Education Netherlands

Enrolling in a Kindergarten

In the Netherlands, kindergartens are intended for children from birth to 4 years old. There are several types of institutions: nurseries for the youngest children and preschools for children from 2 to 4 years old.

 

- Searching and choosing a kindergarten: Parents can choose between private and public kindergartens. Most parents turn to the nearest facilities, however, popular kindergartens may have long waiting lists, so it is better to start the process in advance.

  

- Registration process: To enroll a child in a kindergarten, you need to apply directly to the chosen institution. Usually, you need to provide the child's details, parents' contact information, and possibly additional documents such as a birth certificate and registration information.

 

- Subsidies and payment: The cost of kindergarten services varies, but the government provides subsidies to families with low and middle income. You can apply for a subsidy through the tax office.

 

Enrolling in a School

Compulsory education in the Netherlands starts at 5 years, but most children begin attending primary school at 4 years old.

 

- Choosing a school: The Netherlands offers a wide variety of schools, including public, private, international, and religious institutions. Parents can choose a school that best aligns with their values and preferences. It is important to consider that popular schools may also have waiting lists, so it is recommended to start the selection and registration process in advance.

 

- School registration: To register a child in a primary school, you need to submit an application to the chosen school. The application should include the child's and parents' details, preferred start dates, and you may also need to provide a birth certificate and other documents.

 

- Admission and placement: After submitting the application, the school may conduct an interview with the parents and child. Some schools may implement a lottery system for placement if the number of applications exceeds the available places.

 

- Additional programs: Many schools offer adaptation programs for foreign children to help them quickly learn the language and integrate into the school environment. This is especially relevant for children who have recently moved to the Netherlands.

 

Documents for Registration

To register a foreign child in a kindergarten or school in the Netherlands, you need to provide a certain set of documents. This list may vary slightly depending on the educational institution, but the main documents remain unchanged. You can specify the exact list of documents directly at the educational institution or on the municipality's website.

 

- Birth certificate: You need to provide the original birth certificate of the child. In some cases, a translation into Dutch by a certified translator may be required.

 

- Passport or ID card: A valid passport or identification card of the child is required for registration. It is important that the document is valid at the time of application.

 

- Residence permit: If the child and their parents are not EU/EEA citizens, a document confirming legal residence in the Netherlands (residence permit) must be provided.

 

- Medical card (vaccinations): Many schools and kindergartens require that a medical card with the child's vaccination information be provided. It is important that all data is up to date and, if necessary, translated into Dutch or English.

 

- Proof of residence address: A document confirming the residence address in the Netherlands may be required. This can be registration with the municipality or a housing rental agreement.

 

- Certificate of previous education: For schoolchildren who have already attended educational institutions in other countries, a certificate of previous education (certificate, report card) may be required, especially if the child is entering secondary school. This document may also require translation.

 

- Registration application: Parents must fill out and submit a registration application to the chosen school or kindergarten. In some cases, the application can be submitted online through the institution's or municipality's website.

 

- Health data: Sometimes a school or kindergarten may request additional information about a child's health, especially if there are any special medical needs or allergies.

In the Netherlands, there are kindergartens and schools with instruction in foreign languages, making the country attractive to international families and expats. These institutions offer a wide range of educational programs, including international programs like IB (International Baccalaureate), as well as instruction in multiple languages, including English, French, German, and others.

 

International schools

There are a significant number of international schools in the Netherlands that offer instruction in English and other foreign languages. These schools cater to children from international families temporarily residing in the country and to local residents who wish for their children to receive an international education.

 

- Education programs: Many international schools offer IB programs, which are recognized worldwide and provide opportunities for university admission around the globe. Some schools also offer British (IGCSE, A-Levels) or American (AP) education systems.

  

- Examples of international schools: In large cities such as Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, and Utrecht, there are renowned international schools like International School of Amsterdam, British School in the Netherlands, International School of Rotterdam, and others.

