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The Netherlands is one of the best places for students who love science, technology, engineering, or math. The country offers many English-taught programs and strong links with big tech companies. In this blog on Popular Universities in the Netherlands for STEM Students in 2026, you will learn about the top universities, best STEM courses, fees, and scholarships for international students. If you want to build machines, work with data, or create new tech ideas, this blog will help you choose the right university and plan your studies easily.
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Why Pursue STEM Programs in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands is for students who want to build things, test ideas, and see real-world impact. Dutch education treats STEM like a playground for innovation. The vibe is research-heavy, and surprisingly chill for how serious the work gets. If you like solving real problems instead of memorizing formulas, the Netherlands just might be your zone. Here are some other reasons.
- Students work on real industry projects. Dutch universities often connect students directly with companies like Philips or ASML to solve current tech problems.
- Labs feel like startup hubs. Many campuses run innovation labs where students can prototype gadgets, apps, or green tech ideas, sometimes turning them into actual startups.
- Professors act like mentors. Teaching style here is informal and discussion-based. Students are treated like future scientists.
- Sustainability is built into everything. Whether it’s engineering or data science, every field focuses on solving climate, health, or social issues.
- You join an English-speaking, global crowd. Dutch STEM programs are taught fully in English and attract students from all over the world, so you never feel like an outsider in class.
Top STEM Courses in the Netherlands for International Students
Dutch STEM courses make you question why they work that way. Every course pushes students to test, fail, fix, and build again until an idea actually functions in real life. Each subject here connects science with society, turning your degree into something that can actually change the world and still look great on LinkedIn.
| Course | Average Tuition Fees for Bachelor’s | Average Tuition Fees for Master’s | Typical Salary |
| Mechanical or Electrical Engineering | EUR 10,000 to EUR 20,000 per year | EUR 12,000 to EUR 30,000 per year | EUR 45,000 to EUR 60,000 per year |
| Computer Science or Software Engineering | EUR 12,000 to EUR 22,000 per year | EUR 14,000 to EUR 30,000 per year | EUR 60,000 to EUR 90,000 per year |
| Data Science & Artificial Intelligence | EUR 14,000 to EUR 20,000 per year | EUR 15,000 to EUR 30,000 per year | EUR 70,000 to EUR 100,000 per year |
| Cyber Security & Information Security | EUR 12,000 to EUR 20,000 per year | EUR 16,000 to EUR 30,000 per year | EUR 65,000 to EUR 120,000 per year |
| Environmental & Sustainable Technology | EUR 10,000 to EUR 18,000 per year | EUR 12,000 to EUR 25,000 per year | EUR 40,000 to EUR 60,000 per year |
Also Read: Why These 5 STEM Courses in US Are a Game-Changer in 2025?
Popular Universities in the Netherlands for STEM
The Netherlands is home to some of Europe’s best STEM universities. Known for practical learning and innovative research, these universities attract thousands of international students every year. Here is an overview of the top institutions offering STEM degrees for international students.
Delft University of Technology
TU Delft is one of the most respected technology universities in Europe. It is known for hands-on engineering projects, world-class labs, and a strong focus on innovation. Students gain real-world experience through design studios, robotics projects, and aerospace simulations.
Why TU Delft Stands Out for STEM:
- Strong focus on practical and research-based learning
- Close partnerships with global industries
- Excellent facilities for aerospace, robotics, and mechanical engineering
| Level | Popular Courses | Average Annual Fee | Rankings 2026 |
| Bachelor’s | Aerospace Engineering Mechanical Engineering Computer Science | EUR 16,700 to EUR 19,900 | QS: #47 |
| Master’s | M.Sc. Aerospace Engineering M.Sc. Data Science M.Sc. Mechanical Engineering | EUR 22,000 to EUR 26,000 | THE: #57 |
Eindhoven University of Technology
This is located in the Brainport technology region, TU/e connects closely with high-tech companies in the Netherlands. It is well-known for its project-based curriculum and strong ties to the electronics and manufacturing sectors.
Why TU/e Stands Out for STEM:
- Excellent industry collaborations and internships
- Emphasis on team projects and design thinking
- Strong research focus in smart manufacturing, energy, and systems design
| Level | Popular Courses | Average Annual Fee | Rankings 2026 |
| Bachelor’s | Electrical Engineering Applied Physics Mechanical Engineering | EUR 18,000 to EUR 18,600 | QS: #140 |
| Master’s | M.Sc. Embedded Systems M.Sc. Integrated Product Design M.Sc. Systems & Control | EUR 21,000 to EUR 22,000 | THE: #192 |
Wageningen University & Research (WUR)
Wageningen University focuses on life sciences, agriculture, food technology, and environmental research. It offers highly practical STEM programs that combine fieldwork with modern lab facilities.
