Best Universities in Netherlands for Indian Students
The Netherlands is one of the European countries best known for its tourist destinations and famous Dutch cheese. It is located in Western Europe, near Germany, providing access to other European countries.
Apart from offering the essence of tourism, the Netherlands also provides top and best quality education to international students.
Let’s have a look at some of the top reasons to study in Netherlands:
Affordable Study
The Netherlands is one of the best affordable countries for Indian students looking for both academic excellence and peaceful multicultural environments in one place. Unlike the UK, France and Germany, it offers diverse courses in various streams at a cost-effective range. The average tuition fee for higher degree programs at the best universities in Netherlands is 6000 Euros annually.
Focus on Innovation
The Dutch education system is world-renowned for providing the best classroom and research experience to its students because Dutch universities are constantly focusing on improving the interaction between students and professors, which brings them together for research collaboration at the global level.
Dutch universities mainly include practical elements in their curriculum to improve the student’s academic and other critical skills.
Opportunities to Learn Dutch Language
International students pursuing studies in the Netherlands have several opportunities to learn the Dutch language. It improves the students’ communication skills and enhances the chance of seeking out local part-time jobs quickly to manage expenses.
Wide Range of Courses
Dutch universities offer a wide variety of courses in several disciplines like Science & Technology, Finance, Social Science, Computer Science, etc., which attracts thousands of Indian students every year. They offer academic programs and assist international students in pursuing further research and innovative study programs after completing regular programs.
Globally Recognised Degrees
Top Universities in Netherlands are accredited worldwide for providing international students with quality education and research facilities. They follow international standards required to sustain the presence of students. Dutch degrees are recognised worldwide in all institutes and industries, meaning graduates are given more than enough chances to pursue their dreams in any part of the world after completing their studies in the Netherlands.
Top Universities in Netherlands
The Netherlands’ educational system emphasises solid academic and critical skills for international students to utilise their knowledge to solve real-world problems.
Below, we have listed the top universities in the Netherlands for Indian students, including their QS World University Rankings and annual tuition fees.
| University | QS World Rankings (2024) | Tuition Fees (Per Year) |
|---|---|---|
| Delft University of Technology | 47 | €16,705-20,560 |
| University of Amsterdam | 53 | €2,503-27,390 |
| Utrecht University | 107 | €18,332-20,043 |
| Eindhoven University of Technology | 124 | €2,314-17,800 |
| Leiden University | 126 | €19,600-21,200 |
| University of Groningen | 139 | €2,314-2,530 |
| Wageningen University & Research | 151 | €16,400-19,600 |
| Erasmus University Rotterdam | 176 | €9,000-29,000 |
| Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam | 207 | €2,530-24,310 |
| University of Twente | 210 | €9,625-14,250 |
Best Courses in Netherlands
There are almost 2100 courses available at top universities in Netherlands that lead to certification in Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD level programs. These courses are widely distributed in 10 fields of study.
We have enlisted these fields of study below for a general overview of the academic excellence that Dutch universities impart to Indian students.
- Applied Physics
- Architecture
- Biomedical Engineering
- Business Administration
- Computer Science
- Engineering & Technology
- Environmental Studies
- Law & Political Sciences
- Natural Sciences
- Social & Behavioural Sciences
Study Intakes in Netherlands
The academic year in the Netherlands begins on September 1st every year, which is standard for all Dutch universities. The commencement of the academic year marks Fall intake, whereas Spring intake is a secondary intake and begins in January/February.
The application deadlines vary across all universities to restrict the number of applicants.
| Intakes | Intake month | Application Cycle |
|---|---|---|
| Fall | September/October | December-April |
| Spring | January/February | September-November |
Also read – How to Find the Perfect Study Abroad Program
Eligibility Criteria for Dutch Universities
For Bachelor’s Degree Courses
The entry requirements for bachelors in Netherlands differ in terms of courses and institutes.
Indian students having higher secondary education certificates from any board of education (XI and XII standards) are equivalent to the HAVO diploma in the Netherlands.
Below, we have listed the general eligibility criteria for Indian students to get admission into bachelor’s courses at top universities in Netherlands.
Academic Proficiency:
- Indian students must have completed their higher secondary education from any government-recognised board of education (state and national boards like CBSE)
- Students must have completed their higher secondary education with at least five subjects.
- Indian students who want to pursue undergraduate studies in any field of science or mathematics must major in science and mathematics. In contrast, those who wish to apply for humanities, arts, and social sciences must major in relevant subjects at the senior secondary level.
- Some Dutch universities, like the Delft University of Technology, require a minimum of 75% per individual subject, whereas others, like Utrecht University, require a minimum of 70% in the major subjects. Indian students should go through university applications for more details on grade requirements.
English Proficiency: Indian students applying for Bachelor’s courses are required to have the following English language proficiency
- TOEFL iBT: A minimum score of 100-120
- IELTS: A minimum average of 6.5-7
- C1 advanced: A minimum score of 176-185
- C2 Proficiency: A minimum score of 176-185
For Master’s Degree Courses
The entry requirements for masters in Netherlands differ in terms of courses and institutes.
Indian students with bachelor’s degrees from any government-recognised university are equivalent to the Netherlands’ HBO or WO bachelor’s degree.
Below, we have listed the general eligibility criteria for Indian students to get admission into master’s courses at top universities in the Netherlands.