 

Bilingual schools

In addition to international schools, there are also bilingual schools in the Netherlands, where instruction is conducted in two languages, often Dutch and English. These schools are becoming increasingly popular as they offer the opportunity to learn a foreign language at a high level from a young age.

 

- Types of bilingual schools: In some primary and secondary schools, half of the subjects are taught in Dutch and the other half in English. This allows children to become fluent in both languages by the end of school.

  

- Programs and approaches: Schools use integrated programs that combine elements of both language cultures, which helps develop students' language skills and cultural awareness.

 

Kindergartens with foreign language instruction

For younger children in the Netherlands, kindergartens with foreign language instruction are also available. These institutions offer programs in English, French, and other languages, helping children begin learning a second language from an early age.

 

- International kindergartens: In large cities, you can find kindergartens where instruction is conducted in English or another foreign language. These institutions often collaborate with international schools and offer a program that smoothly transitions into primary education in a foreign language.

In the Netherlands, there is a wide choice of preschool and school institutions, divided into public and private. Both types of schools offer quality education but have their specific characteristics in organization, funding, and educational programs.

 

Public schools 

Public schools in the Netherlands are funded by the government and managed by municipalities. They are open to all children regardless of religious or cultural background and provide education in Dutch.

- Features:

  - Accessibility: Education in public schools is free, except for small fees to cover additional costs such as excursions and study materials.

  - Neutrality: Public schools are not tied to any religious or philosophical doctrine, making them appealing to families with diverse cultural and religious views.

  - Educational programs: Public schools follow the national curriculum, which includes compulsory subjects such as Dutch language, mathematics, natural sciences, and physical education. Additionally, the schools offer supplementary activities and programs, including early-age English language courses.

 

Private schools 

Private schools in the Netherlands can be either religious or non-religious and are usually managed by private foundations or organizations. Many of these schools also receive government funding but may charge additional fees for providing a broader range of services and programs.

- Features:

 - Religious and Philosophical Orientation: Most private schools in the Netherlands have a religious foundation, such as Catholic, Protestant, Islamic, or Jewish schools. There are also schools that follow a specific educational philosophy, such as Montessori or Waldorf.

 - Additional Expenses: Although many private schools receive government funding, they may charge extra fees for extended programs, exclusive events, and specialized training.

 - Program Choice: Private schools may offer alternative educational programs, such as international IB (International Baccalaureate) programs or English language instruction. This makes them attractive to international families and those seeking more specialized education.

 

Preschool Institutions

Preschool institutions in the Netherlands are also divided into public and private. 

- Public Kindergartens: Usually more affordable, they offer standard programs to prepare children for school in Dutch. Some may offer bilingual programs.

 - Private Kindergartens: Often offer more variety in educational approaches, including international programs and foreign language instruction. Such kindergartens may have a higher cost but provide additional services and a flexible schedule.

 

Thus, public and private educational institutions in the Netherlands provide quality education with various focuses on religion, philosophy, and language training. The choice between them depends on family preferences, cultural and religious beliefs, as well as financial capabilities. 

Inclusive Education

One of the key principles of the Dutch educational system is inclusion. This means that children with special needs, as much as possible, study alongside their peers in regular schools. For this, schools receive additional resources and support from the government to adapt the educational process to the needs of these children.

- In-School Support: Regular schools may employ special educators and assistants who help children with special needs during the educational process. These could be specialists in corrective pedagogy, speech therapists, psychologists, and other professionals who help create a supportive learning environment.

- Individual Educational Plan: Each child with special needs is given an individual educational plan that takes into account their characteristics, strengths, and needs. This plan is agreed upon with parents and educators and is regularly reviewed to adapt to changes in the child's development.

 

Special Schools 

For children with more serious needs that cannot be met within a regular school, there are special schools in the Netherlands. These schools are divided into several categories depending on the type of needs:

- Schools for Children with Physical Development Disabilities: Educate children with severe physical and motor disabilities.

