6 reasons to study in the Netherlands
There are a plethora of reasons as to why the Netherlands is an excellent place for you to grow professionally and personally.
1. Education
The Netherlands has one of the highest number of international students, as all universities offer study programs that are taught in English. The degree received from these universities is internationally recognized, which is so helpful for when you look for a job, even outside of the Netherlands.
Most Dutch Universities of Applied Sciences have a practical approach where you learn how to apply the theory learned in class to real-life situations. They also give you opportunities to work in companies, in order to get work experience. The teacher-student relationship is informal, so there is an interactive teaching environment.
2. Diversity
The international atmosphere makes you feel right at home! Without a doubt, you would find people from your home country, but you also encounter a variety of cultures. Meeting different people is a way to build a network, work on your communication skills and learn about different ethnicities, so it’s very useful for when you work in companies. It’s also an advantage to make friends from different parts of the world, so you can go visit their hometown. ?
3. Everyone speaks English
Although the official language is Dutch, almost 95% of the population speaks English. Therefore, not knowing Dutch isn’t an issue! There isn’t a language barrier, and this makes life so much more comfortable for those coming from another country. As nervous as you might be, the people in the Netherlands welcome all internationals and you can easily have interesting conversations with the locals.
4. Affordable for students
Compared to most of the neighbouring countries, the Netherlands is very affordable for students, whether they are from an EU or non-EU country. It is also quite easy to find student-jobs to help finance your stay. And like the previous point made, if you don’t know Dutch, it isn’t a problem. Education is prioritized, so when you look for a part-time student job, they will be flexible with your work hours, too.
5. Happy Country
As of 2019, the Netherlands is the 5th happiest country in the WORLD, according to the UN World Happiness Report. They take the GDP, life expectancy, social satisfaction, generosity, freedom and support into consideration and this shows how gratified the people living in the Netherlands are with their quality of life.
Celebrating King’s Day or Liberation day shows how the Dutch just need a reason to go out to have a full day of partying and enjoyment with their friends and families.
6. Gateway to Europe
Referring to its central geographic and economic position in central Europe, Holland is often described as the gateway to Europe. It takes only about an hour to fly from Amsterdam to Paris, Berlin, Venice, or London. It’s also possible to go away for the weekend with your friends and drive up to different cities within a few hours!
The opportunities in the Netherlands are overwhelmingly incredible and what makes it even better is that people are willing to help you get to where you want. Whether it's for education, diversity, or the people you meet, Holland will become your home away from home.