15 Cheapest Universities in Netherlands for International Students

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In Netherlands, there are a lot of affordable universities that you can find. Enrolling in these schools will help you fulfill your dream of studying in Netherlands without paying a lot. These institutions also provide well-rounded academic programs and curriculums, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in Netherlands, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 54 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Netherlands, make sure to read more!

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Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in Netherlands for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Netherlands ordered by their tuition fee for international bachelor's students.

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Fontys University of Applied Sciences 2,695 Euros - 13,100 Euros 78%
Amsterdam University of the Arts 8,250 Euros - 10,200 Euros 32%
Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences 8,830 Euros - 9,950 Euros 27%
Gerrit Rietveld Academie 8,943 Euros 26%
HAN University of Applied Sciences 9,000 Euros - 10,600 Euros 25%
Saxion University of Applied Sciences 9,030 Euros 25%
Aeres University of Applied Sciences 9,062 Euros 25%
Hanze University of Applied Sciences 9,302 Euros 23%
Windesheim University of Applied Sciences 9,317 Euros 23%
Zuyd University of Applied Sciences 9,850 Euros - 13,500 Euros 18%
HZ University of Applied Sciences 9,893 Euros 18%
Avans University of Applied Sciences 9,949 Euros 17%
Tilburg University 10,200 Euros 15%
Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences 10,400 Euros - 11,600 Euros 14%
NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences 10,400 Euros 14%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 12,000 Euros for universities in Netherlands.

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1. Fontys University of Applied Sciences

Fontys University of Applied Sciences is a specialized institution offering undergraduate and graduate-level studies. Its name is derived from the Latin for “source”. Such is fitting for an institution that aspires to be a reservoir of knowledge for students. Education at Fontys is practical and research-based, giving individuals much room to learn and adapt to real-world working conditions. English-taught courses for bachelor’s and master’s students are available at Fontys. They may be in full-time or part-time schedules.

2. Amsterdam University of the Arts

Amsterdam University of the Arts (AHK) is a career-oriented higher institution that provides high standards of teaching and research in arts and culture. It offers top-class programs in film, art and design, theatre, music, architecture, and arts education. As an industry-specific university, it has been known for educating and training creative individuals. And even as an internationally recognized institution, it continues to improve and develop quality programs to offer to its current and future students.

3. Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences

Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences (VHL), known in Dutch as Hogeschool Van Hall Larenstein, is a young university recognized as the most sustainable Applied Sciences institution in the Netherlands. The university has always worked towards generating responsible and skilled individuals who contribute significantly to society. And thus, its study programs are not only practice-based but are also sustainably oriented. Some of the university’s academic programs include agribusiness, food nutrition, business, and international development.

4. Gerrit Rietveld Academie

Gerrit Rietveld Academie is a specialized English-taught art school in Amsterdam. It primarily offers undergraduate degrees. Bachelor’s students begin first-year with the same program – Basic year – before choosing from one of 12 specialties. Another option for undergrads is the five-year DOGtime program, which includes three years of in-depth study. The academy’s Sandberg Instituut provides Master’s degrees. However, there are only two such programs available.

5. HAN University of Applied Sciences

HAN University of Applied Sciences is a specialized institution for the sciences and is one of the most extensive of its kind in the Netherlands. The programs it offers are science-related, like technology or life sciences. These programs may be available in English and full-time or part-time schedules. It has two locations, one in Arnhem and the other in Nijmegen. The university also has a research facility in Doetinchem, another city in the Netherlands.

6. Saxion University of Applied Sciences

Saxion University of Applied Sciences, or Hogeschool Saxion in Dutch, was established in 1998. Its three campuses across Eastern Netherlands offer programs in Finance, Engineering, Business, and Digital Media. At present, the university is home to nearly 27,000 students.

7. Aeres University of Applied Sciences

Aeres University of Applied Sciences was founded as an agricultural institution. Such roots are still evident in its selection of courses. It offers several undergraduate and graduate-level programs geared towards a greener society and better agriculture. This includes programs like agribusiness, dairy management, and more taught in either English or Dutch language.

 

8. Hanze University of Applied Sciences

Rooted in its mission to make a contribution to society, Hanze University of Applied Sciences offers degree programs with a strong focus on applied research and innovation. It is one of the largest technical universities in the Netherlands. Its campus is located in Groningen and houses several modern facilities to aid students’ learning and research.

9. Windesheim University of Applied Sciences

Windesheim University of Applied Sciences, a public vocational institution, offers several bachelor’s and associate programs in English or Dutch. Windesheim is one of the country’s leading applied science universities. However, it keeps its population small to maintain a more personal approach to education. Thus, rarely do class sizes exceed 20 students.

10. Zuyd University of Applied Sciences

Zuyd University of Applied Sciences or Zuyd Hogeschool in Dutch offers some of the best undergraduate and graduate programs. The university has a wide selection of English-taught and Dutch-taught applied science programs. It has several campuses in Southeastern Netherlands where students are educated in small groups. This kind of learning environment will be incredibly beneficial for students as the academic faculty can mentor and aid the needs of each student.

