Top Universities with Low Tuition Fees in the Netherlands for International Students (2025)

Discover the top universities with low tuition fees in the Netherlands for international students in 2025. Discover the costs, scholarships, living expenses, and strategies for studying affordably in the Netherlands.

Studying abroad doesn’t always have to be expensive. The Netherlands has become one of the top destinations for international students seeking affordable tuition fees, high-quality education, and English-taught programs. Compared to countries like the US, UK, or Canada, Dutch universities offer some of the lowest tuition fees while maintaining global recognition.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top universities in the Netherlands with low tuition fees in 2025, scholarship opportunities, cost of living, and practical tips to study on a budget.

Summary Table: Low Tuition Fee Universities in the Netherlands (2025)

Why Study in the Netherlands as an International Student?

Globally recognized universities: Dutch universities consistently rank among the top 200 in the world, ensuring your degree is recognized worldwide.

Affordable compared to the UK, US, and Canada: While the US and UK charge $20,000 – $40,000 annually, many Dutch universities cost €7,500 – €12,000 per year.

English-taught programs: Over 2,000 English-taught programs are available, making the Netherlands one of the most international student-friendly countries.

Tuition Fees in the Netherlands for International Students (2025 Overview)

Cost for EU/EEA students: EU/EEA students pay statutory fees, averaging €2,530 per year (2025).

Cost for non-EU/EEA students: Non-EU students pay institutional fees, ranging from €7,500 – €12,500 annually.

Other compulsory fees

• Application fees: €75 – €100
• Health insurance: €80 – €120 per month
• Student union fees: €30 – €50

Top Universities with Low Tuition Fees in the Netherlands (2025 List)

1. Saxion University of Applied Sciences

Saxion emphasizes practical, career-focused programs in business, IT, engineering, and hospitality with tuition fees ranging from approximately €7,800 to €9,500 per year for international students. Scholarships like the Saxion Talent Scholarship can further reduce the cost.

Saxion is one of the largest applied sciences universities in the Netherlands, known for its practical and career-oriented programs.

• Tuition Fees: €7,800 – €9,800 per year
• Popular Programs: Applied Sciences, Business, IT
• Scholarships Available: Saxion Talent Scholarship

2. Hanze University of Applied Sciences

Hanze University of Applied Sciences (Hanze UAS), located in the vibrant student city of Groningen, is one of the largest applied sciences institutions in the Netherlands. It is widely recognized for its practice-oriented education, strong focus on entrepreneurship and innovation, and its partnerships with businesses and industries across Europe. The university prides itself on providing students with hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for the global workforce.

Programs Offered
Hanze offers a wide selection of English-taught Bachelor’s and Master’s programs, making it an attractive destination for international students. Some of the most popular fields of study include:

• Arts & Creative Industries – such as Music, Fine Arts, Design, and Media Studies.
• Engineering & Technology – including Energy Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Smart Systems.
• Business & Management – International Business, Finance, and Marketing.
• Health Sciences – Physiotherapy, Nursing, and Health Care Management.
• Communication & Media – International Communication and Creative Media.

This broad range allows students to choose pathways that combine creativity, innovation, and technical expertise.

Tuition Fees (2025/2026)

• Bachelor’s Programs: €7,500 – €9,500 per year (for non-EU/EEA students)
• Master’s Programs: €8,000 – €11,500 per year
• EU/EEA students: Significantly lower tuition fees, averaging around €2,530 annually

Scholarships Available

Hanze provides several scholarship opportunities for international students, including:

• Hanze Talent Scholarship – For outstanding non-EU/EEA students enrolling in Bachelor’s or Master’s programs.
• Holland Scholarship – A one-time grant of €5,000 for first-year non-EU/EEA students.
• Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) – For professionals from selected countries, particularly in Master’s programs.

Doctoral Programs (PhD)

Unlike Dutch research universities, Hanze University of Applied Sciences does not directly offer PhD programs. Being a University of Applied Sciences (UAS), it primarily provides practice-oriented Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. However, it collaborates with research universities such as the University of Groningen, where graduates may continue toward doctoral studies if they wish to pursue academic research.

