The Netherlands has 131,004 international students enrolled in 2024 to 2025. It is the third-largest destination for international students in Europe. 8 Dutch universities rank in the QS World Top 200 for 2027.
Here is why Indian students choose the Netherlands:
- Over 2,100 English-taught programmes — no Dutch language required for most Master's degrees
- Tuition fees from €8,000 (INR 8.72 lakh) per year, lower than the UK, USA, or Australia
- 1-year Master's programmes available at most universities
- Orientation Year Visa allows 12 months of post-graduation work with no job offer required
- NL Scholarship of €5,000 (INR 5.45 lakh) available at all 13 research universities for Indian students
- Indian students can work 16 hours per week during term time
- No WES evaluation required — Dutch universities accept Indian transcripts directly
All currency conversions use €1 = INR 109.04 (July 2026).
- Types of Public Universities in Netherlands
- Top Public Universities in Netherlands 2026
- Tuition Fees at Public Universities in Netherlands for Indian Students
- Eligibility and Admission Requirements for Indian Students
- Cost of Living in Netherlands for Indian Students
- Scholarships at Public Universities in Netherland
- Netherlands Student Visa Process
- Post-Study Work and Career Scope After Studying in Netherlands
- FAQs
Types of Public Universities in Netherlands
The Dutch higher education system has two types of publicly funded institutions. These are Research Universities (Universiteit) and Universities of Applied Sciences (Hogeschool). There are 13 research universities and 36 Universities of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands.
| Feature | Research University | University of Applied Sciences |
|---|---|---|
| Degree Type | BSc/BA + MSc/MA + PhD | BASc/BBA + HBO Master |
| UG Duration | 3 years | 4 years |
| PG Duration | 1 to 2 years | 1 to 2 years |
| Focus | Academic, theoretical, research | Career-oriented, practical |
| Annual Fees (non-EU) | €8,000 to €25,633 (INR 8.72 lakh to INR 27.94 lakh) | €6,000 to €12,000 (INR 6.54 lakh to INR 13.08 lakh) |
| Mandatory Work Placement | Optional | Yes, minimum 6 months |
| PhD Pathway | Yes | No |
| QS Ranked | Yes (all 13 ranked) | Generally no |
| English Programmes | 76%+ of MSc programmes | Growing |
The 13 Research Universities in the Netherlands are:
- TU Delft
- University of Amsterdam (UvA)
- Utrecht University
- Leiden University
- Erasmus University Rotterdam
- Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e)
- Wageningen University and Research (WUR)
- University of Groningen (RUG)
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam)
- University of Twente (UT)
- Maastricht University
- Radboud University
- Tilburg University
What students say:
- Research universities are preferred for Master's degrees. Universities of Applied Sciences are better for career-focused bachelor's programmes with internships
- The 4-year bachelor's at Universities of Applied Sciences includes a mandatory 6-month internship, which helps with job placement after graduation
- Students note that Dutch research universities are more academically rigorous than most Indian universities, and the workload is significantly higher
- Assignments and group projects start from day one. Students are expected to be independent learners from the beginning
Also Read: Universities in the Netherlands: Top Courses, Fees and Admission
Top Public Universities in Netherlands 2026
8 Dutch universities rank in the QS World Top 200 for 2027. TU Delft leads at #48 globally. It is the highest-ranked technical university in continental Europe. All 13 universities below are fully public, government-funded institutions accredited by NVAO.
