World-class education, innovative research opportunities, and globally recognized degrees all combine to make the Netherlands one of the best destinations for students wishing to study abroad. Tuition fees are very low for programs taught in English, and students get a truly multicultural environment. Dutch universities also continue to rank highly in almost all world rankings.
In such a case, if you want to study in the Netherlands, this guide has everything you need to read about – including universities, rankings, the admission process, tuition, scholarships, and career opportunities to help you make a decision.
Best Universities in the Netherlands (With Rankings)
Here is what you need to know about the top-ranked universities in the Netherlands, which are famous for being the best in differing fields:
1. Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)
- Ranking: 1st in the Netherlands, Top 50 globally (QS World University Rankings 2024)
- Popular Courses: Engineering, Computer Science, Architecture
- Why Study at TU Delft? They have the best research in innovation and technology with heavy links to industries.
2. University of Amsterdam (UvA)
- Ranking: Top 100 globally
- Popular Courses: Business, Social Sciences, Law, AI & Data Science
- Why Choose UvA? Situated in the lively capital city, with high graduate employability rates.
3. Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e)
- Ranking: Top 150 globally
- Popular Courses: Electrical Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics
- Why Study at TU/e? Close ties with technology firms such as Philips and ASML.
4. Leiden University
- Ranking: Top 120 in the world
- Popular Courses: Medicine, International Law, Political Science
- Why Study at Leiden? The oldest university in the Netherlands with a research reputation.
5. Utrecht University
- Ranking: Top 110 in the world
- Popular Courses: Life Sciences, Environmental Studies, Business
- Why Study at Utrecht? Provides a great student experience and research-based education.
6. Wageningen University & Research (WUR)
- Ranking: #1 in Agriculture & Environmental Science
- Popular Courses: Food Technology, Climate Studies, Biotechnology
- Why Choose WUR? World’s best university for studying agriculture and sustainability.
7. Rotterdam School of Management (Erasmus University Rotterdam)
- Ranking: Top 50 for Business & Management
- Popular Courses: MBA, Economics, Finance
- Why Choose RSM? Leading business school in Europe with good corporate ties.
Best Universities in the Netherlands by Subject
Various universities in the Netherlands specialize in particular fields of study. The following is a division of the top institutions according to different fields of study:
Engineering & Technology
- Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) – This university specializes in Civil, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering, with a reputation for innovative research and close industry connections.
- Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) – Famous for Electrical Engineering, Robotics, and Artificial Intelligence, with a strong emphasis on innovation.
- University of Twente – Provides interdisciplinary engineering studies and a vibrant entrepreneurial environment.
Business & Management
- Rotterdam School of Management (Erasmus University Rotterdam) – Ranked among the top business schools in Europe, providing globally recognized MBA and finance studies.
- Tilburg University – Distinguished in Economics, Finance, and Business Analytics.
- University of Amsterdam (UvA) – Strongly ranked in Business and Management with strong international collaboration.
Medicine & Life Sciences
- Leiden University – Host to one of Europe’s oldest medical faculties, well known for biomedical sciences and pharmaceutics research.
- Utrecht University – University possesses highly rated programs in Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, and Public Health.
- Wageningen University & Research (WUR) – It is the top institute for Agricultural Sciences, Food Science, and Environmental Science.
Social Sciences & Humanities
- University of Amsterdam (UvA) – Ranked amongst the best in Political Science, Communication, and International Relations.
- Leiden University – Renowned for good programs in Law, International Relations, and Cultural Studies.
- Radboud University – Radboud University has quality programs in Psychology, Linguistics, and Sociology.
This is subject-wise categorization so that students can choose universities according to their field of interest so that they can get the best education as per their career options.
Admission Process for International Students
International students’ admissions processes in the Netherlands vary from university to university and from program to program. However, most of the time, such a process follows these steps:
- Choose a Program and University – Search the available program that corresponds best to your career goals and academic areas of interest. Most of the universities offer a lot of courses taught in English.
