Rotterdam is one of the most international student cities in the Netherlands. It has strong universities, many English-taught programmes, and a big port-city feel. If you want to study there, you should check each university's own admissions page, housing page, and the Dutch immigration site for the latest rules.
Where you can study in Rotterdam
Rotterdam has a mix of research and applied universities, plus specialist schools. Each one has its own style, so it helps to look at the programme level, not only the city name.
- Erasmus University Rotterdam - known for economics, business, law, social sciences, public health, and medicine.
- Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences - known for practical programmes with close links to companies and the city.
- Codarts Rotterdam - known for music, dance, and circus arts.
- Willem de Kooning Academy - known for art, design, and creative study.
Some programmes are fully in English, especially at master's level. At bachelor's level, English-taught options exist too, but they are more selective and not available in every subject. Always check the programme page for the exact language, entry requirements, and whether you need maths, a portfolio, or subject-specific grades.
English-taught study and admissions
In the Netherlands, many universities publish clear entry rules online. For international students, the key is to match your school background to the programme requirements before you apply.
- Check if your diploma is accepted for direct entry.
- Check the required English test or proof of English study.
- Check if your course has a selection process or a limited number of places.
- Check the deadline early, because housing and visa steps can take time.
For non-EU students, the university often helps with the student residence permit process after admission, but the exact steps depend on the institution and your nationality. The Dutch immigration authority, IND, is the official source for visa and residence rules.
Costs in Rotterdam
Rotterdam is usually seen as a mid-to-high cost student city in the Netherlands. It is often a little cheaper than the very busiest parts of Amsterdam, but it is still expensive compared with many other European student cities.
- Rent is usually the biggest cost.
- Food can be manageable if you cook at home.
- Insurance, books, and transport can add up fast.
Typical monthly living costs for a student can vary a lot, but many students budget roughly in the range of a few hundred euros for shared housing plus day-to-day costs on top. The exact rent depends on location, room type, and whether utilities are included. Check the university housing office, private housing sites, and student accommodation providers, because prices change often.
Student housing and transport
Student housing is one of the hardest parts of moving to Rotterdam. Rooms can go quickly, so start early. Many universities provide advice or reserved options for some new students, but those places are limited.
- Look for housing as soon as you can accept an offer.
- Read the contract carefully and watch for scam listings.
- Ask if the room is furnished and if bills are included.
- Use official or well-known housing channels when possible.
Rotterdam has a good public transport network with metro, tram, bus, and train. Many students also cycle. For transport, check local operators and the national rail site for tickets, passes, and student discounts if available. If you live close to campus, biking can be the cheapest and fastest option.
Part-time work and daily student life
Many international students want a part-time job to help with costs and to meet people. In the Netherlands, work rules depend on your nationality and residence status, so you should check the Dutch government or IND site before you start working.
- EU and EEA students usually have different work rules from non-EU students.
- Some jobs need a work permit for the employer.
- You may need a Dutch bank account and health insurance.
Rotterdam student life is active but not too small, so you can find both study focus and city life. You can join sports clubs, student associations, language exchange groups, and cultural events. The city is modern and diverse, with a strong business scene, a big port, and many international residents. That can make it easier to meet people from many backgrounds.
How to get noticed by admissions offices
If you want universities in Rotterdam to find you, make your profile clear and complete. Admissions teams often search for students by subject, country, grades, English level, and documents, so the details matter.
- List your field of interest clearly, such as business, engineering, art, or health.
- Add your current or finished education, with dates and diploma type.
- Include your English level and any test scores you already have.
- Upload the documents you have ready, like transcripts, passport, or portfolio.
Also check the university's own admissions page for the exact application route. Some programmes use national systems, while others use a direct application or a selection process. A complete profile can help admissions offices contact you first when they search for students with your background.
Common questions
Is Rotterdam cheaper than Amsterdam for students?
Often yes, but not by a huge amount. Rent can still be high, so compare housing early and do not assume the city will be cheap.
Can I study in English in Rotterdam?
Yes, many programmes are taught in English, especially at master's level. Always check the exact programme page, because language options differ by subject and degree.
Can I work while studying?
Sometimes yes, but the rules depend on your nationality and residence status. Check the Dutch government or IND site before you take a job.
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 can help you get noticed by the right universities without sending the same details again and again.
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.