One app for all your study abroad needs
Key Summary
- Netherlands fees are predictable, not cheap: Tuition varies sharply by course and university, and one wrong choice can significantly increase your total cost when tuition, admin fees, and living expenses add up.
- Public vs private makes a big difference: Public universities offer strong value for money, while private institutions charge higher fees for specialised programs, smaller classes, and added services.
- Course choice decides your budget: Arts and social sciences stay affordable, but engineering, business, medicine, and tech sit in much higher fee brackets—this guide breaks down exact costs so every euro is planned.
Netherlands Fees 2025-2026 are not cheap but they’re predictable if you plan smart. One misstep in choosing a course or university can blow up your budget, especially when tuition, administrative charges, and living costs stack silently. Public universities offer value for quality education, while private institutions charge for every convenience. Costs differ sharply by program, engineering, business, and medicine sit in different financial leagues. This blog breaks down Netherlands Fees 2025-2026 with real numbers and total clarity. You’ll know exactly what each euro goes to, so you can plan, save, and invest in a degree that actually pays off.
This Blog Includes:
- How University Fees Work in the Netherlands for International Students?
- What Is the Average Tuition Fees in the Netherlands 2025-2026?
- Full-time Undergraduate Course Fees in the Netherlands
- Full-time Postgraduate Course Fees in the Netherlands
- Top University-Wise Fee Snapshot in the Netherlands for International Students
- Courses with the Highest and Lowest Fees in Dutch Universities
- City‑Wise Tuition Fee Comparison in the Netherlands
- Additional Mandatory Costs for International Students in the Netherlands
- Is Studying in the Netherlands Worth the Cost for International Students?
- FAQs
How University Fees Work in the Netherlands for International Students?
Tuition fees in the Netherlands depend on university type, program, and study level. Public universities offer high-quality education at moderate fees for EU students, but international students pay full fees that vary by discipline. Private universities are more flexible but generally cost significantly more, especially for professional and specialised programs. Tuition usually covers lectures, exams, and access to basic facilities, while lab fees, internships, and administrative charges are often extra.
Public Universities’ Fee Structure in the Netherlands
Public universities are state-funded, which keeps fees lower for EU students, but international students pay full tuition rates. Fees increase with technical, medical, or business programs.
| Program Type | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Standard UG Programs (Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences) | EUR 8,000 – EUR 12,000 |
| STEM & Business UG Programs | EUR 10,000 – EUR 20,000 |
| Postgraduate Programs (Most Disciplines) | EUR 12,000 – EUR 25,000 |
Private Universities’ Fee Structure in the Netherlands
Private institutions are independent and flexible, often offering international-oriented programs with modern facilities. Tuition is higher than public universities, reflecting smaller class sizes, extra services, and specialised programs.
| Program Type | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Undergraduate Programs | EUR 15,000 – EUR 25,000 |
| Postgraduate Programs | EUR 18,000 – EUR 35,000 |
| Professional / MBA Programs | EUR 25,000 – EUR 40,000 |
What Is the Average Tuition Fees in the Netherlands 2025-2026?
The average tuition fees in the Netherlands for international students vary mainly by degree level and program orientation. Public universities remain the most cost-efficient option, while technical, professional, and specialised programs carry higher fees due to infrastructure and industry integration. Diploma and certificate programs are comparatively affordable but offer limited long-term academic progression.
Average Undergraduate Tuition Fees in the Netherlands
Undergraduate tuition fees vary based on whether the program is theory-focused or applied, with STEM and business programs priced higher than arts and social sciences.
| Program Category | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences | EUR 8,000 – EUR 12,000 |
| Business & Management | EUR 10,000 – EUR 18,000 |
| Engineering & Technology | EUR 12,000 – EUR 20,000 |
| Computer Science & IT | EUR 11,000 – EUR 19,000 |
Average Postgraduate Tuition Fees in the Netherlands
These programs focus on hands-on training and industry readiness, which increases tuition compared to standard academic degrees.