| University | QS Rank 2027 | Location | Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| TU Delft | #48 | Delft | Engineering, Architecture, Aerospace, CS |
| University of Amsterdam | #60 | Amsterdam | Social Sciences, Economics, Law, Sciences |
| Utrecht University | #113 | Utrecht | Life Sciences, Medicine, Humanities, Law |
| Leiden University | #119 | Leiden | Law, International Relations, Sciences |
| Erasmus University Rotterdam | #148 | Rotterdam | Business, Economics, Medicine, Law |
| TU/e | #152 | Eindhoven | Engineering, Data Science, Innovation |
| Wageningen University | #154 | Wageningen | Life Sciences, Food, Agriculture, Environment |
| University of Groningen | #157 | Groningen | Sciences, Economics, Arts, Medicine |
| VU Amsterdam | #185 | Amsterdam | Sciences, Business, Social Sciences, Health |
| University of Twente | #223 | Enschede | Engineering, CS, Business, Nanotechnology |
| Maastricht University | #254 | Maastricht | Problem-Based Learning, Law, Business, Health |
| Radboud University | #283 | Nijmegen | Sciences, Medicine, Social Sciences, Law |
| Tilburg University | #429 | Tilburg | Business, Economics, Law, Social Sciences |
What students say:
- TU Delft is the top choice for engineering students. It is highly competitive and academically demanding, even for IIT graduates
- Maastricht University uses Problem-Based Learning (PBL), which is very different from Indian classroom teaching. Students who prefer self-directed learning find it rewarding
- Groningen and Enschede are recommended for students on a budget. Both cities are affordable and have large international student communities
- The Netherlands is considered one of the most welcoming countries in Europe for Indian students, partly due to the Surinamese-Dutch community
Also Read: Best Universities in Netherlands: Ranking, Courses, Admissions
Tuition Fees at Public Universities in Netherlands for Indian Students
Indian students are non-EU/EEA students. They pay institutional tuition fees ranging from €8,000 to €25,633 per year (INR 8.72 lakh to INR 27.94 lakh). EU/EEA students pay only €2,694 per year (INR 2.94 lakh), the government-set statutory fee. Science and engineering programmes are typically more expensive than humanities or social sciences.
| University | UG Fees (€/year) | UG Fees (INR/year) | PG Fees (€/year) | PG Fees (INR/year) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TU Delft | €19,906 | INR 21.71 lakh | €25,633 | INR 27.94 lakh |
| University of Amsterdam | €13,900 to €21,800 | INR 15.16 lakh to INR 23.77 lakh | €16,670 to €34,300 | INR 18.17 lakh to INR 37.40 lakh |
| Utrecht University | €10,000 to €20,000 | INR 10.90 lakh to INR 21.81 lakh | €21,342 to €25,306 | INR 23.27 lakh to INR 27.59 lakh |
| Leiden University | €10,000 to €18,000 | INR 10.90 lakh to INR 19.63 lakh | €14,300 to €22,500 | INR 15.59 lakh to INR 24.53 lakh |
| Erasmus University Rotterdam | €9,500 to €14,000 | INR 10.36 lakh to INR 15.27 lakh | €11,500 to €18,000 | INR 12.54 lakh to INR 19.63 lakh |
| TU/e | €18,600 | INR 20.28 lakh | €19,300 to €21,700 | INR 21.04 lakh to INR 23.66 lakh |
| Wageningen University | €12,000 to €16,000 | INR 13.08 lakh to INR 17.45 lakh | €21,200 to €21,900 | INR 23.12 lakh to INR 23.88 lakh |
| University of Groningen | €9,500 to €13,500 | INR 10.36 lakh to INR 14.72 lakh | €10,000 to €21,400 | INR 10.90 lakh to INR 23.33 lakh |
| VU Amsterdam | €9,580 to €15,000 | INR 10.45 lakh to INR 16.36 lakh | €13,000 to €23,930 | INR 14.18 lakh to INR 26.09 lakh |
| University of Twente | €8,312 to €11,834 | INR 9.06 lakh to INR 12.90 lakh | €12,750 to €16,500 | INR 13.90 lakh to INR 17.99 lakh |
| Maastricht University | €13,200 to €18,400 | INR 14.39 lakh to INR 20.06 lakh | €21,500 to €25,100 | INR 23.44 lakh to INR 27.37 lakh |
| Radboud University | €9,000 to €14,000 | INR 9.81 lakh to INR 15.27 lakh | €12,000 to €18,000 | INR 13.08 lakh to INR 19.63 lakh |
| Tilburg University | €13,400 | INR 14.61 lakh | €14,000 to €17,000 | INR 15.27 lakh to INR 18.54 lakh |
Important: Always verify NVAO accreditation at nvao.net before applying. Degrees from non-NVAO-accredited institutions are not recognised by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).
What students say:
- Fees in the Netherlands are lower than the UK and USA, but the total cost including living expenses is still significant for most Indian families
- University of Twente and University of Groningen are consistently recommended as the most affordable QS-ranked options for Indian students
- Many students note that the fees shown are per year. Most Master's programmes are 2 years, so the total tuition cost is double the annual figure
- Students advise applying for scholarships at the same time as the programme application to reduce the financial burden
Also Read: Study in Netherlands After 12th for Indian Students
Eligibility and Admission Requirements for Indian Students
Dutch public universities accept Indian transcripts directly. No WES evaluation is needed. English proficiency requirements range from IELTS 6.0 to 7.0 for most programmes. High-demand programmes like Medicine, Dentistry, and Psychology have Numerus Fixus, a selection process with a 15 January deadline.
