The amount of experience you need before starting can depend on the study programme or the University of Applied Sciences. If you found a programme that you are interested in, consult the information about that specific study.
Universities of Applied Sciences are known for their practical approach in teaching, which means working on various projects with different stakeholders. Your client could be a company, a research group or a hypothetical case. The kind of projects depends on your field of interest. An example of a project for Mechatronics is that students helped to design collaborative robots to use in hospitals and factories. These robots can safely work next to people, assisting with tasks such as lifting heavy equipment.
We understand that it can be difficult to know what fields suit you. To help you get a better understanding, you can fill in this short quiz.
This depends on the study programme; to know the exact requirements, consult the study programme and the university of applied sciences of your interest.
Universities of Applied Sciences are hands-on and prepare students for specific professions. You can follow a bachelor's, master's or associate degree. A student chooses a University of Applied Sciences over a Research University because they prioritise practical training and applied learning opportunities, which are emphasized in the curriculum of these institutions.
You will gain a wide range of work experience during your studies, for example, through a compulsory internship. This will make it easier for you to transition into working life after graduation.
This depends on the study programme you will choose. At a University of Applied Sciences, you can graduate with an internationally recognised bachelor’s or master’s degree. A bachelor or master in the technical field are officially accredited by the NVAO (Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders), which guarantees quality and academic standards recognised throughout Europe. You can search for your programme of interest on the website of the NVAO to learn more about the specific accreditation.
If you choose an English thaugt programme, you don’t have to speak Dutch. Still, many students choose to learn Dutch after arriving, as it helps in everyday life, when meeting locals, or if you want to stay in the Netherlands for work later on. Most universities offer Dutch language courses for their international students.
The costs of studying in the Netherlands can vary based on your nationality and programme of interest. The tuition fees for students from an EEA country, Switzerland or Surinam is € 2,601 for the academic year 2025 - 2026.
For students with other nationalities, the average annual tuition fee for bachelor’s programmes is between € 9,000 and € 20,000, and for a master’s programme between € 12,000 and € 30,000.
To know what tuition fees apply to you, consult the specific programme.
Scholarships or grants depend on the University of Applied Sciences of your interest, the study programme and your nationality. Visit the site of Study in NL to learn more about finding a scholarship. If you require financial aid during your studies, you can check duo.nl for study loans or grants. Also, the NL Scholarship programme may offer partial scholarships, but only to non-EEA students.
Yes, many students work part-time while studying. For non-EU/EEA students, you can work up to 16 hours per week or full-time during summer (June to August), but your employer must obtain a work permit (TWV) for you. Good to know: plenty of businesses (cafés, shops, airport and warehouses) are looking for student workers.
Yes. Even if you do need a visa to study in the Netherlands, you can apply for an orientation year after graduation, which allows you to stay in the Netherlands up to 12 months to find a job or start a business. During that time, you’re allowed to work without needing a separate work permit.
Yes. Universities of Applied Sciences typically provide career services: coaching, CV workshops, connections with companies, and internship support. These services help you transition to the job market. And to kick start your career.
If you have an EU or EEA nationality, you do not need a visa to study in the Netherlands. For other nationalities, you can check the Residence Wizard on the website of the Immigration and Naturalisation Service.
The average cost of living for an international student in the Netherlands is around € 1000 - € 2000 a month. These costs include housing, groceries, transportation, leisure and health insurance. The costs can vary considerably depending on the city where you live and your lifestyle.
We partner with trusted housing agencies that reserve rooms especially for (first-year) students. However, places are limited; therefore, we recommend also searching on your own. Note that this search might take some time, so start as early as possible. To make things easier, most universities have websites listing reliable agencies and temporary stay options—helping you find a safe, welcoming home as you begin your journey.
No, knowledge of the Dutch language is not required. Most people in the Netherlands speak English as well, so as an international student, you’ll quickly feel at home and find your way around. There are also many companies looking for English-speaking interns and colleagues. However, if you want to integrate more in the Dutch society and the working field, it is highly recommended to learn Dutch. Often, Universities of Applied Sciences offer Dutch courses on various levels.
The Netherlands is considered to be one of the safest countries in the world, according to the Global Peace Index. It is a country known for its openness and diversity, where Dutch cities are very student-friendly. You will meet people from many cultures, religions and backgrounds, and everyone has the freedom to live and express themselves as they wish.
Dutch culture is often described as informal, friendly, and welcoming. The Netherlands is less focused on status and hierarchy, meaning people are generally seen as equals. This might feel different from what you are used to, but in both the classroom and the workplace, it is normal and encouraged to ask questions or share your opinions with lecturers and managers.
The Dutch also enjoy their traditions, such as King’s Day, a national holiday celebrating the King’s birthday with festivals, street markets, and lots of orange everywhere. In spring, you can visit the famous windmills and flower fields filled with tulips. And of course, trying Dutch snacks like stroopwafel or bitterballen is part of the experience too.
It’s quite easy to meet new people, especially when you get involved instudent life. Most Universities of Applied Sciences organise introduction weeks at the beginning of the academic year, have student associations, and organise events where you can connect with others. Try to take part in activities and don’t hesitate to start a conversation; everyone has been new at some point, and most students are open and curious about meeting others.
Feeling homesick is completely normal, especially when adjusting to a new country. Talking about it often helps; many international students go through similar experiences. You can reach out to friends, join social events, or speak with your student counsellors if you want professional support. Keeping yourself active and connected will make you feel more at home.