11. HZ University of Applied Sciences

HZ University of Applied Sciences is among the leading applied sciences universities in the Netherlands. It boasts high-quality programs, which may be taught in English or Dutch. These courses are offered in three locations. They have campuses in Vlissingen, Roosendaal and Middelburg.

The university also offers an English-taught master’s program. It’s a joint degree made possible by a collaboration with two other universities.

12. Avans University of Applied Sciences

Avans University of Applied Sciences or AVANS Hogeschool in Dutch is a young university that provides top-notch educational programs at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. This thriving institution is committed to generating competent professionals by providing high standards of teaching and research. Since the learning approach is practice-based, students will develop core capabilities and necessary skills that would be beneficial for their future career endeavors.

13. Tilburg University

Formerly known as Roman Catholic Business School, Tilburg University has educated countless students since its establishment in 1927. Over the years, the institution has thrived and made numerous improvements as it aims to be among the leading universities in the Netherlands. Today, the university is one of the respected higher education schools across the globe.  It has gained several national and international recognitions and achievements for its efforts in providing top-class education.

14. Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences

Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences prioritizes the success of students. As a recognized institution, the university only provides the highest quality of education. It also offers numerous opportunities such as training, internship programs, and networking events for its students. Guided support from the academic faculty will also be provided to ensure that students gain the necessary knowledge, advance their skills, and develop core capabilities.

15. NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences

In 2008, two universities – Drenthe University of Applied Sciences and CHN University of Applied Sciences – came together to form Stenden University of Applied Sciences. Fast forward to 2018, another merger happened between Stenden University of Applied Sciences and NHL University of Applied Sciences. This latest development formed the present NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences. NHL Stenden offers several programs across its campuses in the Netherlands: Leeuwarden, Emmen, Meppel, Groningen, and Terschelling. Besides the Netherlands, the university has also expanded opportunities and locations through its Grand Tour opportunity, which takes students around the world.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in Netherlands for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Netherlands ordered by their tuition fee for international master's students.

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Driestar Christian University 7,705 Euros 48%
Amsterdam University of the Arts 8,250 Euros - 10,200 Euros 45%
Gerrit Rietveld Academie 8,943 Euros 40%
HAN University of Applied Sciences 9,000 Euros - 10,600 Euros 40%
Aeres University of Applied Sciences 9,062 Euros 39%
Hanze University of Applied Sciences 9,302 Euros - 9,750 Euros 38%
Zuyd University of Applied Sciences 9,850 Euros - 13,500 Euros 34%
Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences 9,891 Euros - 14,000 Euros 34%
Avans University of Applied Sciences 9,949 Euros 33%
Fontys University of Applied Sciences 10,300 Euros - 13,100 Euros 32%
NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences 10,400 Euros 31%
HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht 10,400 Euros 30%
Erasmus University Rotterdam 10,500 Euros - 25,800 Euros 30%
The Hague University of Applied Sciences 10,600 Euros 29%
Saxion University of Applied Sciences 10,600 Euros 29%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 14,900 Euros for universities in Netherlands.

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1. Driestar Christian University

Driestar Christian University is an institution that specializes in teacher education. Since its foundation in 1944, the university’s methods and traditions have been deeply inspired by the Christian faith. The university aims to train the next generations of teachers who will be able to provide high-quality Christian education anywhere in the world.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Driestar Christian University should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 7,705 Euros annually for their master's degree.

2. Amsterdam University of the Arts

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Amsterdam University of the Arts. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Amsterdam University of the Arts is 8,250 Euros to 10,162 Euros.

Amsterdam University of the Arts (AHK) is a career-oriented higher institution that provides high standards of teaching and research in arts and culture. It offers top-class programs in film, art and design, theatre, music, architecture, and arts education. As an industry-specific university, it has been known for educating and training creative individuals. And even as an internationally recognized institution, it continues to improve and develop quality programs to offer to its current and future students.

3. Gerrit Rietveld Academie

Gerrit Rietveld Academie is a specialized English-taught art school in Amsterdam. It primarily offers undergraduate degrees. Bachelor’s students begin first-year with the same program – Basic year – before choosing from one of 12 specialties. Another option for undergrads is the five-year DOGtime program, which includes three years of in-depth study. The academy’s Sandberg Instituut provides Master’s degrees. However, there are only two such programs available.

The tuition fee at Gerrit Rietveld Academie for incoming international master’s students is 8,943 Euros. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. HAN University of Applied Sciences

Another affordable university to consider in Netherlands is HAN University of Applied Sciences.

HAN University of Applied Sciences is a specialized institution for the sciences and is one of the most extensive of its kind in the Netherlands. The programs it offers are science-related, like technology or life sciences. These programs may be available in English and full-time or part-time schedules. It has two locations, one in Arnhem and the other in Nijmegen. The university also has a research facility in Doetinchem, another city in the Netherlands.

The tuition fee in HAN University of Applied Sciences for master’s program for foreign students starts from 9,000 Euros.

