Studying in the Netherlands: English-taught programmes and housing

With one of the widest ranges of English-taught programmes in continental Europe, project-based teaching and well-ranked universities, the Netherlands attracts many international students. Two points, however, require serious preparation: the fees for non-Europeans and, above all, housing. Here is how to study in the Netherlands from Tunisia.

Two types of institutions

• Research universities: Amsterdam, Leiden, Utrecht, Groningen, Delft, Eindhoven, Rotterdam (Erasmus), Maastricht, Tilburg, Nijmegen… Academic education, bachelor's in 3 years, master's in 1 to 2 years.

• Universities of applied sciences (hogescholen): more practical and professional education, bachelor's in 4 years, with internships.

English-taught programmes

The range is very wide, particularly in business, economics, engineering, computer science, psychology, social sciences and design. The Netherlands has, however, adopted a policy of reducing some English-taught programmes, especially at bachelor's level: check every year that your programme is still open to international students.

Is the Tunisian bac enough?

It depends on the institution:

• some universities of applied sciences accept the Tunisian bac with good grades;

• many research universities additionally require a successfully completed first year of higher education, a foundation year or high grades in specific subjects;

• for a master's, the Tunisian bachelor's degree is assessed case by case.

Applying via Studielink

1. Register on Studielink, the national platform.

2. Complete the additional application on the institution's portal: transcripts, English test (IELTS, TOEFL), motivation letter, CV, sometimes a test or interview.

3. The institution's decision.

Deadlines

• Programmes with limited places (numerus fixus): often mid-January.

• Other programmes: often in spring for non-EU students, sometimes earlier.

Apply from the autumn to keep some leeway.

The residence permit

For non-EU students, it is generally the institution that applies on your behalf for the entry visa and residence permit with the Dutch immigration service. You must provide:

• proof of funds for the year (a monthly amount set by the authorities, often paid into the university's account);

• payment of the tuition fees or a deposit;

• your passport and the requested documents.

How much does the Netherlands cost?

• Tuition fees for non-Europeans: roughly a few thousand to more than €20,000 per year depending on the institution and programme (universities of applied sciences are often cheaper).

• Daily life: generally €1,000 to €1,400 per month, more in Amsterdam.

Scholarships exist (university scholarships, government programmes) but remain limited and competitive.

Housing: the real challenge

The major university cities face a shortage of student housing. Our advice:

• start looking as soon as you are admitted, or even before;

• sign up on the lists of the university's partner residences;

• consider cities under less pressure than Amsterdam or Utrecht;

• beware of scams: never pay without a contract and without checking.

Some universities guarantee housing for international students in the first year, subject to deadlines.

Working during your studies

Non-EU students can work part-time during the academic year (with a work permit applied for by the employer) or full-time during the summer. After graduation, a job-search year is possible under certain conditions.

Typical timeline for a September intake

1. September – November: choose programmes, check admission requirements for the Tunisian bac, register for the IELTS.

2. November – January: register on Studielink and submit applications; programmes with limited places before mid-January.

3. January – April: other applications, possible tests or interviews, admission decisions.

4. Spring: payment of proof of funds and fees to the university, which starts the residence permit application.

5. As soon as you are admitted: look for housing, without waiting for the summer.

Research university or university of applied sciences?

A Tunisian bac holder can perfectly well start at a university of applied sciences, then join a research university master's after a pre-master programme.

How to avoid housing scams

Scams are common in the major cities. A few simple rules:

• never pay a deposit before seeing the accommodation (in person or via a live video tour) and signing a contract;

• be wary of abnormally low rents and landlords who are "abroad";

• favour the university's partner residences and the platforms it recommends;

• check that you will be able to register your address with the municipality, which is essential for administrative procedures.

Documents to prepare

• transcripts and diplomas, with official translations into English or Dutch;

• English certificate (IELTS or TOEFL);

• motivation letter and CV;

• valid passport;

• proof of funds for the year;

• for some programmes, a portfolio or recommendation letters.

Monthly cost in detail

Housing often accounts for half of the budget, more in Amsterdam. Add health insurance, food, transport (the bicycle is the main and cheapest way to get around), phone and study expenses. Cities such as Groningen, Enschede, Nijmegen or Maastricht are a little more affordable.

Our support

Worldwide Studies helps you choose programmes compatible with your diploma, apply via Studielink, prepare for the IELTS and the residence permit, and plan your housing search in advance. See also IELTS or TOEFL: which one to choose?.

👉 Fees and deadlines vary by programme: talk to an advisor for a Netherlands plan tailored to your profile.