Academic Proficiency:
- Indian students must have completed their 3/4 year undergraduate program from government-accredited or affiliated colleges.
- A minimum CGPA of 7.5-8.5 is required on a scale of 1-10.
- If the university does not award a CGPA, then the minimum GPA of 75% is accepted.
- Specific subject-related knowledge and skills, depending on the program, are required.
English Proficiency: Indian students applying for master’s courses must have the following English language proficiency.
Language proficiency may differ from university to university.
- TOEFL iBT: A minimum score of 90-100
- IELTS: A minimum average of 6.5-7.5
- C1 advanced: A minimum score of 169-179
- C2 Proficiency: A minimum score of 180
GRE Score: A minimum score of 300-310 (depending on the university)
GMAT Score: A minimum score of 550-600 (depending on the university)
For PhD Courses
- Indian applicants looking to pursue PhD in the Netherlands must have a solid background in the theory and methods of their field and a recognised master’s degree.
- Applicants must have a clear research proposal describing the goals, methodology, and intended scope of their PhD project, which is typically required as part of the application process.
Also read – Masters Abroad Top Courses Universities
Documents Checklist
The following documents must be submitted while proceeding with the application process to study in Netherlands.
The specific requirements for the particular course or institute can differ, so checking further details on the university website is advisable.
- Completed University Application
- All Previous Academic Transcripts and documents
- 1 passport-sized photo
- Score certificates for language proficiency tests like TOEFL/IELTS/Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)
- Score certificates for standardised tests like GMAT/GRE, etc.
- Dutch language proficiency certificate like Staatsexamen NT2 .
- 2-3 Letter of Recommendation
- 1-2 Statement of Purpose
- CV/Resume
- Work Experience certificate to showcase the managerial skills (if applicable)
- Non-refundable application fee (if applicable)
- Health Insurance
- You must show evidence that you have the money to fund your stay in the Netherlands (900 EUR/month, i.e. 82,000 INR/month minimum)
- Any other required document, depending on the University
Masters in Netherlands: Pre-Application Process
- First, research at least 9-10 universities based on course interest and their availability.
- Go through their websites and check all the required details, such as tuition fees, specific eligibility criteria, and other terms and conditions.
- Now, shortlist 6-7 universities offering the desired course and fulfil your criteria like interests and motivation to pursue the program.
- Check whether institutes accept applications through Studielink or their portal.
- Complete the application process accordingly by submitting personal details, academic details and scanned copies of the required documents
- Upon completing the application process, you will get a confirmed email containing the application fee and enrolment receipts.
- Wait for the university’s reply and visit the Studielink/university application dashboard for further information.
Application Process for Dutch Universities
There are two processes by which top universities in the Netherlands accept admission to various courses:
- Studielink
- University Website
Studielink
Studielink is the official registration portal for higher educational programs at Dutch universities. It bridges the gap between Dutch universities and international applicants as it provides every possible assistance to them while making their application.
Most Dutch universities, like Erasmus University Rotterdam, Delft University of Technology, University of Groningen, University of Amsterdam, etc., accept applications through Studielink. In contrast, some universities, such as Inholland University, The Hague University, and NHTV Breda University, have their own enrollment system.
All non-EU applicants are required to submit 100 Euros (INR 9,017) per Studielink application.
Below is the step-by-step process regarding the Studielink application process:
- Start by applying for a Studielink account via ‘Create Studielink-account’.
- Upload your identity document and enter your contact details,
- Wait for an email to verify your details.
- After activation, log in using your email address and password.
- Proceed with the enrollment process by clicking on ‘enrolment application.’
- Add previous personal and previous education details manually.
- In the next step, select the study program for which you want to submit an enrollment application.
- Your application will be forwarded to the institution. You will be granted access to your Studielink dashboard immediately.
- Once you have completed your enrolment application, regularly check your Studielink account and email for tracking applications.
University Website
Indian applicants must make an account on the university application dashboard before proceeding with their enrolment process. The process will go much like Studielink; however, the application fee might differ depending on the university and chosen course.
Conclusion
The Netherlands is one of the top and most preferable study destinations for Indian students due to the presence of world-class universities, modern infrastructure, developed economy and peaceful multicultural environment.
Indian students find a diverse range of academic programs in the best universities in Netherlands in several fields like Science, Social Science, Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, etc., that not only impart knowledge and skills to international students but also prepare them to tackle future challenges.
FAQs
What is the cost of living in the Netherlands for Indian students?
The average cost of living in the Netherlands for Indian students is around 800-1300 Euros or INR 71,000-1 Lakh per month, depending on lifestyle preferences, locality and local taxes, etc.
Do Dutch institutes offer study programs free of tuition charge?
No, Dutch universities do not offer any courses free of tuition charge. However, several university and government scholarships are available, which help students reduce their cost of study.
Is it worth studying in the Netherlands?
Dutch universities offer their academic programs at a cost-effective fee. Also, these international students do not have to hustle to learn the local language to pursue their studies since most programs are available in English.
Additionally, Dutch institutes motivate and encourage students to pursue their dreams and develop skills out of their academic box to become socially responsible citizens.
If you are an aspirant looking to study at your dream university, book an appointment with AdmitX today and start your applications early to avail yourself of all the benefits.
