio): €900
- • Utilities: €100
- • Groceries: €300
- • Eating out: €120
- • Health insurance: €120
- • Phone/internet: €50
- • Transport: €70
- • Books: €70
- • Personal/entertainment: €180
Total: €1,910/month (€22,920/year)
Key takeaway: Budget €1,200-€1,500/month minimum. Amsterdam and Utrecht are most expensive. Groningen, Enschede, Maastricht are most affordable.
Health insurance for international students
Mandatory requirement
Everyone living in Netherlands must have Dutch health insurance within 4 months of arrival. This includes students.
You cannot use:
- • Your home country health insurance
- • International student insurance
- • Travel insurance
- • European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
These may supplement Dutch insurance but cannot replace it.
What Dutch health insurance covers
Basic package (basisverzekering) covers:
- • GP visits (huisarts)
- • Hospital care and specialist visits
- • Prescription medications (with own-risk deductible)
- • Maternity care
- • Mental health care (basic)
- • Medical aids and devices
Own-risk (eigen risico)
€385 per year (2026) mandatory minimum
- • You pay first €385 of healthcare costs yourself
- • After €385, insurance covers rest
- • Doesn't apply to GP visits (always free), maternity care, some preventive care
- • Can choose higher own-risk for lower monthly premium (not recommended for students)
Student health insurance options
Recommended student insurers:
- • AON Student Insurance: €110-€120/month
- • Zorgzaam: €115-€125/month
- • Zilveren Kruis: €120-€130/month
- • CZ: €118-€128/month
Use comparison websites: independer.nl, zorgwijzer.nl, gaslicht.nl. For complete details, see our health insurance guide.
Consequences of not insuring
If you don't get insurance:
- • CAK (healthcare administrator) contacts you after 4 months
- • You're retroactively insured from arrival date
- • You owe back-premiums for entire period
- • Penalty premium added: €50-€150/month extra
- • Debt collection if unpaid
- • Can affect residence permit renewal
Don't skip insurance. It's mandatory and enforced.
Student housing: Finding accommodation
The student housing crisis (2026)
- • Severe shortage of student housing across Netherlands
- • Worst in: Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, Delft, The Hague
- • Better in: Groningen, Enschede, Maastricht (smaller cities)
- • Waiting lists: 6-18 months common
- • Many students struggle to find housing before arrival
- • Students living in temporary Airbnbs for months: €900-€1,500/month
- • Scams targeting desperate international students
For comprehensive housing strategies, see our housing crisis guide.
Housing options
1. University-managed housing
Pros: Relatively affordable (€400-€600/month), contracts specifically for students, usually furnished, international student community, easier registration (BRP)
Cons: Very limited availability (often 6-12 month waiting lists), priority usually to first-year international students only, not all universities offer housing, usually shared facilities (kitchen, bathroom)
Major student housing corporations: SSH (Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Wageningen), DUWO (Delft, Leiden, Rotterdam), Idealis (Groningen, Enschede), Vestide (Multiple cities), ROOM (Maastricht, Nijmegen, Eindhoven)
2. Private rental market
Pros: More availability than student housing, can choose location freely, sometimes higher quality
Cons: Much more expensive (€700-€1,400/month), often requires proof of income (4x monthly rent), landlords prefer working professionals over students, unfurnished common, more scams targeting international students
Where to search: Pararius.com (large rental listings), Funda.nl (both sales and rentals), Kamernet.nl (€50 membership for full access), HousingAnywhere.com (international student-focused), Facebook groups
Avoiding housing scams
Common scams targeting international students:
1. "Send deposit before viewing"
Scammer asks for deposit/first month rent before you see room. Promises to mail keys or meet you later. Red flag: Legitimate landlords never ask for money before signed contract and key handover.
2. "I'm abroad, can't meet in person"
Landlord claims to be traveling/working abroad. Offers great room at low price. Asks you to send money via Western Union, MoneyGram, or cryptocurrency. Red flag: Always meet landlord in person and view room before paying.