Location & Student Life

The university is situated in Groningen, often ranked as one of the best student cities in the Netherlands. Over 25% of the population consists of students, giving the city a lively and international atmosphere. Hanze has a multicultural community with students from over 100 different nationalities.

Students benefit from:

• Modern facilities such as the Energy Academy Europe, Europe’s most sustainable educational building.
• Career-oriented internships and projects with leading Dutch and international companies.
• A strong focus on entrepreneurship through initiatives like the Hanze Centre for Entrepreneurship.
• Affordable living compared to cities like Amsterdam or Rotterdam.

Why Choose Hanze?

• Strong reputation for practical, career-focused education.
• Wide range of English-taught programs across disciplines.
• Access to excellent research collaborations, particularly in energy transition and sustainability.
• Affordable tuition compared to many Western European universities.
• A vibrant, student-friendly city with a supportive international community.

Website: Hanze University of Applied Sciences

3. Fontys University of Applied Sciences

Fontys University of Applied Sciences operates across the cities of Eindhoven, Tilburg, and Venlo and stands firmly among the top-tier universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands. Its programs are regularly highly rated in the Keuzegids HBO rankings, particularly in engineering, IT, logistics, and business administration. Fontys emphasises practical, career-oriented education, modern facilities, and strong connections with industry partners.

Programs Offered

Fontys provides a wide array of options:

• Fields of study include IT, creative industries, engineering, business, logistics, architecture, performing arts, and more.
• Ranked Bachelor’s and Master’s programs are available in both Dutch and English, with several Master’s programs running in collaboration with British and German institutions (e.g., Business & Management, International Logistics & Supply Chain, Architecture, Music).
• Opportunities for international exposure: over 100 partner universities worldwide and extensive student exchange and minor programs.

Tuition Fees (2025–2026)

• International Bachelor’s programs: approximately €8,330 to €10,660 per year
• A tuition indicator tool is available to help determine your specific rate, distinguishing between statutory vs. institutional fees based on eligibility.

Location & Student Life

Fontys campuses are embedded in lively Dutch cities known for their student culture:

• Eindhoven: Renowned for design and innovation (home of Philips, Dutch Design Week).
• Tilburg: A balanced university city with rich cultural offerings.
• Venlo: Smaller, close-knit, and connected to cross-border European regions.
  About 11 % of students are international, representing more than 70 countries. Fontys also promotes involvement through minors such as Trendwatching, Game Business, and Event Management, as well as extensive exchange options.

Application Essentials

• Use Studielink for both the degree program and, in some cases, scholarship applications.
• Admission and scholarship deadlines for non-EU/EEA students are typically around April 1, with EU/EEA applicants often due by May 1.
• A tuition payment setup (e.g. direct debit or instalment) is arranged via Studielink, with the initial payment processed around mid-May, and debits usually sent by late September.
• Non-EEA students must also provide proof of living expenses—around €13,140 per year, which factors into visa requirements.

Why Choose Fontys?

4. Radboud University

Radboud University, located in Nijmegen, is one of the leading research universities in the Netherlands. Established in 1923, it has consistently ranked among the top 150 universities worldwide (QS and THE Rankings). The university is well known for its student-centred teaching, cutting-edge research facilities, and strong reputation in law, psychology, business, natural sciences, and medical studies.

As a research university, Radboud focuses not only on theory but also on developing analytical, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills. It hosts over 24,000 students, of which about 10% are international, making it a diverse and welcoming academic environment.

Programs Offered

Radboud offers a wide range of English-taught Bachelor’s and Master’s programs, including:

• Law and Governance – International & European Law, Political Science, Public Administration.
• Social Sciences – Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology.
• Business & Economics – International Business Administration, Economics & Business Economics.
• Sciences – Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Artificial Intelligence, Computing Science.
• Medical & Health Sciences – Molecular Medicine, Biomedical Sciences.
• Arts & Humanities – Philosophy, History, Linguistics, Theology.

