Study in Netherlands: Universities, Eligibility, Deadlines, and Application Guide
Updated on 21 May, 2025
Shivangi Mishra
Sr. Content Editor
)Study in Netherlands for Indian students is a direct pathway to quality education. The country now has over 15% international students—higher than USA or Germany. Dutch universities offer structured, industry-aligned programs taught in English, with flexible intake options.
Indian students can apply after Class 12 or graduation. Many public universities accept 3-year bachelor’s degrees for PG courses in Netherlands for Indian graduates. Others offer entry to English-taught bachelor programs in Netherlands without mandatory IELTS. Most institutions provide transparent Netherlands student visa requirements for Indian students, and scholarships are available based on merit and need.
This blogs explains how to study in Netherlands after 12th, top-ranked universities, eligibility, deadlines, and the full application process for 2025.
Exploring your study abroad options? These global programs and universities are often considered:
Also comparing universities outside Europe?
Considering alternative postgrad tracks?
Table of Contents
- Study in Netherlands for Indian Students
- Types of Programs to Study in Netherlands for International Students
- Best Universities to Study in Netherlands
- Popular Courses to Study in Netherlands
- Eligibility Requirements to Study in Netherlands
- Admission Process to Study in Netherlands
- Intakes for Studying in Netherlands
- Cost of Studying in Netherlands
- Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in Netherlands
- Netherlands Student Visa Process for Indian Students
- Part-Time Work Opportunities While Studying in Netherlands
- Job and PR Options After Studying in Netherlands
- Is Studying in Netherlands Worth It for Indian Students?
The international student population in Dutch universities more than doubled from 2011 to 2022. Their share of total enrollments rose from 5.5% in 2006 to 15% in 2022, outpacing domestic growth.
Understand your options:
Study in Netherlands for Indian Students
| Feature | Details |
| Academic Year | September intake; some courses start in February |
| Course Duration | Bachelor’s: 3 years, Master’s: 1–2 years |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Top Student Cities | Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Eindhoven, Groningen |
| Tuition Fees (per year) | €6,000–€20,000 (₹5.4L–₹18.3L) |
| Post-Study Visa | 1-year Orientation Year visa |
Check what courses you can apply to:
Types of Programs to Study in Netherlands for International Students
Indian students can choose from a wide range of study options in Netherlands. These include English-taught bachelor programs, PG courses, and research pathways across top Dutch universities and applied sciences institutions. Programs are available in both English and Dutch, but most international students prefer English-medium courses.
Study in Netherlands: Program Options for International Students
| Program Type | Duration | Who It’s For |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 3 years | Students applying after Class 12 |
| Master’s Degree | 1–2 years | Indian graduates applying to PG programs |
| Pre-Master’s Program | 6 months – 1 year | For students needing subject or academic bridging |
| PhD | 4 years | Research-focused students with a master’s degree |
| University of Applied Sciences | 3–4 years | Practical programs in business, tech, health, design |
| Pathway/Foundation Program | 6 months – 1 year | For those who don’t meet direct entry or language criteria |
| Dutch-Taught Programs | Varies | Requires Dutch language proficiency |
| English-Taught Programs | Widely available | Over 2,000 programs at bachelor’s and master’s level |
Most Indian students enrol in English taught bachelor programs in Netherlands or PG courses in Netherlands for Indian graduates. Pathway and pre-master’s options are also available for those who need to meet admission requirements or improve English scores.
Best Universities to Study in Netherlands
Indian students can choose from several top-ranked institutions for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The country has 13+ universities in the QS Top 400 (2025), with strong performance in STEM, business, and research. These universities also offer dedicated international student services, English-taught degrees, and transparent admission policies.
Top-Ranked Dutch Universities for International Students (2025)
| University Name | QS Rank 2025 | Known For |
| Delft University of Technology | 49 | Engineering, Architecture, Technology |
| University of Amsterdam | 55 | Social Sciences, Psychology, Law, Economics |
| Utrecht University | 105 | Public Health, Medicine, Life Sciences |
| Eindhoven University of Technology | 136 | Electrical Engineering, AI, Data Science |
| Leiden University | 141 | Law, Public Policy, Humanities |
| Wageningen University & Research | 155 | Agriculture, Food Science, Environmental Studies |
| Erasmus University Rotterdam | 158 | Business, Economics, Management |
| University of Groningen | 159 | Medicine, Economics, International Relations |
| Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam | 221 | Neuroscience, Environmental Law, Psychology |
| Maastricht University | 230 | Law, Public Health, Liberal Arts |
Most of these are public institutions and accept applicants for English-taught bachelor programs in Netherlands and PG courses in Netherlands for Indian graduates.
