The Netherlands is a costly place to study and live in, however, you’ll be surprised that some Dutch universities offer low tuition rates for international students. It might not considered “cheap” for most, but, compared to some private universities in the country, public universities offer relatively lower tuition rates.
Let’s take a look at some of the affordable universities in the Netherlands.
Affordable Schools in the Netherlands for International Students
1. Utrecht University
Ranked one of the top universities for research and technology, Utrecht University is separated into seven different departments and three distinct institutes. Because of its quality education, many of its graduates have earned Nobel Prizes for their contributions to society.
In addition, its high-quality education has been combined with innovative lecturers and mentors; thus making the education at Utrecht University more attractive to international students than ever before. Not only does it have a diverse community of students, but Utrecht University furthers cultural growth by having a diverse community of teachers as well.
2. Delft University of Technology
Also known as TU Delft, the Delft University of Technology is another affordable university in the Netherlands for international students. It is also the largest technical university in the Netherlands, specifically designed to train students in engineering. Similar to Utrecht University, TU Delft combines research, innovation, and technology to produce state-of-the-art inventions, and it continues to challenge its students to aim for something higher.
Because of its sole focus on engineering, many types of undergraduate programs are mostly engineering programs, and it has an entire 16 programs that are solely dedicated to teaching engineering. Not only are these courses offered in the Netherlands, but you can also receive this education by signing up for online classes.
3. University of Amsterdam
Ranked in the top 100 universities, the University of Amsterdam offers low tuition for international students since it is funded by the government. In addition to its low prices, Amsterdam is a great place to live, and it is one of the safest places to live in Europe.
Amsterdam also has a rich history of battles with the Spaniards, and some of the ancient buildings from that time remain in the beautiful city. Even though it might contain some old buildings, many research centers in Amsterdam contain state-of-the-art technology that can do some serious research.
4. University of Groningen
Having an unusual name, the University of Groningen shows us that it is proud to be in the world’s top 100 universities. This type of ranking is due to its strong collaboration in international partnerships and organizations that allow a huge amount of benefits to their international universities and the University of Groningen itself.
Allowing for innovative ideas and taking advantage of them, the University of Groningen continues to open its doors to students who can turn innovative ideas into beneficial research. The city of Groningen itself is bursting with young students, and the whole city is vibrant because of the large number of college students.
Attracting students with low tuition, the University of Groningen is another cheapest university in the Netherlands.
5. University of Twente
Having a great reputation for their major in engineering, the University of Twente has a vibrant community that thrives in an even more vibrant campus. The campus of the University of Twente is filled with everything that you need or might need, and the sports selection is stunning. Offering many kinds of sports in addition to archery and beach volleyball, the campus of Twente is something to die for.
Filled with large libraries and state-of-the-art laboratories, many buildings in the University of Twente are places to go to when you are bored or want to spend a great time with a friend. The region of Twente is filled with companies that practice nanotechnology and drone technology, and students from the University of Twente are in for a lifetime of experiences by going to this university.
6. Wageningen University and Research
Also known as the WUR, Wageningen University, one of the cheap universities in the Netherlands for international students, is known for its sole focus on food production, and that focus led to improvements in our health and living conditions which continue to affect the world today. With the aid of its specialized research centers and laboratories, WUR continues to make many achievements in the scientific world with its graduates.
7. Eindhoven University of Technology
Known as the TUE, the Eindhoven University of Technology has developed a project called Brainport Eindhoven that continues to make innovations and new technology that make the world a better place. The TUE continues to produce leaders and thinkers who answer questions by making a solution, and Eindhoven is a place that is a central hub for technology, which attracts more and more students to this great university.
FAQs: Studying in the Netherlands
What Is the Difference Between Statutory Fees and Institutional Fees in the Netherlands?
Many universities in the Netherlands charge two different tuition fees, which are statutory fees and institutional fees. Statutory fees are cheaper and apply to Dutch, Surinamese, Swiss, and EU citizens. The statutory fees are also the same rate for many Dutch universities. To get statutory fees, you will also need to have no prior degrees.
The institutional fees are for students who are not granted the statutory fee status, including international students who are not from Europe and students who are getting a second degree of the same level. The fees are more expensive and often vary by department. You will see the rates listed below.
How Can International Students Get Cheaper Tuition in the Netherlands?
The most simple yet difficult way for international students to get a cheaper tuition status in the Netherlands is to get citizenship in any of the EU countries. It isn’t easy to get citizenship in certain countries while easier in others. This is the simplest way to pay affordable tuition.
Another way is to attend an affordable university in the Netherlands with a low institutional tuition fee. We will list some of these universities below so that you can have a better idea of how much you will need to pay.
These fees generally apply to undergraduate and Master’s students. Many Ph.D. students attend Dutch universities for free and get stipends because they are employed by the university.
As an international student, being able to afford tuition fees is a great factor in surviving in a foreign country. Looking for affordable options should be your top priority and the Netherlands should top your list of countries with affordable universities.
We hope this information about the affordable universities in the Netherlands helped. Make sure to also check out the Study in the Netherlands and Available Programs for International Students pages for more informative articles.