At the Master’s and PhD level, Radboud offers research-intensive tracks, preparing students for academic, professional, and policy careers.

Tuition Fees (2025–2026)

• Non-EU/EEA Bachelor’s: €9,900 – €12,645 per year
• Non-EU/EEA Master’s: €13,500 – €17,000 per year (depending on the program)
• EU/EEA Students: About €2,530 annually (statutory fee)

Doctoral Programs (PhD)

Yes.  Radboud University offers full doctoral (PhD) programs. Unlike Universities of Applied Sciences, Radboud is a research university, meaning it provides fully funded PhD opportunities across disciplines. PhD candidates are often employed by the university as junior researchers and receive a salary while completing their doctoral research.

Location & Student Life

Radboud is based in Nijmegen, the oldest city in the Netherlands, with a rich history and vibrant student atmosphere. Students benefit from:

• A green campus with modern labs, libraries, and research facilities.
• Affordable living compared to Amsterdam or Utrecht.
• A supportive international student community with associations like ESN Nijmegen.
• A city known for culture, festivals, and a welcoming student lifestyle.

Why Choose Radboud?

• Globally ranked and research-driven.
• Wide choice of English-taught Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs.
• Strong scholarships for international students.
• Excellent facilities for both academics and student life.
• A welcoming environment in one of the Netherlands’ most historic cities.

5. University of Groningen

The University of Groningen (Rijksuniversiteit Groningen – RUG), founded in 1614, is one of the oldest and most prestigious research universities in the Netherlands. It consistently ranks among the top 100 universities worldwide (QS, THE, ARWU) and has produced several Nobel Prize winners and influential alumni.

With over 36,000 students—including more than 7,000 internationals from 120+ countries—the University of Groningen is a truly global academic hub. It is especially well-regarded for its research output, innovation in science and technology, and strong international networks.

Programs Offered

The university provides a wide range of English-taught Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs, covering almost every field of study:

• Sciences & Engineering – Astronomy, Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Artificial Intelligence, Engineering, Computing Science.
• Business & Economics – International Business, Marketing, Finance, Supply Chain Management, Economics.
• Law & Governance – International and European Law, Public Policy, Human Rights.
• Health & Medical Sciences – Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Biomedical Sciences.
• Arts & Humanities – Linguistics, History, Media Studies, Arts, Philosophy.
• Social Sciences – Psychology, Sociology, Pedagogy, and International Relations.

Many programs are interdisciplinary, combining research excellence with practical training, making graduates highly employable globally.

Tuition Fees (2025–2026)

• Bachelor’s (Non-EU/EEA): €9,000 – €12,500 per year
• Master’s (Non-EU/EEA): €13,220 – €18,000 per year (depending on program)
• EU/EEA students: About €2,530 annually

Doctoral Programs (PhD)

Yes. The University of Groningen is a full research university with a strong PhD tradition. It offers structured doctoral programs through its Graduate Schools, covering all major disciplines. PhD candidates are often employed by the university, receiving a salary and research support while completing their doctorate.

Location & Student Life

Groningen is a lively student city, where about one in four residents is a student. This gives the city a vibrant, youthful, and international atmosphere. Key highlights include:

• A compact, bike-friendly city with affordable living compared to larger Dutch cities.
• A thriving cultural life with music festivals, art exhibitions, and sports clubs.
• The university’s Zernike Campus, home to cutting-edge research facilities and business incubators.
• Strong support services for international students, including housing, career guidance, and student associations.

Why Choose the University of Groningen?

• Ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide.
• Strong English-taught programs at Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD levels.
• Excellent funding opportunities for outstanding international students.
• A vibrant student city with a strong international community.
• High-quality research and innovation environment.

6. University of Twente

The University of Twente (UT), located in Enschede, is one of the most innovative and entrepreneurial universities in the Netherlands. Established in 1961, it is a research university well known for its technology-driven education, interdisciplinary teaching, and strong industry partnerships. UT is consistently ranked among the top 200 universities globally (THE, QS), particularly excelling in engineering, technology, and social sciences.