5. Aeres University of Applied Sciences

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Aeres University of Applied Sciences has some of the lowest tuition fee prices for foreign students who are planning to take a master's degree here. International master's students only pay as low as 9,062 Euros yearly.

Aeres University of Applied Sciences was founded as an agricultural institution. Such roots are still evident in its selection of courses. It offers several undergraduate and graduate-level programs geared towards a greener society and better agriculture. This includes programs like agribusiness, dairy management, and more taught in either English or Dutch language.

 

6. Hanze University of Applied Sciences

Rooted in its mission to make a contribution to society, Hanze University of Applied Sciences offers degree programs with a strong focus on applied research and innovation. It is one of the largest technical universities in the Netherlands. Its campus is located in Groningen and houses several modern facilities to aid students’ learning and research.

7. Zuyd University of Applied Sciences

Zuyd University of Applied Sciences or Zuyd Hogeschool in Dutch offers some of the best undergraduate and graduate programs. The university has a wide selection of English-taught and Dutch-taught applied science programs. It has several campuses in Southeastern Netherlands where students are educated in small groups. This kind of learning environment will be incredibly beneficial for students as the academic faculty can mentor and aid the needs of each student.

8. Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences

Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences prioritizes the success of students. As a recognized institution, the university only provides the highest quality of education. It also offers numerous opportunities such as training, internship programs, and networking events for its students. Guided support from the academic faculty will also be provided to ensure that students gain the necessary knowledge, advance their skills, and develop core capabilities.

9. Avans University of Applied Sciences

Avans University of Applied Sciences or AVANS Hogeschool in Dutch is a young university that provides top-notch educational programs at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. This thriving institution is committed to generating competent professionals by providing high standards of teaching and research. Since the learning approach is practice-based, students will develop core capabilities and necessary skills that would be beneficial for their future career endeavors.

10. Fontys University of Applied Sciences

Fontys University of Applied Sciences is a specialized institution offering undergraduate and graduate-level studies. Its name is derived from the Latin for “source”. Such is fitting for an institution that aspires to be a reservoir of knowledge for students. Education at Fontys is practical and research-based, giving individuals much room to learn and adapt to real-world working conditions. English-taught courses for bachelor’s and master’s students are available at Fontys. They may be in full-time or part-time schedules.

11. NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences

In 2008, two universities – Drenthe University of Applied Sciences and CHN University of Applied Sciences – came together to form Stenden University of Applied Sciences. Fast forward to 2018, another merger happened between Stenden University of Applied Sciences and NHL University of Applied Sciences. This latest development formed the present NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences. NHL Stenden offers several programs across its campuses in the Netherlands: Leeuwarden, Emmen, Meppel, Groningen, and Terschelling. Besides the Netherlands, the university has also expanded opportunities and locations through its Grand Tour opportunity, which takes students around the world.

12. HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht

HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht is a polytechnic university that offers comprehensive academic programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. One of its primary goals is to educate thousands of students to become eligible professionals who will significantly contribute to industry-specific sectors. By doing so, the university thrives on providing advanced educational programs and high standards of teaching.

13. Erasmus University Rotterdam

Erasmus University Rotterdam, or Erasmus Universiteit Rotterdam in Dutch, is one of the elite public universities in the Netherlands. The institution has gained recognition in the local and international community for its high-quality education. It has been consistently included in the national and global academic rankings. In addition, the university has partnered with other renowned foreign institutions to offer joint programs for eligible students.

14. The Hague University of Applied Sciences

The Hague University of Applied Sciences is situated in one of the world’s law, security, and peace centers. Thus, the university leans towards internationalization, providing several English-taught and international-based programs for undergraduate and graduate students. They offer bachelor’s, associate’s, master’s, and postgraduate degrees. The university is well-ranked based on various organizations. For instance, it placed 201st in the Times Higher Education European Teaching Rankings 2018.

15. Saxion University of Applied Sciences

Saxion University of Applied Sciences, or Hogeschool Saxion in Dutch, was established in 1998. Its three campuses across Eastern Netherlands offer programs in Finance, Engineering, Business, and Digital Media. At present, the university is home to nearly 27,000 students.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get admission to affordable universities in Netherlands?

Applying to cheap universities in Netherlands requires you to complete different requirements depending on your degree and chosen university. These usually include admission forms, language proficiency scores, and a visa. Check out our full guide to studying in Netherlands for a more comprehensive guide!

2. What can I study at Best affordable universities in Netherlands?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Netherlands. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Netherlands is the Aeres University of Applied Sciences, which offers European Food Business, International Food Business, and International Food Operations Management to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Aeres University of Applied Sciences offers Agribusiness Development, and Food Systems Innovation.

It's important to take a look at all your options when selecting where to attend post-secondary school. With so many different types of schools, degrees, and universities in Netherlands, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

So, make sure to explore the best public universities in Netherlands as well if you're looking for affordable education!

We hope that this article on affordable institutions in Netherlands for international students was helpful!