Study in Netherlands for international students is a top European study destination offering over 2,100 English-taught programs at globally ranked universities. The tuition fees at public institutions start from €6,000/year, while living expenses average €800–€1,100/month. IELTS is not compulsory. Many universities accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter instead of IELTS, easing admission. For a student visa, applicants typically show a bank statement of €11,000–€13,000 (last 3–6 months), with a visa success rate of around 96%. Generous government and university scholarships, innovative teaching methods, and strong post-study work options make it one of the best choices in Europe for quality education and career growth.
Quick Facts Of Study in Netherlands for International Students
| Teaching Language | English / Dutch |
| Country | Europe |
| Top Public Universities | University of AmsterdamDelft University of TechnologyLeiden UniversityUtrecht UniversityWageningen UniversityEindhoven University of Technology |
| Course Duration | Bachelor’s: 3 years Master’s: 1–2 years Doctoral: 3–5 years |
| Application Fee | €50–€100 per university |
| Minimum Education Required | Bachelor’s: 12 years Master’s: 16 years Doctoral: 18 years |
| Is IELTS Required? | Not mandatory (MOI accepted by many universities) |
| Scholarships Available | Merit-basedNeed-basedGovernment-funded |
| CGPA Requirement | 2.5+ (varies by program) |
| Part-time Work Hours | Up to 16–20 hrs/week during term; full-time during holidays |
| Average Monthly Expense | €800–€1,100 |
| Total Annual Expense | €12,000–€15,000 (including tuition for public universities) |
| Admission Processing Time | 4–8 weeks |
| Visa Processing Time | 2–4 weeks |
| Visa Success Rate | 96% |
Top Universities in Netherlands for International Students
The Netherlands has some of the low cost universities in the Netherlands for international students in Europe, offering globally recognized degrees in English across multiple disciplines.
| University | Popular Programs | Tuition (€/year) |
| University of Amsterdam | LawSocial SciencesBusiness | €6,000 – €15,000 |
| Delft University of Technology | EngineeringArchitectureComputer Science | €8,000 – €20,000 |
| Leiden University | ArtsLawInternational Studies | €7,000 – €15,000 |
| Utrecht University | MedicineLife SciencesEducation | €6,500 – €15,000 |
| Wageningen University | AgricultureEnvironmental Science | €6,000 – €14,000 |
| Eindhoven University of Technology | TechnologyEngineeringAI | €8,000 – €18,000 |
| Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam | BusinessEconomicsSciences | €6,000 – €15,000 |
Scholarships in Netherlands for International Students
The Netherlands offers several scholarships to reduce tuition fees and living costs, making it more affordable for international students.
| Scholarship Name | Provider | Benefits | Eligibility |
| Holland Scholarship | Dutch Ministry of Education | €5,000 for first-year costs | Non-EU/EEA students, merit-based |
| Erasmus+ Program | European Union | Fully funded semester/year in Europe | Enrolled in participating institutions |
| Orange Tulip Scholarship | Nuffic (Dutch organization) | Partial or full tuition coverage | High-achieving students from partner countries |
| University Excellence Awards | Individual universities | €2,000–€10,000 tuition reduction | Exceptional academic performance |
| Maastricht University High Potential Scholarship | Maastricht University | Full tuition + €12,350 living allowance | Non-EU students with strong academics |
Netherlands Tuition Fees & Living Costs
Studying in the Netherlands is affordable compared to other Western countries, especially considering the high global ranking of its universities.
| Expense | Annual Cost (€) |
| Bachelor’s Tuition (Public) | €6,000 – €10,000 |
| Master’s Tuition (Public) | €8,000 – €15,000 |
| Private Universities | €12,000 – €20,000 |
| Accommodation | €4,000 – €7,200 |
| Food & Utilities | €3,000 – €4,500 |
| Health Insurance | €500 – €1,000 |
| Total Annual Budget | €12,000 – €15,000 |
Tip: Cities like Groningen, Enschede, and Eindhoven have lower living costs compared to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or The Hague.
Step-by-Step Admission Process to Study in Netherlands
Applying to universities in the Netherlands is straightforward, but following the right steps ensures a smooth journey from application to arrival. Many international students rely on trusted support from professional study abroad consultants. Our student services cover everything from:
With expert assistance, you can select the right program, prepare accurate documents, and secure both admission and a student visa without delays.
Choose a Program & University
Through our free education counselling, our consultants will help you choose the right university and program based on your academic background, budget, and career goals. With access to over 2,100+ English-taught programs, Right turn ensures you apply to institutions that match your profile, preferences, and scholarship eligibility.
Check Entry Requirements
Your academic documents are assessed to ensure you meet the minimum entry criteria. Most programs require:
- High school completion (for Bachelor’s) or a Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s)
- Minimum 50–60% academic score
- IELTS 6.0 or MOI (Medium of Instruction) accepted by many universities
- Valid passport (at least 1-year validity)
Prepare Documents
Once requirements are met, students begin preparing and formatting all necessary documents, including:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Passport copy
- CV/Resume
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- IELTS/MOI proof
- Recommendation letters (if needed)
- University application form
Our study abroad consultants will fill out and submit your university application on student behalf.
Get Offer Letter
Once the university reviews your application, you’ll receive a conditional or unconditional offer letter. Our consultants will guide you through fulfilling any additional requirements mentioned in the offer (if applicable).
Pay Initial Tuition Deposit
After accepting the offer, your consultant will assist you in paying the first-year tuition fee to confirm your admission and secure your seat.
Netherlands Student Visa Requirements
To apply for a Dutch student visa, also known as the MVV (Provisional residence permit), students must meet the following MVV visa Netherlands requirements:
- Valid passport
- University Admission Letter
- Proof of tuition payment
- Proof of accommodation in the Netherlands
- Proof of funds: €11,000–€13,000 (bank statement for last 3–6 months)
- Health insurance coverage
- Completed visa application form + photos
- Visa processing time: 2–4 weeks
- Visa success rate: 96%
FAQs
Can I study in the Netherlands without IELTS?
Yes, many Dutch universities accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from your previous institution as proof of English proficiency, especially if your prior education was in English.
What is the minimum CGPA for a Master’s in the Netherlands?
Usually 2.5+, but competitive programs may require 3.0 or higher.
Which course is best in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands is known for high-quality programs in Engineering, Business, Agriculture, Environmental Science, International Law, and Artificial Intelligence. Popular choices for international students include courses at Delft University of Technology, University of Amsterdam, and Wageningen University.
Which career is in demand in the Netherlands?
Careers in IT, Engineering, Healthcare, Data Science, Logistics, and Sustainable Energy are highly in demand due to the country’s growing economy and focus on innovation.
What GPA do I need for a full scholarship?
Most competitive scholarships require a minimum GPA of 3.0–3.5 (out of 4.0) or equivalent, along with strong academic achievements and extracurricular involvement.
What are common part-time jobs for students?
The common part time jobs for students are Hospitality, retail, tutoring, research assistantships, internships.
How to get PR in the Netherlands?
After completing your studies, you can apply for the Orientation Year Visa to find work. Once you have legally lived in the Netherlands for 5 years (study + work), you can apply for permanent residency.