Masters in Netherlands: Top Universities, Courses & Career
Are you looking for study abroad along with affordable tuition fees, a low cost of living, a peaceful environment, and unlimited career opportunities?
Well, you have landed at the right place.
The Netherlands is a country where pursuing higher education is unique and worthwhile. In recent years, it has become one of the favorite study destinations for International students because of the presence of top-class universities, excellent career options, multicultural atmosphere, and lavish lifestyle at very affordable cost.
We have presented you with a blog that will explain how you can pursue a Master’s in the Netherlands and develop the extraordinary persona that every student wants.
- Masters in Netherlands: Discover the Unknown Path
- Reasons for Pursuing Masters in Netherlands
- Top Universities in Netherlands for Masters
- Popular Courses in Netherlands
- Best Courses in Netherlands for Masters
- Study Intakes in Netherlands
- Eligibility Criteria for Masters in Netherlands
- Documents Checklist
- Masters in Netherlands: Pre-Application Process
- Application Process for Dutch Universities
- Career after Masters in Netherlands
- High-Paying Jobs in Netherlands for Indian Students
- Student-Visa for Netherlands
- Post-Study Work Visa for Indian Students
- Cost of Living in Netherlands
- Post-Study Work Visa for Indian Students
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Masters in Netherlands: Discover the Unknown Path
The United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia, and Canada are known and popular study destinations you have been aware of.
Besides the countries above, some other destinations worldwide are also known for providing standard education to international students. Not only standard education but also affordable education. However, they are not widely popular and need to be recognised.
Netherlands, or Holland, is a smaller Western European country. However, it has the fourth-largest economy in Europe and is one of the 27 member states of the EU.
Pursuing a masters in Netherlands is highly regarded by international students because of its excellent academic environment, student-centred learning, and peaceful aura. This country is famous for its Dutch cheese, windmills, canals, tulips, and beautiful scenery, attracting thousands of tourists annually.
While pursuing study in Netherlands, Indian students can explore the country’s iconic heritage esses.
Let’s delve more into the reasons for studying in the Netherlands for Indian students.
Reasons for Pursuing Masters in Netherlands
Attractive Multicultural Environment
The Netherlands is home to diverse cultures and heritages from all over the world in the form of students.
Pursuing Masters in Netherlands means interacting with students from more than 150 countries. This gives them extraordinary opportunities to celebrate and get to know each other’s cultures and values, which are rarely available otherwise.
Academic Support
Apart from providing quality and standard education to international students, Dutch universities also offer academic and non-academic help through their student associations, which doesn’t allow students to feel homesick or lost.
The Netherlands is tolerant and welcomes everyone with an open heart, without judgment or partiality.
Opportunities to Learn Dutch Language
International students pursuing an MS in the Netherlands have several opportunities to learn the Dutch language. However, almost 95% of the country’s population interacts via English with global students. By learning the Dutch language, Indian students can improve their communication and interpersonal skills and present themselves better in the local community.
Availability of a Wide Range of Courses
Surprisingly, the Netherlands is considered the first nation among non-English-speaking countries, bringing more than 2,100 English courses to its universities. These courses cover almost every field and discipline, leading to Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD study programs.
This is one of the primary reasons why Indian students also want to study in Netherlands, after the UK, France, and Germany.
Internationally Recognised Degrees
Top Universities in Netherlands are well-recognised and world-renowned for providing quality education and research facilities to Indian students. Dutch degrees are recognised worldwide in all institutes and industries, which means that after completing their masters in Netherlands, graduates are given more than enough chances to pursue their aims in any part of the globe.
Top Universities in Netherlands for Masters
The Dutch educational system is of high quality, and Dutch universities are world-renowned for providing the best classroom and practical exposure so that international students can export their knowledge and skills to solve real-world problems.
Studying in the Netherlands is less expensive as the Dutch government subsidises it. The annual tuition fees for non-EU students, including Indians, start from €6000 per annum, depending on the institution and course.
The duration of masters in Netherlands is 1-2 years, depending on the course curriculum and specialisation.
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 |
Also read – Masters Abroad Top Courses Universities
Popular Courses in Netherlands
Indian students interested in pursuing an MS in the Netherlands can find a variety of courses in top Dutch universities. There are almost 1500 courses available in top universities in Netherlands, and they 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
Also read – STEM Courses
Best Courses in Netherlands for Masters
Below, we have tabulated the list of the best master’s courses in the Netherlands, along with their duration and average tuition fees.
