Studying in the Netherlands is a dream for many students, thanks to its world-class education system, diverse culture, and excellent career opportunities. But what if you could study there for free? While tuition fees can be expensive, there are several ways to minimize or even eliminate your education costs through scholarships, affordable universities, and smart financial planning. In this guide, we’ll explore practical steps to help you achieve your goal of studying in the Netherlands without breaking the bank, including how to apply for a student visa for the Netherlands and make the most of financial aid options.

University Application

1. Ensure Accuracy and Completeness: Double-check all required documents (transcripts, test scores, recommendations) and ensure there are no errors in your application. A mistake-free submission shows attention to detail.

2. Craft a Strong Motivation Letter: Your motivation letter (or personal statement) is your chance to explain why you’re passionate about the program and why you chose that specific university. Make it authentic, focused, and personalized. Highlight your academic background, personal motivations, and future goals.

3. Showcase Your Achievements: Highlight your academic performance as well as your extracurricular involvement, leadership roles, and personal achievements. This shows you are a well-rounded candidate who can contribute to the university community.

Preparing Your Application in Advance

Check university-specific deadlines (usually between November and April)
Prepare necessary documents like transcripts, recommendation letters, and a statement of purpose
Ensure your application is tailored to each university’s requirements.

Affordable Universities in the Netherlands

If you’re looking for affordable universities in the Netherlands, here are some good options that offer quality education, scholarships, and student support.

1. University of Amsterdam (UvA)

UvA is one of the most popular universities in the Netherlands, offering many programs in English. It provides scholarships and financial aid, making it easier for international students to manage tuition fees. Amsterdam is a lively city with many student opportunities, but the cost of living can be higher.

2. Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)

TU Delft is well-known for engineering, technology, and science courses. It offers financial aid and scholarships, making it a great choice for students who want a top-quality education at a reasonable cost. The city is student-friendly with a vibrant atmosphere.

3. University of Groningen

Groningen is a budget-friendly option with many English-taught programs. The university provides scholarships and tuition waivers for students with good academic records. The city is affordable compared to bigger cities and has an active student life.

4. Radboud University Nijmegen

Radboud University has competitive tuition fees and offers strong student support. Nijmegen is a peaceful city with green spaces and a rich cultural scene, providing a good study environment. Financial aid is available for international students.

5. Leiden University

Leiden University is one of the oldest in the Netherlands and offers many English programs. The tuition fees are affordable, and scholarships are available. Leiden is a small, historic city with a friendly student community, making it a great place to study and live.

Scholarships to Study in the Netherlands for Free

Many Dutch universities offer scholarships that can cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both. Here are 10 scholarships worth applying for:

1. Amsterdam Merit Scholarship – Offers a scholarship of up to €25,000 per year for outstanding international students.
2. Holland Scholarship – Provides a one-time award of €5,000 for students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) starting a degree in the Netherlands.
3. TU Delft Excellence Scholarship – Covers full tuition fees and living expenses for exceptional international students, typically around €30,000 per year.
4. Radboud Scholarship Programme – Offers a partial tuition fee waiver or full coverage for talented students, typically around €16,000 per year.
5. Maastricht University High Potential Scholarship – Provides €29,000 per year, which includes tuition, insurance, visa costs, and living expenses.
6. Utrecht Excellence Scholarship – Offers a scholarship up to €17,000 per year for non-EEA students, covering tuition and living costs.
7. Leiden University Excellence Scholarship – Grants partial to full tuition fee coverage, ranging from €5,000 to €15,000 annually.
8. University of Twente Scholarship – Offers €12,000 to €30,000 per year, depending on the program and student’s nationality.
9. VU Amsterdam Fellowship Programme – Provides a scholarship up to €15,000 per year for non-EU students, covering tuition and living expenses.
10. Erasmus University Holland Scholarship – Offers €5,000 for the first year of studies, available for non-EEA students.

Government-Funded Scholarships & How to Apply

1. Holland Scholarship

• Who can apply: Non-EEA students who are applying for a full-time bachelor’s or master’s program at a Dutch university.
• What it covers: €5,000, which is a one-time contribution toward your first-year tuition fees.
• How to apply: Apply through the Dutch university where you plan to study. Each university has its own application process, and you must be nominated by the university.

2. Erasmus+ Scholarship

• Who can apply: Students from the EEA (European Economic Area) or non-EEA countries, specifically for exchange programs or joint master’s degrees in Europe.
• What it covers: Tuition, living expenses, travel costs, and insurance for up to 12 months.
• How to apply: Apply directly through your home university or the consortium managing the joint master’s program.

3. Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP)

• Who can apply: Professionals and students from developing countries (outside the EU).
• What it covers: Full tuition fees, travel expenses, visa, insurance, and living costs.
• How to apply: Applications must be submitted through the Dutch embassy in your home country. Follow the guidelines on the embassy website.

4. Nuffic Scholarships

• Who can apply: Students from specific countries (mostly non-EEA) for specific fields of study in the Netherlands.
• What it covers: Full or partial coverage of tuition fees, living costs, and insurance.
• How to apply: Apply directly through Nuffic or your university. Each scholarship has its own conditions.

5. StuNed Scholarship

• Who can apply: Students and professionals from Indonesia.
• What it covers: Full tuition fees, living expenses, visa costs, and insurance.
• How to apply: Apply through the Dutch embassy in Indonesia or directly through the StuNed program’s official website.

External Scholarships for International Students

Apart from university and government scholarships, there are external organizations that provide financial aid, including:

• Rotary Foundation Global Grant
• Fulbright Scholarships
• Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

Part-Time & Full-Time Work Opportunities for Students

Work Hours

• During the Academic Year: International students are allowed to work up to 16 hours per week during the semester. This limit helps ensure that your studies remain the primary focus.
• During the Summer (June to August): Students can work full-time, up to 40 hours per week. This is a great opportunity to earn more and gain work experience in a less demanding academic period.

Minimum Wage

• The minimum wage for students in the Netherlands is approximately €12 per hour (as of 2025). This wage may vary slightly depending on the type of job and location, but it offers a reasonable standard of living, especially in cities outside of Amsterdam.

Popular Part-Time Jobs

1. Tutoring: Many international students offer tutoring services, particularly in subjects like English, math, or their area of study. This job is flexible and often pays well, depending on the subject.
2. Hospitality: Jobs in cafes, restaurants, and bars are common for students. Working in hospitality allows for a flexible schedule and the potential for tips, especially in busy tourist areas.
3. Research Assistant: For students in academic programs, working as a research assistant can be a great way to gain valuable experience and strengthen your CV. It often involves assisting professors or researchers with projects, which may also relate to your field of study.
4. Internships: Paid internships are available and can provide you with professional experience in your field. Many Dutch universities have partnerships with local companies, making it easier for students to find relevant internships.

How to Find a Job?

• University Job Boards: Many universities in the Netherlands offer job boards where local employers post student job openings.
• Online Job Portals: Websites like Indeed.nl, LinkedIn, and StudentJob.nl are popular platforms where part-time and full-time job opportunities are posted regularly.
• Networking: Joining student organizations, attending job fairs, or connecting with classmates and professors can help you find opportunities.

Work Permit for Non-EEA Students

• Non-EEA international students require a work permit (TWV) to work part-time. Typically, the university helps with the application process.
• Students from the EEA or Switzerland do not need a work permit.

Tuition-Free Programs for Student Visa for Netherland

Bachelor’s Degree: Full scholarships are rare, but partial funding is available to reduce tuition fees.
Master’s Degree: Fully funded programs exist for highly talented students, covering tuition and sometimes living expenses.
PhD Degree: Most PhD positions are paid research jobs, providing a monthly stipend instead of tuition fees.

European vs. Non-European Students

·  EU/EEA students: Lower tuition fees (€2,314 per year on average)
·  Non-EU students: Higher tuition (€6,000 – €20,000 per year)

Control on Living Expenses in the Netherlands

Living in the Netherlands can be expensive, but with the right strategies, you can keep your expenses under control.

• Student Dorms: Renting a room in a student dorm typically costs between €300 and €600 per month, depending on the location and type of accommodation.
• Shared Apartments: Sharing an apartment with other students is another cost-effective option. This allows you to split rent and utility costs, making it cheaper than renting a place on your own.
• Living Outside Major Cities: If you’re flexible, consider living in smaller towns or cities outside of places like Amsterdam or Rotterdam. Rent tends to be much lower in these areas.

Budget-Friendly Daily Expenses

• Groceries: To save on food, shop at supermarkets like Lidl, Aldi, or Albert Heijn. They offer discounts on a variety of items, and shopping smartly can help you keep your grocery bills down.
• Transport: Public transport is affordable with a student OV-chipkaart. This card offers significant discounts on trains, trams, and buses, making it easy to get around the country at a lower cost.
• Entertainment: Take advantage of student discounts at museums, cinemas, and events. Many places offer reduced entry fees for students, so you can enjoy cultural and recreational activities without breaking the bank.

Studying for Free vs. Regular Expenses

Studying in the Netherlands for free is possible with the right planning. Apply to affordable universities, secure scholarships, and manage living costs wisely. If it seems difficult, trust an expert education consultant with a 90% success rate in securing scholarships from top universities. They handle everything hassle-free, ensuring you get the best opportunity without any stress.