
Next Level College Application
Netherlands
What’s Unique About Applying to the Dutch University System
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1. Two Types of Higher Education Institutions
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Research Universities (e.g., University of Amsterdam, Leiden, Utrecht):
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More academic and theory-based.
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Great for students planning on graduate studies or academic careers.
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Universities of Applied Sciences (e.g., HAN, Saxion, Fontys):
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More practical and career-focused.
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Often include internships and hands-on projects.
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2. Program-Based Applications
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You apply directly to a specific degree program (e.g., Psychology, Economics, Artificial Intelligence).
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There’s less flexibility to switch majors than in the U.S., so you need to know what you want to study.
3. Taught in English or Dutch
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The Netherlands offers over 2,000 bachelor's and master's programs in English—one of the highest numbers in Europe.
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No need to speak Dutch for most English-taught degrees, though learning some is helpful for daily life and jobs.
4. Application Through Studielink
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You apply through the national portal called Studielink, which allows you to apply to up to 4 programs.
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Many universities also require a supplementary application directly on their website (including essays, motivation letters, or CVs).
5. Rolling Admissions, But Apply Early
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Applications usually open in October for programs starting the following September.
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Most deadlines are between January and May, but popular programs (like Psychology or Medicine) may close earlier.
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Some programs have numerus fixus (enrollment caps)—these are highly competitive and have a January 15 deadline.
6. Requirements
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High school diploma equivalent to the Dutch VWO diploma.
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IB Diploma, A-Levels, APs, or SAT + strong GPA may be accepted.
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English proficiency required: TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge English
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Math and science requirements for STEM-related programs.
7. Affordable Tuition + Scholarships
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Tuition for EU students: ~€2,530/year
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Tuition for non-EU students: ~€6,000–15,000/year
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Cost of living: €800–1,200/month
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Scholarships available for international students, like:
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Holland Scholarship
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Orange Tulip Scholarship
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University-specific awards
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8. Post-Graduation Opportunities
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International graduates can stay in the Netherlands for a 1-year “Orientation Year” visa to look for work.
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The Dutch job market is open and internationally oriented, especially in tech, business, and sustainability fields.