To study abroad is a dream for many. To study abroad in a popular destination, which can make people beam with both unsolicited pride and envy, is a wish any international student holds within. With a lot of choices on where to go, you may ask yourself: Why should I go to the Netherlands? Yes, it isn’t just the tulips and other Instagram-worthy corners! Brace yourself, and allow us to convince you why the Netherlands is your best study abroad destination.
1. 5 Reasons to Study in the Netherlands
2. Study in Amsterdam
3. Study in Leiden
4. Study in Rotterdam
5. Study in Groningen
6. Study in The Hague
7. Study in Tilburg
8. Study in Eindhoven
9. Study in Utrecht
10. Study in Delft
11. Study in Maastricht
12. Study in Dordrecht
1. Robust National Economy
It is a widely known fact that the Netherlands has been making a name globally in terms of its economic prowess. Despite its small size and its high population density, the country remains one of the world’s strongest and most stable countries considering the national economy. One of the wealthiest countries in Europe and across the globe, the Netherlands can offer international students the best internship programs, which may possibly convert to potential employment opportunities. Its many firms which boast of continuous growth are ideal venues for practical learning in various fields of study. Moreover, the Netherlands is considered the “4th happiest country” reflected on its residents’ satisfaction level with economic, financial, and socio-political aspects of the nation. This says a lot about where the Netherlands stands in the case of employment prospects, healthcare assistance, and educational subsidy – all pointing towards the affluent resources the country has in store.
2. Superior Education Standards
More than 500,000 international students are enrolled in universities in the Netherlands. This number speaks for itself, and is evidence of the institutions’ coveted education standards, which lures several thousands of students from all over the world. These students have not just assumed about the excellent education system followed in the Netherlands. In fact, the country is home to a number of universities which belong in the top global university rankings. Furthermore, the Netherlands is the pioneer, among non-native English speaking countries, to offer English-taught courses in its universities. Whether a study program is offered in Dutch or English, you are sure to get maximum learning opportunities in the Netherlands. You may also want to know that this country has repeatedly proved itself competent in different fields, as shown in its long list of Nobel Peace Prize awardees who are from its top universities: Delft University of Technology, Leiden University, Utrecht University, and the University of Amsterdam. We’re not saying you can be a Nobel Peace Prize awardee when you study in the Netherlands (although it is still a possibility, right?); but you can achieve a great deal of higher learning which will provide you a competitive advantage once you enter employment.
3. Welcoming Populace
As mentioned above, the Dutch are one of the world’s happiest people – a label which radiates in their openness to liberal thoughts and ideas. The Netherlands is home to the most welcoming people on the planet, who can give you the warmest smiles which shall put you at ease even in a foreign location. Because of the large number of tourists who visit their country as well as the huge international student population in their universities, the Dutch have grown accustomed to interacting with various nationalities. You will find that them to be very accepting of cultural diversity, a crucial element in choosing a study abroad destination. You wouldn’t want to belong in a community where your culture is placed at the margins, would you? Moreover, it is important to note that the Dutch are proficient English speakers. You would not have the slightest problem of getting assistance from wherever as almost anyone can understand and speak to you in the international language.
4. Picturesque Locations
Well, this reason is an obvious one with the Netherlands being known for its traditional windmills (which most are still working, by the way), colorful houses, and vast plantation of lovely tulips (actually native to Turkey). Everything about the Netherlands is a sight to behold. Most of its cities are a charming fusion of modern and classical architectures that provide their respectively unique appeal. You can find ancient churches, castles and historic houses, and Renaissance-style streets that will blow away all history and design enthusiasts. Similarly, because of the country’s small size and flatness, you can explore city to city with just a bike ride. The Netherlands boasts of long miles of bicycle paths, which not only promotes eco-friendly lifestyle but also a rendezvous with nature. International students can enjoy a stress-free learning within an environment that nurtures, environmentally and intellectually.