Popular Courses to Study in Netherlands
Courses in engineering, AI, agriculture, and international business offer clear post-study work pathways. Most degrees are English-taught and structured to meet EU employability standards. If you're exploring PG courses in Netherlands for Indian graduates, these subjects align with in-demand global roles.
High-Demand Courses for Indian Students in Netherlands
| Field of Study | Popular Universities | Language of Instruction |
| Engineering & Technology | TU Delft, Eindhoven, Twente | English |
| Data Science & AI | Utrecht, Leiden, Amsterdam | English |
| Agriculture & Environment | Wageningen, Groningen | English |
| International Business | Erasmus, Maastricht, Amsterdam | English |
| Law & Public Policy | Leiden, Maastricht, Tilburg | English or Bilingual |
| Economics & Finance | Erasmus, Tilburg, Vrije Universiteit | English |
| Psychology | University of Amsterdam, Groningen | English |
| Design & Creative Studies | TU Delft, HKU Utrecht, ArtEZ | English or Dutch |
Most courses are available through best universities in Netherlands for international students, with options to study in Netherlands without IELTS in select cases using MOI or alternate scores.
Eligibility Requirements to Study in Netherlands
Eligibility for Indian students depends on the course level, academic background, and language readiness. Most English-taught bachelor programs in Netherlands accept students directly after Class 12. PG courses in Netherlands for Indian graduates usually require a 3-year or 4-year bachelor's degree. IELTS or TOEFL is required for most programs unless the university waives it based on previous education in English.
Eligibility Criteria to Study in Netherlands
| Requirement Type | Undergraduate Courses | Postgraduate Courses |
| Academic Qualification | Class 12 (CBSE, ICSE, State Boards) with 60%+ | Bachelor's degree (3 or 4 years) with minimum 6.5 CGPA |
| Subject Prerequisites | Science, Commerce, or Humanities (as per program) | UG in relevant field (e.g., CS for MSc Computer Science) |
| English Proficiency | IELTS 6.0–6.5 or TOEFL iBT 80+ | IELTS 6.5–7.0 or TOEFL iBT 90+ |
| Dutch Language | Not required for English-taught programs | Only needed for Dutch-taught degrees |
| Age Limit | Minimum 17 years by course start | No official upper limit |
Some universities may accept students for study in Netherlands without IELTS, but only if you provide a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate or meet other criteria.
Admission Process to Study in Netherlands
The admission process for Indian students involves choosing the right course, submitting documents through the official Dutch application portal (Studielink), and following university-specific timelines. Students applying for the 2025 intake should track Netherlands application deadlines and start early to improve their chances.
Step-by-Step Application Process for Indian Students
| Step | What to Do |
| Select Programs & Courses | Choose from UG or PG programs at top Dutch universities |
| Check Eligibility | Confirm subject background, GPA, and English score requirements |
| Create Studielink Account | Register on www.studielink.nl |
| Upload Required Documents | Passport, transcripts, SOP, resume, LORs, English test score |
| Pay Application Fees | €50–€100 per university (approx. ₹4,500–₹9,000) |
| Wait for Conditional Offer | Review decision timeline (usually 4–6 weeks) |
| Confirm Admission | Accept offer, pay deposit, and prepare for visa process |
For how to study in Netherlands after 12th, students should shortlist English-taught UG programs that match their academic stream. PG courses in Netherlands for Indian graduates often open early for Fall intake and may close by March–May 2025.
Figure out your application timeline and financial planning:
Intakes for Studying in Netherlands
Dutch universities follow two major admission cycles. The September intake is the primary session, open for most English-taught bachelor programs in Netherlands and postgraduate courses. The February intake is limited to select programs at a few universities. Indian students should apply at least 10–12 months in advance, especially if they’re planning to apply for scholarships or need time for visa processing.
Netherlands Application Deadlines for 2025
| Intake | Application Window | Courses Available |
| September 2025 | October 2024 – May 2025 | UG and PG across all major disciplines |
| February 2025 | June – October 2024 | Limited PG diplomas and Master’s programs |
Deadlines vary across institutions. Some best universities in Netherlands for international students like Leiden, Utrecht, and Groningen close applications as early as January. Always check the university’s official Studielink page for course-specific dates.
Cost of Studying in Netherlands
The cost of studying in Netherlands for Indian students depends on tuition, city, and lifestyle. Public universities charge lower fees compared to private ones. Amsterdam and Rotterdam have higher living costs than student towns like Groningen or Wageningen. Most international students spend €10,000–€15,000 (₹9.2L–₹13.8L) annually on living expenses. Working part-time can help recover some costs.
