The cost of study at Dutch universities and other higher education institutions varies depending on a student’s nationality.
University fees for Dutch and EU students
For students from the Netherlands, other EU/EEA countries, Switzerland or Surinam, the cost of study at Dutch universities and higher education institutions is mostly covered by the government. However, these students are also required to contribute a statutory tuition fee (collegegeld); an annual amount of around 2.000 euros, which is set by the government.
University fees for non-EU students in the Netherlands
Study costs are usually higher for non-EU/EEA students coming to study in the Netherlands. The amount depends on the institution, the degree, the student’s residence permit type, whether they have studied before and if they have obtained a scholarship. To find out the exact amount, it’s advised to research costs directly with the institution of your choice. It’s also possible for international students to study in the Netherlands on a university exchange, in which case they continue to pay the fees to their original institution in their home country.
Private school costs in the Netherlands
Private schools (particuliere scholen) such as business schools, run bachelor and MBA programmes with tuition fees ranging from roughly 16.000 to 36.000 euros for a complete programme.
Student financing in the Netherlands
The Dutch government also has a student financing system (studiefinanciering) to assist students with paying their study and living costs, including public transport. What it comprises of exactly depends on what you study. Student financing is available to Dutch students, however, non-Dutch students are sometimes also eligible if they have EU citizenship or a type II, III or IV residence permit. Find out more about student financing here (in Dutch).
Additional costs while studying
When studying in the Netherlands extra costs that need to be taken into consideration include:
- Visa and residence permit fees.
- Travel costs to arrive in the Netherlands.
- Accommodation in the Netherlands (e.g. short stay, room, apartment, student housing etc.).
- Dutch health insurance depending on where you are from and how long you are staying.
- Study materials such as textbooks or equipment.
- Daily travel costs such as shopping, public transport and leisure activities.
Students are often eligible for discounts at many bars, restaurants, museums and cinemas.
Study costs are tax deductible
If you are working while studying in the Netherlands, you can deduct study costs on your annual income tax return. Deductible study costs include:
- Programmes and degrees such as an MBA, Master’s, Bachelor’s, MBO or certain personal development courses
- Textbooks
- A computer
- Study materials such as specialised software or equipment
Language courses, travel costs and accommodation are not deductible.
