Studying abroad is supposed to be a life-altering experience. Learning new languages, growing in a multicultural environment, embracing ethnic diversity and most definitely, overcoming the myriad challenges of living in a country miles away from home – add to this experience. Not just that, coming out of your comfort zone and moving out to an entirely estranged land – help students acquire global skills, thereby opening up countless professional and personal opportunities. At the same time, one learns to master the art of tolerance and proper utilization of freedom. Having said that, if pursuing higher education in the Netherlands has ever crossed your mind, let us tell you, it is going in the right direction.
Why Study in Netherlands
The Netherlands is also known as Holland (the iconic Dutch land). Holland is known for its vast tulip fields, canals, windmills, and long cycling routes. The capital city of Amsterdam is an incredibly happening place renowned for its artistic heritage and remnants of the Golden Age from the late 17th century. Although a little bit underrated, Amsterdam is one of the most romantic cities to study abroad.
The nation attracts thousands of students all around the globe every year, owing to its spectacular historical spots and the essence of old school art & culture. Read best courses to study in the Netherlands. In this blog, we shall discuss those intricate things about the country that make it the best and safest haven for students pursuing their studies here:
1. Pocket-Friendly Education Costs
The most vital factor which determines someone’s decision before moving to an overseas country for higher studies is the study costs. You will be glad to know that studying in the Netherlands is not as expensive as in other English-speaking nations. The government subsidizes higher education in the Netherlands, and tuition fees are comparatively modest.
Studying in the country will provide you with great value for money due to the renowned educational standards and comparatively low cost of living. Depending on the institution, annual tuition fees for a degree programme or course at a Dutch higher education institution start at around €1,900 for EU students and €6,000 for non-EU students.
Generous scholarships for international students are also offered by the Dutch Government and the Dutch Universities.
2. Research Innovations & Creative Teaching Tactics
The Dutch educational system is world-renowned, and Dutch institutions are known for their well-designed, cutting-edge curricula and facilities. The teaching method emphasizes collaboration, making it simple for international students in the Netherlands to meet both Dutch and international students.
Dutch universities emphasize a solid personal relationship between students and professors. The majority of tutorials and seminars are held in small groups of 15-30 students. The majority of your homework will be done in groups. This will help you develop your academic talents and also your ability to operate as part of a team.
Huge Focus on Practical Learning
Many practical components are included in the degree programmes at Dutch universities. Universities place a strong focus on meaningful practical experience, and they have numerous relationships with both Dutch and foreign businesses. For example, Masters students need to perform two mandatory internships – major (6 – 9 months) and minor (3 – 6 months).
There are universities of applied sciences, as well as general institutions, that offer more specialized studies. A university of applied sciences may be more appealing to students who like to learn about practical issues. These are more concerned with practical experiences than with theoretical and research issues.
3. A Multicultural and Ethnically Diverse Ambience
The Netherlands is a one-of-a-kind non-Anglophone country, with roughly 95% of the population speaking English. This element makes living, studying, and working in the Netherlands incredibly convenient, comfortable, and enjoyable. The Netherlands is also quite open and tolerant, allowing anyone to express themselves and share their thoughts. During your studies, this is strongly encouraged.
Some may wonder, “Why to study in the Netherlands?“. Others, however, would respond “Why not?” with boat cruises on canals and lakes, relaxing on beaches, admiring the view of the woods, a mild climate, and the crossroads where the German, British, French, Chinese, and many other cultures meet.
In the Netherlands, international students from all over the world come to study. International students arrived from 157 different countries in 2014/15, with the majority being from Germany, Italy, Spain, Belgium and China. The majority of Dutch universities offer foreign student associations that assist students throughout their academic careers.
4. Degrees with Global Recognition
The Netherlands is also known as a knowledge centre with a long history of education and prestigious universities. On a national and worldwide basis, scientific research at Dutch institutions is highly respected. The education system satisfies all international requirements and is well-known around the world. A diploma from a Dutch institution gives you the possibility to start your own business and can help you advance in your profession in any location around the world.
Read Job Search Tips for International (Non-EU) Students in Europe including Netherlands.
5. Brilliant Travel Opportunities
The Netherlands is in the heart of Europe, with easy access to all major European cities. The country is frequently referred to as Europe’s “gateway” country. Flying from Amsterdam to Paris, Berlin, Brussels, or London takes around one hour. It also offers excellent train connections and accessibility to all of Europe’s main cities.
The Netherlands also boasts a well-developed and well-connected transportation infrastructure, and different student discounts make travel very inexpensive. As previously indicated, if you work 32 hours per month, you can acquire a student OV-Chipkaart, which grants you free public transit. This makes travelling across the country very simple and inexpensive.
You’ll also like how simple it is to move around on a bike, which is the Dutch’s primary mode of transportation and also the cheapest. There are specific roads for cyclists, so you may pedal in privacy, confidence, and solace.
6. Cost-Effective Living Expenses
The cost of living in the Netherlands is quite inexpensive when compared to other western European countries. After gathering information about other people’s experiences, you can estimate that you’ll require between €800 and €1,000 every month. You may fund this by working part-time and studying finance.
If you are an EU student, you can earn 32 hours per month and receive a €265 stipend as well as a student OV-Chipkaart that allows you to travel for free during the week and on weekends.
It’s also recommended to start looking for accommodations from an early stage owing to the growing demand for the same. You can also obtain discounts as a student at many bars, restaurants, museums, and movie theatres. Bicycling is a great way to move around town. This is not just typical of the Dutch, but it is also a cost-effective mode of transportation. You should absolutely apply for an ISIC Student Card, which will provide you with a slew of additional privileges and savings.
Conclusion
We earnestly hope this blog helps you with all the details imperative for you to move forward with your decision in pursuing higher education in the majestic Dutch land. If you have further queries concerning your study abroad journey, you can head over to the University Living website. It is a global student housing marketplace that offers secure and trustworthy student accommodations, assistance with forex, international sim and other facilities so that a student obtains a seamless transition while travelling overseas.