If you want to study business administration in the Netherlands, you will find many English-taught options at both bachelor's and master's level. The system is open to international students, but you still need to check the exact entry rules, tuition, and deadlines on each university's admissions page.
What you can study
Business administration is a broad field. In the Netherlands, programme names may include business administration, international business, management, business analytics, marketing, finance, or strategic management.
- Bachelor's degree - usually for students who have finished secondary school and meet the entry level for university study.
- Master's degree - usually for students who already have a relevant bachelor's degree.
- Pre-master or bridging route - sometimes offered if your background is close, but not fully enough for direct entry.
Some programmes are offered by research universities. Others are offered by universities of applied sciences. The style is different. Research universities are more theory and academic. Applied sciences are usually more practical and career focused.
Entry requirements
The exact requirements depend on the programme, your previous education, and your English level. Universities decide this case by case, so always read the programme page carefully.
- For bachelor's study, you usually need a secondary school diploma that is considered equal to the Dutch university entry level.
- For master's study, you usually need a relevant bachelor's degree.
- You often need proof of English, such as IELTS or TOEFL, if you did not study in English.
- Some programmes ask for maths, business, economics, or statistics background.
- Some may ask for motivation letter, CV, transcript, and sometimes reference letters.
If you are unsure whether your diploma is accepted, check the university admissions page or contact the admissions office. They can tell you what they need from your country.
English-taught options
Many Dutch universities offer business programmes in English, especially at master's level. At bachelor's level, there are also English-taught options, but they may be more limited and more competitive.
When you compare programmes, look for:
- language of instruction
- specialisation, such as finance, management, or international business
- entry requirements for your diploma
- whether the programme is at a research university or university of applied sciences
- internship or exchange options
Do not assume that
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.