Popular Courses to Study in the Netherlands for International Students

The Netherlands has become one of the most exciting destinations for international students, thanks to its high-quality education and innovative programs. From AI to Business, the country offers a wide range of popular courses to study in the Netherlands in 2026. Students get global exposure and access to top universities. In this blog, we will learn about the best courses, top universities, and career opportunities to help you make an informed choice for your future.

Why Study in the Netherlands? 

The Netherlands is a small country, but the study options here are huge. A student can find modern classes, friendly teachers, and plenty of career chances. Life outside the classroom is also fun, safe, and very international. Here are some cool facts about studying in the Netherlands.

• The education system is practical and focuses on solving real-life problems.
  
• Most universities offer full programs in English, so students do not need to worry about the language.
  
• Dutch classrooms feel open and interactive, not strict or boring.
  
• The Netherlands has many top-ranked universities that are respected worldwide.
  
• Students can travel easily to other European countries since the Netherlands is well-connected.
  
• Biking is a way of life, making transport cheap and healthy.
  
• The country welcomes international students and has a very diverse culture.
  
• Graduates from Dutch universities are in demand in global companies and startups.

Popular Courses to Study in the Netherlands in 2026

The Netherlands offers a diverse range of programs that cater to various interests and career goals. If a student likes technology, business, or environmental sciences, there is something exciting to explore for everyone. Here is a list of popular courses available in 2026.

Course Name	University	Tuition Fees	Core Subjects
B.Sc. Computer Science	Maastricht University	EUR 18,400	Programming, algorithms, software development, databases, and computer systems.
M.Sc. Data Science	Utrecht University	EUR 24,432	Big data analytics, machine learning, statistics, data visualization, predictive modeling.
B.Eng. Mechanical Engineering	University of Twente	EUR 13,000	Thermodynamics, materials science, mechanical systems design, robotics, and production technology.
M.Sc. Business Administration	Erasmus University Rotterdam	EUR 23,950	Leadership, marketing, finance, business strategy, and project management.
M.Sc. Environmental Biology	Utrecht University	EUR 24,432	Biodiversity, ecosystem management, conservation biology, ecology, and environmental research.
M.Sc. Energy and Environmental Sciences	University of Groningen	EUR 24,900	Renewable energy, energy systems, environmental policy, sustainability, climate solutions.
M.Sc. Governance of Sustainability	Leiden University	EUR 16,600	Sustainable development, policy-making, environmental governance, and social responsibility.
M.Sc. Sustainability Management	Webster University Leiden	EUR 25,380	Sustainability strategies, corporate responsibility, resource management, and environmental planning.
M.Sc. Data Science for Decision Making	Maastricht University	EUR 25,100	Data analytics, decision modeling, predictive analytics, business intelligence, and statistical techniques.
M.Sc. Environmental & Energy Management	University of Twente	EUR 44.92 per EC	Energy efficiency, renewable energy, environmental management, and sustainable practices.

Emerging Fields of Study in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is always ahead when it comes to modern courses. Students can explore new and exciting fields that match future job trends. These fields are gaining popularity fast and open up plenty of career opportunities.

AI (Artificial Intelligence)

AI is about teaching computers to think and make decisions like humans. Students learn machine learning, deep learning, and AI applications across industries. This is ideal for those who love technology, problem-solving, and innovation.

University Name	Course Name	Tuition Fees
Delft University of Technology	M.Sc. Artificial Intelligence	EUR 18,000 per year
University of Amsterdam	M.Sc. Artificial Intelligence	EUR 16,000 per year
Eindhoven University of Technology	M.Sc. Data Science & AI	EUR 17,500 per year

Robotics

Robotics focuses on building and programming robots for industrial, healthcare, and daily life applications. Students learn mechanical design, sensors, and AI integration. Ideal for those who love engineering, coding, and hands-on tech.

University Name	Course Name	Tuition Fees
Eindhoven University of Technology	M.Sc. Robotics	EUR 17,500 per year
University of Twente	M.Sc. Robotics	EUR 15,500 per year
Delft University of Technology	M.Sc. Mechatronics & Robotics	EUR 18,000 per year

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is about protecting digital systems and data from attacks. Students learn network security, cryptography, and ethical hacking. This field suits those who are analytical, detail-oriented, and tech-savvy.

University Name	Course Name	Tuition Fees
University of Amsterdam	M.Sc. Cybersecurity	EUR 16,500 per year
Eindhoven University of Technology	M.Sc. Cybersecurity & Privacy	EUR 17,500 per year
Radboud University	M.Sc. Cybersecurity	EUR 15,500 per year

Data Science

Data Science focuses on analyzing large data sets to make decisions. Students learn statistics, programming, and machine learning. This is ideal for those who enjoy numbers, patterns, and problem-solving.