- Schools for Children with Cognitive and Emotional Problems: Focused on children with intellectual, behavioral, and emotional disorders.

- Schools for Children with Sensory Impairments (e.g., visually and hearing impaired): Provide specialized programs to support sensory development.

 

Transitional and Adaptation Programs

For children who begin their education in special schools but can gradually integrate into regular educational institutions, there are transitional programs. These programs allow a smooth transition from specialized to inclusive education, providing support at every stage.

 

Government Funding and Support

The government provides significant financial support to both schools and families of children with special needs. Schools receive additional resources to hire specialists and create adapted educational materials. Parents may receive financial assistance to cover expenses related to their child's education and rehabilitation.

There are various integration programs and language courses in the Netherlands aimed at supporting foreign children to help them adapt to the new linguistic and cultural environment. These programs cover both preschool and school education levels and are an important part of the integration process.

 

Integration programs in schools

For children who have recently arrived in the Netherlands and do not speak Dutch, most schools offer special integration programs known as "Nieuwkomers" (newcomers) or "Schakelklas" (transition classes).

 

- Schakelklas (Transition Classes): These classes are designed for children who are just beginning to learn the Dutch language. For one or two years, children learn in small groups with a focus on language learning, after which they transition into regular classes. Teachers working in these classes are specially trained to work with children learning Dutch as a second language.

  

- NT2 programs: NT2 programs provide intensive Dutch language training as a second language. They include not only language lessons but also cultural integration so that children can adapt more quickly to the new environment. These courses can be conducted as part of the school schedule or as additional classes.

 

Preschool language programs

For younger children attending kindergartens, there are also programs aimed at learning the Dutch language.

 

- VVE: The early education program is designed for children from 2 to 6 years old, whose parents speak another language; it helps children develop the language skills necessary for a successful start in school. The programs include games, stories, and other activities aimed at language learning.

 

International and bilingual schools

Additionally, there are many international and bilingual schools in the Netherlands where education is conducted in English and Dutch. These schools help children integrate while maintaining their native language and culture. 

 

Extracurricular language courses

Many municipalities and cultural centers offer extracurricular Dutch language courses for children. These courses can be organized as evening or weekend classes and allow children to further work on their language skills.

In the Netherlands, extracurricular activities for children are organized at a high level, offering a variety of programs and activities that contribute to the comprehensive development of the child.

 

After-school groups 

After-school groups are an important part of the extracurricular activity system in the Netherlands. They offer childcare before and after school, as well as on school holidays.

- Organization: usually organized at schools or kindergartens and can include various activities such as sports, arts, outdoor games, and reading. These groups operate on weekdays before and after school hours and during school holidays. They provide a flexible schedule allowing parents to choose suitable days and hours.

- Cost and subsidies: Parents pay for the services of the after-school group, but for families with low and middle incomes, government subsidies are available to help reduce childcare costs.

 

Clubs and clubs

In the Netherlands, children can participate in various clubs that offer activities of interest, such as sports, arts, music, science, and technology.

- Sports clubs: Football, field hockey, swimming, and cycling are among the most popular sports for children in the Netherlands. Many schools and municipalities offer after-school programs where children can engage in sports under the guidance of coaches.

- Creative clubs: For children interested in arts, music, or theater, there are various clubs that allow them to develop creative abilities. They conduct classes in drawing, playing musical instruments, theatrical performances, and other types of art.

- Science and technology clubs: In recent years, participation in science and technology clubs has become popular among children in the Netherlands, where they can study robotics, programming, mathematics, and other STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).

 

Camps for Children

Various children's camps are organized in the Netherlands, offering exciting programs during school holidays.

- Summer and winter camps: The camps offer active outdoor recreation, sports activities, survival skills training, and art classes. Specialized camps, such as language or scientific camps, are also available.

