Study in the Netherlands

The Netherlands intertwines innate beauty and tranquility, offering visitors romantic cafes, acres of flowering colour, and a phenomenal work-life balance. International students find a rare educational experience in the Netherlands, making it one of Europe's most popular study abroad destinations.

Studying in the Netherlands is affordable. It offers many English-taught programmes, excellent career opportunities, and a vibrant international community. 

When to apply to Dutch universities? 

Check your institution's official website for exact submission dates. Different deadlines apply for courses that begin in the middle of an academic year.

• 15 January for Numerus Fixus programmes. 
• 1 May for most courses at research universities. 
• 1 April for international students 

What's the structure of the Dutch academic year? 

The Dutch academic year typically starts in September and ends in June of the following year. It consists of two semesters, with the second semester commencing in February, and one midterm is administered per semester. 

Documents needed to apply to a Dutch university 

Application requirements vary per university, but here is a list you can use:

1. International passport 

2. A passport picture. 

3. Copies of obtained secondary school diplomas, certificates, and/or grade lists

4. Transcript of records. 

5. Proof of English proficiency. 

6. Proof of payment of the application fee

7. CV/ resume

8. Reference letters

9. Motivation letter 

10. A portfolio of your academic or other work

Tuition and Living Expenses

International students can expect to pay tuition fees ranging from €6,000 to €20,000 per year, depending on the program and institution. The average monthly living expenses are estimated to be between €800 and €1,200.

Language requirements

You can prove your English proficiency by taking any of these tests: 

1. TOEFL 

2. IELTS 

3. Cambridge English 

What are the required Documents for a Dutch Visa?

• MVV (Provisional Residence Permit): A temporary visa to enter the Netherlands 

• VVR (Residence Permit for Study): This is issued after arrival.

• Valid International Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay. (All pages scanned and sent to the University in the format requested by the university, mostly PDF)

• Proof of Health Insurance: Covering your stay in the Netherlands.

• Proof of Accommodation: Confirmation that you have a place to stay in the Netherlands.

• Tuberculosis Test Declaration: 3 months upon arrival. Some nationalities are required to take a TB test upon arrival.

• Passport Photos: Recent and meeting Dutch specifications.

• MVV Application Fee: €228 (paid during the process).

• Antecedent Certificate form

• Proof of Admission: From the university.

• Proof of Financial Means: At least €13,200 per year for living expenses

1. A bank statement

2. Scholarship confirmation

3. 2 to 3 months' bank statement

4. A declaration from a financial sponsor

Bank statements must include:

1. The date (the bank statement must be dated within the last two months)

2. Your full name or your sponsor's full name

3. The full account number

4. The balance to cover your required financial means  

5. The currency

6. The contact details of the bank, including address, phone number, email, or website

It must be in one of the following languages: Dutch, English, French, or German.

What's the Dutch Visa Process for International Students? 

Students should start the visa process 3 months before their start dates

• Dutch universities send the required documents to the IND

• The IND processes the MVV application within 60 days. After approval, students receive notifications to pick up their MVV from the Dutch embassy /consulate.

• How to get your Dutch MVV and VVR

• Schedule an appointment at the Dutch embassy or consulate. 

• Bring your international passport and any required documents. 

• The MVV will be stamped into your passport for a travelling permit to the Netherlands.

• Upon arriving in the Netherlands: 

• Register with the city of study. 

• Complete the tuberculosis test (if applicable). 

• Collect your VVR (Residence Permit) from an Immigration and Naturalization Department (IND) office.

After graduation, international students can apply for a one-year orientation visa (zoekjaar) to seek employment.

Where to Find Dutch Scholarships for International Students? 

• Studyportals Scholarship: International Distinction Award, open to all international students 

• University websites.  

• Government-funded scholarships. 

• Erasmus+

• Private organisations and NGOs

The Netherlands is one of Europe’s top destinations for international students, offering world-class education, affordable tuition, and a vibrant multicultural environment. Dutch universities are known for their innovative programs, many of which are taught in English, and for their strong focus on research and practical learning. 

Whether you're pursuing a bachelor’s, master's, or short course, getting started involves key steps such as securing admission, obtaining your visa, and paying tuition or application fees on time. With Pay4Me, you can easily make all your cross-border education payments, from tuition deposits to visa fees.