How to Study Abroad in the Netherlands: Programs, Cost, Scholarships, & Visa

Have you been seeking a location with tall people, a bustling nightlife, tiny wooden shoes, posh canals next to beautiful cities, and unspoiled greenery? 

The Netherlands, also known as Holland, is the epitome of European beauty and the center of world affairs. 

The Hague-based International Criminal Court and Maastricht, a historically significant city in the development of the European Union, are located in the Netherlands, which is known for its diplomatic activities. 

The natural splendor of the Netherlands only serves to highlight its significant international standing. Studying in such exceptional surroundings is a unique educational opportunity.

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Scholarships to Study abroad in the Netherlands in 2024

1. CET Academic Programs Scholarships

CET is a provider of study-abroad programs with locations in Brazil, China, Colombia, the Czech Republic, Italy, Jordan, and Taiwan. 

They offer financial aid and scholarships for high school abroad, a gap year abroad, and college study abroad programs. 

The criteria for financial aid and scholarships are need and merit. 

If you submit an application for any CET program, you will have access to the CET scholarship application. 

This is an excellent scholarship opportunity to study in the Netherlands. 

Value $500 – $2,000

Read More: How to Find, Apply & Get a Scholarship to Study Abroad

2. CIEE Scholarships and Grants

A nonprofit, non-governmental organization called CIEE is credited with starting international study and exchange programs. 

For more than 75 years, CIEE has helped thousands of students, professionals, and educators acquire the knowledge and skills required to live and work in a globally interdependent and culturally diverse world by offering the most thorough, pertinent, and helpful exchange programs available. 

This is an excellent scholarship opportunity to study in the Netherlands. 

Value: $500 – $2,500

3. The School for Field Studies Scholarships

SFS works closely with your home school to help you pay for your SFS program. 

Since many applicants receive funding from their home schools or other outside sources, speak with your financial aid office to learn what aid may be applicable to an SFS program. 

This is an excellent scholarship opportunity to study in the Netherlands. 

Value: $500 – $5,000

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Studying Abroad or Overseas

4. Verto Education Opportunity Grant

The Verto Education Opportunity Grant ($5,000-$14,000) can cover up to 72% of the cost of tuition. 

Funding is allocated based on the anticipated family contribution (determined by the FAFSA). 

Students need to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 to be eligible. 

Students entering are eligible for the Verto Scholars Award ($5,000), which is based on their high school GPA. 

Applicants with a GPA of 3.5 or higher will be automatically considered for a Verto Scholars Award.

 This is an excellent scholarship opportunity to study in the Netherlands. 

Value $5,000 – $17,000

5. AIFS Diversity Achievement Scholarship

One of the many scholarships offered by AIFS is for exceptionally talented students from groups that have traditionally been underrepresented in international education. 

This is an excellent scholarship opportunity to study in the Netherlands. 

Award: $5,000

Read Also: Best Hack To Help You Make Money With A Part-Time Job As A Student Studying Abroad.

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Why Study Abroad in the Netherlands in 2024?

1. The Dutch are Linguistic Experts. 

More than 75% of Dutch people claim to be proficient in English, which may surprise you. 

It is true! This is also a huge advantage if you are a foreigner and don’t speak any Dutch. 

Since English is a widely used language, daily life away from a university campus will be very straightforward. 

Obviously, learning a language is great, so you’re encouraged to at least learn a few basic Dutch terms so you can blend in better. 

However, since you will be able to communicate in English with everyone, whether they are in the university, the grocery store, or a government institution, you won’t initially have to struggle with the language barrier.

 It is wise to study for this reason.

2. The coveted career boost from the Netherlands 

Dutch universities are regarded as some of the best in the world, competing with other prestigious US and UK universities. 

One could argue that the Netherlands is among the best non-English speaking nations where one can study abroad, receive a top-notch education, and obtain a large number of degrees taught in English. 

It goes without saying that receiving a degree from a Dutch university will have a positive impact on your ability to find employment in the future. 

Your degree will be respected and valued internationally in addition to giving you the opportunity to work in the Netherlands (especially in English-speaking organizations). 

So, seize the opportunity and think about how it will help you in the long run. This is a valid argument.

Check: All International Student Scholarships to Study in the US

3. You have a lot of Scholarships to choose from. 

Tuition is required to enroll in Dutch universities that grant bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. 

The following information is crucial regarding Dutch tuition costs. 

  • The benefit of paying less tuition than non-EU students is available to EU students. 
  • Tuition for a Bachelor’s program typically ranges from 2,000 to 6,000 euros per year, while tuition for a Master’s program could be anywhere from 8,000 to 20,000 euros per year. 

Applying for scholarships is the simplest way to make sure you have the cash to deal with the high costs. 

Here are a few examples of scholarships available to international students: 

Students outside the EEA may apply for Holland Scholarships, with a maximum annual award of 5,000 EUR. 

International Student Fellowships in the Netherlands for Students from Developing Countries

Technology and engineering-related colleges frequently work with private companies, and these companies also award scholarships. 

This is a compelling argument in favor of studying in the Netherlands. 

One piece of advice: Getting scholarships depends on your GPA. 

With your grade in comparison to other applicants, your chances of winning a scholarship rise. 

Of course, there are other considerations as well, such as the department, other applications, and the academic year.

