Study in the Netherlands — Complete Guide

Bachelor’s Degree (Undergraduate)

Overview: Dutch bachelor degrees are typically 3 years (research universities) or 3–4 years for some programs; programmes use the ECTS system. Many bachelor's programmes are offered in English (especially at research universities), but a larger share remains Dutch-taught.

Duration & structure

• Generally 3 years (180 ECTS) for research university bachelor's; some professional (HBO) programmes may be 3–4 years.
• University institutions offer curricula with lectures, tutorials, and exams; practical placements are common in applied programmes.

Tuition fees (approx.)

Admission requirements

• Secondary school diploma equivalent to Dutch pre-university (VWO) — many applicants verify with university admission service.
• Proof of English (IELTS/TOEFL) or Dutch (NT2 / other) depending on language of instruction.
• Translated & certified transcripts, motivation statement, and sometimes entrance tests or interviews.

Living costs (typical monthly)

Tip: tuition for non-EU students is programme-specific — check the exact amount on the university's fees page (example: University of Amsterdam publishes institutional & faculty fees).

Master’s Degree (Postgraduate)

Overview: Master’s programmes commonly last 1–2 years (60–120 ECTS). The Netherlands is known for many high-quality English-taught MSc/MA programmes at research universities.

Duration & formats

• One-year (60 ECTS) or two-year (120 ECTS) master's programmes.
• Full-time, part-time and research masters exist; some are linked to industry projects.

Tuition & estimated fees

Admission criteria

• Recognised bachelor's degree in a related subject.
• Language proof (IELTS/TOEFL) where required; some programmes require GRE/GMAT or professional experience.
• CV, motivation letter, recommendation letters, and sometimes a research proposal or portfolio.

Funding & scholarships

• University scholarships, Holland Scholarship, Erasmus+ (for some exchange students), and faculty-level grants.
• International students should check university scholarship pages early — many deadlines are months before program start.

PhD Degree (Doctorate)

Overview: Doctorates in the Netherlands are research-focused and normally last 4 years. PhD candidates are often employed by the university on a paid research (predoctoral) contract.

Requirements & application

• Master's degree (or equivalent) allowing doctoral entry.
• Research proposal and match with a supervisor or research group.
• Funding: many PhD positions are advertised as funded contracts; alternative funding via grants is also common.

Costs & funding

Many research projects are funded by NWO, EU Horizon Europe projects or university research grants — check the faculty vacancy pages for funded positions.

Student Visa & Residence — Step-by-step (non-EU/EEA)

Which permit?

• Short stays (< 90 days): Schengen short-stay visa (if required by nationality).
• Long stays (degree study > 90 days): Residence permit for study (student residence permit) — only the educational institution (recognized sponsor) can apply to IND for you.

Key requirements

• Letter of acceptance from a recognized Dutch higher education institution.
• Valid passport (sufficient validity & blank pages).
• Proof of sufficient financial means (university will specify amount; general guidance: budget for tuition + living costs ~ €800–€1,200/month depending on city).
• Health insurance valid in the Netherlands.
• Completed application & biometric data at the Dutch embassy/consulate or VFS center as instructed.

Application flow (typical)

1. Get unconditional offer and confirm enrolment with the university.
2. University (as recognized sponsor) submits a request to IND for your residence permit (MVV / TEV procedure where applicable).
3. Follow consulate instructions, attend appointment, submit documents and biometrics if required.
4. Processing: commonly 2–8 weeks; times vary. Do not book travel until permit is issued.

After arrival

• Register with the local municipality (BRP) and get a citizen service number (BSN).
• Open a Dutch bank account, apply for public transport card (OV-chipkaart), and complete any university enrolment steps.
• Graduates may apply for an orientation year (zoekjaar) residence permit to look for work after graduation (conditions apply).

Fees & timing (examples)

Official immigration & study sites you should read before applying are listed below.