5. Affordable Cost
The Netherlands, compared with other popular study abroad destinations like Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, fare lower in tuition and living costs. Most of its education is subsidized by the Dutch government. This is why universities ask for considerably affordable tuition fees from its students. International students even have the option to pay the tuition either in full or in monthly installments. Moreover, the Dutch government and specific institutions in the Netherlands offer scholarships and financial grants to qualified students. The standard of living in the country, albeit of high quality, is also practical for a foreign student. The country also provides free or discounted transportation fares and passes solely for students.
We know you are already sold on the idea of choosing the Netherlands as your study abroad destination. However, the Netherlands has many student cities which you can choose from. Remember that each city has its distinctive set of features that cater to a unique set of personalities. Read on to know more about the top 11 best cities for international students in the Netherlands.
The capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam always makes it to the list of top cities which you can choose to live while pursuing further studies. This is a city that casts a spell on tourists and students because of its museums and canals. International students who take pleasure in all things related to culture and history should opt to study in Amsterdam because this city has the most to offer on those fields. The Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum are but two of the sights you can explore once you start your studies in the city. Similarly, you can indulge in caffeine within Amsterdam’s famous café culture.
The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands. More than its size, the university also enjoys a high reputation as the 2nd best institution in the country. International students can find a huge number of English-taught programs in a variety of fields in the University of Amsterdam. Amsterdam’s other highly reputable university, the Vrije University, provide quality education and courses taught in the English language. Students in the city will have ease of transport, as most residents in Amsterdam use the bicycle to run errands or go to places. With this, you can also curb transport fares.
Considered the financial capital of the Netherlands, you can expect that living costs in Amsterdam are expensive. However, you are sure to get your money’s worth given the convenience and comfort of this small city. You will also be delighted to know that the community in Amsterdam is a liberal and open-minded one which embraces changes and diversity. You will not have any worries about getting snubbed just because you speak a foreign tongue or follow a different custom. If you choose Amsterdam, you will understand that the Dutch word “gezellig” as the perfect modifier for the Netherlands’ capital – “warm, fuzzy, cozy happiness”.
A small city situated between The Hague and Amsterdam, Leiden is a scenic community which attracts a diversity of international students in the Netherlands. Leiden makes a mark as the Dutch city with picturesque canals and historic buildings, a distinction it shares with the neighboring city of Amsterdam. It is a city where the country’s financial and political capitals are both within arm’s reach, as Amsterdam is only 30 minutes away from Leiden, and The Hague is only 15 minutes away from the city.
International students will find a home away from home in Leiden’s gracious combination of a placid countryside and a bustling suburb. In terms of its institutions for higher learning, Leiden will not disappoint you. The University of Leiden, established in 1575, is one of the hallmarks of Dutch education especially in the field of law and the social sciences. Being the oldest university in the Netherlands, it is the home of prominent artists, such as Rembrandt, and of most of the Dutch royals, including the Netherlands’ current king. It is also a Dutch university which boasts of a global recognition being included in the world’s top rankings.
Moreover, studying in Leiden can grant you an opportunity to build your personal and professional network as the city is known for its corps and student associations. A powerful network is always a big plus when it comes to looking for employment after completing a study program. The city will also let you expand your social circle as a foreigner in your university. Its student clubs are ideal venues to meet new friends, as they usually conduct activities solely for students to form acquaintances. All you need to do is mingle and be friendly with other students who are also trying to establish a comfortable pace in a foreign land.
Dubbed as the “City of Keys”, a label with roots in 1293 on the arrival of a city seal featuring the apostle Saint Peter holding a key, Leiden still has a motif of keys which can be seen throughout the city. True to this name, Leiden holds the key for your exciting Dutch university adventure.
Housing the largest port in the whole of Europe is Netherlands’ second biggest city, Rotterdam. This city is home to a diversified population which revels in Rotterdam’s metropolitan lifestyle. Besides its port, the city will treat you to a picturesque view of its modern architectural design. Rotterdam had witnessed a monumental loss during World War II – something that came out to be an opportunity for the city to re-invent its vibe. The result is a model city housed in contemporary splendor. International students in Rotterdam will experience urban living injected with a rich cultural scene, particularly in music.
