How can foreigners easily apply to a Dutch university?

Introduction

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in obtaining an education abroad. More and more people are discovering the opportunity to enroll in universities in the Netherlands, and many claim that this process is not as complicated as it may seem at first glance. My own journey in studying abroad began in January 2017 when I chose the Hague Hotel School, known as Hotelschool The Hague. However, after spending a year studying and completing an internship, I concluded that this field was not my calling and decided to return to Russia.

A new path in sports management

Upon returning home, I discovered that I am inspired by the field of sports, which ultimately led me to a new important step—I went back to the Netherlands. I became a student at The Hague University of Applied Sciences, choosing the field of "sports management." I am currently continuing my studies and feel that I have chosen the right path.

The process of applying to universities in the Netherlands

The admission process for higher education institutions in the Netherlands has its unique features. First of all, applicants must register on the Studielink platform. This online resource is used to submit applications, where personal information must be provided, including last name, first name, patronymic, and the numbers of both the Russian and foreign passports. The application also requires the submission of a high school diploma and an IELTS certificate with a minimum score.6.5.

Choosing universities

Next, you need to choose up to three universities where you plan to submit your applications. Then, the universities review the submitted applications. If the candidate's academic performance meets the admissions committee's standards, they receive an invitation to the internal exams. This usually includes:

• General tests
• Profile exams

All exams are conducted in English. In my case, since I have already completed the first year at another Dutch university, I provided a diploma of secondary vocational education instead of an IELTS certificate.

Interview

The next step is an interview with the recruiter, which is generally similar to a job interview. During this conversation, the following aspects are checked:

• The readiness of a prospective student to study in an international environment
• Understanding future professional activities
• Motivation and plans for the future

Previously, taking tests and interviews meant having to be physically present at the university, but with the onset of the pandemic, many procedures were moved online.

Financial aspects and obtaining a visa

After successfully completing all stages of the admission process, the applicant commits to paying for the first year of study and obtaining a student visa, which can be issued for a period of up to three years. The university provides the payment details and a link for payment, which can be done through any Russian bank.

Competition among students

The competition among international students in the Netherlands is relatively low. Out of a hundred applicants, only75There will be students from countries outside the European Union, which makes admission to universities more feasible. According to information, the cost of tuition in the Netherlands for EU students ranges from1.8to4.0thousands of euros per year, while for students from other countries - starting from6to20thousands of euros, depending on the chosen university and program.

The cost of education in the Netherlands

The question of the financial aspects of obtaining an education in the Netherlands for international students is becoming increasingly important. Generally, studying in this country is quite expensive, so it's advisable to familiarize yourself with the potential costs in advance. In this article, we will look at the estimated tuition fees at various universities in the Netherlands.

Tuition fees at universities

• University of Amsterdam:The cost of education is approximately €12,000.
• Maastricht University:from €8,000 to €13,000 depending on the chosen specialization.
• Delft University of Technology:Prices range from €8,464 to €13,226.
• Utrecht University:The training costs between €6,000 and €11,000.
• Eindhoven University of Technology:Rates from €6,700 to €15,000.
• Leiden University:The cost of education ranges from €10,000 to €13,500.
• Saxion University:Admission of students with an amount ranging from €7,800 to €11,000.
• Tilburg University:offers a price range from €7,000 to €14,000.
• Twente University:The price ranges from €5,828 to €10,333.

Additional information about prices can be found on specialized websites.

Special programs and additional expenses

Some specialized programs, such as hotel management, can be more expensive. For example, the first academic year in such a program may cost around €20,000, of which approximately half goes towards the classes themselves, while the remaining amount covers accommodation in a dormitory with necessary amenities. Additional expenses may also include:

• laundry services,
• access to study areas with internet and computers,
• snack spots,
• breakfast on campus and access to the gym.

It's important not to forget about the necessityhealth insurance.

Accommodation in universities of applied sciences

In universities of applied sciences, dormitories are usually not provided, so studying may involve renting accommodation, which will cost around €9,000 per year. Despite these challenges, many educational institutions actively welcome international students, including Russian-speaking learners. For example, in my class, there are two students from Sochi and several people from post-Soviet countries.

The educational process in the Netherlands

The educational process in the Netherlands is noticeably different from the Russian approach. The academic year here is divided not into semesters, as we are used to, but into blocks, each lasting 10 weeks. During the first eight weeks, lectures and seminars are held, while the last two weeks are dedicated to practical application of knowledge, exams, and sessions. This system proves to be effective as it helps students maintain an active approach to learning and avoid becoming complacent.

