International relations is a popular subject in the Netherlands, and many universities offer English-taught options. You can usually study it at bachelor level, master level, or as a related programme such as politics, global affairs, security studies, or European studies. The exact entry rules and costs depend on the university, so always check the programme page and the official immigration site before you apply.
What you can study
In the Netherlands, international relations is often taught as a standalone degree or as part of a wider social science programme. At bachelor level, the focus is usually on politics, international law, economics, history, and current global issues. At master level, the subject is more specialised.
- Bachelor's degree - usually 3 years
- Master's degree - usually 1 year, sometimes 2
- Related subjects - political science, international studies, European studies, public policy, security studies
If you want to work in diplomacy, NGOs, international organisations, journalism, or policy, a related degree can also be a good fit. Universities may use different names, so search widely.
Typical admission requirements
Most universities look at your previous education, your English level, and sometimes your grades in certain subjects. The exact entry route depends on whether you apply for a bachelor or a master.
- For a bachelor's, you usually need a secondary school diploma that gives access to university in your country and is accepted in the Netherlands.
- For a master's, you usually need a relevant bachelor's degree in a related field.
- English-taught programmes often ask for IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test, unless you qualify for an exemption.
- Some programmes may ask for a motivation letter, CV, writing sample, or interview.
If your diploma is from outside the Netherlands, universities check it individually. They may ask for translated and certified copies. Always check the admissions page of the programme you want, because similar degrees can have different requirements.
English-taught options and how to compare them
Many Dutch universities offer international relations or closely related degrees in English. This makes the Netherlands a common choice for international students. Still, the names of programmes can be different, even when the content is similar.
- Search for terms like international relations, international studies, political science, global governance, and European studies.
- Check whether the programme is research-focused or practice-focused.
- Look at the curriculum, not only the title.
- See if the university offers internships, exchange options, or thesis specialisations.
Some universities are more selective than others. In some cases, admission is based mainly on meeting the entry requirements. In others, places are limited and selection is competitive. The programme page is the safest place to check.
Tuition and living costs
Tuition in the Netherlands depends on your nationality and the university. EU/EEA students often pay a lower statutory fee, while non-EU students usually pay a higher institutional fee. The exact amount changes each year, so use the university's fee page as the official source.
- EU/EEA bachelor's and master's tuition - typically around the statutory tuition fee set by the government each year
- Non-EU tuition - often several thousand euros more, depending on the programme
- Living costs - usually include rent, food, local transport, insurance, books, and personal spending
For living costs, many universities and official study-in-NL guides suggest planning for roughly 1,000 to 1,500 euros per month, depending on the city and your housing choice. Amsterdam and other large cities are often more expensive. Do not rely on one estimate only. Check the university's cost-of-living page and housing advice.
Timeline and application steps
Many students start planning at least 6 to 12 months before the course begins. This gives you time to check requirements, prepare documents, arrange language tests, and apply for a visa or residence permit if needed.
- 9 to 12 months before start - shortlist programmes and check entry rules
- 6 to 9 months before start - take language tests and prepare documents
- 4 to 6 months before start - submit your application
- After acceptance - arrange housing, insurance, and immigration steps if needed
Deadlines vary by university and student type. Some programmes close early, especially for non-EU applicants or selective courses. Always check the programme page and the university's admissions office for the exact date.
Visa, residence permit, and proof of funds
If you are from outside the EU/EEA, you usually need a residence permit for study, and sometimes an entry visa as well. In many cases, the university helps with the residence permit process after admission. The rules are set by the Dutch national immigration authority, so that is the official source to check.
You may also need to show that you have enough money for tuition and living costs. The required amount can change, so do not use an old number from a forum. Check the Dutch immigration authority and your university's international office for the current rule.
Common questions
Can I study international relations in the Netherlands without speaking Dutch?
Yes, many programmes are taught in English. Still, check the programme page carefully, because some courses, internships, or daily services may involve Dutch.
Is international relations only available at master's level?
No. You can find bachelor's and master's options. Some universities also offer related degrees under different names, so it helps to search broadly.
How do universities find students?
Universities usually find candidates through their own admissions systems, fairs, online searches, and student databases. If you create a profile in a student register, admissions offices that search for your field can contact you first.
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.
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.
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.