- Verify Entry Requirements – Different universities require special entry criteria, such as qualifications, proficiency in the English language (IELTS/TOEFL), and preliminary subjects in certain courses.
- Get Ready and Upload Your Application – Applications typically should be done on Studielink, which is the government-managed Dutch application system, or directly online at the website of the chosen university. The needed documents are the transcripts, a CV, a letter of motivation, and letters of recommendation.
- Pay Application Fees – Some universities charge a non-refundable application fee, usually between €50 to €100.
- Attend an Interview (If Required) – Some programs, particularly at the master’s level, might involve an interview as part of the application process.
- Receive an admission offer – Firstly, you will receive an offer of admission. This will most likely be a conditional or unconditional offer letter from the respective university.
- Apply for a Student Visa – Foreign students from outside the EU/EEA must apply for an MVV (disposition permit) and a residence permit (VVR) through the relevant university.
- Plan Accommodation and Finances – Book accommodation before arrival and have enough funds to pay for tuition and living costs.
- Enroll and Start Your Studies – Register with the university and local municipality upon arrival to finalize the enrollment.
By doing so, international students can easily go through the application process and gain admission to a leading Dutch university.
Cost of Studying in the Netherlands
Studying in the Netherlands is affordable compared to the US and UK. Here’s a breakdown:
Scholarships for International Students
There are several scholarship programs making higher education more affordable in the Netherlands. Most institutions and organizations offer both merit and need-based financial assistance to international students based on the nationality, financial need, and merit of the applicants. Here are some of the most noteworthy scholarship choices:
1. Holland Scholarship
- A project funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education.
- Available to international (non-EU/EEA) students enrolled in a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
- Provides a sustainable one-time grant of €5000.
2. Erasmus+ Scholarship
- Helps people who want to study or get work experience in Holland
- Tuition, travel, and living costs are covered.
- Perfect for exchange and master’s degree students.
3. Orange Tulip Scholarship (OTS)
- Eligible students from selected countries (India, China, Brazil, etc.)
- Covers a certain percentage of the tuition costs, varying between the institutions and programs.
- This may be applied to both bachelor’s and master’s degree programs.
4. Scholarships Offered by Universities
Many Dutch universities provide their financial aid programs, such as:
- Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS): Merit-based tuition remission for master’s students.
- Amsterdam Merit Scholarship: Aimed at talented non-EU/EEA students.
- TU Delft Excellence Scholarship: Full tuition with a monthly stipend.
5. Netherlands Fellowship Program (NFP)
- Funded by the Dutch government for professionals from developing countries.
- Supports short courses, master’s , and PhD programs.
- Includes tuition fees, travel expenses, and living costs.
How to Apply for Scholarships
- Research available scholarships early (the deadlines vary by program).
- Research the admission requirements for the programs you are interested in.
- A list of official websites of universities is provided, and as far as the scholarship portals are concerned, apply!
- Manage deadlines and submit timely applications.
These can cover a decent part of the cost of studying in the Netherlands and can enable quality education for international students.
Job Opportunities and Post-Study Work Visa
Career Prospects
The Netherlands is constantly on the lookout for candidates, particularly in these industries:
- Artificial intelligence and information technology (AI, engineering, and data science)
- Business & Finance
- Healthcare & Life Sciences
- Work Visa & Residency
Work Visa & Residency
After graduation, students can apply for the Orientation Year Visa (Zoekjaar Visa), which permits them to stay and work for 12 months in the Netherlands without employer sponsorship.
Conclusion
Studying abroad in the Netherlands is one of the best countries for international students due to its high employability rate and world-class universities. Whether it be top-level education in engineering, business, or medicine, Dutch universities offer a huge variety of options.
Ready to know your options and start your application process? Head to Daltinaiportal to get expert advice on picking the right university in the Netherlands!