What makes UT stand out is its unique campus environment—the only all-in-one campus in the Netherlands. Students live, study, and relax in a vibrant, green space that combines academic life with social and cultural activities.

Programs Offered

The University of Twente offers a wide variety of English-taught Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs, blending technology with business and social sciences. Popular programs include:

• Engineering & Technology – Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics.
• Science & Innovation – Applied Physics, Nanotechnology, Biomedical Engineering.
• Business & Management – Industrial Engineering & Management, Business Administration.
• Social Sciences – Psychology, Communication Science, Public Administration.
• Interdisciplinary Studies – European Studies, Environmental & Energy Management, Health Sciences.

UT is especially strong in high-tech, human-touch education, meaning it integrates technological advancements with human and societal needs.

Tuition Fees (2025–2026)

• Bachelor’s (Non-EU/EEA): Approx. €8,200 – €10,500 per year
• Master’s (Non-EU/EEA): €12,750 – €16,000 per year (depending on program)
• EU/EEA Students: Around €2,530 annually

Doctoral Programs (PhD)

Yes. The University of Twente offers PhD programs in almost every academic discipline. As a research university, it runs doctoral studies through its Graduate Schools and research institutes such as MESA+ (Nanotechnology), TechMed Centre (Medical Technology), and ITC (Geosciences). PhD candidates are typically employed by the university and receive a monthly salary while conducting their research.

Location & Student Life

The University of Twente is located in Enschede, a dynamic student city near the German border. Key features of student life include:

• A unique campus lifestyle – UT is the only university in the Netherlands with an American-style campus, featuring sports facilities, housing, cafés, labs, and theatres all in one place.
• A multicultural community – Over 12,000 students, with 30% internationals, representing 100+ countries.
• Affordable cost of living compared to cities like Amsterdam or Rotterdam.
• Strong emphasis on entrepreneurship – UT has produced more than 1,000 start-ups and provides support through its incubator, Novel-T.

Why Choose the University of Twente?

• Top-ranked research university with strengths in technology and innovation.
• Wide range of English-taught Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs.
• Excellent scholarship opportunities for talented students.
• Unique all-in-one campus lifestyle.
• Strong entrepreneurial ecosystem with real-world industry connections.

7. The Hague University of Applied Sciences

The Hague University of Applied Sciences (THUAS), located in The Hague, is a career-focused institution known for its international outlook, practical education, and multicultural environment. With over 26,000 students from 140+ nationalities, it’s one of the most diverse universities in the Netherlands.

The Hague is home to international organisations such as the International Court of Justice, Europol, and the International Criminal Court, which makes studying at THUAS particularly attractive for students interested in law, politics, governance, and global affairs.

As a University of Applied Sciences (UAS), THUAS emphasises hands-on learning, industry projects, and professional skills, preparing graduates directly for the job market.

Programs Offered

THUAS offers a wide variety of English-taught Bachelor’s and Master’s programs designed with global careers in mind. Popular areas of study include:

• Business & Economics – International Business, Financial Management, Marketing.
• Law & Governance – International Law, European Studies, Public Management.
• Engineering & Technology – Process & Food Technology, Industrial Design Engineering, ICT.
• Social Sciences – International Communication Management, Social Work.
• Creative Industries – Industrial Design, User Experience Design.

Many programs integrate real-world projects with companies, government institutions, and NGOs, especially leveraging The Hague’s role as the “International City of Peace and Justice.”

Tuition Fees (2025–2026)

• Bachelor’s (Non-EU/EEA): Approx. €9,889 – €10,500 per year
• Master’s (Non-EU/EEA): €10,000 – €14,000 per year (depending on program)
• EU/EEA Students: Around €2,530 annually

Doctoral Programs (PhD)

No, THUAS does not offer PhD programs.
Being a University of Applied Sciences, THUAS focuses on Bachelor’s and Master’s education with a strong practical orientation. However, graduates who wish to pursue research can continue to PhD programs at Dutch research universities (e.g., Leiden University, Delft University of Technology, or Utrecht University).

