How to Study in Netherlands from Nepal (2025)

Are you planning to study in the Netherlands from Nepal in 2025? You are making a smart choice! With top-ranked universities, internationally recognized degrees, and a welcoming multicultural society, the Netherlands has become one of the best study destinations in Europe for Nepali students. This complete guide will walk you through every step of the process: from researching universities to applying for a student visa, to finally settling in the Netherlands.

Why Choose the Netherlands for Higher Education?

High-Quality Education: Dutch universities are consistently ranked among the world’s best and maintain high academic standards through well-structured curricula and research-driven education.

Affordable Tuition Fees: Public universities offer competitive tuition rates, and the cost of living is relatively lower compared to major English-speaking countries. More affordable than the US, UK, or Australia.

English-Taught Programs: The Netherlands offers over 2,000+ programs entirely in English, making it easy for Nepali students to find a suitable course.

Safe and Welcoming Environment: The Netherlands is known for its safety, tolerance, and friendly attitude towards international students.

Work and Career Opportunities: Students can work part-time during their studies and full-time during breaks. Graduates are allowed to stay for one year under an Orientation Year permit to look for jobs and may stay after graduation for job opportunities.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Study in the Netherlands from Nepal in 2025

Step 1: Research and Choose a Study Program

Begin by exploring courses that align with your academic background and career goals. Look into course content, duration, specialization options, and career prospects. Useful Platforms to Search Programs:

• Study in Holland
• Bachelorsportal
• Mastersportal
• Individual university websites

Popular Fields for Nepali Students: Business Administration, Computer Science, Data Science, Agriculture, Environmental Sciences, Public Health, and International Relations.

Important: Check the curriculum structure, internship requirements, credit system (ECTS), and accreditation of the program.

Step 2: Choose the Right University

Consider university rankings, program reputation, faculty, research output, location, cost of living, and support for international students.

Top Ranked Universities:

• Delft University of Technology (TU Delft): Best for engineering and technical programs.

• University of Amsterdam (UvA): Known for social sciences, humanities, and law.

• Erasmus University Rotterdam: Top choice for business and economics.

• Wageningen University & Research: Global leader in life sciences and agriculture.

• Leiden University: Oldest university in the Netherlands with strength in international law and social sciences.

Visit virtual tours, attend webinars, and check student testimonials.

Step 3: Understand the Admission Requirements

Every university and program may have its own set of eligibility criteria, but the standard requirements include:

• Academic Qualifications: HSEB/NEB 10+2 for Bachelor’s programs Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university for Master’s
• English Proficiency: IELTS (6.0–6.5 overall), TOEFL iBT (minimum 80–90)
• Additional Documents:
  • Motivation Letter / Statement of Purpose
  • Updated CV/Resume
  • Letters of Recommendation (usually 2)
  • Academic transcripts with notarized translations (if not in English)
  • Copy of valid passport (minimum 1-year validity)

Some programs may require:

• Entrance exams (GMAT/GRE for certain master’s programs)
• Portfolio (for design, architecture)
• Interview (online)

Step 4: Prepare and Submit Your Application

• Create an account on Studielink: This is the official Dutch portal for university applications.

• Follow up on university emails: You may need to upload additional documents via the university portal.

Application Deadlines: September intake: Most deadlines fall between 1st January and 1st May.

February intake (less common): Deadlines usually around October–November.

Application Fee: €50–100 per university (non-refundable).

Step 5: Receive and Accept Admission Offer

You’ll receive:

• Conditional Offer: Meet pending criteria (e.g. IELTS result or final transcript).
• Unconditional Offer: All requirements fulfilled.

Accept your offer before the deadline and pay any deposit if required. Some universities may charge a tuition deposit to proceed with visa sponsorship.

Step 6: Arrange Finances

Estimated Expenses:

• Tuition Fee: €6,000 to €15,000 per year (varies by university and program)
• Living Costs: Approx. €900–€1,200/month including rent, food, transport, and insurance
• Insurance: Mandatory for all students, around €50–€120/month Total Estimated Cost in Nepali Currency (NPR) As of July 2025, the approximate exchange rate is €1 = NPR 145 (please check current rates while planning).

1-Year Cost Summary in NPR (Approx.):

You should prepare at least NPR 30 lakhs as a safe minimum. Total Estimated Annual Cost: NPR 26 lakhs – 43 lakhs (approx.) This is a rough estimate and can vary based on your university, lifestyle, city (Amsterdam is more expensive), and personal spending habits.

Financial Proof for Visa: You must prove you have enough funds to cover:

• One year of living expenses (approx. €12,000 = ~NPR 17.4 lakhs)
• Tuition fee for the first year (as per the invoice) Proof can include:
• Bank statement in your name or sponsor’s
• Scholarship letter
• Financial sponsorship declaration

Scholarship Opportunities:

• Holland Scholarship (€5,000 for first year)
• Orange Tulip Scholarship (OTS) for Nepali students
• Erasmus+ Scholarship
• University-specific scholarships (check on university websites)

Step 7: Apply for Student Visa (MVV + Residence Permit)

In the Netherlands, students don’t apply directly for a visa. The university applies for the MVV (Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblijf) and VVR (residence permit) on your behalf.