University Name	Course Name	Tuition Fees
University of Amsterdam	M.Sc. Data Science	EUR 16,000 per year
Tilburg University	M.Sc. Data Analytics	EUR 15,500 per year
Eindhoven University of Technology	M.Sc. Data Science & AI	EUR 17,500 per year

Sustainability

Sustainability focuses on environmentally friendly technologies and policies. Students learn renewable energy, sustainable business, and environmental management. Ideal for those who are eco-conscious and want to create impact.

University Name	Course Name	Tuition Fees
Wageningen University & Research	M.Sc. Sustainable Development	EUR 16,500 per year
Utrecht University	M.Sc. Environmental Sciences	EUR 15,500 per year
Delft University of Technology	M.Sc. Sustainable Energy Technology	EUR 18,000 per year

Biotechnology

Biotechnology combines biology, chemistry, and technology to develop products for healthcare, agriculture, and industry. Students learn genetic engineering, molecular biology, and lab research. Ideal for science enthusiasts and innovators.

University Name	Course Name	Tuition Fees
Leiden University	M.Sc. Biotechnology	EUR 16,000 per year
Wageningen University & Research	M.Sc. Biotechnology	EUR 16,500 per year
University of Groningen	M.Sc. Molecular Life Sciences	EUR 15,500 per year

Fintech

Fintech focuses on technology in financial services like payments, lending, and blockchain. Students learn digital banking, blockchain, and financial analytics. Ideal for those interested in finance and tech innovation.

University Name	Course Name	Tuition Fees
University of Amsterdam	M.Sc. Financial Technology	EUR 16,500 per year
Erasmus University Rotterdam	M.Sc. Fintech & Financial Innovation	EUR 15,500 per year
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam	M.Sc. Finance & Technology	EUR 16,000 per year

Renewable Energy

Renewable Energy focuses on clean energy technologies like solar, wind, and bioenergy. Students learn engineering, energy policy, and sustainable solutions. Ideal for those passionate about green technology and climate action.

University Name	Course Name	Tuition Fees
Delft University of Technology	M.Sc. Sustainable Energy Technology	EUR 18,000 per year
Eindhoven University of Technology	M.Sc. Energy Science & Technology	EUR 17,500 per year
University of Groningen	M.Sc. Energy & Environmental Management	EUR 15,500 per year

UX/UI Design

UX/UI Design focuses on creating user-friendly digital experiences. Students learn user research, interface design, and prototyping. Ideal for those who are creative and tech-savvy, with an eye for design.

University Name	Course Name	Tuition Fees
Eindhoven University of Technology	M.Sc. Industrial Design & UX	EUR 17,500 per year
University of Amsterdam	M.Sc. Interaction Design	EUR 16,000 per year
Utrecht University	M.Sc. Human-Computer Interaction	EUR 15,500 per year

Digital Marketing

Digital Marketing focuses on online promotion, analytics, and social media strategies. Students learn SEO, content marketing, and data-driven campaigns. Ideal for those who love marketing, tech, and creativity.

University Name	Course Name	Tuition Fees
University of Amsterdam	M.Sc. Marketing Analytics	EUR 16,000 per year
Tilburg University	M.Sc. Digital Marketing	EUR 15,500 per year
Erasmus University Rotterdam	M.Sc. Marketing Management	EUR 15,500 per year

Also Read: Unique Courses To Study in the UK

Best Universities in the Netherlands Offering Top Programs

The Netherlands is home to several prestigious universities that offer a wide range of programs, attracting students from around the world. This is a table showcasing these institutions along with their QS World University Rankings for 2026.

University Name	Location	QS World University Ranking (2026)
Delft University of Technology	Delft	47
University of Amsterdam	Amsterdam	53
Utrecht University	Utrecht	103
Leiden University	Leiden	119
University of Groningen	Groningen	147
Eindhoven University of Technology	Eindhoven	140
Wageningen University & Research	Wageningen	153
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam	Amsterdam	194
Maastricht University	Maastricht	239
Radboud University	Nijmegen	279

Admission Requirements for International Students in the Netherlands

Dutch universities focus on hands-on learning and research. But to get into these universities, a student must fulfill these admission requirements. 

Academic Requirements

Students must have the right academic background for their chosen program.

• Bachelor’s Programs: Completion of high school or equivalent with strong grades in relevant subjects.
  
• Master’s Programs: A recognized bachelor’s degree in a related field with solid academic performance.
  
