Going Dutch
Known for being safe, clean, and accessible, the Netherlands is quickly becoming a key location to study. As a pioneer of offering English programs, tens of thousands are making their way to this relatively small country every year to pursue their education. Programs may be shorter and far cheaper that studying in the USA.
Study In Holland (UK site, Dutch site) is a great place to start searching out universities and courses. However, as with any country, be sure to take a look at the information on the university's website to confirm. All programs of higher education will be registered for via Studielink. Some great information about getting started is here. Once an account is created (DigID is only for Dutch residents so international students will login differently), students will apply for courses. The overall deadline is May 1st; however, courses can vary individual deadlines so it is best to seek out the source and apply earlier when possible. For non-EEA/EU students, the deadline may be earlier.
Many programs run just 3 years of full-time study, although double degrees can be obtained in 4 or 5 years. The cost varies by program, although tuition and fees can be around 8,000-11,000 Euros for some programs, and up to 22,000 Euros for others. Most schools in the Netherlands do not provide university affiliated housing or have extremely limited space, so seeking out an apartment takes time and the cost of room and board also must be factored into the equation.
Study In Holland (UK site, Dutch site) is a great place to start searching out universities and courses. However, as with any country, be sure to take a look at the information on the university's website to confirm. All programs of higher education will be registered for via Studielink. Some great information about getting started is here. Once an account is created (DigID is only for Dutch residents so international students will login differently), students will apply for courses. The overall deadline is May 1st; however, courses can vary individual deadlines so it is best to seek out the source and apply earlier when possible. For non-EEA/EU students, the deadline may be earlier.
Many programs run just 3 years of full-time study, although double degrees can be obtained in 4 or 5 years. The cost varies by program, although tuition and fees can be around 8,000-11,000 Euros for some programs, and up to 22,000 Euros for others. Most schools in the Netherlands do not provide university affiliated housing or have extremely limited space, so seeking out an apartment takes time and the cost of room and board also must be factored into the equation.
Types of Schools
Dutch institutions of higher education institutions fall into two main types: research universities and universities of applied sciences.
Research universities are mainly theoretical and would mirror those of other research university institutions around the world.
Universities of applied sciences offer programs that focus on the practical application of arts and sciences. Students think about a field and learning the skills needed to perform in that discipline. Students are prepared for a specific role. The university colleges resemble more of a liberal arts approach. Whatever is right for you, there is a way to find it in the Netherlands.
Research universities are mainly theoretical and would mirror those of other research university institutions around the world.
Universities of applied sciences offer programs that focus on the practical application of arts and sciences. Students think about a field and learning the skills needed to perform in that discipline. Students are prepared for a specific role. The university colleges resemble more of a liberal arts approach. Whatever is right for you, there is a way to find it in the Netherlands.
The Dutch Way of Teaching
Students wishing to study in the Netherlands need to be prepared to make the commitment to learn in the way expected by these institutions. The method is very student-centered and expects the student to be engaged in the process. Having an open mind is a plus and one needs to be cognizant of the international orientation of the school and field.
Working in groups to analyse work, solving problems, and completing tasks in not unusual. Students work as a team. Teachers facilitate learning and guide the process. Class participation is expected, and questioning or engaging in dialog with instructors is common.
Working in groups to analyse work, solving problems, and completing tasks in not unusual. Students work as a team. Teachers facilitate learning and guide the process. Class participation is expected, and questioning or engaging in dialog with instructors is common.