Study in the Netherlands: what international students should know

What international students can expect when studying in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is one of Europe’s most popular destinations for international students, offering high-quality English-taught education, a diverse and open society, and a well-organised student infrastructure. Each year, over 100,000 students from all over the world choose to study here.

Quality and accessibility

The Netherlands is home to a wide range of internationally recognised universities and applied sciences institutions. Over 2,100 study programmes and courses are taught entirely in English — one of the largest offerings in continental Europe.

Popular universities among international students include the University of Amsterdam, Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), Erasmus University Rotterdam, and Wageningen University & Research.

Frequently chosen study fields include business and economics, engineering, data science, international relations, and environmental sciences.

Recognition and career value

All programmes are NVAO-accredited, meaning degrees are recognised across Europe and often far beyond. Dutch degrees are known for their strong focus on real-world applications, making graduates highly employable internationally.

Affordability and international atmosphere

Compared to the UK or US, studying in the Netherlands is more affordable while maintaining high academic standards. Tuition fees are competitive, and the cost of living is reasonable — although this can vary significantly by city, with places like Amsterdam and Utrecht being more expensive.

Accommodation is often the biggest challenge, with high demand and limited supply in many student cities. Still, the country attracts students from more than 160 countries, creating a truly global and inclusive student experience.

Looking for a place to stay? Check out practical housing tips at studyinnl.org.

Safety and opportunities

The Netherlands ranks among the safest countries in the world and offers a high quality of life. While many students manage to find part-time jobs or internships, non-EU students face restrictions such as needing a work permit and a maximum of 16 working hours per week.

After graduation, students can apply for an Orientation Year permit to stay for up to 12 months to find a job. However, this doesn’t guarantee employment, and competition for English-speaking roles can be high — particularly without Dutch language skills.

Why study in the Netherlands is a top choice for international students

Student life beyond the classroom

Unlike in many countries, Dutch universities usually do not have large campuses. Instead, student life happens all over the city — in libraries, cafés, student housing, and through organisations like ESN or AIESEC.

This decentralised student life can feel very independent, which suits some students well but may feel isolating for others, especially if you’re used to a close-knit campus environment.

Integrating with local and international peers takes active effort, especially in the beginning. See more at studyinnl.org.

Education style and learning approach

Dutch higher education places a strong emphasis on independence, critical thinking, and collaboration. Expect fewer lectures and more group projects, case studies, and presentations.

Professors are approachable and informal, and students are expected to take responsibility for their learning — something that may feel different depending on your home country’s system.

For students unfamiliar with self-directed study, the Dutch approach can feel challenging at first but also rewarding in the long run.

Living costs and daily expenses

Expect to spend around €1,000 to €1,500 per month, depending on your city and lifestyle. Rent often ranges between €450 and €1,000 — and rooms can be hard to find, especially in major cities.

Some students experience waiting lists or temporary stays in hostels. Groceries are affordable if you cook at home, but dining out is relatively expensive.

Managing daily life

Biking is the most common way to get around, and many cities are designed with cyclists in mind. However, biking in busy cities like Amsterdam can take getting used to.

Most students cook at home to save money, and there are plenty of student discounts on food, museums, and transport — if you know where to look. Most locals speak English well, which makes daily life smoother than in many other non-English-speaking countries.

Still, learning a bit of Dutch goes a long way when dealing with bureaucracy or finding housing.

Want to start learning Dutch? Explore beginner-friendly resources at studyinnl.org.

Tips to settle in smoothly

Embrace the culture

The Dutch are known for being direct, organised, and open-minded. Expect punctuality, straightforward communication, and a flat social hierarchy — even professors are usually on a first-name basis.

In cities like Rotterdam and Groningen, you’ll find a strong mix of locals and international students, while in smaller towns like Enschede or Leeuwarden, it may take a bit more effort to adapt.

Learn to ride a bike early, explore local festivals, and try some typical Dutch snacks like stroopwafels or bitterballen — it’s part of the experience.

Handling your student budget

Living costs can vary greatly. In Amsterdam and Utrecht, housing can easily take up over half your monthly budget. Look for rooms in surrounding areas like Diemen (for Amsterdam) or Nieuwegein (for Utrecht).

In cities like Eindhoven or Tilburg, you’ll find better value but often need to act fast to secure a place. Save by meal prepping, shopping at discount supermarkets like Lidl or Aldi, and using the Marktplaats app for second-hand essentials.

Check if your municipality offers local student subsidies or bike repair services.

Build your community

Feeling at home takes more than just attending lectures. Join international student groups but also try local sports clubs or language exchanges — they’re great ways to meet both Dutch and international students.

In cities like Leiden and Maastricht, international associations are very active, while places like Groningen offer strong university-organised social programmes. Don’t hesitate to introduce yourself — Dutch students may not approach you first but are generally friendly once the ice is broken.