3. "Too good to be true" prices
€400/month studio in Amsterdam center. Gorgeous photos, amazing location, suspiciously cheap. Red flag: If price is 30-40% below market rate, it's likely scam.
4. Fake listings with stolen photos
Scammer copies legitimate listing, uses same photos. Posts on Facebook/Craigslist with lower price. Red flag: Reverse image search photos (Google Images). If they appear on multiple listings, it's fake.
5. "Urgent" pressure tactics
"Many people interested, send deposit now or you'll lose it." Creates false urgency to skip due diligence. Red flag: Legitimate landlords allow time to think and review contract.
How to protect yourself:
- ✅ Always view room in person before paying anything
- ✅ Meet landlord/tenant face-to-face (video call minimum if from abroad)
- ✅ Verify landlord identity (ask for ID, check property ownership records)
- ✅ Sign proper rental contract before paying deposit
- ✅ Pay via bank transfer (traceable), never Western Union/MoneyGram/crypto
- ✅ Get receipt for all payments
- ✅ Use reputable platforms (SSH, DUWO, Pararius, university housing)
- ✅ Report scams to platform and police (aangifte)
If something feels wrong, it probably is. Walk away from suspicious situations. If you have housing disputes, contact the Huurcommissie (Rent Tribunal) for assistance.
Student life and integration
Learning Dutch
Is Dutch necessary?
- • For studies: No (programs are fully English-taught)
- • For daily life: Possible with only English (most Dutch speak excellent English)
- • For job market: Yes (huge advantage, many jobs require Dutch)
Where to learn: DuoLingo (free app), Language exchange meetups (free), University language courses (often free or low-cost), NT2 courses (€300-€800 for 3-month course). For comprehensive integration resources, see our inburgering exam guide.
Student associations
Types:
- • General associations: ASVA (UvA), AEGEE (international), ESN (Erasmus Student Network)
- • Study associations: Specific to your program
- • Sports associations: Rowing, football, hockey
- • Cultural/national associations: Indonesian students, Latin American students, etc.
Benefits: Social events, parties, networking, career support, job boards, discounts, mentorship, integration into Dutch student culture
Costs: €50-€150/year membership
Banking and practical setup
- Bank account: Bunq (popular with internationals), ING, ABN AMRO. Requirements: BSN, proof of enrollment, passport/ID, proof of address. Usually free for students (under 25 or 28). See our BSN and DigiD guide for setup details.
- Phone plan: Prepaid SIM (€10-€20 starter pack), Monthly contracts (€10-€30/month). Simyo, Ben, Hollandsnieuwe popular.
- Bike: Essential. Buy used (€80-€200), buy good lock (€30-€70). Bike theft is rampant, don't buy expensive bike. Check our cycling safety guide for tips.
Working part-time
- Common jobs: On-campus (library, research assistant, €12-€20/hour), Hospitality (cafes, restaurants, €12-€14/hour + tips), Retail (€11-€13/hour), Tutoring (€15-€30/hour)
- Where to find: University job boards, StudentJob.nl, Indeed.nl, Werkstudent.nl. For post-graduation job search, see our job market guide.
- Tax: Income up to ~€3,000/year tax-free. Above that taxed ~37% (usually receive refund when filing tax return). File annual tax return in spring. See our tax forms guide for help.
