Why Study in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands is one of Europe’s most internationally oriented countries, with over 2,000 English-taught programs at Dutch universities — more than almost any other non-English-speaking country. Dutch universities regularly rank in the global top 100 and offer a practical, project-based education style that employers really value.
For students from Bangladesh, India, Nigeria, Vietnam, and Malaysia, the Netherlands offers a welcoming, diverse environment, strong English proficiency among Dutch locals, and access to the EU job market after graduation.
Top Universities
Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)
The Netherlands’ leading technical university. One of Europe’s best in engineering, architecture, aerospace, and technology. Globally recognised and highly ranked.
University of Amsterdam (UvA)
The Netherlands’ largest research university. Strong in social sciences, law, business, and the humanities. Great location in one of Europe’s most exciting cities.
Erasmus University Rotterdam
Europe’s leading university for business, economics, and law. Home to the well-known Erasmus MBA and Rotterdam School of Management. Strong industry connections.
Leiden University
The Netherlands’ oldest university (founded 1575). Strong in law, international relations, medicine, and the humanities. Close to Amsterdam and The Hague.
Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e)
Technology-focused university in Europe’s silicon valley (Brainport Eindhoven). Strong ties to ASML, Philips, and DAF. Growing reputation in AI and data science.
Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Monthly Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Rent (student housing) | 400-800 |
| Food & groceries | 200-300 |
| Health insurance | 30-60 (basic Dutch insurance mandatory) |
| Public transport | 0-100 (student OV-chipkaart gives free weekday travel) |
| Phone & internet | 15-30 |
| Personal expenses | 150-300 |
| Total | 795-1,590 |
Tuition fees: EU/EEA students: EUR 2,314/year (statutory rate). Non-EU students: EUR 6,000-20,000/year depending on program. Technical and business programs tend to cost more.
Proof of funds: You must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses (approximately EUR 11,000-13,000/year for living costs) when applying for your residence permit.
Visa Process
- Get accepted to a Dutch university through Studielink or direct application
- Pay your tuition deposit as required by your university
- Your university applies for your residence permit through IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service) — you do not apply directly
- Provide documents: passport copy, proof of tuition payment, proof of funds, academic transcripts, and English test scores
- Receive your MVV (entry visa) at the Dutch embassy in your country if required for your nationality
- Travel to the Netherlands with your MVV
- Processing time: 8-10 weeks (your university starts the process after you accept your offer)
- Collect your residence permit at IND after arrival and register at the local municipality (gemeente)
Post-Study Work Permit (Orientation Year)
The Zoekjaar is a strong post-study pathway:
- 12 months to find work in the Netherlands after graduation
- Available to graduates of Dutch universities AND internationally recognised universities worldwide
- No job offer required to apply
- Students can work up to 16 hours/week during term and full-time in summer
- After finding a job, you can switch to a Highly Skilled Migrant visa (no salary threshold for recent graduates in the first year)
- Dutch work experience counts toward permanent residency (5 years)
Scholarships
Holland Scholarship
Funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education. Provides EUR 5,000 for the first year of study to international students from outside the EEA. Available at most Dutch universities.
Erasmus Mundus Scholarships
EU-funded scholarships for joint Master’s programs offered across multiple European universities. Covers tuition, living costs, and travel.
Orange Tulip Scholarship
Country-specific scholarships funded by Dutch companies and universities, available for students from Bangladesh, India, and Vietnam among others. Award amounts vary by institution.
Living in the Netherlands
The Dutch are direct, practical, and open-minded. The country has a long tradition of international trade and welcomes students from everywhere. English is spoken fluently across the Netherlands, so you will have no language barrier in daily life.
Amsterdam is world-famous but expensive and competitive for student housing. Groningen, Eindhoven, Maastricht, and Tilburg are great university towns with more affordable rents and a strong student atmosphere. Student housing is in high demand everywhere, so apply through your university’s housing service as early as possible.
Cycling is the main way to get around in most Dutch cities — affordable, fast, and a real part of Dutch life. Student transport subscriptions (OV-chipkaart) provide free travel on trains during weekdays or weekends (you choose one). The country is compact — Amsterdam to Rotterdam is just 40 minutes by train.
Career Outcomes
Dutch degrees are highly respected across Europe. The Netherlands is home to major multinationals including Shell, Philips, ASML, Unilever, ING, and Heineken. The country is also a major hub for startups and tech companies, particularly in Amsterdam and Eindhoven. Graduates in engineering, business, technology, and law are well placed for roles in the Dutch market and beyond. The Orientation Year visa provides meaningful time to activate your professional network and find the right role.