A master's in the Netherlands can be a strong choice if you want an English-taught degree in Europe. Most universities ask for a relevant bachelor's degree, proof of English, and sometimes extra documents or a selection test. Costs, deadlines, and entry rules vary by university and programme, so always check the official programme page.
Entry requirements for a master's
For most master's programmes, you need a bachelor's degree that matches the subject you want to study. Universities also look at your grades, the courses you already took, and sometimes your work or research experience.
- Relevant bachelor's degree or equivalent
- Official transcripts and diploma
- Proof of English language level
- CV and motivation letter, often
- Reference letters or portfolio, for some programmes
If your previous degree is from outside the Netherlands, the university decides if it is recognised for admission. Some universities compare your degree with Dutch standards and may ask for extra documents, course descriptions, or a certified translation. The final decision is always made by the university's admissions office.
English language requirements
Many master's programmes in the Netherlands are taught in English. Common proof is IELTS, TOEFL iBT, or another test listed on the programme page. Some universities may also accept previous study in English, but this is not automatic.
- Check the exact test and minimum score on the programme page
- Some programmes ask for higher scores in writing or speaking
- Test results must usually be valid when you apply
- If you studied in English before, ask if a waiver is possible
Do not guess your level. If your score is close to the minimum, contact the university before applying and ask whether your full profile can still be considered.
Tuition fees and study costs
Tuition in the Netherlands depends on your nationality and the university. EU, EEA, Swiss, and often some other students may pay the statutory fee, while many non-EU students pay an institutional fee. The difference can be large, so check the programme page carefully.
- EU and EEA students often pay the statutory tuition fee
- Non-EU students often pay a higher institutional fee
- Some programmes have the same fee for all students
- Scholarships may reduce part of the cost, but are not guaranteed
Besides tuition, plan for other costs too. You may need to pay for books, insurance, residence permit costs, housing, and daily life. For a realistic budget, check the university's cost-of-living page and the national immigration authority for any visa or permit fees.
Living costs in the Netherlands
Living costs are usually a major part of your budget. Rent is often the biggest expense, and prices can be high in larger cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and Leiden. Smaller cities may cost less, but housing can still be difficult to find.
- Housing or rent
- Food and local transport
- Health insurance, if required
- Books, study materials, and phone costs
- Residence permit and other official fees, if relevant
Universities often publish an estimated monthly budget for international students. Use that as a guide, but expect real costs to vary. Always compare the university estimate with your own housing search and the current rules from the national immigration authority.
Deadlines and application timeline
Application windows differ by university and by programme. Many master's programmes open applications several months before the start date, and deadlines are often earlier for non-EU students because of visa, housing, and document checks.
- Applications often open in autumn or winter for the next academic year
- Deadlines can be early in spring for selective programmes
- Some programmes have rolling admissions until places are full
- Non-EU students often need to apply earlier than EU students
Do not rely on general advice alone. Check the specific programme page for the exact deadline, required documents, and whether there is a separate scholarship deadline. Some scholarships have their own earlier date on the scholarship's official site.
How to apply and what happens next
The application process is usually online. You upload your documents, pay any application fee if required, and wait for the university's decision. If you are admitted, the university will explain the next steps for enrolment, visa or residence permit support, and housing information if available.
- Read the programme requirements first
- Prepare certified copies and translations if needed
- Upload all documents in the format the university asks for
- Watch your email for questions from admissions
- Check whether you need to confirm your place by a set date
If your documents are not complete, the admissions office may ask for more information before making a final decision. That is normal, so answer quickly and keep copies of everything you send.
Common questions
Do I need my bachelor's diploma before I apply?
Often yes, or you must be very close to graduating. Some universities let you apply with a temporary transcript or a statement from your current school. Check the programme page for the exact rule.
Can I study a master's in English in the Netherlands?
Yes, many master's programmes are taught in English. Still, each programme sets its own language requirement, so always check the accepted test and minimum score.
Will my foreign degree be accepted automatically?
No. The university decides whether your degree is suitable for admission. If your degree is from another country, the admissions office may ask for transcripts, course descriptions, or translations before making a decision.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents. 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.