Considering studying abroad?
It is a logical step for us to introduce our kids to colleges and universities in The Netherlands. All three of them have dual citizenships. So, does the Netherlands have a vibrant academic environment, picturesque landscapes, and a unique cultural experience for our youngsters? We just visited 5 art colleges in the Netherlands and received a lot of useful information. We’d like to share this guide with you and walk you through the steps for American high school students to study in the Netherlands.
1. Research Universities and Programs
Start by exploring Dutch universities and their programs. Universities like the University of Amsterdam, Delft University of Technology, and Utrecht University are renowned for their quality education. Look into courses offered in English to accommodate non-Dutch speakers.
J was pretty set on art related colleges and universities, but there are courses/programs within those art schools J was curious about. Also the English language is preferred. But J thinks it is nice to speak Dutch in social settings and they’re pretty confident on that part. Not so much in Dutch writing. Maybe being bilingual isn’t that bad:)
High-school, college and university levels in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands there are different levels in high-schools and different levels in colleges and universities. For the highschool you’ll have lower/middle (VMBO), higher (HBO) and more preparatory scientific education (VWO). It depends on which highschool diploma you have to get admitted to a certain college or university.
There are Bachelor degree programs on a HBO level which take 4 years. WO bachelor degree programs take 3 years, A master’s degree (WO or university level) take 2 years.
HBO is more practical, the school works more towards a specific job. Internships are mandatory and the theory is immediately applied to practical careers.
You can be eligible for Study-financing and free public transportation.
More colleges and universities teach in English now. When I went to college almost everything was in Dutch, except for a few articles and videos (in English or German). Even though this switch can attract a lot of foreign students, the system is not well set up for the influx of students. Mainly the growing lack of student houses and rooms.
2. Understand Admission Requirements
Familiarize yourself with admission criteria. Most Dutch universities require a high school diploma and may have additional requirements, such as standardized test scores (like SAT or ACT) and proficiency in English. Familiarize yourself through the websites. These are usually in English and show a lot of times videos about the school, show when information days are and you can chat with students (one of the colleges we visited had a chat with a UniBuddy)
I know it’s not always an easy thing to do, but after we narrowed a list of 10 schools down to 5, we looked at their “Open Day” schedule, which, except for one, all were within 2 weeks. We decided to go to the Netherlands around Thanksgiving and visited these schools. Luckily you can also sign up for online open days, but we took the opportunity to check out the different college/university cities and of course seeing family and friends. It is always nice to see the school and feel the atmosphere. How is it to study in the Netherlands and meet some potential new students.
3. Joining groups on Facebook or ask your high-school
Dutch Schools in the US
There is a Dutch school in California who recently had an information evening about studying in the Netherlands with an American high-school diploma. Here are some useful points we’ve discussed:
- Why study in the Netherlands?
- Financially
- Quality
- New experience
- Back to the roots (for those who grew up in a “partially” Dutch family outside of the Netherlands)
- Challenges:
- Finding living spaces
- Admission. Does it connect well with a highschool?
- Can you get a job after in the USA for example?
- Socializing and integrating in the Netherlands
- A to-do list. Download a checklist (BSN number, bank account, phone etc)
- Start thinking about things like what do I want, what are my interests, which AP’s are necessary, 2 years in advance.
- About 60% of the schools are in English. More universities (WO) are in English and have a campus, more suitable for international students
- Practical things:
- College tuition fee per year (about 2,500 Euro’s for students with a Dutch passport for the school year 2024-2025 and about 11,000 Euro’s for non-European citizens. Add extra fees like VISA etc.).
- If you have an American high school diploma, check this Duo.no website out, what you need to do.
- Are you eligible for a grant or study financing? Yes, if you are a Dutch citizen. Check out this website if you’re not a Dutch citizen.
Facebook Groups
Another thing I did was joining a Facebook group. It is called “Ouders van Studerende Wereldkinderen in Nederland” (Parents of studying world children in the Netherlands). It is great to ask questions in this group and read what other parents are going trough. This is more for students of Dutch parents (dual-citizens) living in another country.
At your high school
Ask your college coordinator at your local school if they have any information about studying abroad. Our high school is small, so we’re going to provide some information about studying in the Netherlands for parents and students.
4. Learn About the Application Process
The application process in the Netherlands typically involves submitting an online application through “Studielink” and providing required documents. Deadlines vary, so make sure to check them for each university.
If you click the link above, you’ll notice a login on the left hand side. A “DigiD” is a digital ID account used for a lot of things in the Netherlands, so it’ll be good to sign up for that. Below the login you’ll see where you can sign in as an international student. You’ll need a valid passport to make an account. We haven’t done that yet, so I’ll update more on this soon.
The application deadlines for most of our schools are in February. J also needs to send an art portfolio. Some colleges might ask for extra things like an interview or an online or in-person project.
5. Important points to consider when you want to study in the Netherlands.
- Language Proficiency: While many programs are offered in English, it’s beneficial to have a basic understanding of Dutch. Some universities may ask for proof of English proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. This will be waived if it is your first language. Or proof of Dutch proficiency, if college take in Dutch CNaVT.
- Financial Considerations: Explore scholarship opportunities for international students. Additionally, create a budget considering tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses. The cost of living in the Netherlands can vary based on the city and lifestyle.
- Student Visas and Residence Permits: Once accepted, apply for a student visa or residence permit (this also means signing in at the city where you’re going to study). The university’s international office can guide you through this process. Ensure you meet the health insurance requirements as well.
- Prepare for Cultural Adjustment: Embrace Dutch culture by learning about their customs, traditions, and social norms. Being aware of cultural differences will help ease your transition and enhance your overall experience.
- Explore Housing Options: Dutch universities often assist international students in finding accommodation. Ask the school by emailing them or going to the “Open Dag”. Options include university housing, private rentals, or shared apartments. Start your search early to secure the best options. At the moment (2023), the student housing is a big problem in a lot of Dutch cities!
- Connect with Other International Students: Join online forums or social media groups to connect with fellow international students. This can provide valuable insights, tips, and a sense of community during your time abroad. And also to find a room before the school year starts.
Conclusion
It is a big step. Your child will be away for a while. J is a very outgoing, creative person and enjoying to explore their Dutch roots. J is getting better in the Dutch language, learning about the Dutch culture and imagining to study abroad, away from mom and dad. Thank goodness for the technology nowadays. They are just a (FaceTime) call away if something’s up!
Now it is time for J to choose a few schools to sign up, work on the portfolio and checking the deadlines, when each project/interview needs to be ready.
We, as parents, will start with signing up our child at Studielink, DUO and different trusted student room websites and Facebook pages. We’ll cross our fingers!
Hello everyone,
Welcome to my Crafty Dutch Girl blog! Grab a cup of “koffie” and browse through fun blog posts about our Dutch family expat life in the USA, Dutch history, Dutch recipes, Dutch things to do in the USA and all kinds of crafts and activities. Don’t forget to connect with me for new ideas! “Groetjes en tot ziens”.