4. Get two Master’s Degrees for the Price of one! 

According to state regulation, if you choose to enroll in both degrees at the same time and pay the required tuition fees for your first enrollment (in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree), you will not be required to pay any tuition for your subsequent enrollments. 

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This rule still applies if you enroll in a public university, whether it is the same one or not. 

This is a compelling argument in favor of studying in the Netherlands. 

Furthermore, at the majority of Dutch universities, you are not charged an additional fee to enroll in as many elective courses as you want.

Where can I Study abroad in the Netherlands in 2024?

1. Maastricht

Due to Maastricht’s location on the border of the Netherlands and Belgium and its close proximity to Germany, traveling to other nations is simple. 

The city, which is more than 2000 years old, has a thriving culture and magnificent iconic structures. 

The Meuse river, which flows directly through the heart of the city, divides one of the warmest regions of the Netherlands in half. 

One of the best locations in the Netherlands to study abroad is here. 

To experience the breathtaking views of the city from the 70-meter-high viewing platform, you must ascend the 218 stairs of the St. John’s Church in Maastricht.

2. Utrecht

Looking for more suggestions for Dutch study-abroad destinations? Utrecht serves as the Netherlands’ capital. 

Every city (and airport) is easily reachable thanks to the extensive rail system, and it is only 30 minutes from Amsterdam. 

Canoes and canal bikes are available for canal exploration (Amsterdam isn’t the only city with canals!). 

Numerous parks, outstanding festivals, outstanding historical buildings like the city castle Oudaen, and a vibrant student scene are also present. 

One of the best locations in the Netherlands to study abroad is here. 

The magnificent Dom church is home to the Dom tower, the largest bell tower in the Netherlands, which offers breathtaking views of Utrecht.

3. Nijmegen 

Nijmegen, in the East of the country close to the German border, is one of the best cities in the Netherlands for studying abroad. 

Also, Nijmegen and Maastricht have been arguing over who the oldest city in the Netherlands is for a very long time. One of the best locations in the Netherlands to study abroad is here. 

Similar to Maastricht, it is an older city (it celebrated 2,000 years of existence in 2005) with a rich history, a sizable student population, and a vibrant inner city.

4. Leeuwarden 

Leeuwarden has a small-town feel, much like Maastricht. However, the abundance of things to do and see here makes it a top choice when choosing a destination in the Netherlands other than Amsterdam. 

One of the best locations in the Netherlands to study abroad is here. 

The inner city has beautiful canals and a really warm, historic vibe due to the large, imposing older buildings. 

Because Leeuwarden is located in the northern part of the Netherlands, the Wadden Sea and the Wadden Islands are close by and well worth a visit.

 It is also close to Groningen, another lovely, old university city.

5. Leiden 

Leiden is renowned for its extensive history and historic city center, which includes two Gothic churches, the oldest university observatory in the world (Oude Sterrewacht), windmills, and 28 kilometers of canals, bridges, city gates, and bridges (the Visbrug and the Koornbrug are the most notable ones). 

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The school is in one of the best Dutch cities in which to pursue an international education (the Hooglandse Kerk and the Pieterskerk). 

The oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands and one of the oldest in the world are both located in Leiden (Hortus Botanicus). One of the best locations in the Netherlands to study abroad is here. 

The university, which was founded in 1575 and is the oldest institution in the Netherlands, is also housed in a mix of historic and modern buildings.

How much does it cost to study abroad in the Netherlands in 2024?

If you are from the EU/EEA, Switzerland, or Surinam, you will receive lower tuition rates at Dutch public universities. 

The costs, which typically range between 700 and 2,100 euros per academic year, are influenced by the university where you study, the discipline you select, and the level of degree you seek (bachelor’s, master’s, or Ph.D.). 

All other international students pay higher tuition rates. You can expect to pay anywhere from: 

  • 6,000 to 15,000 euros per year for a bachelor’s degree. 
  • For a Master’s degree, 8,000–20,000 euros annually

Conclusion 

Exploring other countries and cultures across borders has never been easier. 

If you choose to study abroad in a different city, be sure to schedule trips there in order to discover all of its quirks, hidden gems, beauty, history, and excitement. 

Because of Maastricht’s extensive history, stunning historical structures, distinctive cobblestone streets, and well-known multilingual university, you can be sure that you will have an unforgettable study-abroad experience in the Netherlands.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is it a good idea to study abroad in the Netherlands? 

One of the oldest and most reputable higher education systems in the world is found in the Netherlands. It’s not surprising that studying abroad in the Netherlands has become so well-liked given that many Dutch universities consistently rank highly in international comparisons. 

What is the price of studying abroad in the Netherlands? 

A Bachelor’s degree will cost you anywhere from 6,000 to 15,000 EUR per year. for a Master’s degree, between 8,000 and 20,000 EUR annually.

Are courses in the Netherlands free for foreign students? 

Higher education costs in the Netherlands, including tuition. Although higher education in the Netherlands is not completely free, the government provides subsidies that keep costs down for both domestic and foreign students. 

Is it a good idea to study in the Netherlands? 

In competition with other renowned UK and US universities, Dutch universities are regarded as some of the best in the world. The Netherlands is arguably one of the best non-English speaking nations where you can study abroad, receive a top-notch education, and find a ton of degrees offered in English.

Is it affordable to study in the Netherlands? 

Yes, compared to other nations like the UK or the US, studying in the Netherlands is not that expensive. Dutch higher education is publicly funded, and tuition costs are moderate.

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