Netherland

✅ Safe and diverse international environment

✅ Affordable compared to the US/UK

✅ Excellent internship and work opportunities post-graduation

✅ Strong student support for non-EU nationals 

1. Over 450 English-Taught Bachelor’s Programs

Unlike many other non-English-speaking countries, Dutch universities offer entire undergraduate programs in English across diverse fields such as:

• Business & Economics

• Engineering

• Design & Architecture

• International Relations

• Psychology & Social Sciences
  
  

Top universities include:

• University of Amsterdam (UvA)

• Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)

• Erasmus University Rotterdam

• Leiden University

• Maastricht University
  
  

2. International Learning Environment

With over 90,000 international students, Dutch classrooms are globally oriented, encouraging critical thinking, discussion, and group work—a great fit for students who enjoy collaborative learning.

3. Affordable Tuition and Living Costs (Compared to UK or US)

For non-EU students:

• Tuition: €6,000–€15,000/year (approx. IDR 110–280 million)

• Living costs: €800–€1,200/month (approx. IDR 15–22 million)
  
  

4. Pathway to Work in Europe

Graduates can apply for a 1-year search visa (zoekjaar) to find a job in the Netherlands. Many companies are open to hiring international graduates, especially in fields like tech, logistics, and business.

5. Strong Support for International Students

Dutch universities offer:

• Orientation and transition programs

• Housing assistance

• Academic support services

• International student organizations
  
  

6. Cultural and Social Fit

Many Indonesian students feel comfortable in the Netherlands due to:

• Historical connections (shared colonial past)

• Significant Indonesian community

• Wide availability of halal food and mosques

1. Limited Seats for Non-EU Students

Many programs have numerus fixus (enrollment caps), especially for popular majors like psychology or international business. Admission is competitive and often based on GPA, motivation letters, and early application.

2. Weather and Lifestyle Adjustments

The Netherlands can be cold, rainy, and windy, especially for students from tropical climates. Winter depression (seasonal affective disorder) is not uncommon.

3. Self-Directed Learning Culture

Dutch higher education emphasizes independent study and self-initiative. Students not used to this model may struggle without structured support or strong time management.

4. Limited Scholarships at Bachelor’s Level

While some partial scholarships exist (e.g., Holland Scholarship, Orange Tulip Scholarship), funding is limited and highly competitive at undergraduate level.

5. Language Barrier Outside Campus

Even though university life is in English, daily life (banking, health services, part-time jobs) often requires basic Dutch proficiency. Free or subsidized Dutch courses are usually available to help.

The Netherlands is ideal for Indonesian students who:

• Seek globally recognized education at a relatively affordable cost

• Thrive in interactive, discussion-based learning

• Are open to new cultures, weather, and independence
  
  

However, it may not suit students who need a highly structured academic setting or are unwilling to adapt to European lifestyle and language.

One of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing between Research Universities and Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS). These two types of higher education institutions serve different academic goals:

🎓 Research Universities

• 1. 1. • Focus on academic theory, independent research, and critical thinking

        • Offer more theoretical bachelor's programs

        • Ideal for students planning to pursue master's degrees, PhDs, or careers in academia or international institutions
          
          

Examples:

• • • • University of Amsterdam (UvA)

      • Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)

      • Erasmus University Rotterdam

      • Leiden University
        
        

Popular Majors:

• • • • Data Science, Psychology, International Law, Physics, Public Policy
        
        

🛠️ Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS)

• 1. 1. • Focus on practical skills, industry training, and real-world applications

        • Often include internships and projects with companies

        • Ideal for students looking for hands-on education and direct employment
          
          

Examples:

• • • • Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (AUAS)

      • HAN University of Applied Sciences

      • NHL Stenden

      • Fontys University of Applied Sciences
        
        

Popular Majors:

• • • • Hospitality, Logistics, Creative Media, Business Management, Industrial Product Design

World-Class Research Universities

These universities are consistently ranked in the QS top 60, and offer globally recognised degrees.

1. Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) - QS 2026 Rank: #47 globally 

Top 5 Majors:

• Civil & Structural Engineering: Top‑3 globally (QS subject)—ideal for designing urban infrastructure.

• Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering: BSc in robotics, precision engineering, and renewable mobility.

• Architecture & the Built Environment: QS subject #2 worldwide—focuses on sustainable, innovative design.

• Electrical Engineering & Computer Science: Strong power systems, microelectronics, and AI.

