9 Things to Know About Higher Education in the Netherlands
Dreaming of picturesque canals and colorful clogs in the Netherlands? The land of tulips and windmills attracts around 90,000 international students every year to its top universities. You may even learn more than just some Dutch while you’re there! With a masters in the Netherlands in hand, you’ll make yourself highly competitive for your career pursuits. Just about every country in the world recognizes the value of an education from a Dutch university!
You’ve heard about those famed windmills. Explore them for yourself!
Higher education in the Netherlands focuses on giving students the chance to not only study and theorize, but to apply what they’ve learned in internships at many of its growing companies. The cities also cater well to college students with lots of easy transportation options, numerous student groups, and plentiful student discounts.
Earn your masters degree abroad in the Netherlands to open up a world of opportunities for your future! But first, there are a few essential things to consider.
9 things to know about earning your Masters in the Netherlands
1. There are many renowned universities
Dutch universities set high standards for themselves and focus on a student-centered teaching philosophy with an emphasis on innovation and creativity. You’ll find world-class teachers, bright students from around the world, and advanced research institutes.
Even better? About 95% of the programs are in English, which is geweldig (awesome) for studying a masters in the Netherlands for international students. A handful of Dutch universities even compete with top US and UK universities!
The top 5 universities in the Netherlands according to global league tables: Utrecht University, Wageningen University and Research, University of Amsterdam, Leiden University, and Erasmus University Rotterdam.
2. There’s no wrong city!
Earn your degree in a storybook setting!
Some of the best cities to receive a higher education in the Netherlands for international students include Amsterdam, the Hague, and Utrecht. From the Van Gogh Museum to the Anne Frank House, you’ll experience many cultural settings in the seaside capital of Amsterdam.
In the Hague, you’ll have no shortage of sea views on the giant ferris wheel in Scheveningen Beach and adore the famous “Girl with a Pearl Earring” painting in The Mauritshuis Royal Picture Gallery.
Then, just a bit south of Amsterdam lies Utrecht, famous for its medieval center; you’ll love its small-town vibe and big city amenities. Tour Castle De Haar, marvel at the views from the Dom Tower, and gaze at stars at the Sonnenborgh Observatory!
3. Tuition may be a bit more affordable
Regarding the cost of earning a masters in the Netherlands, many universities award loans, grants, and scholarships for meeting certain qualifications. Eur-o in luck! The tuition fees vary greatly based on the program and other qualifications, and you may be able to get a work permit to work part-time.
Only a handful of Dutch Universities are part of FAFSA—and if they are, it indicates that the federal government has given it a stamp of approval as a top-tier university. For example, Utrecht University is part of FAFSA and accepts US Federal Loans, as well as Canadian Student Loans.
University students usually spend around $1,000-$1,200 a month total for their living costs, which includes accommodation.
4. Programs are high-quality and renowned
And so are the sights.
The three main types of universities include research universities, universities of applied science, and institutes for international education. The degree programs usually run from September and through the end of June.
You’ll find degree programs in just about AN-Y-THING from finance and medicine, to international relations and philosophy, to engineering and architecture. The renowned Utrecht University offers over 150 master’s programs!
Most programs run from 1-2 years, but some run longer to 3 or 4 years depending on the type of program. You really can’t go wrong in whatever you study when you earn your masters degree abroad in the Netherlands!
5. Start the visa process early
Since you’ll be studying in the Netherlands over 90 days, you’ll need to know about the visa process.
First, you’ll need to apply for a Dutch university and receive an acceptance letter. In the Netherlands, universities have to apply for student visas, which means you only have to supply the required documents, helping to make this process super easy. And if you have an American or Canadian passport, you don’t need an entry visa at all! Otherwise, you’ll receive the entry sticker on your passport from a Dutch consulate or embassy in the US.
Also, Dutch universities help you with your resident permit (VVR) application, which grants you permission to live there. The university will help you complete the visa process after you’ve arrived, and you’ll receive the residence permit (ID card). You’ll also need to submit a fee, other identifying information, and proof of sufficient funds for living expenses.
6. You’ll easily find affordable flights (from the US)
You’ll easily find your way here affordably.
The cost of flying to the Netherlands depends on the time of year and departing location, but in most cases, you won’t have to dish out thousands of dollars from big cities. Hoera! (Hooray!)
One-way flights from NYC to Amsterdam are only around $200! The highest price runs about $600 from other major airports, but the average price usually lowballs around $300. One you arrive in Amsterdam, you’ll find that many fast trains go out to other cities in the Netherlands, like Utrecht, if you have a bit farther to go yet.
The best part of earning a masters in the Netherlands for international students? Many other countries, like Germany, the UK, and France, are just a train or plane ride away!
7. You’ll most likely share a flat or house with other students
The majority of international students in the Netherlands stay in a shared flat or house with other roommates. If you stay with other Dutch students, you’ll immerse yourself in the culture more; or, stay with international students to relish in gaining worldly perspectives. Either way, you’re likely to make lifelong friends!
Dutch universities don’t own student housing and many students don’t live on campus, so be sure to look for a place in advance (like 6+ months) to register for a viewing first. It can be quite competitive to find a place to live before receiving an education in the Netherlands for international students.
You can take advantage of housing platforms, social media, and rental agencies. Some student housing corporations can help you get short-term housing in the meantime.
8. Good manners and honesty will take you far
In the Netherlands, people are a little more reserved and straightforward with honest feedback than in America. They value an individual’s opinion but have a fondness for team spirit and cozy social situations—they call this gezelligheid.
They are highly open-minded and tolerant of cultural differences, but you should still learn some Dutch and maintain your p’s and q’s. Try not to take it personally when a Dutch person tells you off; Dutch culture can come off as rude to the uninitiated. Once you spend some more time with them though, you will see it is their love of direct, honest, and open communication that has earned them this questionable reputation.
Also, don’t forget to mind the speedy cyclists, savor some stroopwafels, and prepare yourself for any weather!
9. The Netherlands uses a ten-point system for grades
Familiarize yourself with the grading system first.
Higher education in the Netherlands structures their grading on a ten-point system running from 1 as very poor to 10 as outstanding. The final grade depends on the program’s weight on modules, placements, projects, and other components.
They also believe in more open environments and encourage and promote more casual relationships between students and instructors—what’s up, doc? Professors don’t usually lay out a detailed schedule or plan for you to complete assignments, so it’s recommended to chip away at assignments long before they’re due to meet deadlines!
Convinced already? Get matched with 5 degrees programs in the Netherlands for FREE!
Higher education in the Netherlands is calling your name!
When you study for a masters in the Netherlands, you’ll enjoy a charming multicultural environment like never before! Whether you’re having an enriched discussion or applying knowledge in the lab, professors want to provide the very best educational experience to prepare students for their careers.
Bonus: A masters in the Netherlands costs far less than many other countries in Europe! You’ll also have the opportunity to network with local and international citizens and make strong connections for your academic or professional career.
Take yourself to the next level with a masters in the Netherlands!
Browse ALL Masters Degree Programs in the Netherlands on GoAbroad.com
This article was written with help from #1 university in the Netherlands.
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