Student life and culture in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is one of the most welcoming places in Europe for international students — compact, well-connected, and used to a multilingual, international population. Here is what daily life is actually like.

Getting around by bike

Cycling is the default in the Netherlands. Cities are flat and built around bikes, and most students buy a second-hand bicycle within their first week. It is cheap, fast and the easiest way to feel at home — and it keeps your transport costs low.

Language: English and Dutch

English is very widely spoken, and you can manage daily life comfortably in English in most cities. That said, the policy picture is shifting: the Internationalisation in Balance Act (the WIB) is encouraging more teaching in Dutch and curbing English-taught programmes, so learning some Dutch is increasingly worthwhile — for study, for work, and for settling in. Our courses guide covers what the WIB means for programme choice.

Student community

Dutch student life is sociable and well-organised, with student associations, sports clubs and a strong café and festival culture. The major cities each have a distinct feel — from the international buzz of Amsterdam and Rotterdam to the close-knit student atmosphere of Groningen.

Settling in

Once you arrive you will register with your municipality, find a place to live, sort out health insurance, and — if you plan to work — learn the rules in our working guide. A little planning before you arrive makes the first weeks far smoother.