Common challenges and how to solve them
Problem: Can't find housing before arrival
Solutions: 1) Book temporary accommodation (hostel, Airbnb) for 2-4 weeks 2) Search intensively in person upon arrival (easier than from abroad) 3) Join university housing Facebook groups, attend viewings 4) Check daily: Kamernet, HousingAnywhere, university housing portal 5) Consider temporary container housing or student hotels if university offers 6) Network with current students (some sublet rooms when leaving)
Problem: Budget is tighter than expected
Solutions: 1) Work part-time (16 hours/week allowed, earn €800-€1,000/month) 2) Cook at home (meal prep, shop at Aldi/Lidl) 3) Use student discounts (bring student card everywhere) 4) Cycle instead of public transport (saves €50-€100/month) 5) Buy second-hand (furniture, clothes, electronics via Marktplaats) 6) Apply for scholarships/emergency funds (some universities have emergency financial aid)
Problem: Study progress insufficient (BSA concerns)
Solutions: 1) Prevention: Seek help early if struggling academically (tutoring, study groups, talk to professors) 2) If you receive negative BSA: You can appeal with justifiable reasons (medical, personal circumstances) 3) Document any circumstances affecting study (medical certificates, etc.) 4) Switching programs: Possible but discuss with study advisor first 5) Consequences: Negative BSA usually means cannot continue in that program (affects residence permit if you don't switch to another program)
Problem: Feeling lonely, missing home
Solutions: 1) Join student associations (ESN, study association, cultural association) 2) Attend university social events (intro weeks essential for first-years) 3) Connect with student community online (Facebook groups, WhatsApp groups) 4) Book regular video calls with family/friends back home 5) Use university counseling services (free, confidential) 6) Stay busy (work, volunteering, hobbies) - structure helps. For comprehensive mental health resources, see our mental health guide.
Problem: Residence permit renewal delayed
Solutions: 1) Apply 3 months early (don't wait until last minute) 2) Ensure all documents complete before submission 3) If delayed past expiration: You have automatic extension while IND processes (bring confirmation letter if traveling) 4) Contact IND directly for status updates
Problem: Landlord refuses BRP registration
Solutions: 1) This is illegal (landlord cannot prevent registration) 2) Insist on registration (it's your legal right) 3) If landlord refuses, report to Huurcommissie (Rent Tribunal) or housing inspection (huurteam) 4) Consider finding different housing (living without registration creates major issues: no BSN, affects residence permit). See our housing crisis guide for tenant rights.
Quick reference: Costs & requirements
Tuition fees 2026-2027
| Student type | Bachelor's | Master's |
|---|---|---|
| EU/EEA/Swiss | €2,314/year | €2,314/year |
| Non-EU (WO) | €9,000-€16,000/year | €11,000-€20,000/year |
| Non-EU (HBO) | €8,000-€10,500/year | €10,000-€14,000/year |
Monthly living costs by city
| City | Student room | Studio | Total budget |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amsterdam | €550-€850 | €900-€1,400 | €1,270-€1,500/month |
| Rotterdam/Utrecht/The Hague | €450-€700 | €750-€1,100 | €1,200-€1,450/month |
| Groningen/Nijmegen/Maastricht | €400-€600 | €650-€900 | €1,100-€1,400/month |
Visa requirements summary
EU/EEA/Swiss students
- • No visa required
- • Register at municipality within 5 days
- • Obtain BSN number
- • Arrange health insurance within 4 months
- • Can work without restrictions
Non-EU students
- • MVV + residence permit required
- • Processing: 3-4 months
- • Fees: €539 total (€328 MVV + €211 VVR)
- • Financial proof: €12,280/year minimum
- • Work: 16hrs/week max (full-time in summer)
Top Dutch universities (2026 QS rankings)
| University | World rank | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| University of Amsterdam (UvA) | #55 | Humanities, social sciences |
| TU Delft | #57 | Engineering, architecture |
| Utrecht University | #107 | Sciences, medicine |
| Wageningen University | #108 | Agriculture (#1 worldwide) |
Path to permanent residency
Student years (3-4 years)
Complete Bachelor's or Master's degree at Dutch university. Counts toward 5-year PR requirement.
Orientation year (1 year)
Apply immediately after graduation. Full work authorization. Find HSM-qualifying job with lower salary threshold (€37,440/year for under-30 graduates). Counts toward PR.
HSM visa (1+ years)
Employer sponsors HSM visa. 5-year permit, renewable. Counts toward PR. After 5 total years (student + orientation + HSM), eligible for permanent residency.
