If you want to study mechanical engineering in the Netherlands, you can choose a bachelor’s or a master’s, and many programmes are taught in English. The main things to check are your school or degree level, your maths and physics background, your English level, and the university’s own admission page.
Costs and entry rules vary by university and programme. Use this guide as a starting point, then always confirm the details on the university’s admissions page and the Dutch immigration site if you need a visa or residence permit.
What you can study
In the Netherlands, mechanical engineering usually appears in two study levels:
- Bachelor’s - usually 3 years. This is for students coming from secondary school or an equivalent qualification.
- Master’s - usually 1 to 2 years. This is for students who already have a relevant bachelor’s degree.
You may also see related names such as mechanical engineering, mechanical and aerospace engineering, or applied physics with a mechanics focus. Some universities of technology offer broad engineering first, then specialisation later.
English-taught options are common, especially at universities of technology. Still, not every programme is in English, and not every track accepts international students. Check the programme page carefully.
Typical entry requirements
Admission is based on your academic background. For a bachelor’s, universities usually want a diploma that is equal to the Dutch pre-university level, with strong results in maths and physics. For a master’s, they usually want a relevant bachelor’s degree in engineering or a close field.
Typical requirements can include:
- Secondary school diploma or bachelor’s degree that is recognised as equivalent
- Good grades in mathematics, and often physics
- Proof of English, if the programme is taught in English
- A motivation letter or statement of purpose
- A CV and sometimes references
- For some programmes, a specific course list or portfolio of prior study
For English, universities commonly accept tests such as IELTS or TOEFL, but the exact minimum score depends on the programme. Some institutions may waive the test if you studied in English before, but this is not automatic. Check the programme page.
If your diploma is from outside the Netherlands, the university will decide whether it is sufficient. They may ask for official transcripts, course descriptions, and certified translations.
How much it usually costs
Tuition in the Netherlands depends mainly on whether you pay the statutory fee or the institutional fee.
- EU/EEA students often pay the statutory tuition fee, which is usually much lower.
- Non-EU students usually pay the institutional fee, which is higher and set by each university.
As a rough guide, EU/EEA tuition is often in the low thousands of euros per year. Non-EU tuition for engineering programmes is often in the mid to high thousands, and sometimes more. Do not rely on a general number alone. Check the specific programme page for the current fee.
Living costs are separate. Many students should plan for rent, food, transport, insurance, books, and personal spending. In Dutch cities, monthly living costs are often significant, especially where housing is tight. A realistic plan is usually needed before you apply.
For the latest visa or residence permit process and any proof of funds, check the Dutch national immigration authority, usually known as IND, and the university’s international admissions page.
Application timeline
The exact deadline depends on the university and whether you need a visa or residence permit. For international students, it is smart to start early.
A practical timeline looks like this:
- 9 to 12 months before start - shortlist programmes and check entry requirements
- 6 to 9 months before start - prepare transcripts, English test, passport, and translations
- Months before the deadline - submit your application through the university portal
- After submission - respond quickly if the university asks for more documents
- After admission - arrange housing, insurance, visa or residence permit, and travel
Some programmes have earlier deadlines for non-EU applicants because the university needs time for immigration steps. Others use fixed application rounds. Always check the programme page and the admissions office timeline.
Where to start your search
Start with the official university websites. In the Netherlands, technical universities are the best place to look for mechanical engineering and related programmes.
When comparing programmes, look at:
- Language of instruction
- Whether the degree is bachelor’s or master’s
- Required subjects and grades
- Tuition for EU and non-EU students
- Housing support and campus location
- Whether the programme is more practical or more research-focused
Also check whether the university accepts your national diploma. If you are not sure, use the admissions contact form or international office. They can tell you how they assess your documents, but they cannot promise admission.
How universities find candidates
Many students wait for the right programme to find them. That is one reason to have a clear profile ready.
Universities and admissions offices often search by field, study level, English level, and documents. If they can see that you match their programme, they may contact you first. This does not replace the normal application process, but it can help you get noticed earlier.
A strong profile usually includes:
- Your field of interest, such as mechanical engineering
- Your current or completed education
- Your English level
- Your transcripts, diploma, and other documents
Common questions
Do I need maths and physics?
Usually yes. Mechanical engineering is a technical subject, so universities often expect strong maths, and often physics too. The exact subject requirements depend on the programme.
Can I study in English?
Often yes. Many Dutch universities offer English-taught mechanical engineering programmes, especially at master’s level. Still, you must check the exact language for each programme.
Can I work while studying?
Rules depend on your nationality and immigration status. If you need a permit, check the Dutch immigration authority and your university for the current work rules before you plan to work.
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.
You stay in control, and you can compare options while universities come to you with interest.
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.