Study in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is a top destination for Greek students seeking to study abroad. At Koutsodontis Prep Center, with experience since 1981,we provide successful preparation for the IELTS and TOEFL tests, as well as for the GMAT and GRE aptitude tests, which are required for admission to Dutch universities. Additionally, we offer support for your admissions process through various services. Every year, our students are accepted into top Dutch universities in Bachelor’s or Master’s programs!

Why Study in the Netherlands

1. Personal Benefits Outweigh Academic ones

Many overlook the fact that studying abroad plays an important role in the personal development of students, in addition to the professional one. The opportunity to step outside their comfort zone leads to exposure to different cultures and new people. In other words, it is a life experience that broadens students’ horizons and holistically shapes their character and attitudes.

2. Multicultural Environment

Dutch universities offer English-taught programs in a wide range of subjects, making them particularly popular. The Dutch are known for being tolerant and open-minded, so students find themselves in a welcoming and diverse environment. Moreover, knowing Dutch is not required since the Netherlands has the highest level of English proficiency of any non-English speaking country! However, learning Dutch is recommended to ease daily life and work.

3. Low Tuition Fees

University programs are co-funded by the Dutch government, resulting in more affordable tuition fees compared to other countries. Prospective students are advised to check the tuition fees on the website of the respective program they are interested in. Annual tuition fees for students from EU countries are significantly lower than those for students from non-EU countries, and funding through scholarships is also possible.

4. High-Quality Education

Low tuition fees in no way mean low-quality education. Teaching methods are student-centred and promote autonomy, creativity and critical thinking. Additionally, Dutch universities rank high in international university rankings. For example, according to QS rankings, 9 out of 13 Dutch universities are among the top 200 worldwide. This is due, among other factors, to their distinguished study programs, good reputation and the trust of employers.

5. Excellent Career Opportunities

The developed economy of the Netherlands can offer graduates valuable job positions in their field of study shortly after graduation. Renowned universities are connected to the labor market, providing students with the knowledge and skills to be competitive and sought after. In fact, some of the largest multinational companies are Dutch, such as Shell, ING, Heineken, Phillips, and KLM.

University Admissions & Requirements

Universities in the Netherlands use the rolling admissions system, meaning they evaluate applications as they receive them, rather than after a set deadline. Therefore, program spots may fill up before the official application deadline. It is recommended to start preparing your applications as early as possible. Moreover, some programs begin in January/February, in addition to September. Generally, applications start on October 1st.

Regarding the application process, candidates first register on the Studielink platform. This is a centralized system where candidates create an account and apply directly to the universities of their choice, uploading the required documents. Through the platform, they can also track their enrollment process and manage issues such as tuition payment. Candidates can apply to up to four universities and programs. Each program sets its own admission requirements, so it is important to pay attention to the specific requirements and deadlines.

Basic requirements for English-taught undergraduate programs are:

High school diploma
English language certification (IELTS or TOEFL)
Personal Statement
Possibly a Letter of Recommendation

Basic requirements for English-taught postgraduate programs are:

Bachelor’s degree and Transcript (original and certified translations)
English language certification (IELTS or TOEFL)
Personal Statement
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
One of the aptitude tests GMAT or GRE (depending on the program)
Letters of Recommendation from professors and/or employers

New classes for IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT, and GRE start every month. Additionally, the Admissions Office provides individual services regarding Bachelor’s or Master’s programs, starting immediately after your registration.

Numerus Fixus Undergraduate Programs

Numerus Fixus refers to popular undergraduate programs with a limited number of available spots, such as Medicine, Psychology, and Computer Science, among others. Students can apply to two such programs, with the application deadline typically being January 15th for admission the following September.

After completing the application on Studielink, there will be an additional step in the application process. This could involve participating in an assessment day at the university or completing an online examination, likely in late February or March. Of course, these selection procedures can easily change from year to year.

Following the assessment day, students will be numerically ranked based on their performance in the exams or any other activity used by the university. Students who rank within the program’s quota will receive an offer through Studielink. Students who rank just outside the quota will be placed on a waiting list.

