Educational System
Welcome to Your Guide to Higher Education in the Netherlands
Here you will find essential information about studying at Dutch universities, including an overview of the education system, admission requirements, visa guidance, and the latest updates for international students.
Understanding the Dutch Higher Education System
The Netherlands is renowned for its high-quality and internationally oriented higher education system. It offers a wide range of English-taught programs, making it a top destination for international students.
There are two main types of higher education institutions in the Netherlands:
Research Universities (WO - Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs)
These institutions focus on academic research and theoretical learning. They offer bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs. Bachelor’s degrees at research universities typically take three years to complete.
Universities of Applied Sciences (HBO - Hoger Beroepsonderwijs)
These focus on practical and professional training. HBO bachelor’s programs are more career-oriented and usually take four years, often including internships and applied projects. They also offer master’s programs in professional fields.
Degrees and Structure
- Bachelor’s Degree: 3 years at research universities, 4 years at universities of applied sciences
- Master’s Degree: 1–2 years depending on the program and institution
- PhD: Only available at research universities, typically 4 years of research
Key Features
- English-taught programs: Over 2,100 programs are taught entirely in English.
- Affordable tuition: Tuition fees are lower than in many English-speaking countries, with EU/EEA students benefiting from even lower rates.
- Innovation and quality: Dutch institutions rank highly worldwide and emphasize interactive, student-centered learning.
