Several years ago I had the good fortune of attending an educational conference in the Netherlands, and I was immediately drawn to the country. I was impressed with the opportunities, facilities, multi-cultural and welcoming atmosphere, and it actually made me homesick for Canada with the weather, temperatures, and the leaves turning bright colours as winter approached.

Wide Variety of Programs

For over ten years now, the Netherlands has been working steadily to spread the news about the wonderful opportunities for undergraduate and graduate programs offered in English in their country, and if you’re interested in the possibility of studying in Europe, you should definitely consider it. There are over 2000 English-taught bachelors and masters programs available, and the country is also looked upon as a strong alternative for international students looking for something other than the typical countries considered – mainly the US, UK, and Canada.

Student-Centered Approach

There are a few different types of universities in the Netherlands, but in general, they are known for a practical and student-centered approach to education that focuses on problem solving, collaborative learning, and internships to gain real world experience.
From an application and admission perspective, the schools post entry requirements for a variety of curriculum models, and counselors or students can also reach out directly to admissions staff for guidance when questions arise. In most cases, the entry requirements are reasonable and when an application is being reviewed, there is more focus on academic preparation and institutional fit vs. standardized testing or a long list of extracurricular activities that are part of the application process in some other destinations.

Reasonable Costs

Having worked overseas for 15 years helping high school students gain admission at universities globally, I am often concerned about the rising costs families face. Although higher education is always an investment, the costs to study in the Netherlands vs. other typical destinations is reasonable. Tuition costs for non-EU students are typically in the €6,000 to €15,000 range per year, and living expenses are also reasonable. These costs, combined with an excellent public transportation system, a high degree of safety, and a multicultural and inclusive environment makes the Netherlands a destination I often encourage students and families to investigate and consider.

Tips to Students and Parents:

• Graduates can apply for a one-year orientation visa to search for jobs or internships after completing their degree.
• Start the process early: many application deadlines are in January or March, especially for programs with limited seats (Numerus Fixus).
• Focus on academic fit: Dutch universities prioritize academic alignment over extracurricular resumes.
• Consider ‘university colleges’: For a flexible, liberal arts-style experience similar to the US, consider these schools with smaller classes and close mentorship.
• To help you in your journey, learn some basic Dutch. While not required, it can be beneficial for part-time jobs, internships, and deeper cultural integration.