- Day and overnight camps: Depending on family preferences, one can choose day camps where children return home every evening, or overnight camps where children stay for the whole week or even longer.

 

Municipal and Private Initiatives

The municipalities play an important role in organizing extracurricular activities, offering a variety of programs for children of all ages. Many private organizations, such as sports clubs, music schools, and art studios, also provide their services.

 

- Municipal programs: Each city and district has municipal programs aimed at supporting extracurricular activities. They may include subsidies for low-income families, making extracurricular activities accessible to everyone.

- Private organizations: Private initiatives often offer specialized programs that may not be available through municipal institutions, such as horseback riding lessons, programming courses, or training in playing rare musical instruments.

The grading system in the Netherlands differs from traditional systems adopted in other countries and varies depending on the level of education. 

 

Primary School

In primary schools (for children from 4 to 12 years), formal assessments in the traditional sense are rarely used in the lower grades. In primary school, the main focus is on developing the child's skills and abilities rather than on obtaining grades. Teachers regularly assess students' progress through observations, projects, and assignments.

- Qualitative description: In the early stages of education, descriptive reports are often used, providing parents with detailed information about the child's strengths and weaknesses.

- Tests: In the upper grades of primary school (starting around the 6th-7th grade), children begin to take tests, with results graded on a 10-point scale. Also important is the final Cito-toets test, conducted at the end of the 8th grade, helping to determine the student's further educational track in secondary education.

 

Secondary Education

In secondary school (from 12 to 16-18 years), the grading system becomes more formal and uses a 10-point scale.

- 10-point scale: The most common grading system in secondary school is the 10-point scale, where:

  - 10 — excellent,

  - 9 — very good,

  - 8 — good,

  - 7 — satisfactory,

  - 6 — minimum passing grade,

  - 5 and below — unsatisfactory (insufficient knowledge of the material).

- Assessment and exams: Various types of tests and exams are also used in secondary school to assess knowledge and skills. The academic year often concludes with a series of final exams that affect the student’s final grades.

 

Higher Education

In higher education institutions in the Netherlands (universities and colleges), a similar grading system based on a 10-point scale is used.

- Credit System (ECTS): Universities also use the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), which helps unify education across Europe and facilitates the transfer of students between universities in different countries. Course grades are often translated into ECTS points.

To enroll in a university in the Netherlands, international students must meet a number of requirements. These requirements may vary depending on the educational institution and program, but the basic conditions remain unchanged. 

 

Academic Qualification

International students must provide documents confirming their previous education. In most cases, this will be a secondary school diploma equivalent to the Dutch HAVO, VWO, or MBO document.

- Secondary school diploma: It is important that the diploma obtained in another country meets the requirements of the chosen program. For example, enrolling in a bachelor's program requires completed secondary education equivalent to the Dutch VWO, which corresponds to a 12-year cycle of school education.

- Preparatory Programs: If an applicant's level of preparation is insufficient, some universities offer preparatory courses to help meet the necessary academic requirements.

 

Language Requirements

Since most programs at Dutch universities are taught in Dutch or English, it is necessary to demonstrate proficiency in one of these languages.

- English Language: If the program is taught in English, you need to provide test results in English, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge English. Typically, the minimum required score for IELTS is 6.0-7.0, for TOEFL — 80-100 (internet-based test).

- Dutch Language: For programs in Dutch, an NT2-II certificate or another equivalent document is required.

 

Special Program Requirements

Some programs, especially in the fields of art, medicine, engineering, and other specialized disciplines, may require additional tests, portfolios, or interviews.

- Portfolio and Creative Exams: For art or design programs, a portfolio with examples of your work may be required.

- Entrance Exams: Some programs, especially in the medical field, require passing specific entrance exams or interviews.

 

Financial Requirements

International students must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to pay for tuition and living in the Netherlands.

- Tuition Fees: The annual tuition fee varies depending on the university and program, but on average ranges from 6,000 to 15,000 euros for undergraduate programs in English.

