With increasingly high tuition fees in the UK, more and more students are looking to study abroad, and a popular choice for young adults is the Netherlands. Lower fees, excellent quality of living and a chance to experience life in a new country are all appealing factors.
If you're also aspiring to study at a Dutch university, then this guide might just help...
Where to start?
The first step in your journey from school life in the UK to uni in the Netherlands is finding a university that has your course. The EUNiCAS website is a good place to start, as you'll find a list of the different universities along with their specialities. After plenty of research and perhaps even a trip to the Netherlands yourself (check out deals on Amsterdam Hotels here) you can then look to create your Studielink account. This is similar to UCAS here in the UK and enables you to make your application for up to five Dutch universities. The application process itself is quite lengthy, so it's best to get started as soon as possible. You can also be safe in the knowledge that your application can be withdrawn at any stage just in case you change your mind.
The application process
To apply through the Dutch system, you will need to have a copy of your personal statement (although note that these are more formal than the UK versions), passport, GCSE grades, AS results and your predicted A2 grades. Have all of these to hand so you don't delay any part of your application process, this will only cause extra work and hassle. Generally, once you've completed and submitted your application you'll hear back within around 2-3 months but hopefully sooner.
Is funding available?
The good news is, yes, funding is available for overseas students. Tuition fee loans are available from the Dutch government but this is something you will need to research in terms of your eligibility and apply for. Students also benefit from a number of discounts including travel in and around the Netherlands.
Is Dutch university life similar to the UK?
In many ways, yes, they are fairly similar. Dutch universities also have Freshers Week but it is commonly known as Intreeweek and is slightly different in terms of dates depending on which university you're heading to. Many of the Dutch universities will group up international students to ease the transition process and leave you feeling less like an outcast. Again, with holidays and time off, this can differ from uni to uni but the timetable is similar to that of the UK. You'll receive time off at Christmas, extended leave over summer and also the Dutch holidays. Easter is a much shorter break than in the UK, however.
Where will I stay?
Housing can feel like a minefield when moving abroad but the good news is that this is very easy for international students. If you're studying from abroad then you'll automatically be provided with student digs, and top tip: it's best not to be too fussy here as accommodation in the city is hard to come by due to the popularity with overseas students and travellers.
So, now you just need to decide which university you would like to go to and then you can get the process started.
