Netherlands has a low standard and cost of living with more opportunities to work after graduation. The following are the reason the country is home to many international students.
1. Wide range of English programmes
Dutch universities offer the largest number of English-taught programmes in continental Europe. About 2,000 programmes are taught entirely in English.
Also, more than 95% of dutch citizens speak English making it a destination for students from more than 150 countries.
2. Low Cost but High Standard of Living
The quality of Dutch higher education is well-recognised. The tuition fees and cost of living are considerably lower than in English-speaking countries. Also, there are lots of scholarship opportunities.
The Dutch teaching style is interactive and student-centred. You will develop valuable skills such as analysing, solving practical problems and creative thinking.
3. Excellent career opportunities
The Netherlands is the 18th largest economy in the world. Some of the world’s biggest multinationals, including Philips, Heineken, KLM, Shell, ING and Unilever, are Dutch.
The Dutch government wants to attract knowledge and retain talent. International graduates can therefore apply for an orientation year. This is a residence permit of one year to find a job, or start a business within three years of graduation.
4. Big international community
NL’s many international students come from more than 160 different countries. Dutch society is diverse and inclusive. It is strongly connected to other cultures, the business community and the world.
The Dutch are open-minded and direct, so it is easy to meet them and exchange ideas.
5. Great place to live
The Netherlands is one of the safest countries in the world, according to the 2018 Global Peace index and belongs to the top 10 happiest countries in the world. Read more about the good Dutch standard of living in the OECD’s Better Life Index.
Also, the Netherlands is the gateway to Europe! In just three hours you can be in Paris. London and Berlin are just a five or six-hour train ride away.