The Netherlands is one of Europe’s top study destinations for international students. People recognize it for its creative teaching style and English-taught degree programs. It also has low tuition fees, attracting thousands of students each year. This makes it stand out among other European countries.
Studying in the Netherlands? This guide will help you. It covers the application process, entry requirements, needed documents, admission deadlines, and timelines. Follow these steps for a successful application.
1. Research Your Program and University
Before applying, explore the types of higher education institutions in the Netherlands:
- Research Universities – focus on academic and theoretical learning.
- Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS) – emphasize practical and career-oriented education.
🔹 Language of Instruction: Over 2,000 bachelor’s and master’s study programmes are taught in English.
🔹 Tuition Costs: €6,000 – €15,000 per year for non-EU students (EU/EEA students pay much lower fees).
💡 Tip: Use the official Study in Holland (Nuffic) portal or university websites to compare educational institutions.
2. Check Admission Requirements
Each university sets its own Dutch university requirements, but here are the common ones:
- Bachelor’s Programs: High school diploma equivalent to Dutch VWO/HAVO.
- Master’s Programs: Recognized bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
- English Proficiency: IELTS (6.0–7.0), TOEFL (80–100), or Cambridge English.
- Additional Requirements: Motivation letter, CV, portfolio (for arts/design degree programmes), or entrance exam (rare cases).
3. Apply via Studielink (Centralized Portal)
Most universities use Studielink application, the Dutch national portal to submit your application.
Steps in Studielink:
- Create an account at studielink.nl
- Select your study programme and institution
- Enter your personal and educational details
- Pay the application fee (€50–€100, depending on the educational institution)
📌 Exception: Some programs may require an additional application directly on the university’s website.
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4. Submit Required Documents
Prepare and upload digital copies of the following (translated into English or Dutch if needed):
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Motivation letter / Statement of Purpose
- CV/Resume (for master’s programs)
- Portfolio (for art, design, architecture study programmes)
- Copy of passport or ID
These are the standard documents required for Dutch universities.
5. Respect Application Deadlines
- EU/EEA students: Usually 1 May for September intake
- Non-EU/EEA students: Between January–April for September intake
- Numerus Fixus programs (limited seats: medicine, psychology, international business): Deadline is 15 January every year
💡 Pro Tip: Always check the exact deadlines on your chosen higher education institution’s website, as they can vary.
6. Await Admission Decision
After submission, universities will:
- Review your academic qualifications
- Assess motivation letters and portfolios
- Conduct interviews (for certain programs)
- Send a conditional or unconditional Netherlands offer
⏳ Processing time: 4–12 weeks, depending on the educational institution.
7. Arrange Visa and Residence Permit
If you’re a non-EU/EEA student, you will need:
- MVV (Entry Visa) – to enter the Netherlands
- VVR (Residence Permit) – to stay for more than 90 days
👉 The university usually applies on your behalf once you’re admitted. You will need:
- Proof of admission
- Proof of sufficient funds (~€13,000/year for living expenses)
- Health insurance
This is the standard Netherlands student visa process.
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8. Prepare for Arrival
Before moving to the Netherlands:
- Book student housing early (Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam are highly competitive)
- Register with your municipality upon arrival
- Open a Dutch bank account
- Join orientation programs at your university
💡 Tip: Many students in the Netherlands suggest registering early. This helps avoid delays in housing and city services.
✅ Final Takeaways
Applying to higher education institutions in the Netherlands is a structured process thanks to the Studielink application system. To succeed:
- Start early, especially for Numerus Fixus programs
- Prepare all documents required in advance
- Double-check Dutch university requirements and deadlines
- Let your university assist with your Netherlands student visa and housing
The Netherlands has great education, English-taught degree programs, and a friendly student environment. This makes it one of the best places to study abroad in Europe for 2025.
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