Permanent residency or citizenship
After 5 continuous years: Apply for PR (no time limit) or Dutch citizenship (after passing integration exam). Full rights as Dutch/EU citizen.
Example timeline: 3-year Bachelor + 1-year orientation year + 1-year HSM = 5 years total → eligible for permanent residency or citizenship. The orientation year's lower salary threshold (€37,440 vs €52,284 standard) makes this path highly accessible for graduates.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to study in the Netherlands as an international student?
EU/EEA/Swiss students: €2,314/year statutory tuition (2026-2027) + living costs (€12,000-€16,000/year) = €14,500-€18,500/year total. Non-EU students: €9,000-€20,000/year tuition (varies by program and university) + living costs = €21,000-€36,000/year total. Bachelor's programs: €9,000-€16,000/year tuition typical. Master's programs: €11,000-€20,000/year tuition typical. Living costs €12,000-€16,000/year regardless of nationality.
Can I study in English in the Netherlands without knowing Dutch?
Yes. The Netherlands offers 2,200+ fully English-taught programs at Bachelor's and Master's level. Dutch is not required for admission to English-taught programs. All lectures, exams, and materials are in English. However, learning Dutch is strongly recommended for daily life and significantly improves job prospects after graduation. Most Dutch speak excellent English, so you can function in daily life with English only, but Dutch language skills are valuable.
How hard is it to find student housing in the Netherlands?
Very challenging in 2026. The Netherlands has a severe student housing crisis, especially in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, Delft, and The Hague. Waiting lists: 6-18 months common for student housing corporations (SSH, DUWO). University housing: Limited availability, priority often given to first-year international students. Private market: Expensive (€700-€1,400/month) and competitive. Recommendation: Apply immediately upon admission. Register with all housing providers. Prepare backup plan (temporary housing for first 2-4 weeks). Smaller cities (Groningen, Enschede, Maastricht) have better housing availability.
Do I need a student visa to study in the Netherlands?
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: No visa needed (freedom of movement). Just register at municipality within 5 days and obtain BSN. Non-EU citizens: Yes, you need MVV (entry visa) + residence permit (VVR). Your university sponsors the application (they must be erkend referent). Process takes 3-4 months. Application fees: €539 total (€328 MVV + €211 residence permit). Requirements: admission letter, proof of financial means (€12,280/year minimum), health insurance, valid passport, English proficiency. Short study (under 90 days): Tourist/Schengen visa sufficient for exchange semesters or summer programs under 90 days.
Can I work while studying in the Netherlands?
Yes. EU/EEA/Swiss students: Full work rights, no restrictions. Non-EU students: Can work maximum 16 hours per week during academic year, and full-time in June, July, August (summer break). Employer technically needs work permit (TWV) but many student jobs are exempt (university employment, internships). Realistic earnings: €800-€1,200/month during academic year, plus €1,500-€2,000 in summer = €10,000-€16,000/year total working maximum allowed hours.
What is the orientation year and how do I qualify?
Orientation year (zoekjaar) is a 1-year residence permit allowing recent graduates to stay in Netherlands to search for work or start business. Full work authorization (no hour restrictions). Eligibility: 1) Graduated from Dutch university (Bachelor's, Master's, PhD), OR 2) Graduated from top 200 international university (QS/THE/ARWU rankings). Must apply within 3 years of graduation. Benefits: Lower HSM salary threshold (€37,440/year vs standard €52,284/year for under-30). Can work any job while searching. Counts toward permanent residency (5-year requirement). Critical: Cannot extend beyond 12 months. Must transition to another permit (HSM, self-employed, partner) before expiration or must leave Netherlands.
Are there scholarships for international students in the Netherlands?
