MASTER'S IN THE NETHERLANDS

If you have a foreign diploma and want to study in the Netherlands, there are a few things you need to know. It's possible that your diploma may not be recognized in the Netherlands. Additionally, you may need to have certain documents in order to be eligible for education in the Netherlands.

The university you choose in the Netherlands will likely require more information about your foreign diploma. Therefore, it's important to learn about their specific requirements. For example, they may ask for a translation of your diploma or additional documentation. Start your application process early and plan ahead to avoid any unpleasant surprises later on.

Evaluation of Your Foreign Qualification

Qualification assessment is the process of comparing your qualifications and education to the standards set by the Dutch education system. It determines how your qualifications and education align with the established standards in the Netherlands. This assessment helps a Dutch educational institution determine whether you meet their admission requirements.

Legalization of Your Diploma

When studying in the Netherlands, the university you choose will typically require you to submit a diploma. To make your diploma usable in the Netherlands, you need to legalize it by an authorized body in your home country. This process involves adding a stamp or sticker called an "apostille" to your diploma or certificate, which verifies its authenticity. The diploma needs to be authenticated in the country where it was issued.

5 good reasons to study in the Netherlands

1. A wide variety of English programs

Netherlands universities rank among the countries with the highest number of English-taught programs in continental Europe. Approximately 2,000 programs are fully taught in English.

Furthermore, 95% of the Netherlands population speaks English, making it much easier for you to communicate in daily life.

2. A good education for your money

The quality of higher education in the Netherlands is well-known. Tuition fees and living costs are significantly lower compared to English-speaking countries. Additionally, there are many scholarship opportunities available for international students.

The English teaching style in the Netherlands is interactive and student-centered. You will develop valuable skills such as analysis, practical problem-solving, and creative thinking.

3. Great international community

Many international students in the Netherlands come from over 160 different countries. Dutch society is diverse and inclusive, with strong connections to other cultures, the business world, and the global community. The Dutch are open-minded and direct, making it easy to meet and engage with them for exchange of ideas.

4. A great place to live

Compared to other countries in the Better Life Index, the Netherlands performs well in many dimensions of well-being. It excels in areas such as work-life balance, education, environmental quality, social life, civic engagement, safety, and life satisfaction.

The Netherlands is considered one of the world's safest countries, according to the 2018 Global Peace Index, and it ranks among the top 10 happiest countries worldwide. It is also among the top 10 countries with a Better Life Index score of 7.5, surpassing the OECD average of 6.7.

Having a good education and skills are important requirements for finding employment, and in the Netherlands, around 81% of adults between the ages of 25 and 64 have completed secondary education, which is above the OECD average of 79%.

In terms of employment, approximately 78% of people between the ages of 15 and 64 in the Netherlands have paid jobs, surpassing the OECD employment average of 66%.

The Netherlands has a rich history with its historic cities and the highest density of museums in the world.

Moreover, the Netherlands serves as a gateway to Europe! You can reach Paris in just three hours, while London and Berlin are only a five to six-hour train ride away.

5. Excellent career opportunities

Indeed, the Netherlands is the world's 18th largest economy. Some of the largest multinational companies in the world, such as Philips, Heineken, KLM, Shell, ING, and Unilever, are Dutch. The Netherlands is a global leader in various areas of expertise, including agriculture, water management, art and design, logistics, and sustainable energy.

The Dutch government aims to attract knowledge and retain talent. International graduates can apply for an orientation year, which is a one-year residence permit to find employment or start a business within three years after graduation. This allows international graduates to explore job opportunities and contribute to the Dutch workforce.

Study and Cost of Living in the Netherlands

Holland uses the Euro (€) as its currency.

If you are from a country outside the EU/EEA region, you can expect to pay between €8,000 and €20,000 per year for a postgraduate course. If you choose to attend a private higher education institution, you will generally have to pay higher fees, whether you are an EU/EEA or international student.

Your cost of living will depend on where you live in the Netherlands. Major cities will generally be more expensive compared to small towns and villages. On average, you should budget between €500 and €1,500 per month for accommodation, transportation, meals, and other living expenses. Many bars, restaurants, and tourist attractions offer student discounts when you present your student card from your institution. Additionally, you can register for an International Student Identity Card (valid worldwide) or a CJP discount card (valid only in the Netherlands) to access further discounts.

Food

Most higher education institutions offer affordable meals. In all cities, you will find bars (called eetcafés) where you can have a good meal at a reasonable price. In major cities, there are also numerous foreign restaurants available. However, the cheapest way to eat is by cooking your own meals.

Here are some average prices:

A cup of coffee/tea in a café: €3.00

Cheese sandwich: €4.00

Dinner at a typical student restaurant: €12.50

Public transport

You can easily get around the city by bicycle. This is not only typical for the Netherlands but also an affordable mode of transportation. Bus tickets are around €2 for a single fare within the city. You can purchase a discount card for train tickets, which offers a 40% discount for travel outside peak hours.

Application fees

Some institutions in the Netherlands require non-EU students or students who have not previously studied in the Netherlands to pay an application fee or processing fee when applying for a study program. These fees typically range from €75 to €100.

Although the language requirements vary according to the university, in general;

Holland is a country known for its linguistic diversity, with many different languages spoken and understood. Many universities in the Netherlands offer their education in both Dutch and English. If English is not your first language, you will need to demonstrate your language proficiency. Most Dutch universities accept IELTS or TOEFL certificates as proof of English language proficiency.

Here are the English language requirements:

• IELTS overall band score of 6 or higher
• IELTS speaking section score of 6 or higher
• TOEFL score of 550 or higher

Even if you are able to study in English, it is still beneficial to learn as much Dutch as possible. It is a great way to communicate with the local people and fellow students, and it can make your life in the Netherlands easier. It is also a valuable skill to have on your resume/CV, as it demonstrates your adaptability and language proficiency.

Master's programs

You can see our selection of all Master's programs taught in English by Dutch universities, including tuition fees and admission requirements.

Apart from these sections, you can contact us for different sections.