UG Eligibility Requirements
Indian students need Class XII (10+2) from CBSE, ISC, or a recognised State Board. A minimum 70 to 75% aggregate is required. Competitive programmes need 80 to 85%+. All applications go through Studielink.nl with a 1 May deadline.
| Criterion | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Minimum Qualification | Class XII (10+2) from CBSE, ISC, or recognised State Board |
| Minimum Marks | 70 to 75% aggregate; competitive programmes need 80 to 85%+ |
| Subject Requirements | Engineering/Science: Maths + Physics/Chemistry; Business: Maths |
| English (IELTS Academic) | 6.0 to 6.5 overall (min 5.5 to 6.0 per band) |
| English (TOEFL iBT) | 80 to 90 overall |
| Numerus Fixus Programmes | Medicine, Dentistry, Psychology, Law; deadline 15 January |
| Application Portal | Studielink.nl |
| Application Deadline | 1 May for most programmes; 15 January for Numerus Fixus |
| GMAT/GRE | Not required for UG |
| Motivation Letter | Required by most universities |
PG Eligibility Requirements
Indian students need a bachelor's degree (3 or 4 years) from a recognised Indian university. A minimum CGPA of 6.5 to 7.0/10 (60 to 65%) is required. Top programmes at TU Delft and UvA require 7.5+/10. Most programmes have a 1 April to 1 May deadline for the September intake.
| Criterion | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Minimum Qualification | Bachelor's degree (3 or 4 years) from a recognised Indian university |
| Minimum CGPA | 6.5 to 7.0/10 (60 to 65%); TU Delft and UvA top programmes require 7.5+/10 |
| English (IELTS Academic) | 6.5 to 7.0 overall (min 6.0 per band) |
| English (TOEFL iBT) | 90 to 100 overall |
| GMAT/GRE | Required for some Business/Economics programmes (Erasmus RSM, Tilburg); not required for most STEM |
| Statement of Purpose | Required by all universities; 500 to 1,000 words |
| Letters of Recommendation | 2 to 3 academic or professional references |
| CV/Resume | Required by all universities |
| Research Proposal | Required for research-track Master's and PhD programmes |
| Application Deadline | 1 April to 1 May for September intake |
| Pre-Master's Programme | Available at most universities; 6 to 12 months duration |
What students say:
- Dutch programmes are academically demanding. One student noted that a course at TU Delft had a pass rate of only 26% out of 160 students
- The pass grade in the Netherlands is 60% for all subjects. This is stricter than most Indian universities where 40 to 50% is passing
- Most students recommend applying 4 to 6 months before the deadline to allow time for document preparation and IELTS
- Students with a CGPA below 7.5/10 are advised to write a strong Statement of Purpose to compensate for the lower academic score
Cost of Living in Netherlands for Indian Students
Monthly costs range from €750 to €950 (INR 81,780 to INR 1.04 lakh) in Groningen and Wageningen. Amsterdam is the most expensive city at €1,100 to €1,400 (INR 1.20 lakh to INR 1.53 lakh) per month. The IND requires proof of €932 per month (INR 1.02 lakh) for the visa application.
| University | City | Monthly Cost (€) | Monthly Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Amsterdam, VU Amsterdam | Amsterdam | €1,100 to €1,400 | INR 1.20 lakh to INR 1.53 lakh |
| TU Delft | Delft | €900 to €1,200 | INR 98,136 to INR 1.31 lakh |
| Utrecht University | Utrecht | €950 to €1,200 | INR 1.04 lakh to INR 1.31 lakh |
| Leiden University | Leiden | €900 to €1,150 | INR 98,136 to INR 1.25 lakh |
| Erasmus University Rotterdam | Rotterdam | €900 to €1,150 | INR 98,136 to INR 1.25 lakh |
| TU/e | Eindhoven | €800 to €1,050 | INR 87,232 to INR 1.14 lakh |
| Wageningen University | Wageningen | €750 to €950 | INR 81,780 to INR 1.04 lakh |
| University of Groningen | Groningen | €750 to €950 | INR 81,780 to INR 1.04 lakh |
| Radboud University | Nijmegen | €800 to €1,000 | INR 87,232 to INR 1.09 lakh |
| University of Twente | Enschede | €750 to €950 | INR 81,780 to INR 1.04 lakh |
| Maastricht University | Maastricht | €800 to €1,050 | INR 87,232 to INR 1.14 lakh |
| Tilburg University | Tilburg | €800 to €1,000 | INR 87,232 to INR 1.09 lakh |
Monthly cost breakdown:
- Rent: €450 to €900
- Groceries: €150 to €200
- Transport: €50 to €100
- Utilities/Internet: €50 to €80
- Health Insurance: €50 to €70
- Miscellaneous: €100 to €150
Total Annual Budget (Tuition + Living) for Indian Students:
| Student Profile | Annual Budget (€) | Annual Budget (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Budget student (Groningen/Enschede/Wageningen, lower-fee MSc) | €17,000 to €22,000 | INR 18.54 lakh to INR 23.99 lakh |
| Mid-range student (Rotterdam/Eindhoven/Nijmegen, mid-tier MSc) | €22,000 to €30,000 | INR 23.99 lakh to INR 32.71 lakh |
| Standard student (Delft/Utrecht/Leiden, TU Delft/UvA MSc) | €30,000 to €40,000 | INR 32.71 lakh to INR 43.62 lakh |
| Premium student (Amsterdam, private room, UvA Science MSc) | €38,000 to €50,000 | INR 41.43 lakh to INR 54.52 lakh |
Indian students can work 16 hours per week during term time. The Dutch minimum wage in 2026 is €13.68 (INR 1,492) per hour.
