If you want to study artificial intelligence in the Netherlands, you usually look at either a bachelor’s or a master’s programme. Many universities offer English-taught tracks in computer science, data science, or AI-related subjects, but the exact options depend on the university and the programme page.
This guide shows the usual levels, entry requirements, costs, and timing. Always check the university’s admissions page and the Dutch immigration and visa rules if you need a residence permit.
What study levels exist
In the Netherlands, AI is often taught as a full AI degree or as a specialisation inside computer science, data science, or cognitive science.
- Bachelor’s - usually for students who finish secondary school and want a first degree.
- Master’s - usually for students who already have a relevant bachelor’s degree.
- Research master’s - less common, more academic, and often more selective.
Some universities focus on theory, while others focus on machine learning, data, robotics, or intelligent systems. Read the course list carefully, because “AI” can mean different things at different schools.
Typical entry requirements
For a bachelor’s, universities usually ask for a secondary school diploma that matches Dutch university entry standards. They may also want maths, and sometimes physics or computer science. If your diploma is from outside the Netherlands, the admissions office checks whether it is equivalent.
For a master’s, you usually need a relevant bachelor’s degree in computer science, AI, data science, mathematics, engineering, or a similar field. Some programmes want strong programming skills, statistics, and linear algebra.
Common documents are:
- Diploma and transcript
- English test result, if required
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Copy of passport
- Portfolio or project examples, if the programme asks for them
Some universities may ask for a minimum grade average, but this differs by programme. Check the programme page and the admissions office information for the exact rules.
English-taught study options
Many master’s programmes in AI and related fields are taught in English. There are also English-taught bachelor’s programmes, but they are less common than in master’s level study.
If English is not your first language, universities often ask for proof such as IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test. The required score depends on the programme. Check the university page because accepted tests and minimum scores can change.
Useful things to check before you apply:
- Is the whole programme in English, or only some courses?
- Does the university accept your English test?
- Do you need Dutch for daily life, a part-time job, or a specific internship?
Even if your classes are in English, knowing some Dutch can help with housing, daily life, and integration.
Tuition and living costs
Tuition in the Netherlands depends on whether you are an EU/EEA student or a non-EU student. EU/EEA students often pay the statutory tuition fee, while non-EU students usually pay an institutional fee that is much higher. Exact fees vary by university and programme.
Typical ranges are:
- EU/EEA tuition - often around the statutory fee level, which you should check on the official Dutch government or university page for the current year.
- Non-EU tuition - often several thousand euros per year, and in many programmes it can be well above the EU fee.
Living costs also matter. Many students budget for:
- Rent
- Food
- Health insurance, if required
- Study books and software
- Local transport
A realistic monthly budget depends on the city and your housing choice. Bigger university cities usually cost more. For a current estimate, check the university’s cost-of-living page and official Dutch guidance for international students.
Application timeline and how to start
It is smart to start early, especially if you need a visa or student housing. Many students begin preparing 6 to 12 months before the start date.
A simple timeline:
- 12 months before - search programmes and check entry rules
- 9 to 6 months before - collect documents and prepare your English test
- 6 to 4 months before - submit your application
- After admission - arrange visa or residence permit if needed, pay any required deposit, and look for housing
Some Dutch universities use a central application system, while others have their own portal. The programme page will tell you where to apply and which deadline applies. Do not guess the deadline. Check the official admissions page.
Visa and residence permit
If you are not an EU/EEA student, you may need a visa and/or residence permit for study. In the Netherlands, the university often helps with the student residence permit process after admission, but the rules come from the Dutch immigration authority.
What to check:
- Whether you need an entry visa, residence permit, or both
- What financial proof you must show
- How much time the process usually takes
- What documents the university must send on your behalf
Always use the official Dutch immigration website and the university’s international office page for the latest steps.
Common questions
Can I study AI in the Netherlands without a computer science background?
Sometimes yes, especially at master’s level if your degree is close to AI, mathematics, engineering, or data science. But many programmes want strong technical skills. Check the entry profile carefully.
Is it easy to find an English-taught AI programme?
At master’s level, yes, there are many English-taught options. At bachelor’s level, there are fewer. Always check the programme language on the university page.
Can I apply to several universities at once?
Yes, in most cases you can apply to more than one programme. Each university has its own process, documents, and deadlines, so read each admissions page separately.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
This saves you time and helps you stay visible to universities that are looking for students like you.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.