Work in NL

A future with real prospects

Studying tech in the Netherlands opens the door to strong career opportunities. The facts speak for themselves: discover what your future here could look like.

€3500

Average gross starting salary in the Dutch tech industry per month

80%

Of the international graduates who stay in the Netherlands have a paid job five years after graduation

€65,000+

Annual gross income earned by many international graduates who continue their careers in the Netherlands

50,000+

Tech vacancies are expected across Europe by 2030

“Right now, we are very open to internships or thesis projects.”

– Ioana, Marketing Professional at LioniX International

Your career starts while you study

You don't have to wait until after graduation to discover what working in tech is like. You'll work on real-life projects, complete internships and collaborate with companies, gaining valuable experience before you graduate.

“International students can fill vital roles in our company, their diverse experiences and technical skills are highly beneficial in our industry.”

– Hidde Mol, RTL Engineer at QbayLogic

Endless career opportunities

Whether you want to work for an innovative start-up or an international company, there are many opportunities for graduates in technology. Employers across the Netherlands are looking for people with technical skills and fresh ideas.

Get your dream job
‍
_{“Can you imagine that you get your dream job within three months after graduation?
I now work as an Application Engineer at Ecolab, where I help improve the performance of energy-related systems in chemical production. It's rewarding to apply what I learned during my studies in real-life projects everyday.”}

- Yajing Wang, Application Engineer at Ecolab

Work with companies that shape tomorrow

Discover the leading tech companies where many graduates start their careers.

What students, alumni and companies say

"I appreciate the practical focus, small classes, teamwork, real-world projects, and direct teacher interaction instead of theory and traditional exams."
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Beatrice B. Marro - Italy

Information & Communication Technology

"The combination of solid theoretical knowledge, practical experience, and flexibility in specialisation gave me the perfect foundation to grow as an engineer."

Ionna - Greece

Electronic & Electrical Engineering

"It’s not about cramming theory. It’s like we’re working in a real company with real coworkers. That makes it exciting and engaging."

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Amir - Iran

Information & Communication Technology

"The combination of solid theoretical knowledge, practical experience, and flexibility in specialisation gave me the perfect foundation to grow as an engineer."

Kees Buijsrogge

Head of TNO Space

"The skills and theory that I learned are a perfect match with the tasks I am doing at SENCILIA. Without this master's degree I would not be able to do the job I am doing right now."
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Natanael - Brazil

Alumni - MSc Smart Systems Engineering

English works here

Many international tech companies work in English-speaking teams. Dutch is valuable, but you do not need to feel like language stops your future. To make it even better, this site only features English-taught programmes.

Interview: Iona, Lionix International‍
‘We are a very international company, and the languageI speak every day at work is English’

Read the complete interview

The Netherlands:
your gateway to Europe

Your career doesn’t have to stop at the Dutch border. Study in one of Europe’s most international economies and build connections that can open doors across Europe and beyond.

With its international business environment and diverse workforce, the Netherlands is a great place to start building your career. You’ll have opportunities to connect with people and organisations from around the world, while gaining experience that can help you take the next step in your international career.

After graduation: stay, work or continue

After your bachelor's degree, you can start your career or continue your studies. Depending on your goals, you may be able to progress to a master’s programme at a university of applied sciences or a research university. If you need a visa to study in the Netherlands, you may be eligible for an orientation year after graduation.

This gives you up to 12 months to find a job or start a business, during which you can work without a separate work permit.

FAQ

Any questions? We’ve answered the most common ones for you.

Can I combine my studies and work?

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.

Can I stay and work in the Netherlands after graduation?

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 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.

Do I get help preparing for a career?

Yes, universities of applied sciences typically provide career services: coaching, CV workshops, connections with companies, and internship support. These services help you make the transition from studying to working.

Start your tech career in the Netherlands

A future with real prospects