Estimated Yearly Cost for Indian Students
| Expense Category | Cost Range (EUR) | INR Equivalent (Approx.) |
| Tuition – Public Univ. | €6,000–€12,000 | ₹5.4L – ₹11L |
| Tuition – Private Univ. | €15,000–€20,000 | ₹13.8L – ₹18.3L |
| Living Costs | €800–€1,200/month | ₹73K – ₹1.1L/month |
| Health Insurance | €500–€700/year | ₹46K – ₹64K |
| Study Materials | €300–€500/year | ₹27K – ₹45K |
| Total Annual Cost | €12,000–€25,000 | ₹11L – ₹22.9L |
Part-Time Work Income
| Work Option | Hours/Week | Avg. Monthly Earning (EUR) |
| On-Campus/Off-Campus | 16 | €600–€800 (₹55K–₹73K) |
Part-time jobs help students manage personal expenses but may not fully cover tuition. Many PG courses in Netherlands for Indian graduates also include internships, reducing the cost of final semesters.
Estimate your living and academic expenses:
Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in Netherlands
Several government and university-level scholarships help Indian students reduce the cost of studying in Netherlands. These scholarships support both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees across public institutions. Awards are typically merit-based and cover tuition waivers, monthly stipends, or partial living costs. Students applying early have higher chances of receiving funding.
Scholarships for Indian Students in Netherlands
| Scholarship Name | What It Covers | Key Eligibility Criteria |
| Holland Scholarship | €5,000 for the first year | For non-EEA students applying to bachelor’s/master’s |
| Orange Tulip Scholarship | Partial/Full tuition waiver | Indian students with academic merit and program fit |
| Erasmus+ | Tuition + monthly stipend for exchange/study | For PG students enrolled in joint or dual degree programs |
| University Merit Awards | 10–50% fee waivers | Offered by top public universities based on GPA and SOP |
| Research Assistantships | Tuition offset + stipend (PG only) | For students joining research-led PG courses in Netherlands |
Some best universities in Netherlands for international students, like TU Delft, Leiden, and Maastricht, offer course-specific scholarships. These must be applied for separately, often before university admission is confirmed.
Wondering what comes after your degree?
Netherlands Student Visa Process for Indian Students
Students accepted into a full-time academic program must apply for both the MVV (long-stay entry visa) and residence permit. Universities usually apply for the visa on your behalf through the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). You’ll need to show financial proof, valid health insurance, and academic admission to qualify.
Netherlands Student Visa Requirements for Indian Students
| Step | What You Need to Do |
| Receive Admission Offer | Confirm admission to a DLI (Designated Learning Institution) |
| University Applies to IND | University submits MVV + residence permit request on your behalf |
| Submit Visa Documents | Passport, photos, offer letter, birth certificate, academic docs |
| Financial Proof | Show funds of €12,000+ (approx. ₹11 lakhs) for 1 year stay |
| Health Insurance | Mandatory policy covering entire stay |
| Biometric Appointment | Attend biometrics at VFS Netherlands |
| Visa Fees | €210 (approx. ₹19,000), non-refundable |
| Processing Time | 2–4 weeks after IND receives complete application |
Students applying for the September 2025 intake should begin visa preparation by April–May 2025. All documents must be in English or Dutch, and certified as per IND rules.
Part-Time Work Opportunities While Studying in Netherlands
Indian students can work part-time for up to 16 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during June, July, and August. To work legally, your Dutch employer must apply for a work permit (TWV) on your behalf. This is mandatory even for basic student jobs. Registration with the Dutch tax office (BSN) is also required before starting work.
Overview of Part-Time Jobs in Netherlands for Indian Students
| Work Rule/Category | Details |
| Allowed Weekly Hours | 16 hrs (term); full-time in summer |
| Work Permit Requirement | Employer must obtain TWV before hiring |
| Common Jobs | Supermarkets, cafes, delivery, research assistant roles |
| Average Hourly Wage | €8–€12/hour (₹730–₹1,100) |
| BSN Registration | Mandatory for income tax and salary processing |
| Tax Refund Eligibility | Yes, if income falls below the taxable threshold |
Students enrolled in English taught bachelor programs in Netherlands or PG courses in Netherlands for Indian graduates can legally work if enrolled full-time at a DLI (Designated Learning Institution).
Job and PR Options After Studying in Netherlands
Graduates can stay back in Netherlands under the Orientation Year Visa (zoekjaar) for 12 months to look for full-time work. After receiving a job offer, you can switch to the Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) Visa if your employer meets IND salary criteria. Most Indian graduates from STEM and business programs find jobs in tech, engineering, analytics, and logistics.
