European countries are known to be a top priority for students looking for an international education. The Netherlands is one such country, gaining popularity as a leading overseas education destination.
In this blog, let us discuss all you need to know about studying in the Netherlands, the best Netherland universities, the cost of education, etc. to ensure you prepare well for your study-abroad journey!
Why study in the Netherlands?
The year 2023-24 saw over 35,000 international enrolments in Netherlands universities making the country one of the most sought-after destinations among students. The academic excellence, welcoming environment, global exposure, and innovative teaching methodologies have made the Netherlands an attractive choice for education.
The Netherlands is slowly emerging as an educational hub for international students. There are over 90,000 students from 160 countries studying in the country. Additionally, out of the top 200 universities as per QS World University Ranking 2024, 8 universities are from the Netherlands. English being the primary language for teaching is another factor that makes the country accessible for Indian students.
Benefits of studying in the Netherlands
There are numerous ways that students can benefit from studying in the Netherlands. Here are a few reasons why you can consider applying:
1. Learning in English: Although the main language is Dutch, The Netherlands has one of the highest English-speaking populations by percentage in Europe and offers courses that are taught in English, making it a comfortable choice for international students who cannot speak Dutch.
2. Good ROI: Another way students can benefit from opting to study in the Netherlands is through affordable tuition fees compared to other destinations like the UK or the USA, which in turn leads to good ROI.
3. International Exposure: With a large number of students coming from different destinations all across the world, students can benefit from global exposure. A diverse perspective opens horizons and enriches overall personal growth.
4. Interactive Teaching Methodologies: Some of the best universities in the Netherlands focus on student-focused teaching and inculcate teamwork. Active participation in class discussions, practical exposure, and problem-solving approaches provide excellent learning and help develop personality as a whole, preparing the student for a promising career ahead.
5. Opening Doorways to other European Countries: Studying in the Netherlands can be a great starting point for exploring other countries in Europe with low-cost flights and an excellent train network.
6. Welcoming culture in the Netherlands: The Netherlands is known for its liberal policies and offers a warm and welcoming environment for international students. In fact, it almost always ranks in the top 5 in the most welcoming countries rankings. It makes it easier for the students to make friends and transition into the new destination.
Popular courses to study in the Netherlands
Known to be one of the best countries in Europe for pursuing education, the Netherlands is home to a wide number of course choices. Here are some popular fields to consider:
| Artificial Intelligence | Electrical and Electronics Engineering | Mechanical Engineering |
| Biology | Industrial Engineering and Management | Automotive Engineering |
| LLM | Sports Business Management | Computer Science |
| International Hospitality Management | International Tourism Management | Logistics Management |
| Business and Management | Automotive Engineering | Finance and Accounting |
| Business Administration | Economics | Civil Engineering |
Overview of degree types
| Degree type | Duration | Average tuition fee per year (INR) |
| Bachelor’s degree | 3 years | INR 8L – INR 13L approx. |
| Master’s degree | 1-2 years | INR 11L – INR 27L approx. |
| Ph.D. | 4 years | Free of cost, students receive a stipend |
| Short Courses | variable | INR1.5L – INR 3.5L approx. |
| Diploma | 1-2 years | INR 6L- INR 10L approx. |
Top 10 universities to study in the Netherlands
| University | QS World University Rankings 2025 |
| Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) | 49 |
| Leiden University | 141 |
| University of Amsterdam | 55 |
| University of Groningen | 159 |
| Utrecht University | 105 |
| Erasmus University Rotterdam | 158 |
| Wageningen University and Research | 155 |
| Radboud University | 272 |
| University of Twente (UT) | 233 |
| Eindhoven University of Technology | 136 |
Scholarships in the Netherlands for Indian students
Studying abroad may not come easy for every student as the cost of tuition and accommodation along with miscellaneous expenses may add up. But, most universities in the Netherlands offer various scholarships to make it accessible. Here are some popular ones to look into:
1. Erasmus Mundus Scholarship: This is one of the most popular scholarships in the Netherlands, offering scholarships to eligible students applying for a Master’s program. It covers living expenses along with tuition fees.
2. Orange Tulip Scholarship: Meant for only Indian students, the Orange Tulip Scholarship offers a tuition fee waiver of INR 4 lakhs.
3. NL/Holland Scholarship: This is available for non-European students, offering a one-time grant of INR 4.5 lakhs.
Job prospects after studying in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is known for its strong focus on international trade and business and boasts of a robust and growing economy. This offers a plethora of job opportunities for college graduates, especially in the fields of finance, engineering, and technology.
The country is home to numerous multinational companies like Philips, Shell, KPMG, Unilever, and ASML among others that promise a large number of job prospects for college graduates. These companies, having nationwide operations and international offices, welcome international students, making the Netherlands a promising choice for further studies.
Additionally, students can apply for a one-year residency permit after graduation which offers them enough time to find a suitable job. This acts as an added net of security as students can explore jobs and apply for the ones that match their qualifications and preferences.
Part-time work opportunities in the Netherlands
As per the Netherlands work regulations, international students are allowed to work part-time during their course duration. They are allowed to work for up to 16 hours per week which allows them additional financial support.
Many Netherlands universities also offer paid and unpaid internship opportunities to students which help them gain real-world exposure and practical learning, making them ready for the industry.
Popular job sectors in the Netherlands and average salaries
| Industry | Average Salary (per year) |
| Information Technology (IT) | INR 40L – INR 70L |
| Engineering | INR 45L – INR 80L |
| Finance | INR 35L – INR 65L |
| Healthcare | INR 50L – INR 85L |
| Logistics | INR 30L – INR 55L |
Conclusion
Enrolling for a course in the Netherlands opens doors to a wide range of global opportunities across varied sectors. With a warm and welcoming environment and excellent teaching methodologies, Netherland universities gear students up for a successful global career.
At ApplyBuds, we understand the importance of enrolling in the right program and university and hence, offer an AI- based intelligent platform to help students shortlist programs based on their skills, requirements, and preferences. Our DIY process helps you throughout your study abroad journey, right from shortlisting the college to applications!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is the Netherlands good for Indian students?
Yes, with a wide range of top universities offering courses in the English language and affordable tuition fees, the Netherlands is an excellent choice for Indian students.
Q. How much does it cost to study in the Netherlands?
The tuition fee in the Netherlands universities varies as per the chosen program and university. It is best to refer to the university website for exact details.
Q. Which course is best in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands offers career opportunities across a wide range of industries. IT, hospitality, finance, and healthcare are some popular choices among students.
Q. Can I work while studying in the Netherlands?
Yes, the Netherlands government allows students to work for up to 16 hours per week during the semester.
