Why study in the Netherlands?

There must be a reason why there are 90,000 international students in the Netherlands, a number that is increasing every year. In fact, there are several very good reasons.

International atmosphere

The Netherlands is well-known as an open society. A hub for business and commerce, according to the 2014 Global Connectedness Index, it is the world’s most internationally connected country (economically and geographically). Today, the country is home to over 200 nationalities. The national language is Dutch, but the Netherlands has the second highest level of English proficiency in continental Europe, aft er Sweden. With little to no language barrier, the Netherlands is an excellent study destination.

High quality

To start with, you’ll get great education and excellent value for money here. The high quality of the tuition offered by Dutch educational institutions is widely acknowledged and tuition fees and the cost of living in the Netherlands are considerably lower than in many English-speaking countries. Furthermore, the Netherlands also offers a range of scholarship opportunities.

Interactive and student-centred

To increase your chances on the job market, you’ll acquire and develop valuable skills, such as problem analysis and solving, and creative thinking. The Dutch teaching style is interactive and student-centred. You’ll learn how to form your own opinion, maintain an open mind and increase your international orientation.

International orientation

That international orientation will be underscored by the fact that every year the Netherlands welcomes students from over 160 different countries. Moreover, Dutch society is strongly connected to other cultures and the international business community. The Dutch are also open-minded and direct, making it easy to meet them and exchange ideas. Language need never be a problem in the Netherlands. Dutch universities offer the largest number of English-taught programmes in continental Europe. And with 95 per cent of Dutch people being able to speak English, you’ll never be lost for words here.

City life and nature

The Netherlands is quite a small country, and that is part of its charm. Amazing places and experiences are within reach. For those who favour city life, major cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Utrecht are all close to Leiden and The Hague. They make for great destinations for day or weekend trips, with abundant opportunities to enjoy music, theatre, restaurants, cafés, architecture and art. But if you’d rather find relaxation and inspiration in nature, you also have many options. You could spend time at one of the sandy beaches that stretch along the Netherlands’ North Sea coast dotted across the country.

Happy people

As if all these weren’t reasons enough, the Netherlands is also one of the best countries in the world in which to live, as well as being a gateway to Europe. According to the 2016 Global Peace index, the Netherlands is one of the world’s safest countries and the OECD’s Better Life Index cites it as one of the happiest. Finally, thanks to the country’s location and excellent transport links, most of Europe’s capital cities are no more than a few hours away.

In the heart of Europe

Although the Netherlands has a lot to offer, you may want to take some international trips as well. In that case, you can easily travel by train or plane to Europe’s major cities: the Netherlands is right at the heart of Europe.With Schiphol International airport just a short train ride away from Leiden and The Hague, exciting European cities like London, Paris, Antwerp and Berlin are within easy reach.There are plenty of cheap flight deals available, so a weekend trip does not have to be expensive. But if you’d rather travel by train, there are regular departures to Belgium and France from both Leiden and the Hague.