What students say:
- Housing is the biggest challenge in the Netherlands. Students strongly recommend starting the housing search as early as possible, ideally 4 to 6 months before arrival
- Amsterdam and Delft have severe housing shortages. Students in these cities often pay €700 to €1,000 (INR 76,328 to INR 1.09 lakh) per month for a single room
- Groningen and Enschede are the most affordable cities. Monthly living costs are €200 to €400 (INR 21,808 to INR 43,616) lower than Amsterdam
- Part-time work at €13.68 (INR 1,492) per hour for 16 hours per week can generate approximately €800 to €900 (INR 87,232 to INR 98,136) per month, which covers most grocery and transport costs
Also Read: Cost of Living in Netherlands for Indian Students
Scholarships at Public Universities in Netherland
The NL Scholarship (formerly Holland Scholarship) gives €5,000 (INR 5.45 lakh) as a one-time grant. It is available at all 13 Dutch research universities for Indian students. Most scholarship deadlines fall between 1 December and 1 February, well before the 1 May programme application deadline.
| Scholarship | University | Value (€) | Value (INR) | Eligibility | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NL Scholarship (Holland Scholarship) | All 13 research universities | €5,000 (one-time) | INR 5.45 lakh | Non-EEA students; first-year BSc or MSc; merit-based | 1 February (varies) |
| Justus and Louise van Effen Excellence Scholarship | TU Delft | Full tuition + €1,100/month | INR 27.94 lakh + INR 1.20 lakh/month | Non-EEA MSc applicants; top academic record; 2-year TU Delft MSc | 1 December |
| Utrecht Excellence Scholarship (UES) | Utrecht University | Full tuition (up to €25,306) | INR 27.59 lakh | Non-EEA MSc students; top 10% of applicants; GPA 3.7+/4.0 | 1 February |
| Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS) | Leiden University | €10,000 to full tuition | INR 10.90 lakh to full | Non-EEA MSc students; outstanding academic record | 1 February |
| Groningen University Scholarship (GUS) | University of Groningen | €25,000/year (tuition + living) | INR 27.26 lakh/year | Non-EEA MSc students; top academic record; all disciplines | 1 December |
| Radboud Scholarship Programme | Radboud University | Full tuition + €750/month | Full tuition + INR 81,780/month | Non-EEA MSc students; excellent academic record | 1 April |
| Maastricht NL-High Potential Scholarship | Maastricht University | Full tuition + living costs | Full funding | Non-EEA MSc students; top academic record; all disciplines | 1 February |
| TU/e Excellence Scholarship | TU/e | €15,000 tuition + €5,000 living | INR 16.36 lakh + INR 5.45 lakh | Non-EEA MSc students; STEM disciplines | 1 February |
| University of Twente Scholarship (UTS) | University of Twente | €3,000 to €22,000 | INR 3.27 lakh to INR 23.99 lakh | Non-EEA BSc and MSc students; merit-based | 1 February |
| Orange Tulip Scholarship (OTS) | Nuffic/Dutch universities | Partial to full tuition | Varies | Indian students specifically; merit-based | 1 February (varies) |
| Wageningen University Fellowship | Wageningen University | Full tuition + €1,050/month | Full tuition + INR 1.14 lakh/month | Non-EEA MSc students; life sciences focus | 1 February |
| VU Amsterdam Fellowship | VU Amsterdam | €5,000 to full tuition | INR 5.45 lakh to full | Non-EEA MSc students; merit-based; all disciplines | 1 February |
| Tilburg University Scholarship | Tilburg University | €5,000 to €15,000 | INR 5.45 lakh to INR 16.36 lakh | Non-EEA MSc students; Business, Economics, Law | 1 February |
| Erasmus Mundus Scholarships | European Commission | €1,400/month + full tuition | INR 1.53 lakh/month + tuition | All nationalities; merit-based; Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees | Varies |
Fully funded scholarships for Indian students: TU Delft van Effen, Utrecht Excellence, Groningen GUS, Radboud Scholarship, Maastricht NL-High Potential, and Wageningen Fellowship.