| Program Type | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Applied Engineering | EUR 12,000 – EUR 20,000 |
| Information Technology | EUR 11,000 – EUR 19,000 |
| Logistics & Supply Chain | EUR 10,000 – EUR 17,000 |
| Hospitality & Tourism Management | EUR 9,000 – EUR 15,000 |
Technical and Professional UG Programs
These programs focus on hands-on training and industry readiness, which increases tuition compared to standard academic degrees.
| Program Type | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Applied Engineering | EUR 12,000 – EUR 20,000 |
| Information Technology | EUR 11,000 – EUR 19,000 |
| Logistics & Supply Chain | EUR 10,000 – EUR 17,000 |
| Hospitality & Tourism Management | EUR 9,000 – EUR 15,000 |
Diploma and Certificate Programs
Diploma and certificate programs are short-term and skill-focused, often chosen for employability rather than long-term academic pathways.
| Program Level | Average Total Program Fees |
| Diploma Programs | EUR 5,000 – EUR 12,000 |
| Certificate Programs | EUR 3,000 – EUR 8,000 |
You’ll Want to Bookmark This One: France University Fees 2025–2026: Complete Table by Courses, Universities & Cities
Full-time Undergraduate Course Fees in the Netherlands
Undergraduate tuition fees in the Netherlands vary primarily by discipline intensity, lab usage, and professional accreditation requirements. Technical, medical, and business programs sit at the higher end, while arts and social sciences remain comparatively affordable.
Engineering & Technology
Engineering programs involve labs, applied training, and technical infrastructure, which raises tuition costs.
| Specialisation | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Mechanical Engineering | EUR 13,000 – EUR 20,000 |
| Civil Engineering | EUR 12,000 – EUR 19,000 |
| Electrical Engineering | EUR 13,000 – EUR 20,000 |
| Electronics Engineering | EUR 13,500 – EUR 21,000 |
| Mechatronics Engineering | EUR 14,000 – EUR 22,000 |
Computer Science & IT
High demand and industry-linked curricula push IT fees above general science programs.
| Specialisation | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Computer Science | EUR 11,000 – EUR 18,000 |
| Information Technology | EUR 11,500 – EUR 19,000 |
| Data Science | EUR 12,000 – EUR 20,000 |
| Artificial Intelligence | EUR 13,000 – EUR 21,000 |
| Cybersecurity | EUR 12,000 – EUR 20,000 |
Business & Management
Business programs include case-based learning, internships, and global exposure, influencing fee levels.
| Specialisation | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Business Administration | EUR 10,000 – EUR 17,000 |
| International Business | EUR 11,000 – EUR 18,000 |
| Finance & Economics | EUR 12,000 – EUR 19,000 |
| Marketing Management | EUR 10,500 – EUR 17,500 |
| Entrepreneurship | EUR 11,000 – EUR 18,000 |
Medicine & Healthcare
Healthcare programs are expensive due to clinical training, labs, and accreditation costs.
| Specialisation | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Medicine (MBBS-equivalent) | EUR 20,000 – EUR 32,000 |
| Biomedical Sciences | EUR 13,000 – EUR 22,000 |
| Public Health | EUR 12,000 – EUR 20,000 |
| Nursing | EUR 10,000 – EUR 16,000 |
| Health Sciences | EUR 11,000 – EUR 18,000 |
These programs are largely theory-based, keeping tuition fees lower.
| Specialisation | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Psychology | EUR 9,000 – EUR 15,000 |
| Sociology | EUR 8,000 – EUR 12,000 |
| International Relations | EUR 9,000 – EUR 14,000 |
| History | EUR 8,000 – EUR 11,000 |
| Political Science | EUR 9,000 – EUR 13,000 |
Law
Law programs are priced moderately high due to professional orientation and international frameworks.
| Specialisation | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| International Law | EUR 12,000 – EUR 20,000 |
| European Law | EUR 11,000 – EUR 18,000 |
| Business Law | EUR 12,000 – EUR 19,000 |
| Public Law | EUR 10,000 – EUR 16,000 |
Creative Arts, Design & Architecture
Creative programs involve studio access, project costs, and materials, affecting fees.