Tuition Fees & Funding

As previously mentioned, the cost of studies for students from EU countries is quite affordable, with tuition fees starting at €2,530 per year. Moreover, it is possible to finance studies, living expenses, or both, through scholarships. Various funding sources (excellence scholarships, trust grants, student loans) are listed on the program websites and various conditions must be met. There are also several agencies or organizations in Greece that grant scholarships for studying abroad. It should be noted that a high GMAT or GRE score is a prerequisite for the awarding of scholarships. Lastly, careful attention to the requirements and deadlines of scholarships is essential.

Generally, scholarships in the Netherlands are rare. Postgraduate students can apply for scholarships at the university they have been accepted to. The amount of these scholarships varies based on the institution and is usually awarded based on academic criteria.

Living Costs in the Netherlands

Living costs for students in the Netherlands average around €800-€1,100 per month. Depending on the city of residence and lifestyle, there may be variations from this amount. Generally, the expenses to be considered include housing, food, clothing, transportation, health insurance, activities, and other miscellaneous expenses.

A significant issue that foreign students face in the Netherlands is finding accommodation. The lack of student housing makes it imperative to apply for admission to universities as early as possible. Thus, once accepted, candidates must apply and get on a waiting list for residence.

Additionally, securing a residence permit and medical insurance is crucial. EU students need to be enrolled in a Dutch university, pay for health insurance, and prove they have sufficient funds. Those in the Netherlands exclusively for studies are not entitled to public health insurance, so they must have insurance from their home country. EU students can obtain the European Health Insurance Card to prove medical coverage.

Regarding transportation, universities recommend buying a bicycle as a more economical solution and because of the Dutch culture. After all, it is widely known that there are more bicycles than people in the Netherlands! Moreover, many major European cities (Paris, London, Brussels) are nearby, making trips to these places quite affordable. Finally, with a student ID, students enjoy various discounts at places such as restaurants, attractions and leisure activities.

Popular Dutch Universities

Erasmus University Rotterdam

Erasmus University, located in Rotterdam, was founded in 1913 and offers studies in Economics, Business Administration, Law, Medicine, and Social Sciences. It includes a wide range of programs and is one of the top universities not only in the Netherlands but also in Europe. According to the THE World University Ranking 2022, it was ranked 4th in the Netherlands and 72nd worldwide. Additionally, the Rotterdam School of Management (the business school of Erasmus) was ranked 17th among European business schools in 2021 by the Financial Times, making it the top Dutch university on the list.

University of Amsterdam

The University of Amsterdam was founded in 1632 and offers programs in Economics, Business Administration, Social and Humanities Sciences, Medicine and Law, among others. It is one of the oldest Dutch universities with international acclaim and its alumni include Nobel Prize winners. According to the QS World University Rankings, it was ranked 55th globally, while the US News Best Global Universities ranked it 1st in the Netherlands.

Utrecht University

Utrecht University was founded in 1636 and provides studies in Economics, Business Administration, Social and Humanities Sciences, Medicine, and Law, among others. It focuses on research and history, with many alumni and professors having received Nobel or Spinoza Prizes. According to the QS World University Rankings, it was ranked 69th globally, while the US News Best Global Universities ranked it 2nd in the Netherlands.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology was founded in 1842 and is one of the most prestigious polytechnic schools in the Netherlands and internationally. The QS Rankings placed it 10th among the best universities in Engineering & Technology worldwide, making it the top Polytechnic school in the Netherlands, with several alumni having been awarded Nobel Prizes.

Tilburg University

Tilburg University was founded in 1927 and offers studies in Economics, Business Administration, Social and Humanities Sciences, among others. It is distinguished in Social Sciences and Economics, with its programs in economics and finance ranking high in international lists.

Leiden University

Leiden University was founded in 1575 and focuses on social sciences. It provides studies in Archaeology, International Relations, Sciences, and Law, among others. The QS Ranking by subject places the university among the top 30 in 8 fields and 5th in the Netherlands. Many Nobel and Spinoza Prize-winning scientists are associated with Leiden University, including Albert Einstein.