- Financial Proof: When applying for a visa or residence permit, students must provide evidence that they can cover their tuition and living expenses during the entire study period.

 

Application Procedure

Applications for admission are submitted through the central system Studielink or directly through the universities' websites.

- Application Deadlines: It is important to keep track of application deadlines, which typically range from January to May for studies starting in September. Some programs may have early application deadlines, especially in cases of limited places.

- Required Documents: International students wishing to enroll in a university in the Netherlands need to provide a certain set of documents.

Main documents required for admission:

 

1. High school diploma or its equivalent:

   - A high school diploma or a diploma equivalent to the Dutch VWO, HAVO, or MBO level is required. The document must be recognized and accredited in the country of issuance.

   - In some cases, a translation of the diploma into English or Dutch by an official translator may be required.

 

2. Language Certificate:

   - For English-taught programs, a certificate of English proficiency such as IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge English is usually required. Minimum scores vary depending on the program, but often are:

     - IELTS: at least 6.0-7.0 points.

     - TOEFL iBT: at least 80-100 points.

   - For Dutch-taught programs, an NT2-II (Nederlands als Tweede Taal) certificate is required.

 

3. Results of Additional Exams:

   - If the program requires additional exams (e.g., entrance tests or interviews), their results must also be included in the document package.

 

4. Motivation Letter:

   - In this letter, the candidate should explain why they want to study at the chosen university and in the specific program. The motivation letter is an important part of the application as it helps the university understand the candidate's goals and ambitions.

 

5. Recommendation Letters:

   - Recommendations from teachers or employers who can attest to the candidate's academic abilities and personal qualities are an important document for many programs' applications.

 

6. Resume or CV:

   - The candidate may provide a resume detailing their educational and professional experience, achievements, and skills, which can be especially useful when applying to master’s or postgraduate programs.

 

7. Copy of Passport or ID Card:

   - A copy of a valid passport or identification card is necessary to confirm the candidate's identity and citizenship.

 

8. Confirmation of Financial Solvency:

   - When applying for a visa or residence permit, a student must prove that they have sufficient financial resources to cover the costs of education and living in the Netherlands. This may include bank statements, letters from sponsors, or scholarship documents.

 

9. Portfolio (for creative programs):

   - For programs in art, design, or architecture, a portfolio is often required that contains the candidate's work, demonstrating their skills and creativity.

 

Additional documents:

- Depending on the program and university, other documents may be required, such as medical certificates, certificates of internship, or other special forms.

 

Thus, the process of submitting documents for admission to a university in the Netherlands requires careful preparation and adherence to deadlines. It is important to clarify all the requirements of the specific educational institution in advance to ensure successful admission.

   

 

In the Netherlands, there are several world-class universities that rank high on the international stage. Here is a list of the top 10 universities in the Netherlands based on global rankings such as QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education (THE).

 

University of Amsterdam

   - World ranking: One of the leading universities in Europe, ranking high in world rankings, especially in humanities and social sciences.

   - Features: The largest university in the Netherlands with extensive international programs and research opportunities.

 

 Delft University of Technology 

   - World ranking: Considered one of the best technical universities in the world.

   - Features: Known for strong programs in engineering, technology, and architecture.

 

Leiden University 

   - World ranking: One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe.

   - Features: Known for research in law, social sciences, and medical sciences.

 

Utrecht University

   - World ranking: Consistently ranks in the top 100 universities worldwide.

   - Features: Strong programs in natural sciences, law, and humanities.

 

University of Groningen 

   - World ranking: Among the best universities in Europe.

   - Features: Offers a wide range of programs, especially renowned in economics, business, and medicine.

 

Erasmus University Rotterdam 

   - World ranking: Known for its programs in business and management.

   - Features: Has one of the best business schools in Europe — Rotterdam School of Management (RSM).

 

Eindhoven University of Technology 

   - World ranking: Highly rated for programs in engineering and technology.