| Courses | Duration | Tuition Fees (Per Year) |
|---|---|---|
| MS in Mathematics | 2 Years | €9,000-20,000 |
| M.Sc in Archeology | 2 Years | €9,000-12,000 |
| MS in Artificial Intelligence | 2 Years | €12,000-23,765 |
| M.Sc in International Management | 1 Year | €15,100-32,000 |
| MS in Nanoscience | 2 Years | €10,000-23,765 |
| M.Sc in Finance | 1-2 Years | €22,500-29,000 |
| MBA | 2 Years | €17,000-64,000 |
| M.Sc in Health Sciences | 2 Years | €16,000-20,000 |
| MS in Mechanical Engineering | 2 Years | €16,700-30,000 |
| MS in Chemical Engineering | 2 Years | €15,200-27,000 |
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 |
Eligibility Criteria for Masters in Netherlands
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:
- Completed higher secondary with at least five subjects from CBSE or other state/national boards
- Relevant major subjects are taken at a higher secondary level (especially when applying for bachelor’s degrees in science, mathematics, humanities, arts, and social sciences).
- Achieve minimum grades as per university requirements. E.g., 75% in each subject for Delft University of Technology and 70% in significant subjects for Utrecht University. Minimum grade requirements may vary by university.
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
Subject Expertise Tests: Some Dutch universities ask applicants to take a subject expertise test before applying. The test is conducted for major subjects.
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 any accredited university or affiliated college.
- 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 typically require a clear research proposal describing the goals, methodology, and intended scope of their PhD project as part of the application process.
Documents Checklist
The following documents must be submitted while proceeding with the application process for a Masters in Netherlands.
The specific requirements for a 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
- 2-3 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 Letters 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 that fulfil your criteria, such as 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 by providing every possible assistance while making their applications.
Most Dutch universities, such as 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 systems.
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 create an account on the university application dashboard before proceeding with their enrolment process. The process will be similar to Studielink; however, the application fee might differ depending on the university and chosen course.
Career after Masters in Netherlands
As discussed in earlier sections, the Netherlands clearly offers abundant opportunities to international students in every scope of academic pursuits, be it study or research fields. The top-class education, impartial assessment, and encouragement for innovation and research have uniquely led students to pursue their dreams and aspirations.
In short, there is something for everyone!
It is also evident that students might be puzzled about their post-study career.
Some students may go for commencing their ventures, and others pursue scientific and industrial research. Many international graduates also choose to work in various corporations and industries on a decent post and get attractive salary packages. Since Dutch degrees are recognised worldwide, Indian graduates do not face any problems in job hunting.
Below, we have tabulated the popular industries, their top recruiters, and the annual salary that they offer to Indian graduates in a particular field.
| Top Industries | Recruiters | Average Salary (Per Year) |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering & Technology | Philips Cognizant Technology Solutions Bynder Prodrive Technologies ASML | 65,000-95,000 EUR (INR 50-55 Lakh) |
| Natural Sciences | IDEXX Laboratories Modus Engineering Fokker Technologies Agendia A.M-Pharma B.V. | 55,000-80,000 EUR (INR 54-72 Lakh) |
| Accounting & Finance | Natwest Group Rabobank ABN Amro Deutsche Bank Citigroup | 40,000-95,000 EUR (INR 63-85 Lakh) |
| Healthcare Sciences | Abbott Grandvision NHS MedEye Enzyre | 52,000-75,000 EUR (INR 47-67 Lakh) |
| Computer Science & IT | IBM Microsoft Capgemini Tata Consultancy Services | 62,000-100,000 EUR (INR 56-90 Lakh) |
High-Paying Jobs in Netherlands for Indian Students
Below, we have tabulated the high-paying jobs in the Netherlands for Indian students and their average yearly salaries.
Remuneration can depend upon many factors such as experience, employer, city, etc.
| Top Job Titles | Average Salary (Per Year) |
|---|---|
| Financial Analyst | 45,000-60,000 EUR (INR 40-60 Lakh) |
| Software Developer | 55,000-83,000 EUR (INR 49-75 Lakh) |
| IT Engineer | 60,000-90,000 EUR (INR 54-81 Lakh) |
| Civil Engineer | 48,000-85,000 EUR (INR 43-76 Lakh) |
| Mechanical Engineer | 55,000-80,000 EUR (INR 49-72 Lakh) |
| Pharmacist | 40,000-65,000 EUR (INR 36-58 Lakh) |
| Sales Director | 90,000-100,000 EUR (INR 81-90 Lakh) |
| Research Scientist | 48,000-65,000 EUR (INR 43-58 Lakh) |
| Architecture | 33,000-70,000 EUR (INR 29-63 Lakh) |
| Operations Manager | 52,000-83,000 EUR (INR 47-75 Lakh) |
Student-Visa for Netherlands
To pursue a Masters in Netherlands, Indian students need to apply for a student Visa at least three months before the commencement of the academic program. The study visa is often referred to as permanent residency in the Netherlands.
This process involves two major components; let’s discuss them individually.