Teachers and the learning environment

The Faculty of Sports Management stands out with its professionals, among whom are true masters of their craft. For example, lectures on event management are conducted by a member of the International Olympic Committee, and a participant of the 1980 Olympic Games shares presentation skills. For me personally, it is a great joy to learn from specialists who not only have a deep knowledge of the subject but can also share current trends.

The atmosphere in the study group also plays a significant role. In the Netherlands, there is no distinction between "you" and "thou," which fosters warmer and more relaxed relationships between students and teachers. Students can easily address young teachers by their first names and even invite them to lunch – this is not only normal but also encouraged. One of the things that may surprise foreign students is the openness of the Dutch, who are not shy about expressing their thoughts.

Benefits for students

In conclusion, it should be noted that many universities offer students various privileges:

• discounts on event attendance,
• a decrease in bicycle rental prices.

This creates additional advantages for studying in the Netherlands.

Growing interest in foreign real estate

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in interest in purchasing real estate abroad, and to stay updated on important news, our subscribers can follow the information in the Telegram channel "Student Town." Our school, specializing in hotel management, is conveniently located in a picturesque area near The Hague and provides all the necessary conditions for quality education.

Amenities in the educational complex

The educational complex features a modern academic building, a dormitory, and a training hotel that serves as a practical base for students. Additionally, the campus includes sports areas and cafeterias, making the learning process more comfortable and diverse.

Training hotel

The training hotel is an important element of our educational program. Here, students learn all the details of hotel management. They are trained not only in how to neatly prepare rooms and serve tables but also in effective communication skills with clients.

The educational process includes both theoretical classes and numerous practical exercises. Students:

• they are honing their communication skills;
• participate in the work at the registration desk;
• They prepare meals for the whole group, which gives them valuable experience.

Educational building and sports facilities

The second university is equipped with a modern academic building that is isolated from the residential area. This creates a calm and surprisingly cozy atmosphere for studying. The modern building is accompanied by park areas with football fields and tennis courts, where students can engage in sports.

The university also has a gym that first-year students can use for free, while other students need to purchase an annual membership, which is a perfectly reasonable solution.

Bicycle culture in the Netherlands

Holland is known for its extensive network of bike paths, so many locals prefer to get around by bike rather than by car. A new bike usually costs around180 eurosPersonally, I chose the rental option, which cost me only13 eurosper month — much more convenient.

Diversity in cafes and canteens

Cafes and canteens at universities located in The Hague delight with their variety. Students can enjoy:

• various dishes, starting from seafood;
• finishing with exotic Asian delicacies.

At the same time, there is an opportunity to get a discount on50%that allows you to pay only3.5–5 eurosfor a full meal. There are shops and cafeterias on the campuses of both universities where students can grab a bite to eat and spend time with friends.

Student life and activities

Student life is full of events and activities. Almost everyone is a member of various student organizations that regularly organize events based on interests and future professions. The university often hosts parties and cultural events. One of the most unforgettable experiences for me was the initiation ceremony, during which we had to go through two weeks of trials. In the end, the seniors threw an amazing party in the style of American movies, which gathered a lot of participants, and the fun continued until early morning.

Internship and career growth

Immediately after completing the first year of study, students are required to undergo an internship, without which taking exams is impossible. The university actively supports students in finding internship placements by sending their resumes to potential employers. This is followed by an interview process, which can take place online if necessary.

Thanks to this stage, I was able to complete an internship at a hotel.Four SeasonsIn Hong Kong, where I worked for six months in the front office and interacted with clients. This gave me the opportunity to obtain a diploma as a junior specialist and a certificate of internship completion, which became an important step in my career path.

Experience of living in a dormitory

During my internship in Hong Kong, I had the opportunity to experience various aspects of dormitory life, which became a valuable experience for me. In my first year of studying hotel management, I lived in a dormitory located on the student campus. Each room accommodates 16 people, and students have the option to divide the rooms into two sections. Common areas, such as the kitchen and living room, are accessible to users from different rooms. The dormitory is equipped with all the necessary furniture and appliances, but bed linen needs to be purchased independently.

Rules and regulations of the dormitory

Compliance with the internal rules of the dormitory is strictly monitored.

