Are you searching for universities in the Netherlands for a Master’s? I was in the same situation and know how daunting it can be, especially when you’re an international student. But let me tell you, pursuing an MS in the Netherlands is a great choice.
The invests a significant 12.91% of its expenditure on education. That means you will find some of the highest-quality educational facilities in the country. This strong focus on education ensures a top-notch learning environment to further your academic career.
The Netherlands boasts globally ranked institutions like Delft University of Technology (49th) and University of Amsterdam (55th).
For non-EU/EEA students, fees range from €8,000 to €20,000 per year.
Students typically spend €800 to €1,200 per month on living costs.
Options like the Holland Scholarship (€5,000) and Erasmus+ are available.
With a Zoekjaar Visa, graduates can stay up to 3 years to find a job.
Most of the Dutch people speak English, facilitating a smooth transition for international students.
Why Pursue Master’s in Netherlands
The Netherlands is perfect for international students! It’s one of the best countries to study abroad due to its diversity, English-taught degrees, and top-notch education. Here are four reasons to choose the Netherlands for your master’s:
International Environment: The Netherlands welcomes students from over 160 nationalities. Over 95% of Dutch citizens speak English, making it very accessible.
Top-Notch Education: Dutch universities rank highly globally. Delft University of Technology is ranked 49th worldwide (QS World University Rankings 2025). They offer specialized programs in engineering, technology, and more.
Cost-Effective: Tuition fees for a master’s in the Netherlands range from €8,000 to €20,000 annually. Living expenses are about €800 to €1,200 per month. The average salary after a master's in the Netherlands is also competitive, offering a great return on investment.
Vibrant Student Life: Dutch universities have strong student communities with various events and activities. The cosmopolitan culture ensures that students from all backgrounds feel at home.
Post-Graduation Opportunities: The Netherlands offers a one-year job search visa for international graduates, increasing the chances of finding employment after completing your studies. As of 2023, over 93.2 % of international graduates found a job within a year of graduation.
Innovative Learning: The educational system in the Netherlands focuses on student participation and interaction, promoting innovative and independent learning approaches. According to the 2023 OECD report, students in the Netherlands report high satisfaction with the interactive and participatory teaching methods.
Studying for a master’s in the Netherlands offers quality education, affordability, and a rich international experience. It’s an ideal destination for higher education.
If you’re convinced about pursuing your master’s in the Netherlands, here’s a list of the top universities in the Netherlands, along with their global rankings:
Delft University of Technology: Known for its engineering and technology programs, especially Water Resource Management. Offers a strong and innovative environment.
University of Amsterdam: Offers diverse programs and is a hub for research and innovation. Great for those pursuing various academic interests.
Utrecht University: One of the oldest universities in the Netherlands. Excels in research and offers a wide array of programs. Located in a scenic and safe city.
Eindhoven University of Technology: Famous for cutting-edge research and technological advancements. Ideal for students focused on engineering and innovation.
Leiden University: Known for strong research programs and comprehensive education. Offers a diverse academic experience.
Wageningen University & Research: Leads in agricultural and environmental sciences. Perfect for those interested in life sciences and sustainable development.
Erasmus University Rotterdam: Known for its business and economics programs. Offers excellent opportunities for those aiming for a career in the corporate world.
These universities offer top education and great job prospects after your master’s in the Netherlands for Indian or other international students.
MS in Netherlands: Course Details
After selecting your university, what's the next step? Finalizing your course. You will find many subjects and streams to choose from. You can receive your master’s degree in the Netherlands in fields like Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Social Sciences, or Medicine.
You can either go to a course-based university for a master’s or try a full-time research-oriented program. Both are great options. The Netherlands is widely recognized as a knowledge center. Here are three major choices for a master’s in the Netherlands for international students:
Engineering
Suppose you’ve just completed your bachelor’s degree in Engineering from a reputable college in India. Now, you want to take the next step. The Netherlands is undoubtedly a fantastic choice.
The country has a robust industrial base. That includes the chemical industry, river engineering, and hydraulic engineering — all very exciting streams. It has become the perfect hub to learn about modern technology and contribute to the field of science.
Social Sciences
Not a STEM aspirant? Worry not, there are options for you too! If you want to prepare yourself to engage in the betterment of humanity, this is your course. Netherlands-based institutions offer various subjects like Economics, Anthropology, Sociology, and Psychology.
Natural Sciences
As an international student aiming to pursue a master’s in the Netherlands, you may even choose to specialize in the Natural Sciences. There are multiple options to explore dynamic research. You’ll also have access to the best technical laboratories for your practical applications. This is a great career opportunity.
The best part about pursuing a master’s in the Netherlands is that the fees are affordable, unlike studying in Europe or America.
You might be wondering if you are eligible to apply for a master’s in the Netherlands. Here are the typical requirements:
You need a bachelor’s degree in the field you wish to pursue.
An average GPA score of 7.5 or higher on a 10.0 scale.
A GRE score between 310 to 330, or a GMAT score of 600. While not all programs require the GRE, many do.
Proof of English proficiency through tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE.
Cost of Studying Master’s in the Netherlands
If you hold citizenship in European countries, like Switzerland or Surinam, you will have to pay low fees. The cost would be around 700-2,100 EUR (approximately 60,000 INR) for one academic year.
