In the Netherlands, you can follow a bachelor’s or master’s degree at a University of Applied Sciences or a Research University.  

Universities of applied sciences are hands-on and prepare students for specific professions, with a 4-year bachelor's degree. A student may choose 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 required 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. The study programmes 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 at the website of the NVAO to learn more about the specific accreditation.

No, you don’t have to speak Dutch. If you choose an English-speaking 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.

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 Suriname is €2,601 for the academic year 2025-2026.  For students with other nationalities, the average 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.