Location & Student Life

Studying at THUAS places you in The Hague, the third-largest city in the Netherlands and the political heart of the country. Benefits include:

• Proximity to international organizations and embassies, offering networking and internship opportunities.
• A multicultural atmosphere, with a large international student community.
• A coastal lifestyle, with beaches (Scheveningen) just a short distance away.
• A wide range of student associations and cultural clubs that enrich campus life.

Why Choose The Hague University of Applied Sciences?

• Strong focus on global issues, law, governance, and business.
• Wide range of career-oriented English-taught programs.
• Excellent scholarship opportunities for international students.
• Unique access to internships and organisations in The Hague, the “World’s Legal Capital.”
• A multicultural environment, with students from over 140 nationalities.

8. Avans University of Applied Sciences

Avans University of Applied Sciences, located in cities such as Breda, ’ ”’ s-Hertogenbosch, and Tilburg, is one of the highest-ranked universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands. It has repeatedly been voted as the best large University of Applied Sciences in national rankings (Keuzegids HBO). Avans is particularly recognised for its student-focused teaching, career-oriented programs, and strong industry connections.

With more than 30,000 students, including a growing number of internationals, Avans provides a welcoming and practical learning environment. It emphasises applied research, entrepreneurship, and innovation, ensuring students gain the skills to succeed immediately in the global job market.

Programs Offered

Avans offers a range of English-taught Bachelor’s programs tailored to international students. Popular study areas include:

• Business & Management – International Business, Finance & Control.
• Engineering & Technology – Environmental Science for Sustainable Energy and Technology, Industrial Engineering.
• Arts & Design – Animation, Visual Arts, Graphic Design (some taught in English through collaboration programs).
• Life Sciences – Environmental Technology, Biology, and Chemistry-related applied programs.

Programs often include internships, company projects, and industry collaboration, preparing students for direct entry into their chosen professions.

Tuition Fees (2025–2026)

• Bachelor’s (Non-EU/EEA): Approx. €8,452 – €10,000 per year
• Master’s Programs (limited, usually joint degrees): €10,000 – €14,000 per year
• EU/EEA Students: Around €2,530 annually

Doctoral Programs (PhD)

No, Avans does not offer PhD programs.
As a University of Applied Sciences, Avans focuses on Bachelor’s and Master’s programs with a professional orientation. Students wishing to continue into PhD research can transition to a research university (e.g., University of Groningen, Radboud, or Delft University of Technology) after completing their studies at Avans.

Location & Student Life

Avans has multiple campuses in Breda, s-Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch), and Tilburg, all of which are lively student cities with rich cultural life.

• Breda: A historic city known for its creative industries and cultural events.
• ’s-Hertogenbosch: Famous for its medieval architecture and vibrant student life.
• Tilburg: A growing university city with a diverse international student community.

Student life at Avans includes:

• Small class sizes for personalised education.
• Strong career services and internship placements.
• Student associations for social, cultural, and sports activities.
• A supportive environment for internationals, with dedicated services for housing, visa support, and integration.

Why Choose Avans University of Applied Sciences?

• Consistently ranked as the best large applied sciences university in the Netherlands.
• Practical, career-focused education with strong industry links.
• Affordable tuition compared to research universities.
• Multiple vibrant student cities with diverse experiences.
• Scholarships are available for international students.

9. Inholland University of Applied Sciences

Inholland University of Applied Sciences is a well-established institution with campuses in major Dutch cities, including Amsterdam, Haarlem, The Hague, Alkmaar, Delft, and Rotterdam. This wide campus network gives students the chance to study in some of the Netherlands’ most dynamic, international, and career-oriented environments.

Inholland is known for its practice-driven education, close cooperation with industries, and strong emphasis on innovation and sustainability. With over 37,000 students, including a significant number of internationals, Inholland provides a diverse and inclusive atmosphere for students aiming to prepare directly for careers in global industries.

