A bachelor's degree in the Netherlands can be a good choice if you want an international study environment and many English-taught programmes. To apply, you usually need the right school diploma, proof of English, and sometimes extra subject requirements or a selection process.
Rules can change by university and by programme, so always check the programme page and the official admissions page of the university. For visa and residence rules, check the Dutch immigration authority, and for scholarships, check the scholarship's own site.
Entry requirements
Most universities ask for a foreign secondary school diploma that is equal to the Dutch VWO level, or another diploma the university accepts for that programme. Some programmes also want specific subjects, such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, or biology.
- Completed secondary school education or an equivalent diploma
- Good grades in the subjects needed for the programme
- Proof of English for English-taught programmes
- Sometimes a motivation letter, portfolio, or entrance test
If your diploma is not from the Netherlands, the university checks whether it is recognised for admission. This is done by the university itself, not by you. The admissions office may ask for certified copies, translations, and a grading scale explanation.
Some universities also look at your school subjects and final grades to see if you meet the specific entry profile. If you are not sure, send your diploma details to the admissions office and ask before applying.
English level
Many bachelor's programmes in the Netherlands are taught in English, especially in larger universities and universities of applied sciences. If English is not your first language, you usually need to show your level with a test or previous study in English.
- Common tests include IELTS and TOEFL
- Some universities also accept Cambridge English or other approved tests
- Some programmes accept proof that you studied in English, if the university allows it
The needed score is not the same everywhere. One programme may ask for a higher score than another, even at the same university. Check the programme page for the exact test and minimum score.
If you are close to the required level, some universities may offer a pre-sessional course or ask for a later test result. Do not assume this is possible. Always check the admissions page first.
Tuition fees
Tuition in the Netherlands is usually different for EU or EEA students and for non-EU students. EU or EEA students often pay the statutory tuition fee, while non-EU students usually pay a higher institutional fee.
- EU or EEA students: usually pay the statutory fee set each year by the Dutch government
- Non-EU students: usually pay a higher fee set by the university and programme
- Some programmes have extra costs for materials, field trips, or studio work
Do not use old numbers from blogs or forums. Tuition changes from year to year, and each programme can set its own fee for non-EU students. The only safe place to check is the university's official programme page or tuition page.
If you want to know whether you qualify for EU fees, read the university's fee rules carefully. Citizenship, residence status, and previous study history can all matter.
Living costs
Living costs in the Netherlands are often one of the biggest parts of your budget. The amount depends on the city, your housing, and your lifestyle.
- Rent is often the biggest cost
- You may also need money for food, transport, books, insurance, and personal spending
- Larger cities are usually more expensive than smaller cities
Many universities suggest a monthly budget for international students, but the exact amount changes by location and year. Check the university's international student page for a current estimate. Also check whether your programme includes extra costs, such as lab fees or fieldwork.
If you need a Dutch student visa or residence permit, you may also need to show that you have enough money for living costs. Check the Dutch immigration authority for the current proof-of-funds rules.
Deadlines and application steps
Application timing depends on the university and the programme. Some programmes open applications in the autumn for the following academic year, and many close in spring or early summer. Selective programmes can close earlier.
- Check when applications open on the programme page
- Find out whether the programme has a selection process or limited places
- Prepare your diploma, transcript, passport, English proof, and any extra documents early
Some programmes in the Netherlands use a national application system, while others use the university's own portal. The admissions page will tell you where to apply and what to upload. If you need a visa or residence permit, apply early because that process takes extra time.
Do not wait for the last week. You may need time for certified copies, translations, reference documents, or missing test results. If you are still studying, ask whether you can apply with predicted grades.
How admissions offices check candidates
Admissions teams review whether you meet the formal entry rules. They check your diploma, grades, English level, and any subject requirements. For some programmes, they also compare applicants and choose only the strongest ones.
That means your profile matters, not just your form. Clear documents make it easier for an admissions office to see that you fit the programme.
- Use clear scans of your documents
- List your exact school or study programme
- Show your English level honestly
- Add any portfolio, CV, or motivation text only if the programme asks for it
If a university searches for students with a certain background, they usually look for people who match the programme requirements. That is why it helps to keep your profile complete and up to date.
Common questions
Do I need to speak Dutch for a bachelor's in the Netherlands?
Not always. Many bachelor's programmes are in English. If the programme is in Dutch, you usually need Dutch language proof. Check the programme page for the language of instruction.
Is my foreign diploma accepted?
It may be, if it is considered equal to the required Dutch level for that programme. The university decides this during admission review. If you are unsure, send your diploma details to admissions before applying.
Can I work while studying?
International students sometimes can, but the rules depend on your nationality and residence status. For the current rules, check the Dutch immigration authority and the university's international office.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, so universities can understand what you are looking for. 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.