If images of cozy cafes or shimmering canals have captured your imagination, maybe you should consider your dream of visiting the Kingdom of the Low Countries and turn it into a reality by studying abroad in the Netherlands.

There is more to the Netherlands than meets the eye, which is why we are excited to showcase the top ten reasons for international students to choose the Netherlands as their number one study abroad destination.

stay in netherlands

1. Prestigious University

Looking for a study abroad destination that offers you the opportunity to study at one of the best universities in the world? Look no further than the Netherlands!

The Netherlands boasts one of the oldest and most reputable higher education systems in the world. With so many universities in the Netherlands ranked highly in the world, it is no surprise that it is one of the most popular study abroad destinations in Europe.

On top of that, Dutch universities offer friendly tuition fees, a variety of English language programs, and a great student life.

2. Open-Minded Society

Dutch people go about their daily lives with a “live and let live” attitude that can be seen in the diversity of their environment. Tolerance has become an integral building block in Dutch society.

As a result, multinational restaurants, gay bars, brothels and coffee shops live in peaceful coexistence in the same neighborhood in cities across the Netherlands. As an international student, this may seem strange at first, but you will quickly see that instead of generating crime, the Dutch liberal legalization policy has created a safe space for people to live their lives.

Studying abroad in the Netherlands will, therefore, give international students the opportunity to open their own minds to the lifestyle choices of people around the world.

3. Competitive Economy

Upon reaching graduation, most students have one main goal — finding a job. It is important, especially if you live and study abroad, to think about your job opportunities after completing your studies.

After experiencing life in the Netherlands, many students can’t help but want to stay for good, so they make it their mission to find work after their studies. Fortunately, with one of the most competitive economies in Europe, finding a job is not only possible, it is a possibility!

After becoming an agrarian country, the Netherlands is now a center for modern technology and startups. The Dutch government also promotes innovation and new talent by offering visas to foreigners with marketable skills, making the Dutch workforce one of the most diverse.

study in netherlands

4. Language-Savvy People

Did you know that Dutch is the closest language to English? As English’s closest relative on the Germanic language tree, Dutch is easier to learn for English speakers than Italian or French. Both languages ​​borrow vocabulary from the other and are grammatically similar in many ways.

But, if learning a language isn’t your goal, don’t worry. The Dutch speak English in one of the highest non-native professions in the world. You will also find many options when it comes to studying programs in English.

That being said, as savvy language learners, many Dutch also speak a third or fourth language! Because of the Netherlands’ proximity to Belgium, France and Germany, many Dutch also learn French or German. So, don’t be shy, and put your language skills to the test!

5. Cycling Culture for Life

Another great benefit of studying abroad in the Netherlands is your cheap and easy access to transportation. Just bike there!

With an extensive network of bike paths and plenty of places to store and lock your bike, the Netherlands’ infrastructure makes it easier to cycle to your destination than driving or using public transport. This is also another way for the Netherlands to embrace sustainability and protect the environment.

On top of that, out of respect for bikers on the road, there have been some serious cycling accidents, making it one of the safest ways to travel too. So get on your bike and go!

6. Healthy and Active Lifestyle

The Netherlands ranks among the healthiest in the world.

Of course, this is due in small part to the widespread cycling culture across the country. However, the Dutch also value sport and other forms of physical activity. As an international student in the Netherlands, you will have many opportunities to join other students in a group or team for sports or just exercise.

Physical activity and social aspects combined make for a great mental space to face the challenges of studying and living abroad.

7. Foods to Die For

It’s surprising that the Dutch diet is filled with saturated fat. Cheese, butter and meat abound on every table in Holland.

A step inside a Dutch pastry shop is also likely to have you drooling. Stroopwafels, pancakes, tart apples and licorice are Dutch favorite snacks. No study abroad in the Netherlands is complete without at least trying poffertjes, small powdered pancakes, or oliebollen, the Dutch version of donuts.

If pastries aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other delicious treats to try! Bitterballen is among the most popular bars or party snacks. These small meatballs are breaded and deep-fried for a delicious, crunchy delicacy.

8. Golden Age to Pine Over

If the names Rembrandt and Vermeer sound the bill for you, then you should know about the Dutch Golden Age. Paintings like The Girl with a Pearl Earring cast a shadow on the minds of millions around the world because of their popularity and historic significance in the art world.