| Specialisation | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Graphic Design | EUR 9,000 – EUR 15,000 |
| Fashion Design | EUR 10,000 – EUR 18,000 |
| Architecture | EUR 12,000 – EUR 20,000 |
| Interior Design | EUR 10,000 – EUR 17,000 |
| Visual Arts | EUR 9,000 – EUR 14,000 |
Science
Science programs fall between arts and engineering, depending on lab usage and research intensity.
| Specialisation | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Physics | EUR 11,000 – EUR 18,000 |
| Chemistry | EUR 12,000 – EUR 19,000 |
| Mathematics | EUR 10,000 – EUR 15,000 |
| Environmental Science | EUR 11,000 – EUR 17,000 |
| Life Sciences | EUR 12,000 – EUR 20,000 |
Full-time Postgraduate Course Fees in the Netherlands
Postgraduate tuition fees in the Netherlands are higher than undergraduate fees due to advanced coursework, research components, and professional accreditation requirements. Costs vary significantly by discipline, with technical, medical, and business programs at the top end.
Engineering & Technology
Engineering postgraduate programs involve research labs, industry collaboration, and specialised equipment, which increases tuition.
| Specialisation | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Mechanical Engineering | EUR 14,000 – EUR 28,000 |
| Civil Engineering | EUR 13,000 – EUR 26,000 |
| Electrical Engineering | EUR 14,000 – EUR 27,000 |
| Electronics Engineering | EUR 15,000 – EUR 29,000 |
| Mechatronics Engineering | EUR 15,000 – EUR 30,000 |
Computer Science & IT
High-demand tech programs attract premium pricing due to specialised faculty and industry-aligned curriculum.
| Specialisation | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Computer Science | EUR 13,000 – EUR 25,000 |
| Data Science | EUR 14,000 – EUR 26,000 |
| Artificial Intelligence | EUR 15,000 – EUR 28,000 |
| Cybersecurity | EUR 14,000 – EUR 27,000 |
| Software Engineering | EUR 13,000 – EUR 25,000 |
Business & Management
Business postgraduate programs focus on strategy, leadership, and global exposure, making them some of the most expensive.
| Specialisation | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| MBA | EUR 18,000 – EUR 40,000 |
| International Business | EUR 15,000 – EUR 28,000 |
| Finance & Accounting | EUR 16,000 – EUR 30,000 |
| Marketing Management | EUR 14,000 – EUR 26,000 |
| Supply Chain Management | EUR 14,000 – EUR 27,000 |
Medicine & Healthcare
Healthcare postgraduate programs are costly due to clinical exposure, research, and regulatory requirements.
| Specialisation | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Public Health | EUR 12,000 – EUR 22,000 |
| Biomedical Sciences | EUR 14,000 – EUR 25,000 |
| Health Management | EUR 13,000 – EUR 24,000 |
| Clinical Research | EUR 15,000 – EUR 28,000 |
These programs remain more affordable, focusing on theory, research, and policy analysis.
| Specialisation | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Psychology | EUR 11,000 – EUR 18,000 |
| International Relations | EUR 12,000 – EUR 20,000 |
| Sociology | EUR 10,000 – EUR 16,000 |
| Political Science | EUR 11,000 – EUR 17,000 |
| Development Studies | EUR 12,000 – EUR 18,000 |
Law
Law postgraduate programs involve international legal frameworks and professional specialisation, raising tuition.
| Specialisation | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| International Law | EUR 14,000 – EUR 25,000 |
| European Law | EUR 13,000 – EUR 22,000 |
| Business & Corporate Law | EUR 15,000 – EUR 27,000 |
| Human Rights Law | EUR 13,000 – EUR 21,000 |
Creative Arts, Design & Architecture
Creative postgraduate programs include studio access, advanced projects, and portfolio development, affecting cost.
| Specialisation | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Architecture | EUR 14,000 – EUR 25,000 |
| Urban Design | EUR 13,000 – EUR 24,000 |
| Graphic Design | EUR 11,000 – EUR 19,000 |
| Fashion Design | EUR 12,000 – EUR 22,000 |
| Visual Arts | EUR 11,000 – EUR 18,000 |
Science
Science postgraduate programs vary by research intensity and laboratory usage.
