The Netherlands is a leading study destination in Europe, known for its high-quality, research-oriented universities, extensive English-taught programmes, and strong international outlook. Dutch degrees are widely recognized across the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), and the country offers a clear, structured higher-education ladder with plenty of options for international students. Scholarships, tuition waivers, and a broad selection of English programmes make the Netherlands especially attractive for students from around the world.

Let’s take a closer look at the Dutch higher education system.

Higher Education System

Higher education in the Netherlands follows the Bologna framework (three cycles: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate) and uses the ECTS credit system. Institutions are broadly grouped into research universities (wetenschappelijk onderwijs, WO) and universities of applied sciences (hoger beroepsonderwijs, HBO). Both offer internationally respected qualifications but focus on different types of learning—academic research vs. professional practice.

Types of Institutions (quick overview)

• Research Universities (WO): Focus on academic and scientific education and research. Offer Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD programmes. Example fields: natural sciences, social sciences, law, medicine, engineering.

• Universities of Applied Sciences (HBO): Practice-oriented education with internships and industry links. Commonly offer 4-year professional Bachelor’s programmes and some applied Master’s.

• Vocational Education & Training (MBO): Pre-higher education vocational training (not typically the route for international university applicants, but important in the national system).

Bachelor’s Level

• Duration: Usually 3 years at research universities (WO) and 3–4 years at universities of applied sciences (HBO) depending on the programme.

• Credits: Generally 180 ECTS (3-year) or 240 ECTS (4-year).

• Language: Many Bachelor’s programmes are offered in English, particularly at research universities and in fields that attract international students.

• Entry Requirements: Completion of secondary education equivalent to the Dutch VWO (for WO) or appropriate diploma for HBO; some programmes require subject-specific prerequisites, portfolios (arts), or entrance exams. Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent) is commonly required for English-taught tracks.

• Outcome: Graduates receive a Bachelor’s degree (e.g., BSc, BA, LLB) and can enter the job market, pursue professional qualifications, or continue to a Master’s.

Master’s Level

• Duration: Typically 1–2 years depending on the programme and prior degree.

• Credits: Usually 60–120 ECTS.

• Types: Research Master’s (prepares for PhD/research career) and Professional Master’s (industry-oriented).

• Entry Requirements: A recognized Bachelor’s degree (often in a related field), meeting any programme-specific prerequisites, and proof of English where relevant. Top Master’s programmes can be competitive and may require motivation letters, references, or GMAT for business programmes.

• Outcome: Master’s degree (MSc, MA, LLM, etc.), which can lead to advanced professional roles or doctoral studies.

Doctorate (PhD) Level

• Structure: PhD studies in the Netherlands are research-based and usually attached to a university research group or project.

• Duration: Commonly 4 years (full-time).

• Employment model: Many PhD candidates are hired as paid employees of the university on a fixed-term contract (salary and employee benefits), rather than receiving a traditional “scholarship.” This makes PhD positions financially viable for international researchers.

• Entry Requirements: A relevant Master’s degree, a research proposal or admission to a funded project, and strong academic references.

• Outcome: PhD (Promotie), enabling careers in academia, research institutes, and high-level industry R&D.

Practical Notes for International Students

• English-Taught Programmes: The Netherlands has one of the highest shares of English-taught programmes in continental Europe—especially at the Master’s level—making it easy for international students to study without prior Dutch.

• ECTS & Mobility: ECTS credits and Dutch degrees facilitate credit transfer across Europe and entry into further studies under the Bologna framework.

• Admissions & Deadlines: Autumn (September) intake is most common. Application deadlines vary by institution and programme—early application is recommended for competitive programmes and scholarship consideration.

• Work & Residency: International students from non-EU/EEA countries can typically work part-time (with restrictions) and may apply for a residence permit; rules vary by nationality and employment type—check immigration guidance for exact terms.

• Tuition & Funding: Tuition differs between EU/EEA and non-EU students and among institutions; many universities offer merit scholarships and national schemes for talented non-EU applicants.