Programs Offered

Inholland offers a selection of English-taught Bachelor’s programs with a strong focus on international employability. Popular programs include:

• Business & Economics – International Business Innovation Studies (IBIS).
• Engineering & Technology – Aeronautical Engineering, Electrical Engineering.
• Media & Creative Industries – Creative Business, Communication, Media & Entertainment Management.
• Health Sciences – Nursing, Health & Life Sciences.
• Agriculture & Environment – Food Commerce & Technology, Sustainable Development.

These programs are designed to integrate theory with practice, often including company projects, real-world case studies, and long internships in Dutch and international firms.

Tuition Fees (2025–2026)

• Bachelor’s (Non-EU/EEA): Approx. €8,495 – €10,000 per year
• Master’s Programs (limited and specialized): €10,000 – €13,000 per year
• EU/EEA Students: Around €2,530 annually

Doctoral Programs (PhD)

No, Inholland does not offer PhD programs.
As a University of Applied Sciences (UAS), Inholland’s highest level of study is typically the Master’s degree, with a strong professional and applied orientation. Students wishing to pursue doctoral research can progress to Dutch research universities such as the University of Amsterdam, Delft University of Technology, or Leiden University.

Location & Student Life

With campuses spread across the Randstad region, Inholland students benefit from studying in some of the Netherlands’ most exciting and urban areas:

• Amsterdam – Creative capital, hub for business, media, and international culture.
• Haarlem – A Smaller, charming city close to Amsterdam and the beach.
• Rotterdam is known for its modern architecture, business hub, and cultural diversity.
• The Hague – International city of law and politics, ideal for global studies.
• Delft & Alkmaar – Smaller, innovative hubs with close-knit student life.

Student life is dynamic, offering:

• Access to international student networks and associations.
• Strong focus on internships and career readiness.
• Opportunities for part-time jobs in global cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam.
• A welcoming environment for students from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Why Choose Inholland University of Applied Sciences?

• Multiple campuses in top Dutch cities, providing a variety of experiences.
• Wide range of career-focused English-taught Bachelor’s programs.
• Affordable tuition compared to traditional research universities.
• Hands-on learning with long internships and real-world projects.
• Scholarships and support for international students.

Scholarships to Reduce Tuition Fees in the Netherlands (2025)

• NL Scholarship for non-EU/EEA students
• Grants €5,000 in the first year.
• Orange Tulip Scholarship (OTS)
• Targeted at students from specific countries, covering tuition partly or fully.
• University-specific scholarships
• Many universities (Saxion, Radboud, Fontys) offer merit-based awards.

Cost of Living for International Students in the Netherlands

Accommodation costs

• €400 – €700 per month, depending on the city.

Food and transportation expenses

• Groceries: €200 – €300/month
• Bike/public transport: €40 – €100/month

Part-time work opportunities

International students can work 16–20 hours/week with a student work permit.

Tips for Studying in the Netherlands on a Budget

• Choosing affordable student cities
• Cheaper cities: Enschede, Groningen, Leeuwarden.
• Sharing accommodation
• Splitting rent can cut housing costs by 30–40%.
• Applying early for scholarships
• Deadlines are usually December–April for September intakes.

FAQs

What is the cheapest university in the Netherlands for international students?

Universities of Applied Sciences (e.g., Saxion, NHL Stenden) usually have the lowest tuition fees starting around €7,500 per year.

Do all Dutch universities offer programs in English?

Yes. The Netherlands has over 2,000 English-taught programs across bachelor’s and master’s levels.

Can I study in the Netherlands for free?

Tuition is not free, but with scholarships and part-time work, costs can be reduced significantly.

Are Dutch applied sciences university cheaper than research universities?

Yes. Applied sciences universities often charge €7,500 – €9,800, while research universities charge €10,000 – €12,500.

How much does it cost in total (tuition + living) to study in the Netherlands?

Non-EU students should budget €12,000 – €18,000 per year (tuition + living).

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