With its safe, multicultural environment and cost-effective tuition, the Netherlands stands out as a premier global destination for students pursuing an international education.
The Netherlands is a pioneer in offering high-quality academic programmes taught entirely in English. Renowned for its innovative and collaborative teaching methodology, the Dutch higher education system attracts tens of thousands of international students every year.
Applying to a top-tier Dutch university is a streamlined process. However, there are critical steps and requirements you must navigate to ensure your application is successful.
1. Dutch universities to consider for your studies
Here are the essential steps and key considerations for your study abroad journey in the Netherlands:
2. Prepare to apply
- Before you choose your degree at a Dutch university, do your research rigorously and make sure it fits your interests and career goals. See and courses in the Netherlands.
- Check out if you meet the entry requirements and admission qualifications of the university. Your educational background and grade point average (GPA) from prior studies will determine if you qualify for your chosen degree.
- For some Master's programmes, there is an online eligibility check offered by universities, meant to help students find out if they are eligible for that specific programme.
- Be careful to check if you have to pay the Statutory tuition fee (for EU/EEA students and a few exceptions for non-EU/EEA) or the Institutional tuition fee (usually, for non-EU/EEA students). Tuition for non-EU/EEA students is usually higher.
- Look for to cover your study expenses. You can also check out the Online Result Scholarship to get some help on financing your studies abroad.
- Figure out if you need a student visa. This usually applies to international students who don't come from the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA). In this case, you will need to prepare the necessary documents in advance.
3. Where to apply
Where to apply for degrees with no restrictions
1. Understand the Numerus Fixus system: This government-managed selection process applies to specific high-demand degree courses. Participating in a Numerus Fixus programme helps manage the competitive entry process for certain popular fields.
While many Numerus Fixus programmes are in Dutch, international students can apply for select English-taught degrees, including Medicine, Psychology, International Business Administration, and Physiotherapy.
2. Review university-specific criteria: Always check the official website of your target institution to verify specific entry requirements and documentation needed for your chosen programme.
Where to apply for degrees with local restrictions
1. Use Studielink for your application: Similar to the UK’s UCAS system, Studielink is the central portal for Dutch university admissions. You can apply for up to four programmes simultaneously and adjust your preferences prior to the enrollment deadline.
Studielink provides flexibility; if you are not accepted by one institution, you can pursue other options. The platform now fully supports applications for Numerus Fixus programmes as well.
2. Manage national quotas: The Dutch Ministry of Education sets enrollment capacities for specific degrees where demand often outweighs the number of available seats.
If a programme exceeds its quota, you may be asked to rank your preferred institutions. Being placed in a competitive pool does not necessarily exclude you from admission, as selection procedures vary by institution.
DUO, the agency under the Dutch Ministry of Education, oversees limited-quota admissions and may request certified translations and official copies of your academic transcripts.
4. Language requirements for a Dutch university application
For English-taught degree programmes, you will be required to provide proof of language proficiency through internationally recognized certifications.
If you intend to study in Dutch, you must demonstrate your fluency by passing the Dutch TUL intermediate exam or by obtaining a Dutch NT2-II diploma.
5. Required university application documents
- A copy of passport or ID card
- A passport picture
- A personal statement in English (should contain around 500-800 words answering questions such as: Why and what would you like to study at the university? What are your plans after graduation?)
- Copies of obtained secondary school diplomas, certificates and/or grade lists (uploaded diplomas and/or grade lists which are not in English, French, German or Dutch need to be accompanied by an official English translation)
- Transcript of records
- Proof of English/Dutch language proficiency
- Proof of payment of application fee (50 – 100 EUR)
Depending on the university and programme, you may also need to submit additional documents, such as a motivation letter, reference letters, or a CV.
- CV or resume (including two referees)
- Motivation letter
- Sample of academic written work
6. University application deadlines for the Netherlands
Always verify specific application deadlines on your university's website, as these can vary significantly between institutions and programmes.
- The application deadline for most courses: 1st of May
- At some universities, the application deadline is: 1st of February or the 1st of March
- For the Numerous Fixus and DUO platform, the deadline is typically 15th of January
We strongly recommend submitting your application by mid-April. This allows sufficient time for visa processing (if applicable) and securing student housing before the academic term begins.
Ensure your Studielink account is finalized by May 1st. Note that limited-quota programmes often mandate earlier submission dates.
7. Final steps after receiving your university acceptance letter
Successfully completing your application is only the first step. Be prepared for several administrative requirements following your submission:
- Settle your health insurance. If you are coming from an EU/EEA country, the health insurance in your country will also work in the Netherlands. But you will need to get a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to make use of this. If health insurance is not valid, you will have to pay 80 – 160 EUR per month to cover this.
Upon your arrival in the Netherlands, you will need to finalize your registration to ensure you are ready to begin your academic studies.
- For EU students: contact a local governing body to receive a personal public service number (BSN).
- For non-EU students: you will have to get a residence permit; the university will apply on your behalf, you just have to submit the required documents.
Students are required to officially enroll at their university and settle their tuition fee payments before attending classes.
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