If you want to study economics in the Netherlands, you will usually choose between a bachelor’s or a master’s degree. Many programmes are taught in English, and universities often look for strong grades, maths skills and a clear fit with the programme.
This guide explains the main study levels, typical entry requirements, costs, timeline and where to check the official details.
Study levels in economics
In the Netherlands, economics is usually offered at these levels:
- Bachelor’s - for students starting higher education after secondary school. Programmes are often 3 years.
- Master’s - for students who already have a bachelor’s degree. Programmes are often 1 or 2 years.
- Research master’s - more academic and often aimed at students who want to continue to PhD study.
Some universities teach economics as a broad degree. Others offer related fields such as econometrics, business economics, policy economics, or international economics. Check the programme page to see what the degree really covers.
Typical entry requirements
Admission rules vary by university and programme. In general, you should expect these common checks:
- Academic background - for a bachelor’s, you need a secondary school diploma that gives access to higher education. For a master’s, you need a relevant bachelor’s degree.
- Math level - economics and econometrics often need good maths. Some programmes ask for specific school subjects.
- English level - many English-taught programmes ask for proof of English, often IELTS, TOEFL, or an equivalent test. Always check the score on the programme page.
- Motivation or documents - some programmes ask for a motivation letter, CV, transcripts, and sometimes references.
If your diploma is from outside the Netherlands, the university will check whether it is equal to the required Dutch level. The Dutch university itself, and sometimes Nuffic or DUO, are useful official places to check recognition and entry routes.
English-taught options
There are many English-taught economics programmes in the Netherlands, especially at research universities. This is one reason the country is popular with international students.
Before you apply, check three things:
- Is the whole programme in English, or only part of it?
- Does the programme focus on theory, policy, business, or quantitative methods?
- Is there a numerate background requirement, such as advanced maths?
Do not assume that an English-taught bachelor’s is open to all international students. Some programmes are selective, and some have limited places. The admissions page is the source that matters most.
Tuition fees and living costs
Tuition in the Netherlands depends on your nationality and the university type. As a general rule:
- EU/EEA students often pay the statutory tuition fee, which is much lower than the institutional fee.
- Non-EU/EEA students usually pay a higher institutional fee.
Because fees change, do not rely on old numbers. Check the university’s tuition page for the current amount for your programme.
For living costs, you should plan for rent, food, transport, insurance, books and daily expenses. A common practical range is around 900 to 1,500 euros per month, depending on the city and your housing situation. Amsterdam and some other student cities are often more expensive. Always verify housing and insurance costs on the university and Dutch government sources.
You may also need to show enough money for a residence permit, if you are a non-EU student. The exact amount is set by the Dutch immigration authority, so check the official immigration website before you apply.
Application timeline and steps
Start early. A good timeline is 9 to 12 months before your intended start date.
- First - choose the programme and read the admission page carefully.
- Then - check entry requirements, English test rules and document list.
- After that - prepare transcripts, diploma copies, passport, motivation letter and English test results.
- Finally - submit your application before the deadline on the programme page.
Some programmes use a national application system, while others apply directly to the university. Master’s programmes often have different deadlines from bachelor’s programmes. If you need a student visa or residence permit, the university usually gives guidance after admission, but the final rules come from the Dutch immigration authority.
How universities find candidates
In the Netherlands, universities do not only wait for applications. Admissions teams and programme offices also search for students who match a specific profile.
They may look for:
- your subject interest, such as economics, finance, business or econometrics
- your current education level
- your grades and academic background
- your English level
- the documents you already have ready
This means you can be visible before you apply. A clear profile helps an admissions office understand whether you fit the programme they offer.
Common questions
Do I need maths for economics?
Often yes. Many economics programmes need strong maths, especially if they are quantitative or include econometrics. Check the programme page for the exact level.
Can I study economics in English?
Yes, many Dutch universities offer English-taught economics degrees. But you still need to meet the academic and English-language entry rules.
Is it expensive?
It can be affordable compared with some other countries, but costs still add up. Tuition depends on your status, and living costs depend on the city and housing. Always check the official university pages and the Dutch immigration website.
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. You stay in control, and you can compare options before you apply.
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.