Discover top STEM, MBA, and Management programs to study in Netherlands — with affordable tuition, scholarships, post-study work visas, and excellent career prospects. Learn about application deadlines, living costs, and pathways to permanent residency. Start your journey to a world-class education and a thriving…
The Netherlands is a leading destination for international students, known for:
1) World-class universities with global rankings
2) Innovative teaching methods & practical orientation
3) Affordable tuition compared to UK/USA
4) Wide range of English-taught Master’s programs
5) Open, tolerant, and multicultural society
6) Central location in Europe with excellent connectivity
Popular Courses to study in Netherlands
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics)
With its strong reputation for innovation and cutting-edge research, the Netherlands universities are a top choice for STEM fields. Graduates are highly sought-after by industries within the Netherlands and across Europe.
Popular Specialisations:
- Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
Programs designed to advance your knowledge of AI systems, neural networks, and intelligent technologies used in industries like healthcare, finance, and robotics.
- Data Science & Big Data Analytics
Learn how to collect, analyse, and interpret large datasets, with strong applications in tech, finance, and public sector innovation.
- Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Chemical, etc.)
Core engineering programs focusing on design, innovation, and solving real-world technical challenges. Opportunities to collaborate with leading companies like Philips, ASML, Shell.
- Computer Science & Software Engineering
Covering areas such as cybersecurity, software architecture, cloud computing, and blockchain technology.
- Renewable Energy & Environmental Sciences
Focused on sustainable development, green energy technologies, and environmental policy to address climate challenges.
- Robotics & Mechatronics
Bridging mechanical engineering, electronics, and AI to design advanced robotics systems.
- Biotechnology & Life Sciences
A fast-growing field with applications in healthcare, agriculture, and bio-based industries.
Top Universities for STEM courses
Specialisation | Top Universities |
| Artificial Intelligence & Data Science | – University of Amsterdam (UvA) – Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) – Radboud University – Maastricht University |
| Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Chemical, etc.) | – Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) – Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) – University of Twente – University of Groningen |
| Computer Science & Software Engineering | – Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) – University of Amsterdam (UvA) – Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) – Leiden University |
| Renewable Energy & Environmental Sciences | – TU Delft – Wageningen University & Research – University of Groningen – Utrecht University |
| Robotics & Mechatronics | – University of Twente – TU Delft – Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) |
| Biotechnology & Life Sciences | – Wageningen University & Research – Leiden University – University of Groningen – Utrecht University |
MBA and Management Programs to study in Netherlands
Popular Specialisations:
- MBA (Full-time, Part-time, Executive MBA)
Designed for professionals with 2–5 years of work experience looking to advance into leadership positions. Focus on strategic thinking, innovation, and cross-cultural management.
- International Business
Prepares students to manage businesses in a global environment, with emphasis on international markets, trade regulations, and global leadership.
- Supply Chain Management
Specialised programs in logistics, transport, and supply chain — very relevant as the Netherlands is a major logistics hub in Europe.
- Finance
Covers corporate finance, banking, investment strategies, risk management, and fintech — ideal for careers in financial services.
- Marketing & Digital Marketing
Focuses on market research, branding, consumer behaviour, and digital marketing strategies.
- Entrepreneurship & Innovation
Teaches students how to develop new business ideas, manage startups, and foster innovation within organisations.
- Strategic Management
Develops high-level thinking for long-term planning and competitive strategy in complex business environments.
- Human Resource Management (HRM)
Focuses on people management, leadership, and creating positive work cultures in multinational organisations.
