Which are the most affordable Universities in Netherlands?
The Netherlands is one of Europe’s most popular destinations for international students — offering world-class education, diverse English-taught programs, and a welcoming international environment.
However, tuition fees can vary significantly between institutions. If you’re planning to study in the Netherlands, it’s important to know which universities offer high-quality education at an affordable cost.
1. HAN University of Applied Sciences
Location: Arnhem & Nijmegen
Type: University of Applied Sciences
Tuition Fees (Approx.):
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EU/EEA Students: €2,601 per year
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Non-EU Students: €9,000–€10,560 per year
Highlights:
HAN is one of the most affordable and reputable universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands. It offers numerous English-taught Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in engineering, business, and life sciences. Students also benefit from strong career guidance and internship placements.
Why it’s affordable: Lower tuition compared to research universities and excellent student support services.
2. University of Amsterdam (UvA)
Location: Amsterdam
Type: Research University
Tuition Fees (Approx.):
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EU/EEA Students: €2,695 (statutory fee)
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Non-EU Students: €9,000–€15,000 depending on program
Highlights:
UvA is one of Europe’s top-ranked universities, known for its quality teaching and research. Students who qualify for statutory fees (EU/EEA or residence permit holders) can study at one of Europe’s leading universities at an affordable rate.
Why it’s affordable: Students meeting residence or nationality requirements benefit from low statutory tuition fees.
3. University of Twente (UT)
Location: Enschede
Type: Technical Research University
Tuition Fees (Approx.):
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EU/EEA Students: €2,530 per year
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Non-EU Students: €8,200–€12,750 per year
Highlights:
Known for its focus on technology, engineering, and innovation, the University of Twente provides an excellent mix of quality and value. It also offers scholarships for non-EU students under the UTS (University of Twente Scholarship)program.
Why it’s affordable: Competitive tuition for technical programs and generous scholarship options.
4. Radboud University
Location: Nijmegen
Type: Research University
Tuition Fees (Approx.):
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EU/EEA Students: €2,530 per year
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Non-EU Students: €12,000–€16,000 per year
Highlights:
Radboud University offers a wide range of programs with strong emphasis on research and international collaboration. The cost of living in Nijmegen is also relatively lower than in cities like Amsterdam or Rotterdam.
Why it’s affordable: Lower living costs combined with moderate tuition make it a budget-friendly option for international students.
5. Tilburg University
Location: Tilburg
Type: Research University
Tuition Fees (Approx.):
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EU/EEA Students: €2,530 per year
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Non-EU Students: €8,000–€11,000 per year
Highlights:
Tilburg University is recognized for excellence in business, economics, and social sciences. The university offers an affordable academic environment with a strong international focus.
Why it’s affordable: Lower-than-average tuition rates for high-quality business and social programs.
6. Hanze University of Applied Sciences
Location: Groningen
Type: University of Applied Sciences
Tuition Fees (Approx.):
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EU/EEA Students: €2,530 per year
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Non-EU Students: €8,000–€10,500 per year
Highlights:
Hanze offers practical, career-oriented programs in fields like business, engineering, and healthcare. The university’s city, Groningen, is known for its affordable lifestyle and vibrant student community.
Why it’s affordable: Lower fees and lower cost of living compared to major Dutch cities.
7. Maastricht University
Location: Maastricht
Type: Research University
Tuition Fees (Approx.):
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EU/EEA Students: €2,530 per year
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Non-EU Students: €7,500–€10,000 per year
Highlights:
Maastricht University is one of the most international universities in the Netherlands, offering innovative problem-based learning methods. It’s particularly affordable for EU/EEA students and offers multiple scholarships for international applicants.
Why it’s affordable: Cost-effective programs in an international environment.
Tips for Choosing an Affordable University
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Compare tuition and living costs: Cities like Groningen and Nijmegen are cheaper to live in than Amsterdam or Rotterdam.
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Apply for scholarships early: Many universities offer financial aid for non-EU students.
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Consider applied sciences universities: They generally have lower tuition and emphasize practical skills.
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Check visa and part-time work opportunities: International students can work up to 16 hours a week during studies in the Netherlands.
Key Takeaways
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Average tuition for EU/EEA students: €2,500–€2,700 per year.
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Average tuition for non-EU students: €8,000–€12,000 per year.
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Universities of Applied Sciences are typically more affordable than Research Universities.
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The Netherlands offers many English-taught programs at globally recognized institutions.
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Scholarships and low living costs make studying in smaller cities highly cost-effective.
