The cost of a Masters in the Netherlands
Most Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences (hogescholen) are public institutions, with tuition fees regulated by the Dutch government. This helps ensure that studying a Masters degree in the Netherlands is affordable for large numbers of students.
Fees for Dutch students in the Netherlands
Dutch students pay Masters tuition fees at the government’s ‘statutory rate’. This is currently fixed at €2,530 per year for most full-time courses. Part-time students pay a proportion of the full cost, depending on the intensity of their programme.
The statutory fee only applies to the first degree a student takes at each level of study. If you already have a Masters degree, fees for a second or subsequent Masters qualification will be charged at a rate set freely by your institution. This does not apply to second qualifications in health or education disciplines.
Fees for international students in the Netherlands
Masters fees for international students at Dutch universities vary depending on nationality. If you are an EU, EEA or Swiss national, you will pay the same statutory fees as a Dutch student. This also applies to citizens of Suriname (a former Dutch country).
Other international student fees in the Netherlands are set freely by universities. This usually makes them more expensive, with average fees between €8,000 and €20,000 per year (depending on the institution and course).
Are there any other costs for Masters students in the Netherlands?
You may have to pay some supplementary costs as a Masters student in the Netherlands. These vary depending on your circumstances, but are not substantial.
In some cases you will be charged an application fee for your Masters (usually between €75-100). This is more likely for international students (those who are not entitled to pay fees at the statutory rate).
If you’re entitled to receive healthcare through the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and you don’t work or take up a paid internship during your studies, you won’t need any additional health insurance in the Netherlands.
However, you will have to take out a health insurance policy if you’re not eligible for the EHIC or if you’re undertaking paid work in the Netherlands. This can be Dutch public health insurance (zorgverzekering) or a private insurance policy. For more information, please visit the Study in Holland website.
Cost of living for Masters students in the Netherlands
The cost of living for students in the Netherlands is relatively low compared to other popular destinations for postgraduate study abroad. The Dutch government calculates an average student expenditure of €800-1,100 a month, including accommodation.
Read more about living in the Netherlands as a Masters student.