You must:

• Submit all required documents to the university
• Pay visa handling fees (€228 approx.) Documents Required:
• Passport (valid for at least 12 months)
• Admission letter
• Proof of financial means
• Proof of payment of tuition fee
• Health insurance proof
• Birth Certificate with apostille/legalization
• Tuberculosis test (if required) Visa Processing Time: Usually takes 4–8 weeks. Once approved, collect your MVV visa sticker from the Dutch Embassy in Kathmandu.

Step 8: Pre-Departure Preparation

Before you travel:

• Book Flight Tickets: Choose flexible student tickets.
• Accommodation: Apply early for university housing or use platforms like:
  • Kamernet.nl
  • HousingAnywhere.com
  • Pararius.com
• Travel Insurance: Mandatory until Dutch health insurance is activated
• Learn Basics of Dutch Language and Culture
• Attend Pre-Departure Briefings: Often organized by consultancies or Nuffic Neso Nepal

Step 9: Arrival and Settling in the Netherlands

Upon arrival:

• Register at the local Municipality (Gemeente) to get BSN (Citizen Service Number)

• Collect your residence permit from the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service)

• Open a Dutch bank account (required for rent, stipend, etc.)

• Activate your Dutch health insurance

• Get a SIM card and transportation card (OV-chipkaart)

• Join student orientation events and community groups

• Working While Studying in the Netherlands

• Allowed to work up to 16 hours/week during academic terms and full-time during summer holidays (June–August).

  Your employer must apply for a work permit (TWV). You can also do internships as part of your course.

  Note: You must maintain academic progress to retain your residence permit.

  Post-Study Opportunities After graduation, you can apply for the Orientation Year Visa (Zoekjaar) which allows you to:

• Stay in the Netherlands for 1 year to find a job

• Work without a work permit

• Switch to a highly skilled migrant visa if hired by a Dutch employer

Consultancies in Nepal for Studying in the Netherlands

You can apply independently or get support from experienced education consultancies:

• Nepal Education Consultancy (NEC) – Kathmandu, Pokhara
• EduNepal – Specializes in Dutch universities
• KIEC (Kathmandu Infosys) – Offers application and visa support
• AECC Global Nepal – Global education experts
• Edwise Foundation – Known for transparency and university partnerships

Always check:

• Consultancy’s official partner status with universities
• Student reviews and testimonials
• Application success rate for the Netherlands

Final Tips for Nepali Students

• Start preparing 6-8 months in advance
• Take English tests early (IELTS/TOEFL)
• Keep academic records and documents in order
• Explore scholarship options early
• Build a support network with alumni or student groups in the Netherlands
• Stay updated on Dutch immigration laws via IND.nl

Conclusion

Studying in the Netherlands from Nepal offers a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural exposure, and professional growth. By carefully planning each step—from program selection to visa processing—you can make your dream of studying in Europe a reality. Start today with research and applications, and embrace the journey toward an internationally recognized degree in the heart of Europe!

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is IELTS compulsory to study in the Netherlands from Nepal? Yes. IELTS or TOEFL is required for most English-taught programs unless exempted by previous education in an English-medium system.

2. Can I apply without using a consultancy? Absolutely. The application process is transparent and can be done independently using Studielink and university websites.

3. Can I bring my spouse or dependents?

Yes, but only after you’ve established legal residence. Your dependents must apply separately and meet financial criteria.

4. How long does the visa process take? Generally, 4–8 weeks from submission to final approval.

5. What are the intakes for Dutch universities? Primary intake: September. Secondary intake: February (limited programs).

6. Can I work part-time as an international student in the Netherlands? Yes, non-EU students can work up to 16 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during holidays, with a valid TWV work permit.

7. How much money do I need to show for visa approval? You need to show approximately €12,000 for one year of living expenses plus the first year’s tuition fee (unless already paid).

8. Is Dutch language required for admission or survival? Not for admission to English-taught programs. However, learning basic Dutch is helpful for daily life and job opportunities.

9. Can I get a permanent residence in the Netherlands after studying? Yes, after five years of legal residence including work, you may be eligible to apply for a permanent residence permit.

10. What if I change my university or program after arriving? You must notify the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service) and apply for a permit change through your new university.

11. Are there age limits for studying in the Netherlands from Nepal? There is no strict age limit, but your academic background, study gap, and genuine student status will be assessed during visa processing.

12. How competitive are scholarships for Nepali students? Scholarships like Holland Scholarship and OTS are competitive, but achievable with strong academics and a compelling motivation letter.

13. What should I pack when traveling from Nepal to the Netherlands? Essentials include original academic documents, passport, offer letter, euros in cash, weather-appropriate clothing, adapters, basic medicines, and a laptop.

14. Are Dutch universities expensive for international students? Tuition is moderate compared to the US, UK, and Australia. Annual tuition ranges between €6,000 and €15,000, and living costs around €900–€1,200/month.

15. What are some challenges Nepali students face in the Netherlands? Adjusting to Dutch weather, managing finances, part-time job limitations, housing shortages, and cultural differences are common—but manageable with preparation.

16. What is the total cost to study in the Netherlands from Nepal in Nepali Rupees? The total cost for one year typically ranges between NPR 26 lakhs to 43 lakhs, including tuition, living, insurance, and other expenses. This estimate can vary by location and lifestyle.

17. How can I reduce the cost of studying in the Netherlands? Apply for scholarships, live in shared housing, use public bikes, cook at home, and use student discounts. Also, part-time jobs can support your living expenses.