Top Universities for Management courses
Specialisation | Top Universities / Business Schools |
MBA (Full-time, Part-time, Executive) | – Rotterdam School of Management (RSM), Erasmus University |
International Business | – Maastricht University School of Business & Economics |
Supply Chain Management | – Tilburg University |
Finance | – RSM Erasmus University |
Marketing & Digital Marketing | – Tilburg University |
Entrepreneurship & Innovation | – Erasmus Centre for Entrepreneurship (Erasmus University) |
Strategic Management | – RSM Erasmus University |
Human Resource Management (HRM) | – Tilburg University |
Entry Requirements to study in Netherlands
Master’s in STEM
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field
- Minimum GPA (varies, often 6.5–7/10 or equivalent)
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL iBT 90+
- GRE/GMAT sometimes required for specific programs
- CV, motivation letter, recommendation letters
MBA & Management
- Bachelor’s degree
- Work experience: 2–5 years for MBA (varies by school)
- GMAT or GRE (MBA programs, 600+ GMAT typical)
- IELTS 6.5–7.0 or TOEFL iBT 90–100
- CV, essays, letters of recommendation, interview
Cost of Study in Netherlands
Program Type | Tuition Fees (per year) for Non-EU students |
| STEM Master’s (AI, Data Science, Engineering, etc.) | €12,000 – €20,000 |
| MBA (Full-time) | €25,000 – €45,000 |
| Management & Business Master’s (MSc) | €10,000 – €20,000 |
Tuition fee in some Top-ranking universities.
University | Program | Tuition (Non-EU) |
| TU Delft | MSc in AI | ~ €20,600/year |
| University of Amsterdam | MSc in Data Science | ~ €17,500/year |
| University of Groningen | MSc in Supply Chain Management | ~ €17,800/year |
| RSM Erasmus | Full-time MBA | ~ €55,000 (total, 12-month) |
| Maastricht University | MSc in International Business | ~ €16,800/year |
| Wageningen University | MSc Biotechnology | ~ €18,000/year |
Scholarships to study in Netherlands for International Students
Most Dutch universities offer scholarships for excellent international students. Some examples:
Scholarship Name | Details |
| Holland Scholarship | €5,000 (one-time) for first-year international Master’s students |
| Orange Tulip Scholarship | Variable amount (partial/full tuition waiver); country-specific |
| TU Delft Excellence Scholarships (Justus & Louise van Effen) | Full tuition fee + living expenses |
| University of Groningen Talent Grants | €5,000–€10,000 |
| VU Amsterdam Fellowship | €15,000–€20,000 |
| Erasmus University MBA Scholarships | Up to 50% tuition fee waiver, merit-based |
| Maastricht University High Potential Scholarship | Full tuition + €12,350 living stipend/year |
Many universities also have faculty-specific scholarships (for engineering, business, life sciences) — worth checking on the university’s scholarship page.
📅 Application Deadlines
Program Type | Typical Deadlines (Sep intake) |
STEM Master’s | Jan – Apr 2025 for Sep 2025 intake |
MBA (Full-time) | Rolling admissions, usually Oct 2024 – May 2025 (for Sep 2025 start) |
Management MSc | Jan – May 2025 (depending on university) |
👉 Some top programs close by January or March, especially if applying for scholarships (which usually have earlier deadlines).
Cost of Living in Netherlands
Approx. €900–€1,500/month depending on city:
- Rent (shared apartment/studio): €400–€900
- Food: €200–€400
- Insurance: €100
- Transport: €50–€100
- Miscellaneous: €100–€200
Top cities: Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Delft, Eindhoven, Maastricht, Groningen
⏳ When to Start Preparing?