Yes, but competitive. Holland Scholarship: €5,000 one-time (first year), for non-EU students, not available at all universities, competitive. University excellence scholarships: €5,000-€25,000/year, for top candidates (GPA 3.5+/4.0), acceptance rate 1-5%, very competitive. Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP): Full scholarships for students from specific developing countries (mainly Africa, Asia, Latin America). Reality: Most international students (especially non-EU) pay full tuition. Apply for scholarships but plan finances assuming no scholarship. Treat scholarship as bonus if received, not as primary funding plan.
Do I need Dutch health insurance even if I have insurance from home?
Yes, Dutch health insurance is mandatory for everyone living in Netherlands, including students. You must obtain Dutch health insurance within 4 months of arrival. Cannot substitute with: Home country insurance, international student insurance, travel insurance, or European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). These may supplement but cannot replace Dutch insurance. Cost: €110-€140/month + €385/year own-risk (eigen risico). Consequences of not insuring: Retroactive premiums owed, penalty premiums added (€50-€150/month extra), debt collection, can affect residence permit renewal.
Can I stay in the Netherlands after graduation?
Yes, several options: 1. Orientation year (most common): Apply for 1-year job search permit immediately after graduation. Work full-time while searching. Lower HSM salary requirement (€37,440/year). Must transition to long-term permit within year. 2. Find HSM-qualifying job: Employer sponsors HSM visa (€37,440/year minimum for orientation year graduates, €52,284/year for others under 30). 5-year permit, renewable indefinitely. 3. Start business: Apply for self-employed residence permit. Requires business plan and sufficient income (€1,600-€2,000/month). 4. Partner visa: If you have Dutch/EU partner or partner with residence permit. Timeline to permanent residency: Student years (3-4 years) + orientation year (1 year) + work permit (1 year) = 5 years continuous residence → eligible for permanent residency or citizenship.
What's the difference between WO and HBO universities?
Research universities (WO): Academic, theoretical focus. 3-year Bachelor's, 1-2 year Master's. Research-oriented. Best for academic careers, science, law, medicine, theoretical fields. Examples: UvA, Leiden, Utrecht, TU Delft. Universities of applied sciences (HBO): Practical, vocational focus. 4-year Bachelor's (includes internships), limited Master's programs. Career-oriented. Best for applied professions: engineering, business, arts, healthcare, education. Examples: HvA (Amsterdam UAS), THUAS (The Hague UAS). Both are excellent quality - not a prestige issue. Choice depends on career goals: Academic/research path → WO. Professional/practical path → HBO. Both recognized internationally and lead to valid degrees.
What happens if I fail too many courses as an international student?
First year: Most programs have BSA (Binding Study Advice). You must typically pass 45-50 ECTS out of 60 (75-83%) in first year. If you fail to meet this: University gives negative binding study advice. You cannot continue in that program. Your residence permit may not renew (tied to enrollment). Later years: Must continue progressing. Falling significantly behind can affect permit renewal. Universities report non-progression to IND. Consequences: Cannot renew student residence permit if you're no longer enrolled. Must leave Netherlands or switch to another permit type (if eligible). Solutions: Seek help early if struggling (tutoring, study advisor, counseling). Can appeal negative BSA with justifiable reasons (medical, personal circumstances - requires documentation). Can switch programs, but affects timeline and finances.
Related guides and resources
Explore additional resources for studying and living in the Netherlands.
Work permits Netherlands
HSM visa requirements, salary thresholds (€37,440 for orientation year graduates), and application process.
BSN registration Amsterdam
Essential registration guide for all students. Required within 5 days of arrival for banking, insurance, and permits.
Health insurance Netherlands
Mandatory coverage within 4 months. €110-€140/month premiums, €385 own-risk, student-specific plans.
Housing crisis Netherlands
Student housing crisis explained: 6-18 month waiting lists, scam prevention, and finding strategies.
Official resources
Disclaimer: This guide reflects regulations and policies current as of February 2026. Tuition fees, visa requirements, and immigration policies can change annually. Always verify current requirements with your university, IND, and official Dutch government sources before making decisions. For specific legal or immigration advice, consult with qualified professionals.