What students say:
- The NL Scholarship is the most accessible option. It is available at all 13 universities and does not require a separate application in most cases
- The Orange Tulip Scholarship is specifically for Indian students and is highly recommended as a first application alongside the programme application
- Scholarship deadlines (1 December to 1 February) are much earlier than programme deadlines (1 May). Students who miss scholarship deadlines lose funding opportunities
- Students with a CGPA above 8.0/10 or equivalent have the best chances for fully funded scholarships like the TU Delft van Effen and Utrecht Excellence
Netherlands Student Visa Process
The Netherlands uses a TEV (Entry and Residence) procedure for non-EEA students. Your university applies to the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service) on your behalf. You do not apply directly to the Dutch embassy. The IND processing time is 60 to 90 days. The visa fee is approximately €210 (INR 22,898).
Step-by-step process:
- Receive unconditional admission letter from your Dutch university
- Pay the required tuition fee deposit as instructed by the university
- Your university's International Office submits the TEV application to IND
- IND processes the application in standard 60 days; peak season up to 90 days
- IND sends approval letter to your university, which forwards it to you
- Book a VFS Global appointment at the nearest Netherlands Visa Application Centre in India (Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, or Bengaluru)
- Submit documents at VFS Global and pay the MVV fee of approximately €210 (INR 22,898)
- Collect passport with MVV visa sticker from VFS Global (typically 5 to 10 working days)
- Travel to the Netherlands before the MVV expiry date (valid for 90 days from issue)
- Collect VVR (Residence Permit Card) within the first week of arrival
- Register at the local Gemeente (municipality) within 5 days of finding permanent accommodation to receive your BSN number
- Complete mandatory TB test at GGD within 3 months of arrival (required for Indian nationals)
Key documents required:
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | Minimum 6 months validity beyond study period |
| Unconditional Admission Letter | From your Dutch university |
| Proof of Tuition Fee Payment | Receipt of deposit or full payment |
| Proof of Financial Means | €932/month for the full study duration in bank account |
| Passport-Size Photos | As per VFS Global specifications |
| Health Insurance | Valid Dutch health insurance or international policy |
| Housing Confirmation | Proof of accommodation in the Netherlands |
| Academic Transcripts | Certified copies of Class X, XII, and degree transcripts |
What students say:
- The TEV process is university-sponsored, which means students do not need to visit the Dutch embassy directly. This makes the process simpler than most other European countries
- Students recommend starting the visa process at least 3 to 4 months before the intended travel date to avoid delays during peak season (May to August)
- The mandatory TB test after arrival is often overlooked by Indian students. Missing this test can cause issues with the residence permit renewal
- Registering at the Gemeente (municipality) and getting the BSN number is essential. Without a BSN, students cannot open a bank account or start part-time work
Post-Study Work and Career Scope After Studying in Netherlands
The Netherlands offers one of Europe's most accessible post-study work pathways. The Orientation Year Visa (Zoekjaar) allows graduates from QS Top-200 universities to stay for 12 months after graduation. No job offer is required at the time of application. According to Nuffic, approximately 39% of non-EEA graduates remain in the Netherlands 5 years after graduation.
