Studying education in the Netherlands means joining structured, practical teacher training programmes recognised across Europe. You can choose from bachelor and master degrees, with several options taught entirely in English.
Choose your level: bachelor or master
If you are starting your higher education journey, a bachelor of education takes typically four years. This includes classroom placements where you gain hands-on teaching experience from your first year.
If you already hold a university degree, a master in education takes one to two years. These advanced programmes focus on educational theory, leadership, or specialized subject teaching. Check the programme page for specific prerequisites.
Check entry requirements and language skills
Admission depends on your previous schooling and your language proficiency. For English-taught tracks, universities usually require an IELTS or TOEFL certificate. Dutch-taught tracks require state-approved Dutch language exams.
- Upper secondary school diploma for bachelor programmes.
- Relevant undergraduate degree for master programmes.
- Proof of English proficiency, such as an official test score.
- Motivation letters or entrance interviews for specific tracks.
Understand tuition fees and living costs
Tuition fees vary depending on your nationality and the type of degree. EU students pay statutory fees, while non-EU students pay institutional rates. Check the university admissions page for exact figures.
- EU students: typically lower statutory fees set by the government.
- Non-EU students: higher institutional fees set by each university.
- Living costs: budget for rent, food, insurance, and study materials.
- Part-time work: many students take legal part-time jobs to support themselves.
Plan your application timeline
Dutch universities usually open applications months before the academic year starts in September. You should begin gathering documents well in advance to meet every official deadline.
- Start researching programmes up to a year before you plan to start.
- Submit your application through Studielink, the central portal.
- Apply for housing early, as student accommodation is in high demand.
- Check the national immigration authority for visa requirements if needed.
Common questions
Can I teach with an English-taught degree?
Yes, many graduates teach at international schools, language institutes, or bilingual schools in the Netherlands and abroad.
Do I need to speak Dutch to study?
Not for English-taught programmes, but learning basic Dutch helps with daily life and broadens your future career options.
Are scholarships available?
Some partial scholarships exist through the government or individual universities. Check each scholarship site for eligibility criteria.
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.
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.