The Netherlands

Colorful buildings along a canal with boats docked in Amsterdam, near University of amsterdam

Types of Universities

  • Research Universities (WO) – Focused on theory, academic depth, and critical thinking. Bachelor’s programs are usually 3 years, preparing students for postgraduate study

  • Universities of Applied Sciences (HBO) – Career-oriented, practical programs with strong industry links. Bachelor’s programs are typically 4 years, including internships and hands-on learning

  • University Colleges – Small, liberal arts-style institutions within larger universities, such as Amsterdam University College, Leiden University College, and University College Utrecht. They offer broad, interdisciplinary study with close faculty interaction

  • Specialist Institutions – Dedicated to fields like art, music, or agriculture (e.g. Wageningen University & Research for environmental sciences, Gerrit Rietveld Academie for arts)

The Netherlands is one of Europe’s top study destinations—welcoming, innovative, and internationally recognised. Whether you're drawn to global career paths or cutting-edge research, Dutch universities are an excellent choice.

The Basics

  • Over 2,000 English-taught degree programs available across research and applied sciences universities

  • Degrees are typically 3 years (research) or 4 years (applied)

  • Tuition is affordable: €2,601/year for EU/EEA students; €6,000–€20,000/year for non-EU/EEA students

  • A strong mix of academic learning and practical, career-focused experience

  • Students usually arrange off-campus housing; early applications are essential

  • Excellent transport and student services, with safe, international student-friendly cities

  • Applications are submitted through the Studielink platform, with September and February intakes

  • The Netherlands was the first non-English-speaking country to offer full degrees taught in English

  • Certain programs may require specific subjects (e.g., mathematics or physics

  • Today there are over 2,000 English-taught programs across Dutch universities

A row of traditional Dutch windmills along a canal, near Dutch universities
Student bicycles parked along a canal in Leiden with historic brick buildings, trees, and a decorative streetlamp.

NL Calendar & Applications

Academic Year
September → June (some programs also offer a February intake)

Applications
Submitted through the national Studielink platform

Entry Requirements
Recognised school qualifications such as IB, A levels, ATAR, HS diploma or equivalent; some programs require additional maths/language testing (e.g. OMPT)

Deadlines

  • Non-Numerus Fixus programs: often May 1 (Sept start) or later

  • Numerus Fixus programs: strict early deadline of January 15

Decisions

  • Numerus Fixus: selection results released by April 15

  • Others: rolling basis, depending on the institution

Bicycles parked on a sidewalk at Utrecht university, and a colorful modern building with a green base and a panel-faceted facade in an urban setting.
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