Orientation Year Visa (Zoekjaar) key details:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 12 months after graduation |
| Eligibility | Graduated from a QS Top-200 university; held valid Dutch student permit at graduation |
| Work Rights | Work in any job with no sector or salary restrictions |
| Application Fee | €210 (INR 22,898) |
| Processing Time | 2 to 4 weeks |
| Apply Within | 3 years of graduation date |
| Pathway After | Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) permit once a job is secured |
| Reduced HSM Salary Threshold (Orientation Year holders) | €3,122/month gross (INR 3.40 lakh/month) in 2026 |
| Standard HSM Threshold (under 30) | €4,357/month (INR 4.75 lakh/month) in 2026 |
| Standard HSM Threshold (30 and above) | €5,942/month (INR 6.48 lakh/month) in 2026 |
| PR Pathway | After 5 years of legal stay on HSM permit |
| 30% Tax Ruling | Indian HSM graduates may qualify for 30% tax exemption for first 5 years |
Average salaries for Netherlands graduates (2026):
| Job Role | Annual Salary (€) | Annual Salary (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Software Engineer | €55,000 to €90,000 | INR 59.97 lakh to INR 98.14 lakh |
| Data Scientist | €53,000 to €80,000 | INR 57.79 lakh to INR 87.23 lakh |
| Data Engineer | €45,000 to €70,000 | INR 49.07 lakh to INR 76.33 lakh |
| Mechanical/Aerospace Engineer | €45,000 to €70,000 | INR 49.07 lakh to INR 76.33 lakh |
| Electrical/Electronics Engineer | €48,000 to €75,000 | INR 52.34 lakh to INR 81.78 lakh |
| Business/Financial Analyst | €40,000 to €65,000 | INR 43.62 lakh to INR 70.88 lakh |
| Management Consultant | €50,000 to €85,000 | INR 54.52 lakh to INR 92.68 lakh |
| Environmental/Food Scientist | €38,000 to €60,000 | INR 41.43 lakh to INR 65.42 lakh |
| Biomedical/Life Sciences Researcher | €42,000 to €68,000 | INR 45.80 lakh to INR 74.15 lakh |
| Supply Chain/Logistics Manager | €45,000 to €72,000 | INR 49.07 lakh to INR 78.51 lakh |
| Product Manager | €55,000 to €95,000 | INR 59.97 lakh to INR 1.04 crore |
Top employers in the Netherlands include Shell, Philips, ASML, Unilever, ING, ABN AMRO, Heineken, Booking.com, KPMG, Deloitte, McKinsey, Accenture, and Amazon.
Note: All salaries are gross annual figures. Dutch income tax rates are 36.97% (up to €38,441) and 49.5% (above €38,441) for 2026. Indian graduates qualifying as Highly Skilled Migrants may be eligible for the 30% ruling, a tax benefit exempting 30% of gross salary from income tax for the first 5 years.
What students say:
- Finding a job in the Netherlands is easier for IT, engineering, and data science graduates. Jobs in humanities and social sciences are harder to find without Dutch language skills
- Dutch language proficiency is not required for most IT and tech roles. However, it significantly improves job prospects in other sectors
- Students recommend using the Orientation Year Visa to build a local network through internships and part-time work during the degree itself
- The 30% tax ruling is a major financial benefit for Indian graduates. It effectively increases take-home pay by a significant amount in the first 5 years
Also Read: Working in the Netherlands after Graduation
For Indian students in 2026, the Netherlands offers a strong combination of world-class universities, affordable fees compared to the UK and USA, and a clear post-study work pathway. Students targeting engineering and technology should prioritise TU Delft (#48) and TU/e (#152). Students on a budget should consider University of Groningen (#157) or University of Twente (#223), where total annual costs start from €17,000 (INR 18.54 lakh). Apply for the NL Scholarship and Orange Tulip Scholarship by 1 February, well before the programme deadline of 1 May. Start the housing search at least 4 to 6 months before arrival, especially for Amsterdam and Delft. Begin the visa process at least 3 to 4 months before travel to avoid delays during peak season.
FAQs
Ques: Are public universities in the Netherlands good for Indian students?
Ans: Yes. 8 Dutch public universities rank in the QS World Top 200 for 2027. Over 2,100 programmes are taught in English. Tuition fees start from €8,000 (INR 8.72 lakh) per year, which is lower than the UK, USA, or Australia.
Ques: What is the tuition fee at public universities in the Netherlands for Indian students?
Ans: Indian students pay institutional fees ranging from €8,000 to €25,633 per year (INR 8.72 lakh to INR 27.94 lakh). TU Delft is the most expensive at €25,633 (INR 27.94 lakh) per year for Master's programmes. University of Twente is among the most affordable at €12,750 to €16,500 (INR 13.90 lakh to INR 17.99 lakh) per year for Master's programmes.
Ques: Is IELTS required for Dutch universities?
