What are the best universities in the Netherlands?

How to Apply to a University in the Netherlands

Netherlands universities stand out on the global stage for their high-quality education, cutting-edge research, and multicultural learning environments. With a strong emphasis on innovation and critical thinking, these institutions offer a wide range of academic programs taught in English, making them accessible to international students from diverse backgrounds. Moreover, the Netherlands boasts a well-developed infrastructure, excellent public transportation, and a high standard of living, providing students with a conducive environment for both academic and personal growth.

In addition to academic excellence, studying in Netherlands universities offers students the opportunity to immerse themselves in Dutch culture and society. Furthermore, the country's progressive policies, such as its commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, make it an ideal destination for those seeking a forward-thinking and socially conscious academic experience.

How to Apply to Universities in the Netherlands

Applying to universities in the Netherlands typically involves several steps. Here's a general guide to help you through the process:

Research: Start by researching the universities and programs that interest you. Look at their websites to find information about admission requirements, deadlines, and application procedures.
Choose Programs: Select the programs you wish to apply for. Make sure they align with your academic interests, career goals, and qualifications.
Check Admission Requirements: Each program may have different admission requirements, so carefully review them. This could include academic transcripts, standardized test scores (such as the SAT or ACT), language proficiency tests (such as IELTS or TOEFL for non-native English speakers), letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
Language Proficiency: If your chosen program is taught in Dutch, you may need to demonstrate proficiency in the Dutch language. If it's taught in English, you'll likely need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency.
Prepare Required Documents: Gather all necessary documents for your application. These may include transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, a CV or resume, and a personal statement.
Submit Application: Complete the application form and upload all required documents. Ensure that you provide accurate information and meet all deadlines.
Attend Interviews (if required): Some programs may require an interview as part of the application process. Prepare for these interviews in advance.
Wait for Admission Decision: After submitting your application, wait for the university to review it. Admission decisions may take several weeks or months, depending on the program and university.

Application Deadlines

The application deadlines for universities in the Netherlands that are open to foreign students are different based on the university and the program that they are interested in. However, the deadline for applications to the majority of colleges is May 1st for admission in September. Other universities admit students in February, with the application deadline being October 1st. To be able to apply to universities in the Netherlands, international students are required to meet certain academic and language requirements. Although these requirements may vary depending on the university and the program, general admission requirements may be summarized as follows;

Admission Requirements - Academic (Bachelor’s Degree)

European Baccalaureate (EB) (for direct admission application)
or
International Baccalaureate (IB) (for direct admission application)
or
ABITUR (for direct admission application)
or
Certificate of Secondary Education
- Please note that a certificate of secondary education awarded by an institution in a non-EU/EEA country requires an equivalency review by the relevant authorities in the Netherlands.

Please bear in mind that international students who are going to apply to programs that are directly or indirectly related to the fields of medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, civil engineering, industrial engineering, bioengineering, mathematics, physics and pharmaceutics are required to apply and take the relevant exams administered by the government of the Netherlands.

Admission Requirements - Academic (Master’s Degree)

Bachelor’s Degree (of a 3 or 4-year undergraduate program)
High-Grade Point Average
To have accumulated at least 180 ECTS course credits during your university studies

Please note that you may be asked to submit GRE or GMAT test scores depending on the admission requirements specific to the program you are applying to.

Admission Requirements - Language

Certificate of Proficiency in English (for programs taught in English)
- You will be asked to submit the scores of at least one of the internationally recognized proficiency tests like IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, CAE, CPE, etc.
Certificate of Proficiency in Dutch (for programs taught in Dutch)
- You will either be asked to submit the scores of a Dutch proficiency test or to take proficiency tests like ITNA or STRT administered by language centers and institutes of Dutch universities.

Top Universities in the Netherlands

University of Amsterdam - Amsterdam, Netherlands
Delft University of Technology - Delft, Netherlands
Utrecht University - Utrecht, Netherlands
Wageningen University & Research - Wageningen, Netherlands
Leiden University - Leiden, Netherlands
Eindhoven University of Technology - Eindhoven, Netherlands
University of Groningen - Groningen, Netherlands
Erasmus University Rotterdam - Rotterdam, Netherlands
University of Twente - Enschede, Netherlands
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam - Amsterdam, Netherlands

Frequently Asked Questions About How to Apply to a University in the Netherlands

University of Amsterdam - Amsterdam, Netherlands Delft University of Technology - Delft, Netherlands Utrecht University - Utrecht, Netherlands Wageningen University & Research - Wageningen, Netherlands Leiden University - Leiden, Netherlands Eindhoven University of Technology - Eindhoven, Netherlands University of Groningen - Groningen, Netherlands Erasmus University Rotterdam - Rotterdam, Netherlands University of Twente - Enschede, Netherlands Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam - Amsterdam, Netherlands