But it’s not just Vermeer’s paintings that are easily recognizable. Maybe you’ve also heard of Vincent van Gogh, the painter of one of the world’s most famous paintings, Starry Night. While studying abroad at the University of Amsterdam, you will have more than enough time to discover all that Dutch art has to offer. Start with the stunning Van Gogh Museum to brush up on your post-impressionist knowledge.

9. Travel Destinations to Discover

In the Netherlands, international students can discover some of the most beautiful and unique cities in the world. Stroll along the canals of Amsterdam, visit the harbor in Rotterdam or observe the beautiful architecture of The Hague.

No matter where you choose to study, the Netherlands is perfectly located for you to explore all that Europe has to offer! It’s easy to find bargains and weekend getaways to Italy, Poland or even the UK. Many Dutch cities are also connected via train to bustling European cities such as Brussels or Cologne. So you can take advantage of your study abroad experience in the Netherlands by not only seeing what the Netherlands has to offer but also seeing all there is to see in Europe.

10. Be Yourself

Not only were they tolerant, the Dutch were also receptive. You can feel free to be who you want to be. You will realize with the freedom to do so, you will also want to reach higher to discover your full potential. Dutch people are honest and open communicators. At first, many international students to the Netherlands found this too advanced. However, soon the direct communication style revealed its benefits.

You’ll always know where you stand with the Dutch, and as long as you’re also open and direct, you’ll quickly find that you have a new group of lifelong friends. Many students who study abroad cite making friends and connections as one of the most rewarding aspects of the study abroad experience.

So what do you think? Are you ready to take on the challenge and embark on an amazing journey to study abroad in the Netherlands?

Then, when you’re ready, check out our research abroad and discover many international programs looking for new international students like you!

If you’re looking for a way to turn your pursuit of higher education into the adventure of a lifetime, set your sights on a study abroad experience you’ll remember forever!

Not only will it open doors to explore the world, you’ll learn many life skills and lessons while doing so. With so many advantages, it is not surprising that studying abroad is considered very beneficial for both personal and professional development.

 

Turn Your Education into Adventure!

Even if you go to college to earn a degree, that’s no reason to really set aside for fun. The perfect way to balance study with fun is to take your studies abroad.

One of the biggest advantages of studying abroad is that every free moment outside of class can turn into an adventure. Imagine how much fun it would be to explore the streets of Barcelona after college or sit in a cafe enjoying an espresso in Rome during your lunch break.

Start From Somewhere New!

Whether you want to break out of your shell or just get a fresh start, a great benefit of studying abroad is that you get the chance to become someone completely new!

Being surrounded by a new city, new culture and new friends is the perfect way to discover who you really are. You can explore new interests, try new foods, and even experiment with speaking another language. At the end of your journey, you will have a deeper understanding of not only yourself but the world.

Make the world a better place!

This may sound like a big destination, but another benefit of studying abroad is that you are given the opportunity to explore the world. So, why not take advantage of this opportunity to make a difference along the way!

You will meet new people from all walks of life. Almost overnight your social network will double or even triple as you make friends from all over the world. Sharing experiences not only improves your cross-cultural communication skills, but also gives you the opportunity to share kindness and understanding to spread around the world.

Add Character to Your Resume!

Employers are bombarded with piles of resumes from interested candidates that all look more or less the same on paper. Do you want to make your resume shine? Highlight your study abroad experience!

Recruiters are happy if a candidate has studied abroad. They take it as proof that you can take on challenges, handle change, and think outside the box – traits required for any profession. Don’t forget to mention any languages ​​you may have studied during this time. In today’s global job market, the ability to speak across physical and cultural boundaries is an invaluable skill.

Inspired!

Ultimately, no matter where you choose to study, the most important benefit of studying abroad is that it will inspire you on your life’s journey time and again. Immersing yourself in a new city, country, and culture is the perfect way to challenge your worldview and grow from it.

Explore art museums, visit historical monuments, communicate in new languages, experience new cuisines – the opportunities to expand your mind are endless. Long after your studies are over, you will remember all the new memories you made and the lessons you learned with love.

Are you ready to Study Abroad?

The benefits of studying abroad are numerous and significant. You pick up practical skills that can’t be taught in class while also gaining insight into yourself and the world around you.

Students who have studied abroad almost universally agree that their study abroad is a positive experience that enriches their education and life for years to come. So, what’s holding you back?

You will see it is not as difficult as you think to fulfill your dream of living and studying abroad! With just one search.