If you are exploring international study destinations, the Netherlands is likely at the top of your list as an ideal place to advance your education.
The Netherlands has become a premier destination for international students, gaining global recognition for its world-class higher education system and innovative teaching methods.
To help you decide, let’s weigh the key advantages and challenges of pursuing your degree in the Netherlands.
The 4 Pros of Studying in the Netherlands
1. The Dutch are bilingual wizards
You might be surprised to learn that over 75% of the Dutch population is proficient in English. This high level of fluency is a significant benefit for international students who do not speak Dutch.
The prevalence of English makes navigating daily life off-campus incredibly convenient. While you aren't required to speak Dutch, learning a few basic phrases is a great way to better integrate into the local culture.
You won't have to worry about language barriers when settling in; you can communicate comfortably in English at your university, in stores, and with government institutions.
Furthermore, English is the primary language of instruction for most Master’s and PhD programs across the country.
2. Your career will get the coveted Netherlands boost
Dutch institutions are recognized as some of the best universities in the world, consistently competing with elite UK and U.S. counterparts. The Netherlands is undoubtedly one of the best non-English speaking countries for high-quality education taught in English.
Graduating from a Dutch university provides a distinct advantage for your career. Whether you pursue opportunities within the Netherlands or internationally, your qualification will be highly respected globally.
Make the most of this unique academic opportunity to build a strong foundation for your future success.
3. You have plenty of scholarships to choose from
Both public and private universities in the Netherlands charge tuition fees for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees. It is essential to understand the fee structure before you apply.
- EU students benefit from the advantage of being charged smaller fees compared to non-EU students.
- The average tuition for a Bachelor’s degree ranges between 2,000 and 6,000 EUR year, whereas the costs for a Master’s programme start from 8,000 and can lead up to 20,000 EUR/year.
Securing a scholarship is a fantastic way to manage educational costs. There are numerous funding opportunities available for international students.
- Holland Scholarships for non-EEA students – the award is up to 5,000 EUR/year
- Netherlands Fellowship Programmes – for students coming from developing countries
- – provided by Dutch universities, associations and companies
- You can also check out the Online Result Scholarship to get some help on financing your studies in the Netherlands.
Many universities—particularly those focusing on technology and engineering—partner with private companies that offer additional scholarship support to talented students.
Pro tip: Your GPA is a major factor in scholarship eligibility. Maintaining high grades significantly increases your chances, though award decisions may also depend on applicant volume and program requirements.
4. Get two Master's degrees for the price of one!
According to government regulations, if you pay the statutory tuition fees for your first Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, you may be exempt from paying tuition for a second degree, provided both are at public universities.
Furthermore, most Dutch universities allow you to enroll in additional elective courses at no extra cost, providing great value for your tuition investment.
Current policies offer significant support for EU/EEA and Surinamese students, including a tuition fee reduction for the first year of a Bachelor’s program, provided you haven't studied in the Netherlands previously.
This tuition discount also extends to specific Master’s programs in Teaching for students who began their higher education journey during or after the 2018-2019 academic year.
Learn more about the half-tuition-fee policy in the Netherlands to see if you qualify.
The 3 Cons of Studying in the Netherlands
1. Time to grow up. Fast!
If your home education system is highly traditional, the Dutch approach—which is often project-based and student-led—might initially feel overwhelming as professors foster a very different dynamic.
In the Netherlands, you are expected to take initiative, participate actively in discussions, and confidently express your unique ideas.
To succeed, focus on strategic planning, conducting thorough research, and presenting your findings with clarity. The Dutch system is designed to turn you into a truly independent learner.
2. The Dutch might be too weird for your style
If you come from a culture where hierarchy is strict, the informal and egalitarian relationship between students and faculty in the Netherlands might feel unusual at first.
For instance, while you might be used to formal address, Dutch professors encourage a casual, open dialogue, even with senior faculty members.
If you struggle to adapt to this open communication style, you may risk appearing shy or disengaged in a culture that values directness.
3. Nice weather is practically non-existent in the Netherlands
One potential drawback is the weather. While the Netherlands technically has four seasons, the summer is notoriously unpredictable. Always appreciate the sun whenever it makes an appearance!
Expect plenty of rain and wind throughout the year, with mild, snowless winters. Whether this is a pro or a con depends entirely on your personal climate preference.
Carefully consider these factors to decide if the Netherlands is the right fit for your goals. Explore available Bachelor’s and Master’s programs, and if you're ready for an adventure, start your journey in the beautiful Land of Windmills!
Do you want to put things in perspective? Take a look at a .
Ready to go to the Netherlands? We recommend checking out the following Dutch universities:
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