Why WUR Stands Out for STEM:
- Globally known for agriculture, food, and sustainability studies
- Research-driven environment with hands-on field projects
- Strong links with environmental research institutes and global NGOs
| Level | Popular Courses | Average Annual Fee | Rankings 2026 |
| Bachelor’s | Food Technology Molecular Life Sciences Environmental Sciences | EUR 17,000 to EUR 18,000 | QS: #153 |
| Master’s | M.Sc. Plant Sciences M.Sc. Environmental Sciences M.Sc. Food Quality & Innovation | EUR 21,000 to EUR 22,000 | THE: Top in Life Sciences & Environment |
University of Amsterdam (UvA)
The University of Amsterdam is known for research in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Biomedical Sciences. Located in one of Europe’s top tech hubs, it connects students with innovation centers and startup ecosystems.
Why UvA Stands Out for STEM:
- Top-tier research in AI, Big Data, and Computational Science
- Collaboration with Amsterdam’s growing tech and healthcare sectors
- Wide range of English-taught STEM programs at both levels
| Level | Popular Courses | Average Annual Fee | Rankings 2026 |
| Bachelor’s | Computer Science Biomedical Sciences Informatics | EUR 15,900 to EUR 17,500 | QS: #53 |
| Master’s | M.Sc. Data Science & AI M.Sc. Computational Science M.Sc. Bioinformatics | EUR 18,400 to EUR 25,900 | THE: #62 |
University of Twente (UT)
The University of Twente promotes a unique blend of technology, entrepreneurship, and social sciences. It is famous for encouraging innovation and student-led startups through its “high-tech human touch” philosophy.
Why UT Stands Out for STEM:
- Integrates engineering with entrepreneurship and design
- Provides excellent startup incubation and internship opportunities
- Offers flexible study paths for practical learning and research
| Level | Popular Courses | Average Annual Fee | Rankings 2026 |
| Bachelor’s | Applied Physics Electrical Engineering Creative Technology | EUR 9,700 to EUR 14,000 | QS: #203 |
| Master’s | M.Sc. Nanotechnology M.Sc. Systems & Control M.Sc. Data Science | EUR 15,800 to EUR 21,700 | THE: #190 |
Also Read: Study in Canada: STEM Courses Can Work as an Express Entry Pass for International Students
STEM Scholarships in the Netherlands for International Students
Many international students aim to study STEM in the Netherlands and some smart scholarships make this easier. These awards target non-EU/EEA students, especially those applying for technical, engineering or science programs.
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Coverage Amount |
| NL Scholarship, formerly Holland Scholarship | Non-EEA students applying for Bachelor’s or Master’s at participating Dutch institutions. | EUR 5,000 one-time grant, first year only |
| Justus & Louise van Effen Excellence Scholarships | International students admitted to M.Sc. programs at TU Delft, STEM-related. | Up to EUR 30,000 per year, covers tuition & living |
| University of Twente Scholarship | International students are admitted to selected Master’s programs at the University of Twente. | EUR 3,000 to EUR 22,000 per year |
| Radboud University Scholarship Program | International students with strong academic records entering full English-taught Master’s at Radboud University. | Up to EUR 15,000 per year tuition reduction & some cost cover |
Also Read: STEM MBA: Best Universities Abroad, Eligibility and More
FAQs
Ans: The Netherlands offers English-taught STEM programs, high-quality labs, and close links with global industries. Students gain real project experience, research exposure, and internship chances with top companies, making their education very practical.
Ans: Yes, Dutch STEM degrees are globally recognized because universities follow strong European quality standards. Graduates often find good jobs or research roles across Europe, the US, and Asia.
Ans: For international students, Bachelor’s STEM programs usually cost between EUR 15,000 and EUR 20,000 per year, while Master’s programs range from EUR 20,000 to EUR 26,000. The total may vary based on the university and course.
Relatable Reads
This was all about popular universities in the Netherlands for STEM. We understood why studying STEM in the Netherlands is a smart choice, with top courses, tuition fees, leading universities, and scholarships for international students. Now, you can shortlist the right STEM program and plan your studies with confidence. For more such insights, make sure to check out the Study Abroad page on Leverage Edu and stay updated!
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