Your Guide to Costs, Accommodation, Lifestyle, and Financial Support for Studying in the Netherlands
What’s the Cost of Studying in the Netherlands?
If you’re thinking about studying in the Netherlands, one of the biggest things to plan for is your budget. This guide covers every expense you’ll face as a student, so you know exactly what to expect.
Keep in mind: Prices and exchange rates are accurate at publication but may change.
Tuition Fees in the Netherlands
For students from the Netherlands, EU/EEA countries, Switzerland, or Suriname, tuition is €2,530 per year for both undergrad and postgrad degrees. Universities usually list these as statutory tuition fees.
Non-EU/EEA students often pay double or triple what EU/EEA students do—sometimes up to €20,000 per year, depending on the university, program, residence permit, past education, and scholarships. Postgrad fees can reach €30,000 for some courses.
Some programs also charge an application fee (€50–€100).
Since a bachelor’s degree takes four years, EU/EEA students should budget around €8,000 total for tuition, while non-EU/EEA students could pay up to €45,000.
Private schools (particuliere scholen), including business schools offering bachelor’s and MBA programs, are pricier—up to €30,000 for the full degree.
Non-EU/EEA students must also pay a €228 visa application fee.
Accommodation Costs
Rent varies, but you might pay up to €1,000/month, depending on location. Sharing with a roommate could push rent to €1,600/month.
University housing is an option but limited. Expect €350–€600/month for a dorm.
Utilities (if not included) average €200/month.
Living Expenses
- Internet: €30–€50/month (split with housemates)
- Phone bill: €20/month
- Books & supplies: €30–€65/month
Public transport uses an OV-chipkaart (cost varies by distance). Many students bike—consider renting or buying one.
- Petrol: €2.10/litre
Healthcare:
- If you’re not working, private insurance isn’t allowed.
- If you work, Dutch public health insurance is €90–€110/month (partly refundable via tax rebates).
Groceries & Leisure:
- Weekly groceries: ~€50/month (cheap options at Lidl, Aldi, Albert Heijn)
- Restaurant meal: €15
- Cinema ticket: €12
- Big Mac: €9.75
- Beer (pint): €5
- Wine (glass): €2.50–3.50
- Gym membership: €30/month
Student Discounts: Many bars, museums, and cinemas offer them—especially in student cities. Carry your university ID or get an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) for global discounts.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
The Dutch government provides student finance (studiefinanciering), including free transport, grants for low-income families, and low-interest loans. These are mostly for Dutch students, but some EU citizens or certain residence permit holders may qualify.
Many universities also offer scholarships for international students.