Application for MVV
Once the application is accepted, the Dutch institute will commence the study visa process on the student’s behalf by applying for the regular provisional residence permit (MVV).
MVV is required for those who want to stay in the Netherlands for more than 90 days. This is also known as an entry visa. The MVV is a visa sticker (Type D) to be placed on your passport. With the MVV, you can travel to the Netherlands and get your residence permit.
The Dutch university will bear the cost of the MVV application fee.
Indian applicants can apply for MVV once they receive their university acceptance letter. To do so, they need to contact their nearest Dutch Embassy or consulate.
After the successful processing, an applicant will receive their MVV through courier.
Application for Permanent Student Permit
After receiving an MVV or provisional residence permit, an applicant can travel to the Netherlands to collect their permanent student permit from the IND desk established at the Dutch institute. For this, applicants are required to make an appointment with the IND desk once they receive their MVV.
Usually, the decision to obtain a study visa is made within 60 days from the date of application.
Application Cost
The application fee for the student visa is 228 Euros (INR 20,627), and the Dutch institute bears it.
Requirements
- A provisional residence permit (MVV)
- Previous Academic transcripts
- Letter of acceptance from the educational institution
- Financial proof with a set minimum amount of 850 EUR (INR 76,879) per month
- Travel Insurance
- Health Insurance
- Tuberculosis test (within three months of arriving in the Netherlands)
- Proof of income
- English language requirements
- Passport
- Two passport-sized (35mm x 45mm) colour photographs
- Birth certificate
- Biometric information
- Photocopies of all the original documents (duly translated into English and Dutch language)
Post-Study Work Visa for Indian Students
After finishing higher studies, Indian students look for employment opportunities in the country. As they have completed their studies, their study visa also expires, and they need to apply for a post-study work visa or simply a work visa to stay in the country. If the student cannot find any job before the study visa expiry, they can apply for a post-study work visa (orientation year) through the IND desk.
In the Netherlands, employers often sponsor post-study work visas and residence permits if the student has secured a job before terminating the study visa.
Cost of Living in Netherlands
Calculating the overall cost of education, which includes tuition and other educational expenses, housing, transportation, entertainment, and utility bills (including electricity, water, internet, etc), as well as emergency savings, are all part of the cost of living.
For a comfortable lifestyle, an Indian student must budget between 800 and 1450 euros (INR 72,000 and 1.25 lakh) every month.
In addition to these expenses, the tuition cost is also considered independently, with the university revising it annually. Therefore, it is advisable to plan financially.
Below is the table that enlists the general breakdown of the cost of living for Indian students in the Netherlands.
| Expenses | Estimated Expenses |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 500-1000 Euros (INR 45,000-90,000) |
| Food | 150-250 Euros (INR 13,000-22,000) |
| Transportation | 40-80 Euros (INR 4,000-7,000) |
| Amusement/Leisure | 100-250 Euros (INR 9,000-22,000) |
| Utilities Bills (Electricity, Water, Phone bills, etc.) | 30-70 Euros (INR 2,000-7,000) |
| Health Insurance | 100-135 Euros (INR 9,000-12,000) |
Post-Study Work Visa for Indian Students
After finishing higher studies, Indian students look for employment opportunities in the country. As they have completed their studies, their study visa also expires, and they need to apply for a post-study work visa or simply a work visa to stay in the country.
In the Netherlands, employers often sponsor post-study work visas and residence permits if the student has secured a job before terminating the study visa.
If the student cannot find any job before the study visa expiry, they can apply for a post-study work visa (orientation year) through the IND desk.
Conclusion
To conclude, the Netherlands has become one of the top choices for study abroad among Indian students after leading countries like the USA, UK, Germany, France, etc., because of education affordability, low cost of living, world-renowned universities, presence of top IT companies and multicultural environment that encourages students to look for something extra!
Dutch universities are known for providing excellent education and research opportunities at the Master’s level through their classroom and practical approach. They also have associations with top recruiters nationwide, which hire international graduates after completing their education and offer decent salary packages.
FAQs
Can I work while studying in the Netherlands?
You can work part-time while pursuing a Master’s in the Netherlands on your student residence permit. You can work a maximum of 16 hours per week and full-time during vacations.
Is it necessary to learn Dutch to study in the Netherlands?
Learning the Dutch language to pursue higher studies in the Netherlands is optional. Almost all study programs in the Netherlands are available in English. However, a little knowledge of this language would help you integrate local culture and customs and build communication with the local community.
Which country is better to study in, the UK or the Netherlands?
The Netherlands and the UK are both excellent countries for pursuing higher education. However, the Netherlands offers more affordable education and residency than the UK.
The UK is home to many world-class and older universities, such as the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, London School of Economics, etc., known for imparting high-quality education and a pinch of cultural heritage and value system to students.
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.