- 1 year before intake: Research programs, prep for IELTS/GMAT/GRE if needed
- 10–12 months before intake: Submit applications
- 6–8 months before intake: Secure scholarship/funding & housing
- Visa application: 3 months before intake
Post-Study Work & PR Pathway
🎓 Orientation Year Visa (Zoekjaar)
- 1-year post-study work visa after graduation
- No job offer required — free to explore the market
- Opportunity to find a skilled job
🏢 Work Permit after Orientation Year
- Highly Skilled Migrant Visa (salary thresholds apply, approx. €3,700–€5,000/month gross depending on age & sector)
- Employer must be a recognized sponsor
🏡 Permanent Residency
- After 5 years of legal stay (includes study & work)
- Meet income, integration, and residence conditions
🇳🇱 Citizenship
- After 5 years PR & Dutch language test (A2 level, increasing to B1 soon)
Career Opportunities in Netherlands
- STEM: High demand in AI, IT, Engineering, Green Energy, Life Sciences
- MBA/Management: Corporate roles, startups, multinational companies (Netherlands hosts many HQs like Philips, ASML, Shell, ING, Booking.com, Heineken)
- Open economy, great for entrepreneurship
- Netherlands = Top 5 EU economies
- One of Europe’s strongest job markets for internationals
- High demand for STEM professionals & business managers
- Very English-friendly work environment (especially in tech, business, logistics)
- Work visa friendly: Orientation Year visa → Highly Skilled Migrant visa
STEM Programs
| Field | Career Prospects | Avg. Starting Salary (per year, gross) |
| Artificial Intelligence & Data Science | Data Scientist, AI Engineer, Machine Learning Specialist | €45,000–€55,000 |
| Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Chemical, etc.) | Project Engineer, Design Engineer, R&D Engineer | €42,000–€50,000 |
| Computer Science & Software Development | Software Developer, Cloud Engineer, Cybersecurity Specialist | €45,000–€60,000 |
| Renewable Energy & Environmental Sciences | Environmental Consultant, Energy Analyst, Sustainability Specialist | €40,000–€48,000 |
| Robotics & Mechatronics | Robotics Engineer, Automation Engineer, Systems Engineer | €42,000–€52,000 |
| Biotechnology & Life Sciences | Research Scientist, QA Specialist, Biomedical Engineer | €38,000–€48,000 |
Key employers: ASML, Philips, Shell, DSM, ING, Rabobank, Booking.com, Deloitte, many startups & scale-ups.
MBA & Management Programs
Field | Career Prospects | Avg. Starting Salary (per year, gross) |
MBA (Full-time, Executive) | Mid to senior level managers, consultants, corporate leaders | €55,000–€75,000 |
International Business | Business Development Manager, International Sales Manager | €45,000–€60,000 |
Supply Chain Management | Supply Chain Manager, Logistics Manager, Procurement Manager | €50,000–€65,000 |
Finance | Financial Analyst, Risk Manager, Controller, Investment Analyst | €50,000–€65,000 |
Marketing & Digital Marketing | Digital Marketing Manager, Brand Manager, SEO/SEM Specialist | €42,000–€55,000 |
Entrepreneurship & Innovation | Startup Founder, Innovation Consultant, Business Developer | Variable (depends on role/startup stage) |
Strategic Management | Corporate Strategist, Management Consultant | €55,000–€70,000 |
Human Resource Management (HRM) | HR Business Partner, Talent Acquisition Manager | €45,000–€55,000 |
Key sectors hiring business graduates:
- Tech
- Finance
- Logistics
- Healthcare
- FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods)
- Consulting
Major employers: Unilever, Philips, ASML, ING, Heineken, PwC, Deloitte, KPMG, ABN AMRO, Booking.com, Adyen, FrieslandCampina.
Work Culture & Benefits
- 36–40 hour work week
- 25+ days of paid holidays
- Excellent work-life balance
- Good employee rights
- Open, flat organisational culture
Career Growth
- Netherlands has an aging population + tech-driven economy → consistent demand for skilled professionals
- Good opportunities for career progression & moving into leadership roles within 3–5 years
- MBA grads often transition into senior management within 2–3 years post-MBA
PR & Citizenship
- After 5 years of legal stay (study + work) → Permanent Residence (PR)
- Many STEM and MBA grads go on to secure PR and continue long-term careers in NL
With world-class education, exciting career opportunities, and a pathway to long-term settlement, the Netherlands offers everything you need to build a successful future. Ready to begin your journey?
Start exploring your options and apply today!
All the best
Team – International Study Group (India)