Most universities in Netherlands have varying requirements for admission. Some seek specific subjects as a part of the curriculum while others may exempt a student for a 4- year bachelor's requirement. The general admission requirements for studying in the Netherlands are briefed below.
Bachelors programs:
- Higher senior secondary with minimum 55% aggregate
- IELTS Academic - Minimum 6.5
- TOEFL iBT - Minimum 90 overall
Masters programs:
- Bachelor’s degree with a score nearing 70% in bachelors
- Work experience, if required
- GRE/GMAT
- IELTS - Overall 6.0-7.0 minimum
- TOEFL iBT - Minimum 90-100 overall, preferred 21 in individual section
A few universities also accept TOEFL CPT, TOEIC¸TOEFL PBT, TOEFL ITP and Cambridge English (169-172).
Netherlands Application Process
- Some universities such as Leiden University, Groningen University, Hanze UAS directly accept applications through their websites.
- If an applicant wants to compare his degree qualifications with Dutch context, one can visit Nuffic and check out the comparisons there.
- Universities generally respond to successfully submitted applications within 3-4 weeks.
- There also exists a common portal through which a student can apply to multiple universities called Studielink.
- Each university's website has a link to Studielink where one can start the application.
- On the portal the documents can be uploaded and fees are to be given. A student should however, first check if his target university accepts applications through the platform.
- There is a degree course lottery system named Numerus Fixus through which a student can apply.
- Up to 4 applications can be made through Studielink, out of which 2 can belong to Numerus Fixus.
- After the university accepts the application, a letter of acceptance is received by a student which needs to be responded within 10 days.
- Pay the fees for the university to confirm acceptance.
- A student will receive an application payment receipt that needs to be saved as it is further required.
- Please note that both undergraduate and postgraduate applications can be made through Studlielink. However, some universities may require a direct application which must be checked on the official website of a university.
Documentation
Find below a list of documents a student requires during the application process of Dutch universities.
- Passport
- ID card
- Academic transcripts
- Personal statement explaining why we chose a university, future goals, etc.
- Passport sized picture
- Language Proficiency Scorecards
- Proof of application fees paid
Additionally, depending on the university and level of course, one may be asked to submit the following documents as well.
- Motivation Letter
- Resume
- Reference letters
- Academic work samples
We hope this blog post helps to know the essentials for applying to Netherlands study program. You can read more about reasons to choose Netherlands, popular courses, cities, universities, cost of studying, intakes, deadlines, steps to apply for visa, stay back options and salaries in our Netherlands guide. Yocket wishes you the best in the journey ahead.
