Two kinds of university
Research universities focus on academic and research-oriented degrees. Universities of applied sciences focus on professional, practice-based degrees. Check which type fits your goal.
Study in the Netherlands
Study in the Netherlands in English, with the details checked.
The Netherlands has one of the largest selections of English-taught degrees in continental Europe, especially at master’s level. EduPilot helps you compare Dutch programs against your profile and prepare your application documents.
Official-source checksProgram-level matchingBudget-aware searchYou submit your own application
What to know about studying in the Netherlands
Rules and amounts change, and each university sets its own requirements. Use this as a starting point, then confirm details on the official pages linked below. Last reviewed October 2026.
English-taught programs
Most master’s programs are taught in English. Rules on English-taught bachelor’s programs have been under political review, so confirm the teaching language of each program.
How you apply
Most programs are registered through Studielink, then completed in the university’s own application system. Deadlines for non-EU applicants are often earlier than for EU applicants.
Visa and residence permit
Non-EU students usually need an entry visa (MVV) and a study residence permit. The university applies for these on your behalf after you are admitted and have paid.
Tuition
Non-EU students pay the institutional fee set by each university, which is higher than the statutory fee for EU students and varies by program.
After graduation
Eligible graduates can apply for the orientation year (zoekjaar hoogopgeleiden), a residence permit to look for work or start a business.
How to apply, step by step
- Shortlist programs and check whether each one is at a research university or a university of applied sciences.
- Confirm teaching language, entry requirements and the non-EU deadline.
- Register in Studielink and complete the university’s own application.
- Accept your offer and pay the tuition or deposit the university requests.
- Send the documents your university needs for its MVV and residence-permit application.
- Find housing early. Student housing is scarce in many Dutch cities.
How EduPilot helps with the Netherlands
Start from your real background
Add your field, degree level, grades, budget and target intake, and choose the Netherlands as your destination.
Compare specific Dutch programs
Review program matches with the official university sources attached, so you can check requirements, deadlines and costs yourself.
Build your application documents
Prepare a CV, statement of purpose and checklist from facts you have reviewed, then submit through the university’s own process.
Official sources
Compare other destinations
Frequently asked questions
Can I study in English in the Netherlands?
Yes, especially at master’s level. Bachelor’s programs are more often taught in Dutch, so check the language of each program.
Who applies for my Dutch residence permit?
For most non-EU students, the university applies to the immigration service on your behalf once you are admitted and have met its payment conditions.
Does EduPilot guarantee admission to a Dutch university?
No. Universities decide on admission. EduPilot helps with research and application preparation only.
Does EduPilot guarantee admission or a visa?
No. Universities decide on admission and immigration authorities decide on visas. EduPilot helps with research and application preparation only.
Start your the Netherlands university search.
Build your study profile, compare specific programs and prepare an application pack you review before submitting.
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