Netherlands

• Quality of education – there are many top institutions among Dutch universities. In the list of the top 100 universities in the world, as many as 5 Dutch universities are included! 

• Cost of studies – this point will be developed further, but in short – the Netherlands offers scholarships and support programmes that can significantly reduce the cost of studying.

• International student atmosphere – the Netherlands is a very open and tolerant country, and thanks to its education system it attracts tens of thousands of international students every year. Studying there, you can be sure you will experience an international environment.
• University infrastructure – the Netherlands is a well-developed and wealthy country, which is also reflected in the facilities of its universities. Studying there, you can expect education using the latest technologies on a beautiful campus.
• Number of study programmes – the country offers a very wide range of study programmes, which means that regardless of your interests, you will find your ideal option there.
• Education system – the division in the Netherlands into research universities and universities of applied sciences allows it to meet the expectations of both theory-oriented and practice-oriented students. This option does not exist in many other European countries!
• Career prospects – it is not only a country of tulips and windmills, but also of innovation and entrepreneurship. Studying in the Netherlands can open the door to an international career.

Do these arguments convince you? What do you think – is it worth choosing to study in the Netherlands? 

Studies in the Netherlands – research universities

Research universities, also known as research universities, are institutions focused on advanced scientific research and expanding knowledge in various fields. They are known for their high academic standards and offer study programmes based on a theoretical approach and research.

Students at research universities have the opportunity to delve deeply into their field and participate in research conducted by outstanding scholars. Research universities place particular emphasis on developing analytical skills, critical thinking, and the ability to independently explore topics.

Examples of research universities in the Netherlands include:

• University of Amsterdam
• Erasmus University Rotterdam
• Leiden University 
• Utrecht University
• University of Groningen 
• Tilburg University 

Studies in the Netherlands – universities of applied sciences

Universities of applied sciences are educational institutions with a strong focus on preparing students for specific professional fields. Their main goal is to provide practical skills and prepare students for specific careers. Study programmes at universities of applied sciences usually last four years, with one year dedicated to professional practice.

They are characterized by frequent use of interactive teaching methods, such as group projects, internships, and work placements. Thanks to this, students gain real practical experience, enabling them to successfully enter the job market.

Here are some other examples of universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands:

• Avans University of Applied Sciences
• NHL University Stenden
• Breda University of Applied Sciences
• The Hague University of Applied Sciences
• Inholland University of Applied Sciences

Secondary school diploma and grades

The Polish secondary school leaving certificate is accepted by all universities in the Netherlands. You do not need an international IB diploma, which is a common myth. The only thing you need to do is translate your certificate into English (the translation must be done by a certified translator).

Dutch universities generally do not pay much attention to grades themselves. The main evaluation criterion is the final exam result, but there are no specific minimum requirements. However, it is worth checking in advance whether a given programme requires specific subjects at an advanced level – some programmes require knowledge of mathematics, physics, biology or chemistry at a higher level. 

Although grades are often not the main evaluation criterion, universities require a transcript of grades from the entire secondary school or from the last two years. In such a case, it is enough to ask the school principal or another authorized person to prepare the appropriate certificate.

Language certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge)

In the Netherlands, applicants must prove their English language proficiency. Universities most often accept IELTS (minimum 6.0–6.5), TOEFL, and Cambridge certificates. In the case of IELTS, a score of at least 6 or higher is required, and for TOEFL 550 points in the paper-based test or 213 in the computer-based test. Remember that the required level may vary depending on the programme.

TOEFL assesses language skills in four areas: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The cost of the exam is 215 USD, and the maximum score is 120 points. IELTS also evaluates the same four skills, and the result is presented on a scale from 1 to 9. The certificate is valid for two years, after which it may be necessary to retake the test.

All universities also accept the Cambridge exam. If you choose this option, remember that FCE is very rarely accepted. You will need to take the C1 Advanced exam.

We recommend preparing well in advance for the exam, for example by taking a dedicated IELTS course.

Motivation letter and CV

Most Dutch universities pay particular attention to the motivation and personality of the applicant. The motivation letter is often an underestimated part of the application among Polish students, yet it can determine success. Universities want to see that you understand the programme and can explain why you are the right candidate.

The motivation letter should be professional, linguistically correct, and within the word limit specified by the university. It is best to start writing it at least a few weeks before the application deadline. Avoid generalities and write specifically about your experiences. The CV is another document that can significantly influence the success of your application. It should clearly and accurately present your experiences relevant to the chosen study programme.