The universities in Rotterdam are also widely known for their popular programs known to produce competent professionals. The Erasmus University of Rotterdam, for instance, is known for its superior business programs. International students who want to have a degree in business or marketing-related courses are most welcome to explore internship and employment prospects in the city, since Rotterdam is home to many international companies.
If you are an international student who wants to get a feel of the Dutch cosmopolitan life, Rotterdam is your place to be. While living costs may be high for a student, you may be delighted to know that Rotterdam has cheaper accommodations for foreign students.
In the northern part of the Netherlands, you will find an amazing city with so much to offer for prospective international students, Groningen. For one, the city is home to a large population of students. Most of the residents in the city (about 30%) are, in fact, enrolled students. Hence, if you choose Groningen as your Dutch city choice, you will experience a dynamic lifestyle brought about by a young and active population. You will also find it easy to start a life in Groningen because of its diversity. You can find almost anything you need within the city, be it gastronomic places which serve unique and familiar dishes, entertainments centers, or cultural hubs such as museums and theaters.
In terms of universities, Groningen boasts of highly respectable ones which have earned glorious global recognition throughout the years. The University of Groningen (established in 1614, second oldest to the University of Leiden) is one of the world’s best universities. Moreover, the prestige of the university is primarily contributed by its popularity to have produced the country’s first astronaut, first female student, and first female lecturer. More than anything, you can find Groningen a place which puts high regard to equality, regardless of culture or gender.
Groningen is also one of the world’s most bike-friendly cities, due to its safe bicycling paths ideal for students’ transport service and the city’s flat area characteristic. However, Groningen is not all about the concentration for work and studies. In times when you need some air outside of your university, you can take a walk or ride a bike to see the city’s sights, particularly its grand architectures. It is not surprising, therefore, that Groningen has been consistently elected “de beste binnenstad” (the best city center) in the Netherlands. If you choose Groningen, you might as well brace yourself for a gratifying student experience.
The Hague, or Den Haag, rings a bell because of the attention it gets as a place for significant international judiciary decisions. Most people refer to The Hague as the city which should have been Netherlands’ capital due to its important role as home to several Dutch political offices (i.e. the “Binnenhof” or home of the government, the Peace Palace, the “Noordeinde” Palace or the home of the Dutch royal family) and the International Court of Justice. Even though it seems to play a serious character in the national and the international stage, The Hague has its unique beauty ideal for student life.
Living in The Hague will spell convenience for anyone. First, it is near all the important offices which you will need to visit. Second, it is near the cities of Rotterdam, Leiden, and Amsterdam. Third, The Hague has upscale shopping centers and a lovely beach resort for a quick escapade. The Hague also houses some of the country’s top universities. One of which is The Hague University of Applied Sciences which specializes in the sciences. So, if you are one who loves to be in the chase, The Hague is always a great option for you.
Founded in 1809, Tilburg is relatively a new city in the Benelux. It is the largest city in the province of North Brabant, a rapidly developing economic region in the Netherlands. Many consider the city’s young age as a reason why less international students and tourists are aware of Tilburg’s agreeable features. However, the past years saw an increase in the city’s foreign student population. International students should consider Tilburg as their study location because it can offer an unparalleled adventure in a most conducive learning environment.
The University of Tilburg (formerly known as the Catholic University of Brabant) is Tilburg’s most popular higher education institution. The university boasts of a large student body which enjoys an access to the region’s major festivities. In July, a large 10-day fair, called the “Tilburgse Kermis”, happens in the city. Tilburg is also known for the “Kruikenstad”, a Dutch festival which opens opportunities for international students to get acquainted with the community.
Moreover, the cost of living in Tilburg is low compared to other student cities. You can find the cheapest accommodation and transportation fare in this city. It is also an ideal place for wanderers, as Tilburg is near to major European cities like Brussels and Frankfurt. International students may thrive in this city, and acquire productive practical training. Because of its location in a highly economic province, Tilburg is home to multinational companies such as Fuji, Sony, Philips, and Ericsson which may open internship or employment opportunities for you.
