Why Study in Amsterdam?
- World-Class Education: Home to top universities like University of Amsterdam and Delft University of Technology.
- Affordable Tuition: Public universities charge €2,200–€15,000/year for non-EU students.
- Work Opportunities: 16 hours/week during studies, full-time during holidays.
- Post-Study Benefits: 12-month orientation year visa (zoekjaar) for job search.
- Quality of Life: Safe, English-friendly, and vibrant international community.
Student Visa Requirements (2025)
Visa Type
MVV (Entry Visa) + Residence Permit: Required for non-EU students staying >90 days.
Key Requirements
- Admission Letter from an accredited Dutch university.
- Proof of Financial Means: €11,208/year (€934/month) in a blocked Dutch bank account (or scholarship proof).
- Health Insurance: €120–€150/month (mandatory for all students).
- Valid Passport (6+ months validity).
- Visa Fee: €210 (MVV + Residence Permit, non-refundable).
Processing Time
4–12 weeks (apply 3 months before studies).
Tuition Fees & Living Costs (2025)
Tuition Fees
| Institution Type |
Non-EU Students (per year) |
EU/EEA Students |
| Public Universities |
€2,200 – €15,000 |
€2,200 |
| Private Universities |
€8,000 – €20,000 |
Same as non-EU |
Estimated Monthly Living Costs
- Accommodation: €500–€1,200 (shared housing cheaper).
- Food: €200–€350.
- Transport: €40–€100 (bike-friendly city).
- Miscellaneous: €150–€300.
- Total: €900–€1,500/month.
Work Rights & Post-Study Opportunities
During Studies
- Part-time Work: 16 hours/week (or full-time in June–August).
- Minimum Wage: €13/hour (2025).
After Graduation
- 12-Month Orientation Visa: For job search (no sponsor needed).
- Highly Skilled Migrant Visa: For jobs earning €3,672+/month (2025 threshold).
- PR Pathway: 5 years of continuous stay (study years count as half).
Scholarships (2025)
| Scholarship |
Coverage |
Eligibility |
| Holland Scholarship |
€5,000–€15,000 |
Non-EU Bachelor's/Master's |
| University of Amsterdam Grant |
25–100% tuition waiver |
Merit-based |
| Erasmus+ |
€300–€500/month |
EU & partner country students |
Key Information
- Lower tuition than US/UK, with English-taught programs.
- 16-hour work rights + full-time summer jobs.
- 1-year job search visa (zoekjaar).
- PR in 5 years (50% study time counted).
