Country guide
🇳🇱 Netherlands
Europe · AmsterdamHDI 0.955GDP per capita (PPP) 86174
Student decision
Student work16OfficielSource · 2026-06-30
Post-study workOrientation year (zoekjaar): a 1-year permit to look for a job or start a business, with free access to the labour market.OfficielSource · 2026-06-30
Admission languageEnglish-taught programmes: a recognised test is required (IELTS, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge), with thresholds set by each institution.VérifiéSource · 2026-06-30
Cost of living€1,130.77/month (IND 2026 study norm, university/hbo)Source · 2026-07-01T00:00:00.000Z
Student visaA non-EU student needs a study residence permit for university or higher professional education; the recognised institution files the application (and, if required, the MVV entry visa) with the IND.Source · 2026-07-01T00:00:00.000Z
Preparation & steps
Required documentsThe study residence permit requires admission to a recognised institution, proof of means (study norm), an antecedents certificate, the TB test where applicable and, if required, the MVV — application filed by the institution.Source · 2026-07-01T00:00:00.000Z
Application documents
- Valid passport
- Proof of admission to a recognised institution (recognised sponsor)
- Proof of sufficient financial means (study norm, statement less than 3 months old)
- Antecedents certificate
- Consent to tuberculosis (TB) screening depending on nationality
- Health insurance valid in the Netherlands
- Provisional entry visa MVV if the nationality requires it