| Specialisation | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Physics | EUR 12,000 – EUR 22,000 |
| Chemistry | EUR 13,000 – EUR 24,000 |
| Mathematics | EUR 11,000 – EUR 18,000 |
| Environmental Science | EUR 12,000 – EUR 21,000 |
| Life Sciences | EUR 13,000 – EUR 25,000 |
You’ll Regret Skipping This: Ireland Fees 2025-2026: Complete Fee Structure for International Students
Top University-Wise Fee Snapshot in the Netherlands for International Students
Tuition fees across top Dutch universities differ based on program type, degree level, and institutional focus. Research-intensive universities generally charge higher postgraduate fees, while undergraduate fees remain relatively stable across institutions.
| University | Annual Average UG Tuition Fees | Annual Average PG Tuition Fees |
| University of Amsterdam | EUR 11,000 – EUR 15,000 | EUR 14,000 – EUR 25,000 |
| Delft University of Technology | EUR 13,000 – EUR 20,000 | EUR 16,000 – EUR 30,000 |
| Utrecht University | EUR 10,000 – EUR 14,000 | EUR 13,000 – EUR 24,000 |
| Leiden University | EUR 9,000 – EUR 13,000 | EUR 12,000 – EUR 22,000 |
| Eindhoven University of Technology | EUR 13,000 – EUR 20,000 | EUR 15,000 – EUR 28,000 |
| Erasmus University Rotterdam | EUR 11,000 – EUR 17,000 | EUR 15,000 – EUR 30,000 |
| University of Groningen | EUR 9,000 – EUR 14,000 | EUR 12,000 – EUR 23,000 |
| Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam | EUR 10,000 – EUR 15,000 | EUR 13,000 – EUR 24,000 |
| Radboud University | EUR 9,000 – EUR 13,000 | EUR 12,000 – EUR 22,000 |
| Tilburg University | EUR 10,000 – EUR 16,000 | EUR 14,000 – EUR 26,000 |
Courses with the Highest and Lowest Fees in Dutch Universities
Tuition fees in Dutch universities vary sharply based on infrastructure needs, professional accreditation, and market demand. Medical, technical, and business programs consistently sit at the top, while arts and general social science programs remain the most cost-efficient.
Top Courses with the Highest Fees in the Netherlands
These courses involve labs, clinical training, or strong industry integration, which directly increases tuition costs.
| Course | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Medicine (MBBS-equivalent) | EUR 20,000 – EUR 32,000 |
| MBA | EUR 25,000 – EUR 40,000 |
| Artificial Intelligence | EUR 15,000 – EUR 28,000 |
| Data Science | EUR 14,000 – EUR 26,000 |
| Architecture | EUR 14,000 – EUR 25,000 |
| Biomedical Sciences | EUR 14,000 – EUR 25,000 |
| Engineering (Advanced Specialisations) | EUR 15,000 – EUR 30,000 |
Top Courses with the Lowest Tuition Fees in the Netherlands
These programs are theory-driven and require minimal infrastructure, keeping tuition fees lower.
| Course | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| History | EUR 8,000 – EUR 11,000 |
| Sociology | EUR 8,000 – EUR 12,000 |
| Philosophy | EUR 8,000 – EUR 11,000 |
| Political Science | EUR 9,000 – EUR 13,000 |
| International Relations | EUR 9,000 – EUR 14,000 |
| Psychology (Non-clinical tracks) | EUR 9,000 – EUR 15,000 |
| Liberal Arts | EUR 8,000 – EUR 12,000 |
City‑Wise Tuition Fee Comparison in the Netherlands
Tuition fees in the Netherlands do not change drastically by city, but student demand, university reputation, and program concentration create noticeable differences. Cities with strong research and technical universities generally fall on the higher end, while student-focused cities with applied sciences institutions remain more affordable.