References and additional application documents

A reference letter is occasionally required for bachelor’s applications in the Netherlands, but it is often mandatory for master’s programmes. Ideally, the referee should be someone who knows you as a student. References cannot be written by friends or relatives, as they will be rejected – they should present a neutral point of view.

Depending on the chosen university, additional documents may also be required, such as a portfolio for artistic or creative programmes. In addition to the motivation letter, an essay may also be required, usually in the form of answers to specific questions prepared by the university. 

Requirements for Numerus Fixus programmes

Numerus Fixus programmes are programmes with a limited number of places. The deadline for these programmes is January 15. This applies, among others, to all psychology programmes, some business programmes, certain medical-related programmes, and selected creative programmes.

When applying for Numerus Fixus programmes, you can choose only two such programmes at the same time. An exception is medicine (currently available only in Dutch), where applying for this programme prevents you from choosing another Numerus Fixus programme. The admission process includes additional selection stages, such as more documents, interviews, or tasks to complete.

Registration in the Studielink system

Studielink is the central application portal through which all applications for studies in the Netherlands at public universities are submitted. Some private universities do not use Studielink, so it is worth first checking whether the application process is carried out through this system.

Registration requires a passport or a European ID card. You go to www.studielink.nl, choose the language (available: Dutch, English or German) and create an account. The system will ask you to upload a scanned identity document in the appropriate format. Then you fill in personal data, home address and education details. After completing registration, you will receive an activation link by email.

Choosing universities and programmes (maximum 4)

You can apply for a maximum of four study programmes. However, in the case of Numerus Fixus programmes, the limit is two choices. Medicine (currently available only in Dutch) is an exception – when applying for this programme, you cannot add another one. This means that you can apply for medicine and dentistry in the same year, but not for medicine at two different universities.

Programmes can be changed in the Studielink system until you complete the application through the university’s internal portals. After adding each university, check your email – within 24–48 hours you will receive information about the next steps.

Submitting documents to selected universities

After registering in Studielink, the application moves to the universities’ internal systems, where you upload all required documents. 

Remember to regularly check your email – you may receive a message requiring an immediate response or additional information.

Waiting for an offer

You will receive a response within a few weeks. Universities usually make decisions within a maximum of three months after the application deadline. For Numerus Fixus programmes, you can expect additional selection procedures, such as tests, interviews or assignments.

What to do after receiving an offer

In the case of Numerus Fixus programmes, after receiving a positive decision you have 14 days to accept the offer. If you do not do so, the offer will be withdrawn and the place will automatically be given to a student from the waiting list. For other programmes, the time to accept the offer may vary. After confirming your place, you must complete formalities related to your move, including confirming admission, paying tuition fees, and arranging accommodation and health insurance. It is also often necessary to go through the so-called “matching” process, which helps assess whether you are a good fit for the programme.

Accommodation:

• Dormitory rental: from €400 to €950 per month.

• Private room rental: from €500 to €750 per month, and in Amsterdam and Rotterdam up to €800–900 per month.

• Studio apartment rental: from €650 to €1300 per month.

Food:

• Average supermarket expenses are €200–350 per month.

• Food prices are very similar to those in Poland. By planning meals and cooking at home, you can effectively control your expenses.

Eating out:

• Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: around €15–25.

• Meal in a mid-range restaurant: €20–30.

• Coffee with a cake in a café: approx. €3–5.

Transport:

• A bicycle is the cheapest and most popular way of getting around cities – the cost of buying a bike is around €100–200 (one-time).

• Monthly public transport ticket: €40–70 depending on the city (Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague or Utrecht are more expensive).

Leisure and free time:

• Cinema: around €10 per ticket.

• Gym: a monthly membership costs on average €30–40.

• Social outings and student parties require an additional budget – often €100–200 per month.

Other expenses:

• Books and study materials: on average €30–80 per month (sometimes you can buy used ones cheaper or use libraries).

• Internet and phone: subscription costs around €20–40 per month.

More about how much studies in the Netherlands cost

Accommodation and dormitories

Many universities in the Netherlands offer modern, well-equipped dormitories, and some even entire student campuses. These include not only dormitories, but also cafés, shops, fitness clubs, and study spaces.

Despite this, finding accommodation is the biggest challenge for students in the Netherlands. The country is facing a housing crisis, but finding accommodation is still possible. For example, NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences offers a guarantee of receiving a dormitory place. It is also important to submit a strong dormitory application – often the timing of submission matters, and places are allocated on a “first come, first served” basis.

