Europe hosts some of the most revered educational institutions in the world, ranging from places specialising in cultural education to on-site research-based science programs helping students everywhere realize and achieve their dreams. Hidden away in the heart of it all lies the Netherlands, one of the most aesthetically pleasing architectural places we’ve ever seen. But its beauty is not limited to its looks, because the Netherlands possess quite a respected name amongst the international community for its education industry, with over 120,000 international students from the 2024-2025 academic year studying currently at universities across the entire country. But you might be wondering why it is so esteemed? Well let us tell you the top 10 benefits of choosing the Netherlands as your study abroad destination.
- Educational Quality With over 5 Dutch universities ranking within the top 200 universities worldwide, namely: the University of Amsterdam, Delft University of Technology, Utrecht University, Eindhoven University of Technology, Leiden University and Erasmus University Rotterdam. These universities specialise in their diverse systems of administering education and inclusive programs ensuring that every student can have their pick of the lot. Moreover, their curriculums are extremely competitive and reflective of how the real world operates, thus improving the validity of their education system
- Affordable Tuition Fees
The average tuition fees annually for international students hoping to pursue further education in the Netherlands is 6000 to 20,000 euros depending on the degree and university students choose to attend. In comparison, countries such as the US and the UK are far more costly with their average tuition fees only ranging from 11,400 to 38,000 pounds per year for the UK and 25,000 dollars to 45,000 for the US. Aside from that, the Netherlands offers numerous financial leniencies and scholarship opportunities helping keep fair their admission cycles. Some of the most notable scholarships are the: NL Scholarships, Maastricht University Scholarships and Leiden University Scholarship.
- Low Tuition and Cost of Living
In comparison to other English-speaking countries such as the U.S. or U.K., tuition is relatively low in the Netherlands. EU/EEA students pay statutory fees (€2,000–€6,000 per year), whereas non-EU students enjoy competitive institutional fees (€6,000–€20,000). Living expenses are €800–€1,200 per month, with part-time work (up to 16 hours/week) and scholarships such as the Holland Scholarship mitigating financial pressures.
- Extensive English-Taught Programs
Being the pioneer non-Anglophone nation to have English-taught degrees, the Netherlands has more than 2,100 programs taught in English at bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD levels. With 95% of the natives speaking English, everyday communication and scholarly pursuit are always effortless for foreign students.
- Innovative Teaching Methods
Dutch education emphasizes critical thinking and collaboration through seminar-style lectures, project work, and small group sizes (15–30 students). Professors keep a relaxed relationship with students, welcoming open discussion and autonomous problem-solving—a far cry from hierarchical structures elsewhere.
- Strong Post-Study Career Prospects
Graduates can use the Orientation Year Visa, permitting non-EU graduates to work for 12 months after graduation. The economy of the Netherlands—a hotbed of tech startups and multinational companies—provides plenty of opportunities in fields such as engineering, renewable energy, and business.
- Sustainable Lifestyle and Cycling Culture
The Netherlands equates to cycling with 35,000 km of cycle lanes and environmentally friendly town planning. Bikes can be rented or purchased cheaply for students, with them immersed in this green method of transport through lowered carbon emissions.
- Gateway to Europe
Geographically central, the Netherlands offers quick access to large European cities such as Paris, Berlin, and London through short flights or trains. Discount student travel cards like the OV-Chipkaart enable convenient and affordable exploration of the continent.
- Scholarships and Financial Support
Several funding avenues, such as the Holland Scholarship (€5,000 for non-EU students) reduces the costs of tuition. The universities also collaborate with businesses to provide industry-specific grants, specifically in the fields of STEM.
- High Quality of Life
Placed among the world’s happiest nations, the Netherlands leads the way in safety, healthcare, and work-life balance. With energetic King’s Day festivities to peaceful canal-side cafes, students live a rich life infused with Dutch culture and contemporary comforts.
Selecting the Netherlands as a study location unites academic distinction with cultural enrichment, professional opportunity, and the highest quality of life. Irrespective of attraction to innovative curricula, sustainable living, or the cultural diversity of Europe, students will benefit from a hospitable learning environment that cultivates personal and professional development. For those willing to take the leap, the Netherlands offers an unforgettable academic experience.