Study in the Netherlands

The Netherlands offers one of the largest choices of English-taught degrees in continental Europe, with interactive, problem-based teaching. Both research universities and universities of applied sciences teach in English, and graduates can stay for a year to look for work.

• English-taught programmes

  Bachelor’s and master’s degrees taught fully in English, in almost every field.

• Two kinds of university

  Research universities, and universities of applied sciences with practical, career-focused degrees.

• Problem-based teaching

  Small group sessions and projects, with an emphasis on discussion and independent work.

• An orientation year

  Graduates can stay for a year to look for work, without needing a work permit.

Also on our list

• Eindhoven University of Technology
• Fontys University of Applied Sciences
• Hanze University of Applied Sciences
• Maastricht University
• Radboud University
• Saxion University of Applied Sciences
• The Hague University of Applied Sciences
• University of Groningen
• Utrecht University
• Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

• September

  Classes start

  September

  Apply

  October to April

  The main intake. Many deadlines for students from outside the EU fall between January and April.

• February

  Classes start

  February

  Apply

  August to October

  Offered by some universities of applied sciences and a few master’s programmes.

Research universitiesFor students from outside the EU.

€12,000 to €25,000 a year

Universities of applied sciences

€9,000 to €15,000 a year

Living costsIncluding rent. Amsterdam costs the most, and rooms are scarce.

€1,000 to €1,500 a month

Proof of fundsThe 2026 figure, on top of tuition. Your university checks it before applying for your permit.

€13,600 a year

• English

  • IELTS Academic 6.0 for universities of applied sciences and 6.5 for research universities, for most programmes
  • TOEFL iBT also accepted

• Academic

  • Bachelor’s: HSC qualifies for universities of applied sciences; research universities usually ask for a year of university study or a foundation year
  • Master’s: a relevant bachelor’s degree with a good CGPA

• Residence permit

  • Your university applies for the entry visa (MVV) and residence permit
  • Tuition and proof of funds paid or shown to the university
  • A tuberculosis test after you arrive

1. 01

   Choose programmes

   Compare research universities and universities of applied sciences, and check each deadline.

2. 02

   Take an English test

   IELTS Academic or TOEFL iBT.

3. 03

   Apply

   Through Studielink and the university’s own application portal.

4. 04

   Accept your offer and pay

   Pay the tuition and show your funds, or transfer them to the university if it asks.

5. 05

   Your university applies to the IND

   For your entry visa (MVV) and residence permit together.

6. 06

   Collect your MVV in Dhaka

   At the Embassy of the Netherlands, where you give your fingerprints. You collect your residence card after you arrive.

• While you study

  Up to 16 hours a week, or full time in June, July and August. Your employer needs a work permit for you.

• After you graduate

  The orientation year: a residence permit of up to a year to look for work, with no work permit needed.