Ans: Yes. Most Dutch universities require IELTS Academic with a minimum score of 6.5 to 7.0 for Master's programmes. Some universities also accept TOEFL iBT (90 to 100) and PTE Academic. Students whose previous degree was taught entirely in English may be exempt from the language test requirement at some universities.
Ques: Can Indian students work part-time in the Netherlands?
Ans: Yes. Indian students on a Dutch student residence permit can work 16 hours per week during the academic year. They can work full-time during summer months (June, July, and August). The Dutch minimum wage in 2026 is €13.68 (INR 1,492) per hour.
Ques: What is the Orientation Year Visa in the Netherlands?
Ans: The Orientation Year Visa (Zoekjaar) is a 12-month residence permit for graduates of QS Top-200 universities. It allows graduates to live and work in the Netherlands while searching for a job. No job offer is required at the time of application. The application fee is €210 (INR 22,898).
Ques: What scholarships are available for Indian students in the Netherlands?
Ans: The NL Scholarship gives €5,000 (INR 5.45 lakh) as a one-time grant at all 13 research universities. The Orange Tulip Scholarship is specifically for Indian students and covers partial to full tuition. Fully funded scholarships include the TU Delft van Effen, Utrecht Excellence, Groningen GUS, and Wageningen Fellowship.
Ques: Is Dutch language required to study in the Netherlands?
Ans: No. Over 76% of Master's programmes at Dutch research universities are taught entirely in English. Dutch language is not required for admission or study. However, learning basic Dutch improves daily life and job prospects, especially in sectors outside IT and technology.
Ques: What is the cost of living in the Netherlands for Indian students?
Ans: Monthly living costs range from €750 to €950 (INR 81,780 to INR 1.04 lakh) in affordable cities like Groningen and Enschede. Amsterdam is the most expensive at €1,100 to €1,400 (INR 1.20 lakh to INR 1.53 lakh) per month. The total annual budget including tuition and living starts from €17,000 (INR 18.54 lakh) for budget students.
Ques: Do Dutch universities accept Indian degrees directly?
Ans: Yes. Dutch public universities accept Indian transcripts and degree certificates directly. No WES credential evaluation is required, unlike in Canada or the USA. Students must submit certified copies of Class X, XII, and bachelor's degree transcripts as part of the application.
Ques: What is the Numerus Fixus in the Netherlands?
Ans: Numerus Fixus is a Dutch system that limits places in high-demand programmes such as Medicine, Dentistry, Psychology, and Law. All applicants including international students must go through a weighted selection procedure or lottery. The application deadline for Numerus Fixus programmes is 15 January, much earlier than the standard 1 May deadline.
Found 20 universities
| Ranking | College Info | Top Courses | Fees & Cost of Living | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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 #41/824 Collegedunia Study Abroad Ranking 2026(Overall) |  University of Amsterdam, AmsterdamNorth Holland, Netherlands | MS Computer Science Course duration: 2 years Exams Accepted: TOEFL4.5 | Tuition: (€24,500/Yr)$28.2K/Yr Living: (€925/Yr)$1.1K/Yr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
#47/824 Collegedunia Study Abroad Ranking 2026(Overall) |  Delft University of Technology, DelftSouth Holland, Netherlands82%Acceptance Rate | MS Data Science and Technology Course duration: 2 years Exams Accepted: TOEFL5.0 | Tuition: (€25,088/Yr)$28.9K/Yr Living: (€13,750/Yr)$15.8K/Yr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
#60/824 Collegedunia Study Abroad Ranking 2026(Overall) |  Leiden University, LeidenSouth Holland, Netherlands63%Acceptance Rate | MS Data Science: Computer Science Course duration: 2 years Exams Accepted: TOEFL4.5 | Tuition: (€21,862/Yr)$25.1K/Yr Living: (€1,006/Yr)$1.2K/Yr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
#72/824 Collegedunia Study Abroad Ranking 2026(Overall) |  University of Groningen, GroningenGroningen, Netherlands50%Acceptance Rate | MS Supply Chain Management Course duration: 1 year Exams Accepted: IELTS6.5 | Tuition: (€20,305/Yr)$23.4K/Yr Living: (€900/Yr)$1K/Yr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