• Industrial Design Engineering: Product, UX, and human-centered system design.
  
  

2. University of Amsterdam (UvA) - QS 2026 Rank: #53 globally

Top 5 Majors:

• Law: Renowned for international law, governance, and human rights studies.

• Economics & Business: Combines theoretical and applied finance coursework.

• Computer Science: Covers AI, data science, and software engineering.

• Psychology: Offering strong research streams in cognition and clinical psychology.

• Arts & Humanities: Broad programs spanning media studies, history, and languages.
  
  

High-Quality, Globally Respected Institutions

Ranked #100–200 globally, these universities specialize in several strong fields.

3. Utrecht University - QS 2026 Rank: #103 globally 

Top 5 Majors:

• Veterinary Science: QS subject #8—ideal for animal and wildlife professions.

• Geosciences & Environmental Science: Programs in oceanography, water, and climate.

• Pharmacy: QS subject #10—great for biotech and pharmacological careers.

• Public Administration & Policy: Focuses on governance, sustainability, and social impact.

• Psychology: Ranked within global top‑30; includes experimental and clinical research.
  
  

4. Leiden University - QS 2026 Rank: #119 globally

Top 5 Majors:

• Medicine & Biomedical Sciences: Strong lab and hospital-linked programs.

• Law & International Relations: Focused on global justice and diplomacy.

• Cultural & Humanities Studies: Emphasizes European and Asian languages and cultures.

• Data Science & Computer Science: Includes AI, security, and big data specializations.

• Psychology & Behavioral Sciences: Rooted in European research traditions.
  
  

5. Erasmus University Rotterdam - QS 2026 Rank: #140 globally

Top 5 Majors:

• Business & Management: Triple-accredited business school with global reputation.

• Economics & Finance: Strong analytical programs and market research.

• Medicine & Public Health: Interdisciplinary health sciences and policy studies.

• Law: Emphasis on corporate and EU law.

• Communication & Media: Prepares students for journalism, PR, and media roles.
  
  

Applied Sciences & Specialised Institutions

These institutions don’t appear in QS rankings but excel in practical, career-focused education, and often provide English-taught professional programs.

6. Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) - QS 2026 Rank: #140 globally.

Top Majors:

• Electrical & Mechanical Engineering: Emphasis on innovation and smart systems.

• Industrial Engineering & Management: Blends engineering and economics for industry.

• Computer Science: Strong focus on embedded systems and software.

• Biomedical Engineering: Merging healthcare tech with engineering design.

• Applied Physics & Imaging: Combining science and practical instrumentation.
  
  

7. University of Twente - QS 2026 Rank: #203 globally

Top Majors:

• Engineering & Technology: Focus on smart engineering and interactive systems.

• ICT & Game Design: Practical tech for games, VR, and software.

• Business Administration & Creative Business: Entrepreneurial business education.

• Industrial Design: Hands-on product and system design innovation.

• Health Sciences & Technology: Applies tech solutions in healthcare.
  
  

8. Wageningen University & Research - QS 2026 Rank: #153 globally

Top Majors:

• Agricultural & Food Sciences: Leading in sustainable farming and food innovation.

• Environmental Sciences: Studies climate, biodiversity, and ecosystem health.

• Biotechnology & Life Sciences: Focused on molecular biology and genetics.

• Nutrition & Health: Integrates public health, diet, and wellness research.

• Management & Environmental Governance: Prepares students for environmental policy and planning.

Financing your studies in the Netherlands can be more affordable than you think—thanks to several government-funded scholarships available to Indonesian and international students.

✅ Holland Scholarship

• • • For: Non-EU students applying to Dutch universities

    • Amount: €5,000 (first year only)

    • Requirements: Strong academic background, motivation letter

    • How to apply: Directly through participating universities
      👉 https://www.studyinholland.nl/finances/holland-scholarship
      
      

✅ Orange Tulip Scholarship (OTS)

• 1. • For: Specifically targeted at Indonesian students

     • Amount: Varies (partial to full tuition)

     • Partner universities: Over 25 Dutch institutions

     • Managed by: Nuffic Neso Indonesia
       
       

✅ Erasmus+ and Institutional Grants

• 1. • Some universities also offer their own scholarships

     • Examples: TU Delft Excellence Scholarships, Amsterdam Merit Scholarships

One of the strongest reasons Indonesian students choose the Netherlands is its extensive range of English-taught bachelor's programs.

