Studying in the Netherlands: NL Scholarship, Admissions and Housing

The Netherlands offers one of the widest choices of programmes in English in continental Europe, project-oriented teaching and strong international openness. Tuition fees are higher for students from outside the European Union, which is why it matters to look for scholarships.

The Dutch system

A distinction is made between research universities (WO) and universities of applied sciences (HBO). Bachelor's degrees last three years (four for HBO), master's degrees one or two years. Many programmes require an English level check (IELTS, TOEFL) and some a numerus fixus: the number of places is limited and selection may include letters, tests or interviews.

The main scholarships

• NL Scholarship (formerly Holland Scholarship): a one-off scholarship for students from outside the European Economic Area in the first year of a bachelor's or master's, co-funded by the ministry and institutions.
• University scholarships: many universities offer international excellence scholarships, sometimes with a partial fee waiver.
• Foundation aid: some fund specific profiles (science, development, leadership).
• Erasmus Mundus: several joint master's programmes include Dutch universities.

This aid is often partial: plan a complementary funding plan.

Application

Applications go through the national Studielink platform for enrolment and through the university website for the academic file. Attach transcripts, diplomas, a motivation letter, a CV and a language certificate. Deadlines for non-EU students are earlier than for Europeans, because visas and housing take time.

Visa and residence

The university generally sponsors the application for the study residence permit. You will have to prove sufficient resources and take out health insurance. The institution's international reception service guides you through the procedures.

Housing

This is the main challenge: the shortage of student housing is real, notably in Amsterdam, Utrecht or Leiden. Register with university housing services as soon as you are admitted and avoid scams (advance payment without a viewing).

Advice

• Study the numerus fixus criteria before applying.
• Look for housing at the same time as admission.
• Check that the scholarship covers the year for which you are applying.