The Netherlands is one of the most popular choices for students planning to study abroad. The Netherlands is known for its top universities, English programs, and cultural diversity. It attracts many international students each year.
Before you start your study journey in the Netherlands, it’s important to know a few things. First, understand the tuition fees for international students. Next, consider the cost of living for students in the Netherlands. Lastly, look into the scholarships available for international students.
This guide explains the costs of studying abroad in the Netherlands. It covers tuition fees, living expenses, and scholarship options. This will help you plan your budget well.
1. Tuition Costs in the Netherlands
Unlike some European countries, like Germany and Norway, Dutch universities charge tuition fees. This applies to both EU and non-EU students.
1.1 Tuition for EU/EEA Students
- Government-subsidized tuition: Around €2,530 per year (2024/25 academic year).
- Applies to both bachelor’s and master’s programs at public universities in the Netherlands.
- Dutch government offers a “statutory tuition fee” model for EU/EEA citizens.
1.2 Tuition for Non-EU/EEA Students
- Bachelor’s programs: €6,000 – €15,000 per year.
- Master’s programs: €8,000 – €20,000 per year.
- Business, engineering, and medical programs often fall at the higher end of Dutch universities cost for non-EU students.
1.3 Universities of Applied Sciences vs. Research Universities
- Research Universities: Focus on academic and theoretical study, usually more expensive.
- Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS): More practical and affordable, averaging €6,000 – €10,000 per year.
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2. Cost of Living in the Netherlands
The living costs for students in the Netherlands depend largely on the city. Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam are more expensive than smaller student cities like Groningen or Eindhoven.
Average Monthly Expenses
- Student accommodation in the Netherlands: €350 – €800 (student housing, shared apartments).
- Food: €200 – €350.
- Public transport: €50 – €120 (sometimes discounted for students).
- Health insurance: €100 – €120 (mandatory for non-EU students).
- Other expenses (books, leisure, etc.): €100 – €150.
👉 On average, students in the Netherlands need about €900 – €1,400 per month to live comfortably.
💡 Pro Tip: Apply early for student housing because availability is limited.
3. Scholarships in the Netherlands for International Students
The Dutch government and universities in the Netherlands offer several NL scholarships and financial support to help international students.
3.1 Holland Scholarship (Dutch Ministry of Education)
- For non-EU/EEA students applying for bachelor’s or master’s programs.
- Value: €5,000 (first year only).
- Available at participating Dutch universities and universities of applied sciences.
- Search for Holland Scholarship Netherlands eligibility criteria on official sites.
3.2 Erasmus+ Program
- Available for EU and selected partner countries.
- Offers grants for short-term exchanges and full master’s programs.
- A popular option under Erasmus+ Netherlands scholarships.
3.3 Orange Tulip Scholarship (OTS)
- For students from countries such as India, Indonesia, and Brazil.
- Covers partial or full tuition depending on the educational institution.
- Often called the Orange Tulip Scholarship Netherlands.
3.4 University-Specific Scholarships
- University of Amsterdam Scholarships (Amsterdam Merit Scholarship: €2,000–€25,000).
- Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) – up to full tuition fee coverage.
- TU Delft Scholarships for International Students (Justus & Louise van Effen Scholarship: full tuition + living allowance).
- Erasmus University Holland Scholarship – €5,000–€15,000.
4. Part-Time Jobs and Work Opportunities
International students often support themselves through part-time jobs in the Netherlands for students.
- EU/EEA students: Free to work without restrictions.
- Non-EU/EEA students: Allowed part-time work (16 hours/week during term) or full-time in summer. Employers must provide a work permit (TWV).
💡 Many part time job opportunities exist in cafes, supermarkets, and on-campus roles, which also count as work experiences valuable for your CV.
5. Budgeting Tips for International Students
- Use student discounts for transport, museums, and restaurants.
- Cook at home instead of eating out—saves €100–€150 monthly.
- Share student accommodation in the Netherlands to cut rent.
- Apply early for scholarships in the Netherlands for international students.
- Track your financial support and plan for both tuition and living costs.
Final Takeaways
Studying in the Netherlands is not tuition-free, but compared to the US or UK, it’s more affordable. With smart budgeting and scholarships, you can manage Netherlands study abroad costs efficiently.
✅ Recap:
- Tuition fees: €6,000–€20,000 (non-EU) | ~€2,530 (EU/EEA).
- Living costs: €900–€1,400/month.
- Scholarships: Holland, Erasmus+, Orange Tulip, University of Amsterdam scholarships, TU Delft scholarships for international students.
- Work: Part time work (16 hrs/week) + summer jobs.
👉 With careful planning, studying in the Netherlands for international students is both cost-effective and rewarding.
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- 🎯 Tailored budgeting for Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam, or smaller student towns.
✨ With Inforens, you don’t just pay tuition—you save money, secure scholarships, and make your study abroad in the Netherlands stress-free.
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