In the recent years, more and Indian students looking to study in Europe are opting for universities in Netherlands, especially in Amsterdam. The country is a vibrant amalgamation of art, history and modernity, providing students an amazing lifestyle and educational experience. Until recently, not many students were looking to Netherlands as an education destination, preferring UK or the US, but this country has a lot to offer to Indian students who are looking to have a strong educational background. According to a media report in www.Forbes.com Amsterdam ranks amongst the top 10 cities best for students in terms of education, quality of life and community.
According to the figures released by the Universities of Netherlands (UNL, an association of all Dutch universities), over the last ten years, the percentage of international students coming to study in The Netherlands has increased substantially. Lat year the numbers showed an increase of 25% of international students who enrolled in the Dutch universities. 45% of those who applied were for bachelor’s degree.
Get strong education branding
Dutch universities currently rank high among the best universities list. University of Amsterdam, University of Rotterdam, Leiden University and Delft University of Technology are among the top few. A listing by www.study.eu of the best Dutch universities to study ranks Delft University of Technology as number one, followed by University of Amsterdam, and University of Utrecht at third position.
These are well reputed and offer a great selection of subjects and specialisations for Indian students who want to move away from the regular lines of studies. Subjects like environment studies, earth sciences, visual art, design, architecture and food science and technology are some of the top subjects that Indian students can look at to stay relevant in the current job market.
Innovative method of teaching
The delivery of education in the Dutch universities is highly interactive and research based. The subjects are taught in a very student-centric way, and they are encouraged to explore new ideas and processes while studying their subjects. The students are given the freedom to develop their opinions and apply their knowledge in research. They are encouraged to develop critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills. The good thing about studying in Netherlands is that almost all the courses are taught in English, which makes it easier for Indian students to adapt to the education system easily.
Easy on the pocket
Netherlands has a lower cost of living compared to other European cities. Even the tuition fee is lower compared to other European universities. Besides that, the international students have the option of applying for scholarships to pursue their chosen subjects. They can also seek grant opportunities especially if the Indian student is looking to go for higher studies in any research field. Some of the popular scholarships that you can apply for include Amsterdam Excellence Scholarships, Holland Scholarships, Erasmus Mundus Scholarships, Utrecht University Excellence Scholarships and so on. The Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture & Science offers annual scholarship of € 5000, which is around INR 4 lakh to international students for both Undergraduate and Post Graduate studies. This can be used for tuition fee and other educational requirements. To avail this scholarship, you need to apply through the university of your choice.
Work while studying
If you are planning to study in Netherlands, there’s another silver lining for managing living expenses. Dutch government allows international students to work while studying. The international students can work up to 16 hours in a week. They are allowed to take up full-time jobs in summer months when universities have vacations. Indian students need to get a work visa to apply for part time jobs in Netherlands.
You don’t have to leave the country immediately after completing your studies, as the Dutch government allows you to stay on in Netherlands for a year after completing your studies. You need to get a post-study work visa to stay on. In fact, the Dutch government encourages skilled international students to start businesses or take up jobs after finishing their studies in the country.
Diverse, inclusive student community
According to OECD’s Better Life Index, Netherlands has been ranked very high in the safest places to live index. The country is also known to be one of the happiest places to live. In fact, it has been ranked number one, as the country offering best quality of life. It is considered to offer a great lifestyle experience. The country has great mix of public spaces, entertainment options and nature. The country also has multicultural environment – open-minded, diverse and inclusive. International students can easily be assimilated into their student communities. They can also be part of Dutch student communities since these are known to offer welcoming environment to international students. Since the country is known for good infrastructure and public services, living in the country is easier for international students there.
If you are an Indian student looking to study in Europe, check out the education options in Netherlands. As mentioned in the reasons, it might make an easier choice to get quality education
Suggested Reading:
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/ceciliarodriguez/2023/12/14/want-to-study-in-europe-the-best-places-for-young-people-in-2024-ranked-by-polls/?sh=374de21c7258
- https://www.study.eu/best-universities/netherlands
- https://www.studyinnl.org/why-nl/5-good-reasons-to-study-in-the-netherlands#:~:text=The%20tuition%20fees%20and%20cost,practical%20problems%20and%20creative%20thinking.
