Higher education in the Netherlands: a guide to Dutch universities
The Netherlands is home to many internationally respected universities, offering a wide range of academic disciplines and English-taught programs. This guide explains how Dutch universities are structured, which institutions rank highest globally, and where to study based on your field or preferred city.
Studying abroad provides valuable academic and cultural exposure. Dutch universities consistently perform well in global rankings and actively welcome international students. However, relocating to the Netherlands for education means navigating a structured and distinctive higher-education system.
This guide introduces universities in the Netherlands — from top-ranked research institutions to specialist schools — to help you make an informed choice.
Studying in the Netherlands
Higher education in the Netherlands is based on a structured secondary education system that places students into three academic tracks from around the age of 12:
- Preparatory vocational secondary education (VMBO)
A four-year track leading to vocational training (MBO). - Senior general secondary education (HAVO)
A five-year track that prepares students for universities of applied sciences (HBO), focusing on professional and practice-oriented education. - University preparatory education (VWO)
A six-year track qualifying students for research universities (WO), typically aimed at academic and research careers.
Most international students enroll either in a university of applied sciences or a research university. The Netherlands is a highly attractive destination due to the availability of English-taught programs. In the 2021 academic year, international students made up approximately 40% of first-year enrollments.
One of the main challenges for international students is housing availability. Accommodation shortages exist in many cities, so students are strongly advised to secure housing well in advance. Some universities caution students against arriving without confirmed accommodation.
Remote study is another option for students seeking flexibility or programs unavailable locally. Several European institutions offer distance learning, though on-campus study remains the most common choice for degree programs in the Netherlands.
Universities in the Netherlands
Universities in the Netherlands attract students globally. In 2018, the country hosted the fourth-largest international student population in Europe. There are 43 universities of applied sciences and 13 research universities, most of which receive public funding.
Degree durations typically include:
- Bachelor’s programs: 3–4 years
- Master’s programs: 1–2 years
- Doctoral (PhD) programs: 3–5 years
Private institutions also operate in the Netherlands. These are not government-funded and generally charge higher tuition fees, with greater flexibility in pricing and program design.
Best universities in the Netherlands
Dutch universities perform strongly in global rankings. In the 2023 QS World University Rankings, two institutions ranked within the top 100 worldwide, and seven placed within the top 200.
5. Leiden University
Located in South Holland, Leiden University is a public research institution ranked 131st globally. It offers bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs across seven faculties and is particularly strong in law, history, archaeology, political science, and international studies. Around 5,000 international students study at Leiden.
4. Wageningen University & Research
Based in Wageningen, this university ranks 124th worldwide and specializes in food sciences, agriculture, environmental studies, and life sciences. Nearly one-quarter of its student population is international.
3. Utrecht University
Ranked 112th globally, Utrecht University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. It is known for strengths in law, life sciences, media studies, and social sciences.
2. Delft University of Technology
TU Delft ranks 61st worldwide and focuses primarily on STEM disciplines such as engineering, industrial design, and technology. Approximately 20% of students come from abroad.
Best university in the Netherlands – Amsterdam
University of Amsterdam
Located in the capital, the University of Amsterdam ranks 58th globally. It performs especially well in communication science, media studies, sociology, psychology, and political science. International students represent nearly one-third of its total enrollment.
Specialist universities in the Netherlands
For students pursuing specialized fields, the Netherlands offers several well-established institutions. While many programs are available in English, Dutch language skills are beneficial for long-term career prospects and professional licensing.
Medical schools in the Netherlands
Leading medical institutions include:
- University of Amsterdam – major academic medical center
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam – consistently ranked internationally
- Erasmus University Rotterdam – home to Erasmus MC
Business schools in the Netherlands
Notable business schools include:
- Nyenrode Business University
- Rotterdam School of Management
- Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences
Law schools in the Netherlands
Highly regarded law schools offering English-taught programs include:
- Leiden Law School
- Tilburg University
- Maastricht University
- The Hague University of Applied Sciences
Universities in the main cities of the Netherlands
Universities in Amsterdam
- University of Amsterdam
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
- Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences
Rotterdam Universities
- Erasmus University Rotterdam
- Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences
- Codarts Rotterdam
Universities in The Hague
- The Hague University of Applied Sciences
- Hotelschool The Hague
- Royal Academy of Art The Hague
Utrecht Universities
- Utrecht University
- HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht
Useful resources
- QS World University Rankings – global university rankings
- ABN AMRO – student banking services
- Study in NL
- Ministry of Education Culture and Science