#77/824 Collegedunia Study Abroad Ranking 2026(Overall) |  Wageningen University & Research, WageningenGelderland, Netherlands44%Acceptance Rate | M.S Molecular Life Sciences Course duration: 2 years Exams Accepted: TOEFL92 | Tuition: (€20,984/Yr)$24.1K/Yr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
#78/824 Collegedunia Study Abroad Ranking 2026(Overall) |  Erasmus University Rotterdam, RotterdamSouth Holland, Netherlands53%Acceptance Rate | MBA International Course duration: 1 year Exams Accepted: IELTS7 | Tuition: (€21,125/Yr)$24.3K/Yr Living: (€1,000/Yr)$1.1K/Yr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
#92/824 Collegedunia Study Abroad Ranking 2026(Overall) |  Utrecht University, UtrechtUtrecht, Netherlands22%Acceptance Rate | M.S Artificial Intelligence Course duration: 2 years Exams Accepted: IELTS6.5 | Tuition: (€20,652/Yr)$23.7K/Yr Living: (€1,100/Yr)$1.3K/Yr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
#117/824 Collegedunia Study Abroad Ranking 2026(Overall) |  Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, AmsterdamNorth Holland, Netherlands45%Acceptance Rate | MS Business Analytics Course duration: 2 years Exams Accepted: TOEFL92 | Tuition: (€13,461/Yr)$15.5K/Yr Living: (€750/Yr)$862.5/Yr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
#129/824 Collegedunia Study Abroad Ranking 2026(Overall) |  Eindhoven University of Technology, EindhovenNorth Brabant, Netherlands50%Acceptance Rate | M.S Computer Science and Engineering Course duration: 2 years Exams Accepted: IELTS6.5PTE61 | Tuition: (€18,219/Yr)$21K/Yr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
#143/824 Collegedunia Study Abroad Ranking 2026(Overall) |  Maastricht University, MaastrichtLimburg, Netherlands52%Acceptance Rate | MS Global Supply Chain Management and Change Course duration: 1 year Exams Accepted: TOEFL4.5 | Tuition: (€20,409/Yr)$23.5K/Yr Living: (€3,130/Yr)$3.6K/Yr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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#148/824 Collegedunia Study Abroad Ranking 2026(Overall) |  Radboud University, NijmegenGelderland, Netherlands70%Acceptance Rate | M.S Data Science Course duration: 2 years Exams Accepted: IELTS6.5 | Tuition: (€2,765/Yr)$3.2K/Yr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
#159/824 Collegedunia Study Abroad Ranking 2026(Overall) |  University of Twente, EnschedeOverijssel, Netherlands51%Acceptance Rate | M.Sc Business Administration Course duration: 1 year Exams Accepted: TOEFL4.5PTE63 | Tuition: (€18,484/Yr)$21.3K/Yr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
#273/824 Collegedunia Study Abroad Ranking 2026(Overall) |  Tilburg University, TilburgNorth Brabant, Netherlands57%Acceptance Rate | M.S Business Analytics and Operations Research Course duration: 1 year Exams Accepted: GMAT550TOEFL90 | Tuition: (€13,499/Yr)$15.5K/Yr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 #601/1000 ARWU Ranking 2021(Overall) |  Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University (RSM), RotterdamSouth Holland, Netherlands53%Acceptance Rate | MBA International Course duration: 1 year Exams Accepted: IELTS7 | Tuition: (€24,475/Yr)$28.1K/Yr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 #489/650 FORBES Ranking 2019(Overall) |  Amsterdam Business School, AmsterdamNorth Holland, Netherlands4%Acceptance Rate | MBA Course duration: 1 year Exams Accepted: TOEFL5 | Tuition: (€26,632/Yr)$30.6K/Yr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 #197/1021 QS Ranking 2019(Overall) |  School of Business and Economics, Maastricht University, MaastrichtLimburg, Netherlands52%Acceptance Rate | MS International Business - Strategic Marketing Course duration: 1 year Exams Accepted: TOEFL4.5 | Tuition: (€19,465/Yr)$22.4K/Yr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| -- |  Breda University of Applied Sciences, BredaNorth Brabant, Netherlands57%Acceptance Rate | M.B.A Imagineering Course duration: 1 year Exams Accepted: IELTS6 | Tuition: (€2,565/Yr)$2.9K/Yr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| -- |  Royal Academy of Art, The Hague, The HagueSouth Holland, Netherlands69%Acceptance Rate | M.A Interior Architecture (INSIDE) Course duration: 2 years Exams Accepted: IELTS6 | Tuition: (€10,792/Yr)$12.4K/Yr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| -- |  The Hague University of Applied Sciences, The HagueSouth Holland, Netherlands70%Acceptance Rate | M.B.A Course duration: 1 year Exams Accepted: IELTS6.0PTE61 | Tuition: (€14,258/Yr)$16.4K/Yr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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