Wageningen University & Research

Wageningen University was founded in 1876 as an agricultural college and was recognized as a public university in 1918. It specializes in technical and engineering sciences, life sciences, and focuses on agricultural research. It was ranked 1st and 5th in the QS Ranking 2022 in the fields of Agriculture & Forestry and Environmental Sciences, respectively. In 2021, it was voted by its students as the best university in the Netherlands for the 17th consecutive year.

Maastricht University

Maastricht University was founded in 1976 and offers studies in Natural and Social Sciences, Economics, Business Administration, and Law. It receives significant distinctions, ranking among the top 300 universities globally in ranking lists and among the top 10 Dutch universities. Additionally, more than half of its students are international.

University of Groningen

The University of Groningen was founded in 1614 and its programs cover fields in Humanities and Social Sciences, Economics and Business Administration, Law, Natural Sciences, and Technology, among others. It consistently ranks among the top 100 universities globally, with many alumni or professors having received Nobel or Spinoza Prizes.

Eindhoven University of Technology

Eindhoven University of Technology was founded in 1956 and is a distinguished polytechnic school. The QS Rankings 2022 placed it as the 125th best globally, but 58th among the best universities in Engineering & Technology, making it the 2nd best Polytechnic in the Netherlands.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Vrije Universiteit was founded in 1880 and offers programs in Economics and Business Administration, Medicine, and Humanities and Social Sciences, among others. According to the THE World University Ranking 2022, it was ranked 115th globally, while the US News Best Global Universities ranked it 84th globally and 6th in the Netherlands.

University of Twente

The University of Twente was founded in 1961 and is a polytechnic school. It offers studies mainly in the fields of Engineering and Technology, with the QS Rankings placing it as the 189th best globally.

Radboud University Nijmegen

Radboud University Nijmegen was founded in 1923 and provides programs in Humanities and Social Studies, Natural Sciences, Law, and Philosophy, among others. It is internationally recognized for its research work, with the Shanghai Academic Ranking of World Universities ranking it 101st in 2021, while the THE World University Ranking 2022 placed it 132nd globally.

Koutsodontis Tips

TIP 1: Choosing a Study Program

Finding the right program that combines interests, qualifications, and budget is a challenging process, especially when considering universities abroad. Proper information is the key.

Our Prep Center offers the Program Finder service for Bachelor’s and Master’s programs, helping you find the most suitable university options based on your profile.

TIP 2: Connecting with our Alumni

Information from our alumni who have been accepted into the programs you are considering has proven very helpful. This communication serves both to inform about professional opportunities after graduation and to provide practical advice on issues students may encounter.

Our Prep Center provides all students enrolled in GMAT, GRE, TOEFL or IELTS preparation programs the opportunity to communicate with our alumni who have achieved their goals.

TIP 3: Start your Preparation Early

After selecting a study program, it’s important for candidates to begin their preparation as early as possible. This is due to high demand for the Netherlands. Typically, candidates start with IELTS or TOEFL certification.

Our Prep Center offers intensive preparation programs with new courses starting every month, designed to help students achieve their desired scores in a short period.

TIP 4: High Test Scores in GMAT / GRE

International universities assess candidates from different countries and institutions, often requiring the GMAT or GRE aptitude tests for comparison on a common basis. Therefore, candidates aim to perform as well as possible to achieve their goals, which entails achieving as high scores as possible.

Our Prep Center specializes in preparing students for GMAT and GRE tests, ensuring they achieve the desired scores. Our 40-year experience shows that the proper guidance, the right mindset and continuous practice lead to success. This is what our thousands of successes attest to!

TIP 5: Make your Application Stand Out

Your applications are crucial. Many students underestimate requirements such as CV, Personal Statement or Recommendation Letters, considering them easier tasks. The truth is these tasks require significant time and carry substantial weight in the university selection process. Therefore, they should never be rushed or done hastily.

Our Admissions Office provides full support for Bachelor’s and Master’s applications, achieving a 100% success rate every year in the application process!