Netherlands’ New Plan to Retain International Students in 2025

The Netherlands is taking significant steps to encourage international students to stay after graduation. This move comes amid broader discussions about balancing internationalisation in higher education.

A Shift in Policy

In January 2025, the Dutch House of Representatives adopted a resolution urging the government to develop an action plan aimed at retaining international talent. This initiative received support from major coalition parties, reflecting a growing recognition of the value international graduates bring to the Dutch economy and society.

The Value of International Talent

International students contribute significantly to the Netherlands. They enhance the academic environment, bring diverse perspectives, and help address labour shortages in critical sectors. According to Nuffic, the Dutch organization for internationalization in education, there is widespread support for retaining international talent already in the country.

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Balancing Act: Reducing Influx While Retaining Talent

While the government aims to manage the influx of international students, especially in English-taught programs, it also recognizes the importance of retaining those who are already here. The proposed Balanced Internationalization Act seeks to limit English as the language of instruction to preserve Dutch as the norm. However, it also emphasizes the need to attract and retain international talent, particularly in sectors facing labour shortages.

Challenges Ahead

Despite these positive steps, challenges remain. Stakeholders have pointed out contradictions between the desire to retain international talent and policies that may reduce the number of incoming students. The government plans to cut spending on international students by 2026, which could impact the availability of grants and increase tuition fees, potentially deterring prospective students.

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The Road Forward

To successfully retain international graduates, the Netherlands must address several key areas:

• Language Proficiency: Enhancing Dutch language training during studies to improve employability.
• Labor Market Integration: Creating clear pathways for international graduates to enter the Dutch workforce.
• Policy Alignment: Ensuring that efforts to manage student numbers do not inadvertently discourage the retention of valuable international talent.

By focusing on these areas, the Netherlands can continue to benefit from the contributions of international graduates while maintaining a balanced approach to internationalization in higher education.

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