Overview
Applying to universities in the Netherlands is straightforward once you understand the moving parts: Studielink (the national application portal), university-specific portals for documents and tasks, and the residence permit process managed with your admitting institution. This guide walks you through each step, typical deadlines, a pragmatic monthly budget, and practical tips for housing, work, and insurance.
Always confirm program-specific requirements and dates on the university website—deadlines and document lists can differ by program.
Studielink: what to expect
- Create a Studielink account and add your degree program(s).
International applicants typically register with an email address; Dutch residents may use DigiD. - Follow your university portal (e.g., OSIRIS/SIS) for document uploads, tasks, and decisions.
Studielink is the starting point; detailed actions usually move to the university system. - Turn on notifications in both Studielink and the university portal, and forward important emails so you never miss a deadline.
Common documents (vary by program): passport, transcripts, diploma (or expected graduation letter), English test (IELTS/TOEFL), CV, motivation statement, and references.
Typical deadlines (by intake & program)
- Numerus fixus (selective/limited seats): often mid-January for September intake, with selection procedures in the months after.
- Most Bachelor’s (September intake): May–June windows are common, but some programs close earlier.
- Master’s: February–May for September intake, depending on faculty and track.
Many programs run rolling reviews or have earlier internal document deadlines. Always check the program page for exact dates.
Budget: realistic monthly costs (EUR)
These are broad ranges—your city and housing type matter most.
- Accommodation: €500–€900
- Food & essentials: €250–€350
- Transport / insurance / phone: €120–€200
One-time or irregular costs: residence permit/entry visa fees, municipal registration, deposits (housing), and initial setup (bedding, bike). Check the university’s “Cost of Living” page and the IND website for current fees and financial proof requirements.
Residence permit: the high-level flow
- Offer & acceptance → you meet any academic and financial conditions set by the university.
- University applies to IND (and MVV entry visa if applicable) after you submit required documents and proof of funds/tuition deposit.
- Decision & fees → you pay applicable fees and receive instructions for biometrics/collection.
- Arrival & collection → complete biometrics (if not done earlier), municipal registration (BRP), and collect your residence permit card.
Your university’s immigration team is your main point of contact—follow their instructions closely for timing and documents.
Part-time work, insurance, and admin
- Work limits (non-EU/EEA): up to 16 hours/week during the academic year or full-time in June–August, typically with an employer-applied TWV (work permit).
- Insurance: if you work a paid job, you generally need Dutch public health insurance (separate from private student insurance).
- BSN (citizen service number): obtained after municipal registration—often required for work and banking.
Rules can change—check your university’s guidance and the IND for the latest specifics.
Accommodation: find early, verify registration
- Start with university housing where available; otherwise use vetted platforms (e.g., SSH, HousingAnywhere) and official city resources.
- Verify BRP registration is allowed at the address (needed for your BSN).
- Avoid scams: never pay cash, confirm a written contract (huurcontract), and view the room (virtual if abroad).
- Check commute times and transport links (bike + train) to your campus.
Quick pre-arrival checklist
- Offer accepted and conditions met (documents, tuition/financial proof).
- Housing secured with registration allowed.
- Permit/visa steps completed per university guidance.
- Travel booked; keep key documents (admission letter, proof of funds, housing contract) handy for arrival.
- Set up notifications in Studielink and the university portal.
If you’d like tailored help shortlisting programs or reviewing documents, The Providers Global can support you end-to-end—from Studielink to pre-departure.