Experience of students who chose to study abroad

In this story, you can read the opinions of other students who have chosen to study abroad. What is it really like to be in Nice, balancing life and studies? A Russian woman shares her views on the pros and cons of educational institutions in France. Additionally, she describes her impressions of moving to the Czech Republic and the reasons why she couldn't stay there after six years of studying. There is an opportunity to receive a scholarship that will allow you to study in Finland without having to pay for tuition.

Housing rental in the Netherlands

While dealing with housing issues, I want to note that I rented an apartment for €416, which included all utilities. Unfortunately, the second university I chose did not provide dormitories, so I had to look for a room in a rented apartment. Fortunately, my older brother, who has been living in The Hague for eight years, provided me with invaluable assistance in this process.

To rent an apartment, I needed to gather a set of documents, including:

• passport
• contact information
• bank account details in the Netherlands
• address of residence for the university

The landlord insisted on creating a special document that would outline all the risks associated with renting the apartment. I shared the apartment with two other students, and as mentioned earlier, the rent was €416, including all utilities. We had to pay an additional €40 per month for internet.

Setting and furniture

The apartment had all the necessary furniture and appliances, so there were no additional costs for that. We also experienced the benefits of a very common habit among the locals: the Dutch take good care of their belongings. If someone no longer needs something, they clean it and leave it by the entrance. Anyone interested can easily take the item. That's how we ended up with a wonderful vintage sofa in our apartment.

The standard of living in the Netherlands

Additionally, it is worth paying attention to the cost of living in the country, as this is an important aspect of everyday life in the Netherlands. Speaking of employment, it is worth noting that students are welcomed for temporary positions, especially during the tourist season. While on a student visa, you are allowed to work up to 16 hours a week, which creates great earning opportunities.

Employers are actively looking for students for temporary positions, especially during the summer when there are many tourists. To get a job, a student only needs a residence permit and health insurance, which is provided by the university. The employer is responsible for notifying the tax authorities and issuing employment records to employees. I myself have worked in several bars, where I earned €8 per hour – this corresponds to the minimum wage in the country.

Tips for future students

There were no difficulties with work, as the schedule was quite flexible and mostly in the evening. For students who are planning to go abroad to study, I can give one useful piece of advice:It is very important to be disciplined.Studying is truly an exciting process, surrounded by excellent teachers, a vast amount of information, and practical skills that allow you to fully immerse yourself in this activity. The atmosphere is inspiring, and you are constantly engaged in the learning process.

A key piece of advice for those planning to study in the Netherlands:Self-control should be maintained.Transitioning from a traditional environment to this rather free one, it's easy to get distracted from your goals. I've witnessed this with my acquaintances who started getting into drugs and spending a lot of time at parties, which ultimately affected their studies. Confusion sets in, and it becomes difficult to grasp the material. For me personally, it was easier – I always had a clear goal – education.

Conclusion

Studying in the Netherlands is not just a step into the world of knowledge, but a fantastic opportunity to immerse oneself in an international atmosphere that shapes not only academic but also personal skills. My experience of applying to a Dutch university was a true revelation for me. This journey, full of ups and downs, opened new horizons and showed me that every circumstance, even the most challenging, can become a chance for growth and self-development.

Dynamics of the educational process

I have come to the conclusion that education in the Netherlands attracts not only due to the high qualifications of the teachers but also because of the extraordinary dynamics of the educational process. The block learning format, which seems to differ from the traditional semester system, truly fosters continuous interest and a deeper understanding of the material. I am not only studying theory but also applying the knowledge I have gained in practice, which is particularly important in the field of sports management.

Intercultural interaction

It is absolutely clear that Dutch universities create conditions for the development of a strong intercultural environment. I was fortunate to study alongside young people from different corners of the world, and this incredibly enriches my experience. We exchanged opinions, shared stories, and together found solutions to the challenges that arose. The openness and friendliness of the Dutch helped me adapt more quickly and made my studies truly comfortable.

Language and culture studies

Perhaps one of the most significant discoveries for me has been that studying the language and culture of the country where you are learning opens doors to incredible opportunities. I am grateful for every minute spent at the university, for the knowledge, experience, and connections that will undoubtedly help me in my career in the future.

Tips for prospective students

So, if you're considering applying to a Dutch university, don't hesitate! This experience can become not just an educational phase in your life, but also a key to a new life full of discoveries and incredible opportunities.