• Creative Courses: A portfolio showcasing prior work may be required for programs in art, design, or media.

Eligibility

To get admitted, students must meet certain eligibility criteria:

• English Proficiency: IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge English scores to prove readiness for English-taught programs.
  
• Age Requirements: Usually, students must have completed secondary education or higher education as per program requirements.
  
• Background Knowledge: Some programs may require knowledge of specific subjects or courses completed previously.

Admission Process

The application process is straightforward but requires careful preparation:

• Online Application: Submit an application through the university portal or via Studielink.
  
• Documents Required: Academic transcripts, CV, motivation letter, English test scores, and letters of recommendation.
  
• Application Deadlines: Usually a few months before program start dates; check each university individually.

Selection Process

Universities review applications carefully to select students who are the best fit:

• Document Screening: Verifying academic records, certificates, and English proficiency.
  
• Motivation & Recommendations: Assessing the student’s goals, achievements, and suitability for the program.
  
• Interviews: Some programs may conduct online or in-person interviews.
  
• Final Decision: Universities communicate acceptance or rejection via email or the application portal.

Also Read: Top Courses at Dublin City University for International Students

Cost of Living in the Netherlands for International Students 

Studying in the Netherlands is exciting, but it’s important to plan finances carefully. Here’s a breakdown of the average costs for international students.

Expense Category	Estimated Annual Cost (EUR)
Tuition Fees	EUR 6,000 – EUR 20,000
Accommodation	EUR 4,800 – EUR 12,000
Food & Groceries	EUR 1,800 – EUR 3,600
Transportation	EUR 480 – EUR 1,200
Health Insurance	EUR 960 – EUR 1,440
Study Materials	EUR 300 – EUR 600
Miscellaneous Expenses	EUR 1,200 – EUR 2,400
Total Estimated Annual Cost	EUR 15,540 – EUR 41,240

Scholarships for International Students in the Netherlands

The Netherlands offers a range of scholarships aimed at attracting talented international students. These scholarships provide financial support and open doors to world-class education and research opportunities.

Scholarship Name	Benefit	Eligibility
NL Scholarship	EUR 5,000 one-time grant for tuition fees	Non-EEA students applying for Bachelor’s or Master’s programs at participating Dutch institutions
Maastricht University NL-High Potential Scholarship	Full scholarship covering tuition, living expenses, insurance, and visa costs (up to EUR 34,000)	Non-EU students admitted to a Master’s program at Maastricht University
University of Amsterdam Merit Scholarship	EUR 2,000 – EUR 25,000 depending on the faculty	International students applying for Master’s programs at the University of Amsterdam
University of Twente Scholarship	EUR 3,000 – EUR 22,000 for one year; renewable for a second year	International students applying for Master’s programs at the University of Twente
Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LexS)	Average of EUR 15,000 annually towards tuition fees	International students applying for Master’s programs at Leiden University
HAN University NL Scholarship	EUR 5,000 for Master’s programs; EUR 12,500 for Bachelor’s programs	Non-EU/EEA students admitted to full-time English-taught degree programs at HAN University
Radboud Scholarship Programme	Full tuition fee waiver and living allowance	Non-EEA students with outstanding academic records applying for Master’s programs at Radboud University

Career Opportunities After Completing Courses in the Netherlands

The Netherlands offers a diverse job market with lucrative opportunities across various sectors. International graduates can leverage the Zoekjaar (Orientation Year) visa, allowing them to stay for up to 12 months post-graduation to seek employment. This visa is particularly beneficial for those aiming to establish their careers in the Netherlands.

High Paying Role	Average Salary Per Year
Clinical Researcher	EUR 200,000 – EUR 210,000
Surgeon / Neurosurgeon	EUR 150,000 – EUR 180,000
Airline Pilot	EUR 130,000 – EUR 155,000
AI Architect	EUR 78,000 – EUR 150,000
Cybersecurity Expert	EUR 70,000 – EUR 100,000
Data Scientist	EUR 50,000 – EUR 70,000
Software Engineer	EUR 43,000 – EUR 53,000
Investment Banker	EUR 95,000 – EUR 150,000
Financial Analyst	EUR 49,000 – EUR 56,000
Legal Counsel	EUR 70,000 – EUR 120,000
Recruiter	EUR 59,440 – EUR 73,328

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This was all about the popular courses to study in the Netherlands in 2026, including top programs, eligibility, admission process, scholarships, costs, and career opportunities after graduation. Choosing the right course can boost your skills, open global career paths, and give you a head start in your dream career. For more such insights, make sure to check out the Study Abroad page on Leverage Edu and stay updated!