| City | Annual Average UG Tuition Fees | Annual Average PG Tuition Fees |
| Amsterdam | EUR 11,000 – EUR 15,000 | EUR 14,000 – EUR 26,000 |
| Rotterdam | EUR 11,000 – EUR 17,000 | EUR 15,000 – EUR 30,000 |
| Delft | EUR 13,000 – EUR 20,000 | EUR 16,000 – EUR 30,000 |
| Utrecht | EUR 10,000 – EUR 14,000 | EUR 13,000 – EUR 24,000 |
| Eindhoven | EUR 13,000 – EUR 20,000 | EUR 15,000 – EUR 28,000 |
| Groningen | EUR 9,000 – EUR 14,000 | EUR 12,000 – EUR 23,000 |
| Leiden | EUR 9,000 – EUR 13,000 | EUR 12,000 – EUR 22,000 |
| Tilburg | EUR 10,000 – EUR 16,000 | EUR 14,000 – EUR 26,000 |
| Nijmegen | EUR 9,000 – EUR 13,000 | EUR 12,000 – EUR 22,000 |
| Maastricht | EUR 10,000 – EUR 15,000 | EUR 13,000 – EUR 24,000 |
Additional Mandatory Costs for International Students in the Netherlands
Tuition fees are only one part of the total cost of studying in the Netherlands. International students must also budget for visa processing, health insurance, housing, and basic living expenses, all of which are non-negotiable and required to maintain legal student status.
| Cost Category | Average Cost |
| Student Visa & Residence Permit | EUR 210 – EUR 230 (one-time) |
| Health Insurance (Annual) | EUR 600 – EUR 1,200 |
| Accommodation (Annual) | EUR 6,000 – EUR 12,000 |
| Food & Groceries (Annual) | EUR 2,400 – EUR 3,600 |
| Local Transport (Annual) | EUR 500 – EUR 1,000 |
| Study Materials & Supplies | EUR 300 – EUR 800 |
| Municipal Registration & Admin Fees | EUR 100 – EUR 300 |
Is Studying in the Netherlands Worth the Cost for International Students?
Studying in the Netherlands is worth the cost if you choose the right course and understand the trade-offs. The country offers strong academic quality, globally recognised degrees, and good post-study work options, especially in engineering, tech, business, and research fields.
Tuition fees are reasonable compared to many English-speaking countries, but living costs can add up quickly in major student cities. The system rewards students who are career-focused and plan their finances early, and it can feel expensive for those seeking low-cost or highly flexible study options. If your goal is quality education with solid long-term returns, the investment makes sense.
Don’t Miss This Seriously: IE University Spain Fees 2025–26: Tuition Cost for International Students
FAQs
Ans: University fees in the Netherlands in 2025 vary by program, degree level, and institution type. Public universities charge international students between EUR 8,000 and EUR 20,000 per year, while private institutions and specialised programs like medicine or business can reach EUR 25,000-EUR 40,000 per year.
Ans: Tuition fees depend on the course and university. For international students, undergraduate programs usually range from EUR 8,000 to EUR 20,000 annually, and postgraduate programs cost EUR 12,000 to EUR 30,000 annually, with professional or technical programs on the higher end.
Ans: Tuition is not free for international students. Only EU/EEA students get heavily subsidised rates, while non-EU students must pay full international fees. Some scholarships and grants can partially offset these costs.
Ans: The Netherlands is moderately expensive for Indian students. While tuition at public universities is reasonable compared to private options, living costs (accommodation, food, transport) can add EUR 10,000–EUR 15,000 per year, so budgeting carefully is crucial.
Ans: Programs in medicine, engineering, business analytics, and law are the most expensive due to lab work, clinical training, and professional accreditation. Arts, humanities, and general social sciences remain more affordable, offering value for budget-conscious international students.
Hand-Picked Reads Fot You
This was everything you needed to understand Netherlands Fees 2025-2026. Now you know how tuition fees work for international students in the Netherlands, how costs spike or stay reasonable depending on your course and degree level, and which numbers actually matter before you click “apply.” Keep learning and stay connected with the Study Abroad Page on Leverage Edu for more clear, student-first guides. And if this helped you, don’t forget to share, rate, and drop a comment. Your support helps more students find the good stuff.
60,000+ students trusted us with their dreams. Take the first step today!