- Bachelor's
- Recognised Class XII and diploma equivalency; some research universities require a foundation year or additional qualifications.
- Master's
- Relevant bachelor's degree and subject-specific prerequisites.
Why Choose Netherlands for Higher Education?
The Netherlands offers a large selection of English-taught degrees, internationally oriented universities, applied sciences institutions and strong sectors in engineering, logistics, agriculture, design, business and technology. Housing availability can be challenging, so students should arrange accommodation early.
Planning snapshot
- 01September is the main intake; February is available for selected programmes.
- 02Non-EU tuition averages €9,000–€20,000/year for bachelor's and €12,000–€30,000/year for master's.
- 03Student living costs average €1,000–€1,500/month.
Top Universities in Netherlands
-
01
Delft University of TechnologyQS WUR 202748
-
02
University of AmsterdamQS WUR 202760
-
03
Utrecht UniversityQS WUR 2027=113
-
04
Leiden UniversityQS WUR 2027=119
-
05
Eindhoven University of TechnologyQS WUR 2027152
-
06
Wageningen University & ResearchQS WUR 2027154
-
07
Erasmus University RotterdamQS WUR 2027148
-
08
University of GroningenQS WUR 2027157
-
09
Vrije Universiteit AmsterdamQS WUR 2027Verify rank
-
10
University of TwenteQS WUR 2027Verify rank
Ranking note: QS World University Rankings 2027 overall global positions where visible in the retrieved QS 2027 table. '=' denotes a tied rank. Other institutions require checking against the complete QS table. This shortlist is not a universal 'best universities' ranking.
Popular Bachelor's and Master's Courses in Netherlands
MASTER'S
- Data Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Business Analytics
- Supply Chain Management
- Finance
- Water Management
- Sustainable Energy
- Engineering
- International Business
- Public Health
BACHELOR'S
- International Business
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Psychology
- Economics
- Data Science
- Communication
- Agriculture
- Design
- Liberal Arts
Cost of Studying in Netherlands: Tuition Fees
TUITION – BACHELOR'S
Non-EU/EEA average
€9,000–€20,000/year average for non-EU/EEA bachelor's programmes.
TUITION – MASTER'S
Non-EU/EEA average
€12,000–€30,000/year average for non-EU/EEA master's programmes.
These are indicative planning ranges, not a quote from a specific institution.
Cost of Living in Netherlands for International Students
Accommodation
€5,400–12,000Food & groceries
€2,400–3,600Health insurance
€600–1,800Transportation
€600–1,200Books & personal
€1,500–3,000
All amounts are indicative annual estimates in euros (€). Costs vary by city. Health insurance depends on work/status; verify.
Scholarships to Study in Netherlands
-
01
NL Scholarship
Formerly Holland Scholarship; award and participating institutions vary.
-
02
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters
Joint master's programme scholarships; check the official scholarship page.
-
03
University-specific merit scholarships
Examples include Amsterdam Merit, TU Delft and Utrecht Excellence, subject to current availability and eligibility.
Funding is highly institution- and programme-specific. Award amounts are not confirmed here; check the official scholarship page for each award.
Admission Intakes in Netherlands
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
September
The main intake.
February
Offered by selected institutions and programmes.
Numerus fixus programmes have earlier deadlines, commonly 15 January; confirm each course's deadline.
Eligibility Requirements to Study in Netherlands
Academic Qualifications
Language Proficiency
IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge or other accepted tests.
Many English-taught degrees require IELTS 6.0–7.0 depending on level and institution.
Standard Tests
Some programmes require mathematics tests, GMAT/GRE or selection assessments.
Numerus fixus programmes may use selection procedures; not universal.
Entrance Exams Required to Study in Netherlands
- 01IELTS/TOEFL/Cambridge for English.
- 02GMAT/GRE for selected courses.
- 03Mathematics/subject tests for specific programmes.
- 04Selection assessments for specific programmes.
Examination requirements depend on the university and programme.
Documents Required for University Applications in Netherlands
- Passport
- Transcripts
- Diploma
- English test
- CV
- Motivation letter
- References
- Course descriptions for master's
- Portfolio where required
- Studielink application and institution-specific documents
Course and university requirements may differ.
Netherlands Student Visa Requirements for Indian Students
University-led
The recognised educational institution usually submits the residence permit application to the IND on the student's behalf.
Verify with IND before filing- Visa route
- The university normally applies for the student residence permit (and entry visa/MVV if required) as recognised sponsor.
- Application fee
- Not confirmed here; check the current fee with the IND.
- Proof of funds
- Financial means are set by IND and updated periodically; check current monthly norm at filing.
- Timing
- Apply through the institution well ahead of start.
- Documents
- Admission, passport, funds, tuition payment, antecedents declaration and TB test if applicable.
Career Opportunities After Studying in Netherlands
Graduates may explore opportunities across the Netherlands in data, technology, logistics, engineering, sustainability and finance. The roles below are examples; actual prospects depend on qualifications, experience and employer requirements.
- 01Data analyst
- 02Software engineer
- 03Logistics planner
- 04Mechanical engineer
- 05Sustainability consultant
- 06Financial analyst
Orientation year may be available to eligible graduates; verify IND conditions. No job is guaranteed.
Why Choose Neximm Immigration?
Neximm can help you with each of the following stages of your Netherlands study plan.
- 01Research universities and applied sciences
Shortlist research universities versus universities of applied sciences.
- 02Diploma equivalency
Check diploma equivalency.
- 03Tuition and cities
Compare tuition and cities.
- 04Scholarships
Identify scholarships.
- 05Residence-permit process
Coordinate the university-led residence-permit process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Studying in Netherlands
Non-EU bachelor's tuition averages €9,000–€20,000 per year and master's tuition €12,000–€30,000. Living expenses are commonly €1,000–€1,500 per month.
Most English-taught programmes require IELTS, TOEFL or equivalent. Some institutions accept waivers or other evidence depending on prior education.
September is the main intake. Some programmes offer February entry; availability is institution- and course-specific.
Housing shortages affect several Dutch student cities. Students should begin searching as soon as they receive an offer and avoid travelling without confirmed accommodation.
The recognised educational institution usually submits the residence permit application to the IND on the student's behalf.
Ready to Plan Your Studies in Netherlands?
Planning to study in Netherlands? Speak with Neximm Immigration for guidance on choosing universities, selecting the right course, preparing your application and understanding the student visa process. Contact our team to discuss your study-abroad plans.
Book a Consultation