Post-Study Work and PR Pathways in Netherlands
| Stage | Option and Duration | Notes |
| After Graduation | 1-year Orientation Visa (zoekjaar) | No employer sponsorship needed |
| Work Permit | Highly Skilled Migrant Visa | Employer must be IND-recognised sponsor |
| PR Eligibility | After 5 years of legal stay | Includes study + work years |
| High-Demand Sectors | IT, Data, Engineering, Logistics, Business Management | Strong hiring post-COVID, especially in Amsterdam hub |
Netherlands student visa requirements for Indian students support a clear transition from study to full-time work. After five continuous years (study + work), you can apply for Permanent Residence or long-term EU residency.
Is Studying in Netherlands Worth It for Indian Students?
Yes. Netherlands offers quality education, affordable tuition, and strong job prospects. Degrees are recognised across Europe, and most courses are in English. Indian students can work part-time and stay for a year after graduation to find a job. With scholarships and clear visa rules, it’s a smart and practical choice.
Explore free courses to prepare before applying to Dutch universities
Get free counseling to shortlist universities and navigate the Dutch admissions process
FAQs on Study in Netherlands for Indian Students
Is IELTS mandatory to study in Netherlands?
No. Many universities offer English-taught bachelor programs in Netherlands and accept alternatives like TOEFL, PTE, or even a medium of instruction (MOI) letter. However, study in Netherlands without IELTS is only possible if the university waives the requirement based on your previous education in English.
How much bank balance is required for a Netherlands student visa?
As of 2025, Netherlands student visa requirements for Indian students include proof of funds for tuition and living costs. You must show at least €1,150 per month (approx. ₹1,04,000) for a 12-month stay—plus tuition fee coverage.
Which are the cheapest universities to study in Netherlands for Indian students?
Public universities like Radboud University, University of Twente, and HAN University of Applied Sciences are among the most affordable. These offer PG courses in Netherlands for Indian graduates with annual fees starting around €6,000–€10,000 (₹5.4–₹9 lakhs).
Can I work while studying in Netherlands as an Indian student?
Yes. Indian students can work part-time up to 16 hours per week or full-time during holidays. A work permit (TWV) is required for employers to hire non-EU students.
Do I need Dutch language skills to study in Netherlands?
No. Over 2,000 English-taught programs are available at top universities. But knowing basic Dutch can help in daily life and increase your chances of part-time jobs and internships.
What is Studielink and how does it work?
Studielink is the official application portal for Dutch universities. Students use it to apply to bachelor’s and master’s programs, track deadlines, and submit documents. It’s essential for anyone planning to study in Netherlands for Indian students.
Are scholarships fully funded for Indian students in Netherlands?
Some are. Options like the Holland Scholarship, Orange Tulip Scholarship, and university-specific grants cover tuition and partial living costs. Scholarships for Indian students in Netherlands vary by program and academic profile.
How long does it take to get a Netherlands student visa from India?
The visa processing time is usually 2–4 weeks once the university submits your details to the IND. Always apply at least 2 months before your program starts.
Can I apply to more than one university in Netherlands at the same time?
Yes. Indian students can apply to multiple universities and programs using Studielink. Just ensure you track individual Netherlands application deadlines for 2025, as they vary by university.
Are there Indian student communities in Dutch universities?
Yes. Most universities have Indian student associations or regional groups. They help new students with housing, academics, and social events.
What is the duration of post-study work visa in Netherlands?
You can apply for a one-year orientation year (zoekjaar) visa after graduation. This allows Indian students to stay and look for jobs after completing PG courses in Netherlands for Indian graduates.
Can I switch from a Dutch language course to a full-time degree later?
Yes, but you must meet academic and visa requirements for the new program. Your residence permit will also need to be updated accordingly.
What’s the average salary after studying in Netherlands?
Graduates earn between €2,500–€3,500/month (₹2.3–₹3.2 lakhs) depending on the field. STEM and business graduates from the best universities in Netherlands for international students often earn more.
Is accommodation easy to find near Dutch universities?
Student housing is limited in cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht. It's best to apply early or look for private rentals. Many universities offer housing support to international students.
What support services are available for Indian students in Netherlands?
Most universities provide visa help, career counseling, mental health support, and international student offices to help with transition, housing, and academics.
Exams to Study Abroad
IELTS ExamGRE ExamGMAT ExamTOEFL ExamSAT ExamTop Study Abroad Destinations
USAGermanyUKCanadaAustraliaImportant Resources
Statement of PurposeWhat is SGPABest Education System in the WorldBest Flying School in the WorldVidya Lakshmi PortalCanada vs IndiaStem Courses in USAMBA from AbroadErasmus Mundus ScholarshipGuide to Settle in EuropeRefer Your Friend & Earn upto ₹40000
Help your friend upgrade to a Global Career and earn rewards together.
Similar Articles
