Maastricht is a small, international student city in the south of the Netherlands. It is known for English-taught study, a strong cross-border feel, and a student life that is active without being as large or busy as Amsterdam or Utrecht. If you want to study there, it helps to know which institutions are based in the city, what daily life costs, and how to make yourself visible to admissions offices.
Which universities and colleges are in Maastricht?
The best-known university in the city is Maastricht University, often called UM. It is known for problem-based learning, international classrooms, and many English-taught bachelor's and master's programmes. It has a strong reputation in areas such as economics, business, law, health, psychology, life sciences, and European studies, but you should always check the exact programme page.
- Maastricht University - the main research university in the city
- Maastricht University School of Business and Economics - business, economics, and management
- Faculty of Law - international and European law are especially visible here
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences - health and biomedical subjects
- Other applied or specialised providers may also have programmes in the city or nearby, so check the Dutch higher education databases and the university websites
For international students, the most important source is the university's own admissions page. That is where you can confirm the teaching language, entry requirements, language test rules, and application steps. If you are comparing programmes, do not rely on old forum posts, because admission rules can change from year to year.
Is study in Maastricht mostly in English?
Yes, many programmes in Maastricht are taught in English, especially at master's level and in some international bachelor's tracks. That is one reason the city attracts students from many countries. Still, not every programme is in English, and some courses may use Dutch for parts of the teaching, administration, or work placement.
- Check the language of instruction on the programme page
- Look for required test scores on the admissions page
- Ask if the course includes tutorials, internships, or group work in Dutch
- Find out whether you need extra proof for visa or residence permit documents
If you are not yet fully confident in English, that does not always stop you from applying. But you should be realistic about the level needed for lectures, reading, essays, and group work. Use the official entry requirements from the programme page and the university admissions office, not guesses from social media.
What do rent and living costs look like?
Maastricht is usually cheaper than Amsterdam, but it is not a low-cost city. Housing demand is high in many Dutch student cities, so rent can take a large part of your monthly budget. In general, Maastricht is often seen as somewhat more manageable than the biggest Dutch cities, but you still need to plan carefully.
- Rent for a room or studio can vary a lot by location, size, and whether utilities are included
- Budget for food, phone, study materials, insurance, and transport
- Prices are usually higher if you arrive late and need last-minute housing
- Check official university housing pages and student housing providers for current estimates
A sensible plan is to look at the university's housing advice early, because many international students search for rooms before they arrive. Maastricht University and local housing partners may offer guidance, but availability is never guaranteed. Always read the current housing rules carefully, because some offers are only for new students, only for a limited period, or only for certain programmes.
How does student housing work?
Student housing in the Netherlands can be competitive, and Maastricht is no exception. Some students live in university-arranged housing, while others rent privately through housing agencies or shared flats. As a new international student, it is wise to start your search as soon as you know you may come.
- Check whether your university offers rooms for first-year international students
- Read the conditions on the official housing page before paying anything
- Be careful with private listings - confirm the landlord, the contract, and the address
- Ask whether registration at the city hall is possible at that address, because this matters for many students in the Netherlands
If you need a room, do not wait until after arrival. In many Dutch cities, late housing searches are stressful and expensive. Use only official university housing pages, trusted housing platforms, and written contracts. Never send money for a room you have not verified.
Transport, part-time work and daily life
Maastricht is easy to move around by bike, bus, and on foot, especially if you live near campus or the city centre. The city is smaller than many Dutch student cities, so daily travel is often simple. For trips farther away, the Dutch train network connects Maastricht with other parts of the country, but check travel times and fares in advance.
- Biking is common and often the cheapest daily option
- Local buses help with longer city journeys and travel to nearby areas
- Train travel is useful for visits, internships, and weekends away
Part-time work may be possible, but the rules depend on your nationality, residence status, and the type of job. EU and EEA students usually have more freedom to work than students from outside the EU, while non-EU students often face work-hour limits and employer rules. For exact rules, check the Dutch national immigration authority, usually known as the IND, and the university's international office.
Student life in Maastricht is often international and social. You will find study associations, sports clubs, cafés, cultural events, and a strong cross-border atmosphere because Belgium and Germany are close. That said, the city is still smaller than many other university towns, so the pace can feel calm compared with larger Dutch cities.
How can you get noticed by admissions offices?
The simplest way is to make your profile clear, complete, and easy to search. Admissions teams often look for students by subject, level, language ability, grades, and the documents they need. If your details are vague, you are easier to miss.
- State your field clearly, such as business, law, engineering, health, or social sciences
- Write your current or latest education level
- Add your English level and any test results you already have
- Upload the documents you can share, such as transcripts, diplomas, or a CV
- Keep your contact details active, because some universities reply quickly
Also check each programme page for the exact way to apply. Some courses use central systems, some use direct university portals, and some ask for extra documents or interviews. If you are comparing options in Maastricht, focus on the official admissions page for each programme and the university's international student information.
Common questions
Is Maastricht a good city for international students?
Yes, if you want a smaller city with many international students and lots of English-taught study. It is a good fit for students who like a friendly size, easy movement around town, and a strong academic atmosphere.
Is Maastricht cheaper than other Dutch student cities?
Often yes, compared with Amsterdam, but it is not cheap. Rent and daily costs can still be high, so compare housing options and use current cost guidance from the university and trusted Dutch student sources.
How early should I start looking for housing?
As early as possible, especially if you are coming from abroad. Good rooms can go fast, and many students need several weeks or months to secure something suitable.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, so admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you. They can then write first, and you can reply only to the opportunities that fit 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.