If you are an international applicant, the cost for a master’s degree is higher. An MS in the Netherlands costs 8,000-20,000 EUR (around INR 7-17 lakh) for an academic year. Student loans are often available for international students.
You can also apply for a scholarship or financial aid. These cover your educational expenses except living costs. You should consider your accommodation, food, books, transport, and clothes. You will require 800-1,200 EUR (around INR 70,000) per month for living expenses.
Required Documents for MS in the Netherlands
Master’s in the Netherlands for Indian students can be tricky to handle without proper guidance. Here’s a simple list for you to follow to keep track of your documents:
Keep a copy of your passport or official ID.
Have passport pictures ready.
You must write a personal statement in English ( 500-800 words). Here you will answer questions like “Why do you wish to study at this university?” and “What are your future plans?”
Keep copies of your secondary school diplomas and certificates. Keep your grade lists handy. Have English translations of transcripts that are in your native language.
You will need a transcript of records.
Ensure that you have English/Dutch language proficiency proof.
You will require proof of the payment of your master’s in the Netherlands fees. This amount will be around 50-100 EUR (approximately 5000 INR).
You may also need other documents including, but not limited to:
Resume or a Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Letters of Recommendation
A motivation letter
Samples of your academic work
Which English-Language Tests Are Required for an MS in the Netherlands?
You will need some certifications in the English language as well. You will require them as proof to enroll in an English-speaking university. Some acceptable credentials include:
TOEFL iBT:
It is the Test of English as a Foreign Language. It is standardized and will measure your English language ability as a non-native speaker.
PTE Academic:
This is a computer-based academic English language test. It is also aimed at assessing non-native English speakers. It will test you on reading, listening, speaking, and writing abilities.
IELTS Academic:
This test measures your English language proficiency level for academic space. It will test you on academic language. It evaluates you to see if you are ready to begin training or studying.
You can also pursue your higher education in Dutch. For that, you will need to pass the Dutch TUL intermediate exam. You can also apply using a Dutch NT2-II diploma for the same.
Jobs After Master’s in the Netherlands
The employment rate in the Netherlands is projected to soar around 78.65% in 2022 and 78.94% in 2023. Almost a third of the international students apply for jobs after their master’s in the Netherlands.
To increase the retention rate, the government has extended the period of applying for a Zoekjaar visa. This is an orientation year visa. It is valid up to three years after you complete your program.
Receiving a job offer in the Netherlands depends upon various other factors. These include:
Your Education Level:
Since you are doing your master’s from the Netherlands, you will have a higher chance of landing a job. Your salary may even increase by a whopping 29%.
Your Field of Study:
Technological advancements and economic ones are great areas to look into. If you are interested in these subjects, you will probably get employed easily. You will also be paid more than students of law and hospitality.
Your Location:
You must be wondering, what does your location have to do with anything? Well, it plays a very important role! Amsterdam, the Hague, or other major cities have more significant corporate markets. This means more employment options for you.
Your Knowledge of Languages:
If you know Dutch, you have got a leg up. Almost the entire population in the Netherlands speaks Dutch. People use English as well, but it is helpful if you know the local language.
Average Salary After Master’s in the Netherlands
Even though your salary will vary according to your industry, it is still a good idea to have an approximate figure. The average salary of a university graduate in the Netherlands is 2,600 EUR (around 2,00,000 INR) per month.
Here’s a shortlist of a few average salaries that might interest you:
The Legal Sector: 2,500 to 2,800 EUR (around 2,00,000 INR) per month
The Economic Sector: 2,500 to 2.800 EUR (around 2,00,000 INR) per month
The Technology Sector: 2,200 to 2,500 EUR (around 1,80,000 INR) per month
Dentistry: 5,900 EUR (around 5,00,000 INR) per month
Work Permit in the Netherlands After Master’s
When you complete your program from university, you can extend your stay in the Netherlands for even more than 12 months. For this, you will need to change your visa status to a work visa. Since you will have completed your master’s degree, you must obtain a work permit.
This may be different for each university. All the information will be listed on the college website. You can also schedule a meeting with the admissions officers. You can fill out an online application form for the same.
When do I apply for a master’s in the Netherlands?
There are two intake periods in the Netherlands. There is the February intake and the September intake. You should apply for the latter because it is more popular. Overall, you need to complete your application five months before classes start.
Which English-language tests are required to study MS in the Netherlands?
The following are the required tests for proof of English proficiency:
1. TOEFL iBT
2. PTE Academic
3. IELTS Academic
What is the average salary after an MS in the Netherlands?
Overall, if we consider all streams, the average salary should range around 2500 EUR (approximately 2,00,000 INR).
Can You Work While Studying Masters in the Netherlands?
The short answer is yes. However, as a non-EU/EEA student, you will need a work permit, even for a part-time job. You can work for 16 hours a week or during the summer months full-time.
Kanika has 5+ years of experience as a writer and content developer. She has written for a wide range of industry verticals, including hospitality, restaurants, non-profits, finance, IT, HR, technology, payroll, and education. She has worked as a creator for a few leading companies and has also helped brands grow through her creative writing.
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