Home of the globally famous electronic brand, Philips, Eindhoven is Netherlands’ technology and engineering hub. This city boasts of literally bright communities and thoroughfares which allow for technological and architectural innovation brought by Philips and other technology firms. Its most popular university, the Eindhoven University of Technology, enjoys a commendable reputation for its architecture programs. Students who are keen on design and engineering should consider choosing Eindhoven as it will give you the most fulfilling experience in the field you want to belong in. Just like other cities in the Netherlands, Eindhoven has a lot in store for international students when it comes to recreational activities and places.
Located at the heart of the Netherlands is another less popular city, Utrecht. Although it does not take too much of the national limelight, Utrecht has superlative things in store for you. First on the list is the city’s picturesque canals, historic townhouses, towers, and shopping streets. Second is its location being in the center of the country, which allows access for its residents to transfer to other cities very easily and in the most convenient means. Third is its variety of restaurant and café choices that will surely please your craving. Fourth is its highly ranked universities, led by the Utrecht University.
Established in 1636. The Utrecht University is one of the oldest universities in Europe, and one of the largest universities in the Netherlands. The institution is known to be an excellent research university. You can expect an animated student body in the university because of its sizeable student population, consisting of both local and international enrollees.
In Utrecht, you can enjoy a laid-back lifestyle in postcard-style surroundings, which will enable you to strike a balance between studying and living in the best way possible.
Considered a miniature and cozier version of Amsterdam, Delft is a picturesque city situated between The Hague and Rotterdam. Albeit small in size, it has a unique collection of Dutch flamboyant houses and cobblestone avenues.
Furthermore, Delft takes pride in its most prestigious university, the Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), which is considered Netherlands’ oldest and largest public technical university. It was established in 1842, and has since made a name in the field of mathematics, computer science, technology, and architecture. If you are a student who is looking for a rather homely but convenient place, Delft is the right option for you.
In the far south of the Netherlands bordering Belgium and Germany is the city of Maastricht. It is a Dutch city with an undoubtedly flawless beauty, different from what is ordinary in the Netherlands. Maastricht has a hilly topography, a far cry from the general country look which is flat (thus, the name Netherlands which literally means “lower countries”). Despite the hilly landscape, Maastricht has its biking paths which international students can safely take to go to and from the university. Moreover, the city has a highly distinctive European, rather than Dutch, outlook because of its position in the world map.
Maastricht is home to the Maastricht University, a young institution popular for foreign students because of its English-taught programs. About 49% of the student population in the Maastricht University comes from other countries. Hence, when you go to study at this university, expect to make daily interaction with students from other cultures as its student population is one of the most diversified ones in the region.
The city’s southernmost location and its concentration of foreign students contribute to Maastricht’s multilingual population. As an international student, you will not find going around the city and looking for assistance (should you need some) difficult because you can almost always find a fellow man who speaks the same language as yours. Also, the Dutch are friendly people who turn out to be proficient English speakers as well.
Dordrecht can be considered as the Netherlands’ most artistic city. As soon as you step foot in Dordrecht, you will be greeted by a number of galleries, museums, and gothic churches. Even though it has a relatively small population (which is just fit for its size), Dordrecht was once a part of the Netherlands’ trading history. Until now, you can witness the city’s preservation of its culture. You can always visit the Dordrecht Museum and the Grote Kerk church to know more about the city’s significant past.
Dordrecht is an epitome for the arts in the Netherlands. In this regard, it will not surprise you to know that most international students flock to this city for its art schools. Its most popular institution for the creative arts is the Da Vinci College.
International students who are cultural and artistic enthusiasts will not go wrong in choosing Dordrecht. Without a trace of doubt, the city will provide you a place of both theoretical and practical learning to make you better in your craft.
The Netherlands is such an exciting place to live and study in, with its welcoming populace, picturesque places, and internationally recognized universities. Choosing a city for your Dutch study abroad journey will hopefully become easier with the consultation of our list. Your next step now is to secure a spot in your chosen university, acquire a visa, and get your residence permit. We’re sure you’ll do great!
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