Comparing Top Dutch Universities in 2025: Tuition, Programs, and More

Alexander
Mar 4
2 min read

The Netherlands continues to be a top destination for international students, offering high-quality education with a wide range of English-taught programs. This guide provides a comprehensive comparison of several prominent Dutch universities, focusing on tuition fees, major programs, course durations, and additional details to assist prospective students in making informed decisions.

University Comparison Table (2025 Entry)

University	Tuition Fees (Int’l Students)	Popular Majors	Course Duration	Notes
Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)	€10,000–€15,000/year	Engineering, Technology, Architecture	3 years (Bachelor), 2 years (Master)	Renowned for engineering and technical programs.
University of Amsterdam (UvA)	€9,570–€34,800/year	Humanities, Social Sciences, Law	3 years (Bachelor), 1–2 years (Master)	Offers a wide range of English-taught programs.
Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e)	€10,000–€15,000/year	Engineering, Computer Science, Design	3 years (Bachelor), 2 years (Master)	Focus on innovation and technology.
Utrecht University	€11,000–€15,000/year	Sciences, Law, Humanities	3 years (Bachelor), 1–2 years (Master)	Strong research focus; diverse academic offerings.
Erasmus University Rotterdam	€12,000–€18,000/year	Business, Economics, Social Sciences	3 years (Bachelor), 1–2 years (Master)	Known for business and economics programs.

Tuition Fees Overview

In 2025, tuition fees for international students at Dutch universities vary based on the institution and program:

Public Universities: €6,000–€15,000 per year
Private Universities: €10,000–€25,000 per year
Specialized Courses (e.g., Medicine, Law): Higher fees apply, often exceeding €20,000 per year.

EU/EEA students benefit from lower statutory tuition fees, typically around €2,601 per year.

Financial Considerations

While tuition fees are relatively affordable, students should budget for living expenses, which can vary depending on the city:

Accommodation: €300–€800/month
Food and Miscellaneous: €200–€400/month

Major cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam may have higher living costs compared to smaller towns.

Scholarships are available for international students, including the Holland Scholarship and various institutional scholarships.

Choosing the Right University

When selecting a university in the Netherlands, consider the following factors:

Program Offerings: Ensure the university offers the course and specialization you're interested in.
Tuition and Living Costs: Evaluate the total cost, including living expenses, especially in cities like Amsterdam or Rotterdam.
Course Duration and Structure: Bachelor's programs typically last 3 years, while Master's programs are usually 1–2 years.
Language of Instruction: Many programs are offered in English, but some may require proficiency in Dutch.
University Reputation and Rankings: Research the university's reputation in your field of interest, as well as overall rankings and student satisfaction scores.

Final Thoughts

The Netherlands offers a combination of high-quality education and a diverse range of English-taught programs, making it an attractive destination for international students. Prospective students should conduct thorough research and consider reaching out to university admissions offices for the most current information.