Study in Netherlands for Indian Students : Top Universities, Courses, Costs, Scholarships & Placements

Netherlands has become one of the most preferred countries for Indian students who wish to study abroad, with more than 10,000 Indian students already studying in the top universities for bachelors and masters degrees in Netherlands. There are more than 30 universities and colleges in Netherlands that offer English-taught undergraduate and postgraduate courses for international students. 

The approximate tuition fee range to study in the Netherlands is €6,000 to €20,000  per year for undergraduate students and €8,000 to €25,000+ per year for postgraduate MA, MD, MS programs and MBA programs in Netherlands. The cost of living in the Netherlands may range from €800 to €1,500 per month, including accommodations, groceries, transportation, and other basic expenses. 

The Indian students have an option to study in the Netherlands, by applying to the Dutch universities through bachelor's or master's programs, which are usually taught in English in popular fields like engineering, business, humanities, sciences, data science and life sciences. To be admitted, one has to satisfy academic requirements, submit such documents as transcripts and a statement of purpose and the scores of English language proficiency tests (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL). Students need to seek a student visa (MVV) and a residence permit, as well. 

The table below shows a quick overview of studying in the Netherlands:

Why Should You Study in Netherlands?

Here are some important reasons to study your selected course in the Netherlands:

• High-quality, globally recognized education with many top-ranked universities, strong research output, and innovative, practical teaching methods.
• The wide availability of English-taught programs and a highly English-proficient population make it easy for international students to study and live in the country.
• Affordable tuition and living costs compared to other major English-speaking study destinations, along with a safe, welcoming, and multicultural environment.
• Strong career prospects through internationally valued degrees, part-time work options, and post-study work opportunities.
• Vibrant student life and a central European location, offering rich cultural experiences and convenient travel opportunities.

Popular English-taught Courses in Netherlands

For Indian Students to pursue education in the Netherlands, knowing English-taught courses in the top universities of the Netherlands is important. Here is a list of courses and subjects under various fields which are offered in the Netherlands: 

Business and Economics

• Business Administration
• Finance and Economics
• Accounting, Banking, and Management
• Entrepren€ship 

Engineering and Technology

• Computer Science and IT
• Mechanical, Civil, and Electrical Engineering
• Data Science and Engineering
• Aerospace and Biomedical Engineering
• Environmental and Industrial Engineering
• Robotics and AI
• Energy and Power Engineering 

Social Sciences and Arts

• International Relations
• Urban Planning and Architecture
• Psychology
• Fine Arts and Visual Communication
• Graphic Design and Interior Architecture
• Journalism and Media Studies 

Other Popular Fields

• Environmental Science
• Healthcare and Biotechnology
• Agricultural and Food Sciences
• Project Management 

Top Destination to Study in Netherlands

Here is a list of top destinations in the Netherlands with a high acceptance rate and affordable expenses: 

• Amsterdam
• Utrecht
• Rotterdam
• Groningen 
• Leiden 
• Delft

Admission Intakes for Netherlands Universities

Universities in the Netherlands offer two major intakes for international students: September (Fall) and February (Spring). The September intake is the primary and most popular one, offering the widest choice of programs and better scholarship opportunities.

What is the Application Process to Study in Netherlands?

Here are the steps you should follow for a smooth admission process to study in the Netherlands:

• Prepare your application: Choose your program and university, check requirements, gather documents (transcripts, passport, SOP, LORs), and take required tests like IELTS/TOEFL or GMAT/GRE.
• Apply through Studielink & university portals: Create a Studielink account, fill in details, submit documents, and complete any additional steps or forms required by the university.
• Receive admission & start visa process: After getting your offer letter, apply for the MVV (entry visa) through the IND, including proof of funds, insurance, and required documents.
• Complete biometrics & travel: Attend a biometrics appointment in your home country, wait for approval, and then travel to the Netherlands once your MVV is issued.
• After arrival: Register with the IND, obtain your residence permit, and then begin your studies.

What Documents are Required for Admissions in Netherlands?

Below are the points of documents required for admission in the Netherlands. Candidates must keep these documents ready at the time of admission.

Academic & Personal Documents

• Valid passport
• Academic transcripts and certificates (school/college diplomas)
• Language proficiency scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE or NT2)
• Motivation letter / Personal statement
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Passport-sized photographs
• Birth certificate

Application & Financial Documents

• Completed university application form
• University admission/offer letter
• Proof of financial means
• Proof of application fee payment
• Proof of health insurance
• Letters of recommendation

Visa-Related Documents (For non-EU/EEA students)

• Completed student visa (MVV) application form
• Proof of financial means (again required for visa)
• Proof of accommodation in the Netherlands
• Travel medical insurance
• Official translations of documents (if required)

What Entrance Exams are Required to Study in Netherlands?

The table below elucidates the exams required for admission to study in the Netherlands, including the English Proficiency Tests, program-specific exams, etc. 

IELTS/TOEFL Tips

• To study in Netherlands, Indian students need to qualify for English proficiency through IELTS or TOEFL.
• The minimum IELTS mark is generally 6.0, with no band less than 6.0.
• For TOEFL, a minimum mark of 80 on the iBT is often needed. 

IELTS/TOEFL Scores

Study in Netherlands: Visa Application Process

Step 1: Get admitted and prepare documents

• Accept your university admission and keep the offer letter safe.
• Gather all required documents such as passport, transcripts, diplomas, birth certificate, proof of funds, and language test scores.
• Prepare extra documents like passport-sized photos, proof of accommodation, health insurance, and a study plan if needed.

Step 2: University applies for your visa

• Pay the visa and application fees as instructed by the university
• The university submits your MVV (entry visa) and residence permit application to the IND.
• Wait for confirmation from the university about the submission.

Step 3: Attend your appointment at the embassy

• Book an embassy or consulate appointment once you receive instructions.
• Visit the embassy, provide biometrics (photo and fingerprints), and submit your passport.
• Provide any extra documents requested such as a tuberculosis test certificate.

Step 4: Receive your MVV and travel

• Get your MVV sticker in your passport once it is approved.
• Travel to the Netherlands within the 90-day MVV validity period.

Step 5: Collect residence permit and register

• Visit the IND office in the Netherlands to collect your residence permit.
• Register your local address with the municipality (BRP).
• Complete any remaining requirements, like confirming your health insurance.

Visa Timeline for Netherlands

Standard processing times

• Short-stay (Schengen) visa: 15-30 calendar days. In some cases, this can be extended to 60 days, and the processing can take up to 15 working days with some carriers.
• MVV (Entry visa) sticker: 10 working days.
• Short-stay Caribbean visa and Entry visa: 15 calendar days.