The Housing Office helps find accommodation, but you must already be conditionally accepted by the university. The cost of renting a room is around €400–950 per month, and an apartment €700–1200 (prices for 2025/26, plus one-time fees – housing fee €245–675, deposit).

Financial support for working students

The DUO system provides support for students working a minimum of 32 hours per month. The Basic Grant amounts to €324.52 per month, and the Supplementary Grant, depending on parents’ income, can reach up to €491.08. The Travel Product offers free public transport on weekdays. To receive these benefits, you must meet the requirement of working at least 32 hours per month. 

You may also receive a healthcare allowance of up to €130 per month.

Student loans on favourable terms

The tuition fee loan is paid directly to the university and amounts to €2695 per year. The interest rate is 2.33%, and the repayment period is spread over 35 years. The Regular Loan is an additional loan of up to €315.17 per month with an interest rate below 2.57%.

Repayment begins only after reaching a minimum income of €1500 per month. If after 35 years the loan is not fully repaid, the remaining amount is written off.

Note: Data on fees, deadlines, and financial support may change every year.

Working during studies

To receive certain forms of financial support (basic grant, supplementary grant, regular loan or travel product), you must work at least 32 hours per month (on average 8 hours per week). Thanks to a strong job market, high English proficiency among the Dutch, and an average of 12–17 contact hours per week at universities, combining work with studies is not difficult. 

In the Netherlands, 70% of students work according to Eurostat data – the country ranks number 1 in Europe in terms of working students.

Remember that by working, in addition to receiving grants (up to over €1150 per month including rent benefit and healthcare allowance), you will also earn a monthly salary (on average €250–450 per month for students working 32 hours monthly).

EU citizens do not need a work permit in the Netherlands. You can work any number of hours per week, which is a huge advantage. Students earn on average €409 from part-time work, mainly in hospitality and retail.

However, taking up work involves the obligation to purchase Dutch public health insurance, starting from €60 per month. Before that, you must register at the municipality and obtain a BSN number. Without it, you cannot open a bank account in the Netherlands or work legally. It is also worth applying for DigiD, an electronic identification system used for handling official matters online.

Working during your studies allows you not only to cover living costs but also to gain valuable professional experience. If you are interested in finding a job in this country, a useful tool may be the Jooble portal. Browse job offers in the Netherlands and explore the job market.

• Amsterdam is certainly the first city that comes to mind. It is a vibrant capital with an international character and several excellent universities. Additionally, it is the largest city in the Netherlands, where it is impossible to get bored. However, the Netherlands is not only Amsterdam. There are many other interesting cities that are definitely worth considering.
• Rotterdam, known for its port and strong focus on trade and business. For aspiring entrepreneurs and managers, Rotterdam can be a true educational hub, but not only that – the city is home to two universities offering a wide range of programmes in English. The level of education is excellent, and the city itself, which is the second largest in the Netherlands, has a lot to offer (and is also cheaper than Amsterdam).
• The Hague is often considered the "world capital of peace and justice", being the seat of the International Court of Justice and many other international organizations. It is also the third largest city in the Netherlands and offers many programmes taught in English.
• Utrecht is known for its high quality of education and a student-centered approach. The city is located in the central part of the country, allowing you to reach the capital in less than an hour.
• Breda, a beautiful city with around 200,000 inhabitants, offers many interesting study programmes and impresses with its charm and cultural richness. It is a picturesque city that attracts thousands of students from all over the world every year.
• Groningen is another city worth considering, especially if you are a young student looking for a lively student environment.
• Leeuwarden, the capital of Friesland, whose universities are known for innovative programmes related to technology and sustainability. Located in a quieter part of the Netherlands, the city attracts students with its atmosphere and lower costs.

As you can see, studying in the Netherlands offers many options when it comes to choosing a city! Remember that we have only presented some of them – there are many more possibilities in this country. Despite its small size, the Netherlands is quite diverse in terms of opportunities offered by different cities. Choose a destination that best meets your expectations both in terms of education and lifestyle!

Studying in the Netherlands offers a wide range of opportunities, both academically and in terms of lifestyle. The choice of city and university can significantly impact your career and academic experience. The Netherlands offers not only high-quality education but also the opportunity to develop in a cosmopolitan environment, which is invaluable in today’s globalized world.