🔍 Key Facts:

• 1. • 2,000+ programs offered in English

     • All Dutch universities offer English-taught degrees

     • Programs last 3 years (standard for Research Universities) or 4 years (UAS)
       
       

🎯 Popular English-Taught Majors:

• 1. • International Business

     • Communication and Multimedia Design

     • International Relations & Organizations

     • Artificial Intelligence

     • Environmental Sciences

     • Logistics & Supply Chain

     • Hospitality Management
       
       

📚 Full directory of English programs:  

 👉 https://www.studyfinder.nl

"Study in Holland" is the official gateway for international students looking to pursue higher education in the Netherlands.

🧭 How to Get Started:

1. • 1. Explore Programs
        - Visit www.studyinholland.nl
        - Use “Studyfinder” to filter by major, level, and language
        
        

     2. Prepare Requirements
        - Academic transcript (SMA or A-levels/IB)
        - IELTS 6.0–6.5 or equivalent
        - Motivation letter & CV
        - Portfolio (for design/media/art programs)
        
        

     3. Apply via Studielink.nl
        - Centralized application portal for Dutch universities
        - Some institutions also use their own portal
        
        

     4. Apply for Scholarships (Holland or OTS)
        Often a separate process—follow university deadlines carefully
        
        

     5. Arrange Housing, Visa & Insurance
        After acceptance, the university will guide you through visa steps

🗓️ September 2025

• 1 Sept: Many Dutch universities’ Studielink portals open for new applicants through early registration.

• Prepare for SAT: aim for the Oct 4 test date. Registration deadline is Sept 19, with late registration until Sept 23.

• Reminder: Research programs (check if it's numerus fixus—a capped course) and confirm if an SAT is recommended or optional

🗓️ October 2025

• 4 Oct: SAT test date (if needed).

• Reminder: Register A-level predicted grades and start collecting teacher recommendations.
  
  

🗓️ November – December 2025

• 15 Jan 2026: Deadline for numerus-fixus programs (e.g., Medicine) via Studielink studyinnl.org.

• 1 May 2026: Deadline for most regular English-taught bachelor’s programs 

• 8 Nov & 6 Dec: Additional SAT opportunities — register ~3 weeks ahead.

• Reminder: For early EU-funded housing/visa, submit program applications by 1 April 2026 if applicable (e.g., University of Amsterdam advisory)
  
  

🗓️ January 2026

• 15 Jan: Deadline for numerus fixus programs (e.g., selective courses at TU Delft, University of Groningen)

• Reminder: Send SAT if you took Dec 6 — allow ~3 weeks for results.
  
  

🗓️ February – April 2026

• 1 Apr: Advisory submission deadline for some institutions (e.g., UvA housing/visa prep)

• 1 May: Final application deadline for most non-numerus English bachelor’s courses

• 14 Mar & 2 May: Last SAT dates — register in Feb 27 (for Mar) and Apr 17 (for May) respectively.
  
  

🗓️ May 2026

• 1 May: Final deadline for most bachelor’s programs via Studielink.

• 2 May: SAT test date for late submissions.
  
  

• Reminder: After application due, start gathering:

  • Final SAT scores

  • A-level predicted/final scores

  • Proof of English proficiency (if required)

  • Passport, motivation letter, references

For Indonesian high school students applying to bachelor’s programs in the Netherlands, here are the key application documents typically required:

1. High School Diploma (Ijazah SMA)

   • If not yet available, use a certified transcript or Surat Keterangan Lulus (Graduation Letter) from your school.

   • For some universities, a predicted score is useful.
     
     

2. Academic Transcript (Raport SMA Class X–XII)

   • Translated into English (by a sworn translator if necessary).
     
     

3. English Language Certificate

   • Most universities accept:

     • IELTS Academic (min. 6.0–6.5 overall)

     • TOEFL iBT (min. 80–90)

     • Some accept Duolingo (min. 100–120)
       
       

4. Passport Copy

5. Motivation Letter

   • Explaining why you chose the program and university.
     
     

6. Recommendation Letter(s) (optional but useful)

   • From your school counselor, subject teacher, or principal.
     
     

7. Portfolio (for creative majors like design, media, architecture)

Use these reliable sources to research programs, apply to universities, and check deadlines: 

Official portal for international students by Nuffic: 

www.studyinholland.nl

Central application system for Dutch research universities: 

www.universital.nl

Dutch national application platform for most universities: 

www.studielink.nl