NETHERLANDS

Holland is a small country in Western Europe with a rich cultural heritage, excellent higher education, and open-minded and pioneering people. Despite its relatively small area of just over 41,000 square kilometers, it is home to more than 17 million people.

Exploring the rest of Europe from Holland is quite easy. Not only is it convenient to visit neighboring countries like Germany and Belgium, but the country also has good connections to all major European capitals. You can easily travel to Paris, London, or Copenhagen by bus or train, or take a short flight to visit Barcelona.

NETHERLANDS SOCIETY

Holland has an international social structure. Since the 17th century, major Dutch cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and even Groningen have become international trade centers, creating a melting pot of diverse nationalities.

This international character means that the Dutch are generally tolerant and open-minded when it comes to different cultures and beliefs. This is evident in their ways of interacting with each other: You are free to express your opinion and speak your mind. People expressing their ideas directly may come across as assertive to you, but it is a common practice in the Netherlands. You will need to adapt to this.

Holland follows a consensus-based social and economic policy. We call it the "polder model." This means that everyone should be able to voice their opinions on important decisions and negotiations should continue until an agreement is reached that satisfies everyone.

TOP 5 REASONS TO STUDY IN THE NETHERLANDS

1. A Wide Range of English Programs

Dutch universities are among the largest providers of English-taught programs in Continental Europe. Approximately 2,000 programs are taught entirely in English. Additionally, 95% of Dutch people speak English, making it easy to communicate in daily life.

2. Quality Education for Your Money

The quality of higher education in the Netherlands is widely recognized as being excellent. Tuition fees and cost of living are significantly lower compared to English-speaking countries. Additionally, there are numerous scholarship opportunities available. The Dutch teaching style is interactive and student-centered, allowing you to develop valuable skills such as analysis, practical problem-solving, and creative thinking.

3. Greater International Community

Many international students in the Netherlands come from over 160 different countries. Dutch society is diverse and inclusive, with other cultures becoming an integral part of business, society, and local life. The Dutch are open-minded and direct, making it easy to meet and engage in discussions with them.

4. A Great Place To Live

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. You can learn more about the high quality of life in the Netherlands through the OECD's Better Life Index.

With its historic cities and the highest museum density in the world, the Netherlands has a rich history. Additionally, 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

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

The Dutch government aims to retain talent who have completed their education in the Netherlands. International graduates can apply for an orientation year, which is a one-year residence permit that allows them to search for employment or start a business within three years after graduation.

GENERAL LIVING EXPENSES

Housing

The average monthly cost of a room in the Netherlands ranges from €300 to €600. The expenses depend on the city where you study, what is included in the rent, and the regulations set by the institution. For example, housing in Amsterdam is more expensive compared to smaller towns like Enschede. Prices in student dormitories vary based on the university and the city, but they are generally more affordable.

Eating and drinking

Most higher education institutions offer affordable hot meals. In all cities, you can find bars called "eetcafés" where you can have a good meal at a reasonable price. You will find numerous foreign restaurants in big cities as well. However, the most cost-effective way of eating is to cook your own meals.

Some average prices:

A cup of coffee/tea at a café: €3.00

Cheese sandwich: €4.00

Dinner at a typical student restaurant: €12.50

BACHELOR IN APPLIED SCIENCES UNIVERSITIES

You can enroll in undergraduate programs in various fields such as economics, health, fine arts, agriculture, and more at applied sciences universities. In each discipline, there are a wide range of programs, the content of which may vary between institutions.

Applied sciences universities have a great deal of freedom in determining the content and structure of their programs. This has led to the initiation of honors programs for major and minor subjects and dual programs where you study for a period and then work for a period. Most undergraduate programs start with a general introduction to the program called "propedeuse" in the first year, followed by the three-year main education stage.

The focus of the programs is to provide you with the skills and competencies necessary for a specific job in a particular field. This means that in addition to classroom education, you will gain practical, hands-on experience by working on projects and group assignments. After completing your undergraduate degree, you can enroll in a master's program or start working in your field of expertise.

Research-oriented universities

At research universities, you can enroll in undergraduate programs in various disciplines such as economics, behavioral and social sciences, language and culture, engineering/technology, natural sciences, law, or medical sciences. You can also choose an interdisciplinary program in liberal arts, which is offered by various university colleges across the country.

The aim of research-oriented undergraduate programs is to prepare you for both employment and further education and to teach you the academic and scientific skills associated with a traditional, academic university program. The content of the programs can range from broad and comprehensive to highly specialized. In some institutions, you are required to complete both a major and a minor subject. In almost all undergraduate programs, you will have to take a research methodology course and complete a bachelor's thesis. After completing your undergraduate education, you can continue with your master's education or start working in your field of expertise.

Language Requirements

Having good English skills is important, and it is often required to have passed an English language exam. IELTS and TOEFL are internationally recognized English language exams and are accepted by many institutions. However, some institutions may also accept different exams, such as Cambridge English exams. It is important to check which exams your intended university or institution accepts. Your exam results are an important factor in the admission evaluation process.

Required points

TOEFL: at least 550
IELTS: at least 6

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