   - Features: Closely collaborates with the industry and is known for innovative research.

 

Maastricht University 

   - World ranking: Known for its international and interdisciplinary programs.

   - Features: First in Europe to introduce English-taught programs for many fields.

 

Wageningen University & Research 

   - World ranking: Leader in agriculture and natural sciences.

   - Features: Often ranks first globally in agriculture and forestry.

 

University of Twente 

   - World ranking: Strong positions in technology and social sciences.

   - Features: Renowned for programs in engineering, IT, and business innovation.

 

 

Migration Features

Visa and Residence Permit

International students from countries outside the European Union or European Economic Area must obtain a student visa and residence permit to study in the Netherlands.

 

Working While Studying

International students have the right to work while studying, but with certain restrictions:

- Working hours: Students from non-EU/EEA countries can work up to 16 hours per week during the academic year or full-time during the summer months (June, July, August). A work permit issued by the employer is required for this.

- Internships: Internships that are part of the study program do not require a work permit, but a special agreement with the university and employer must be concluded.

 

Family and Dependents

International students can bring family members, such as their spouse and children, subject to certain conditions:

- Residence permit for family members: The student's family members can obtain a residence permit in the Netherlands for the duration of the student's studies. This requires proof of sufficient financial means and documents confirming family relationships.

- Education for children: Children of international students can attend schools in the Netherlands, including international and bilingual schools. If a child is below school age, kindergartens and after-school care are available.

 

Permanent Residence and Citizenship

After graduation, international students can apply to extend their residence permit to look for work or start a business. The relevant visa allows graduates to stay in the Netherlands for an additional year to search for a job.

- Transition to permanent residence: If an international student works in the Netherlands for several years after graduation, they can apply for permanent residence.

- Citizenship: Long-term residence in the Netherlands may lead to the right to obtain citizenship if all necessary conditions are met.

To enroll in a university in the Netherlands, international students need to validate their diplomas and certificates to ensure their equivalence to local educational standards.

 

Assessment and recognition of diplomas

Foreign diplomas and certificates must be recognized as equivalent to Dutch diplomas of the corresponding level. In the Netherlands, several organizations handle the assessment and recognition of foreign educational documents:

 

- Nuffic: The Dutch organization that deals with international educational cooperation provides evaluation services for foreign diplomas. You can contact Nuffic through their website and apply for an assessment of your diploma.

 

- DUO: The Ministry of Education, Culture and Science of the Netherlands also recognizes foreign diplomas. 

 

Document translation

If your diploma and accompanying documents are not in English, Dutch, German, or French, you will need to translate them into one of these languages. The translation must be done by a certified translator, and some universities may require notarization of the translation.

In the Netherlands, adults, including immigrants, can benefit from a wide range of additional courses and programs to improve language skills, acquire a new profession, or enhance qualifications.

 

Language courses

The Netherlands offers numerous language courses, both for learning Dutch and for improving knowledge of other languages.

 

- Dutch language courses: These courses are designed for those who want to learn Dutch as a second language. They are offered at various levels, from beginner to advanced. There are many language schools and centers in the Netherlands where you can take these courses. 

 

- English and other language courses: Many institutions offer courses in English, French, and other languages. These courses are suitable for both general development and professional growth.

 

Professional courses and retraining

For adults who want to improve their professional skills or change careers, various professional training programs are available in the Netherlands.

 

- HBO courses: These are higher professional education programs offered by institutes such as Hogeschool van Amsterdam and Rotterdam Business School. They cover a wide range of disciplines, including management, technology, healthcare, and social work.

 

- Advanced training and retraining courses: These courses aim at enhancing qualifications in specific areas, such as IT, management, marketing, and many others. These courses are often conducted online or in evening classes, which is convenient for working adults.

 

Courses for Immigrants

Special courses for immigrants help adapt to life in the Netherlands, improve language skills, and understand local culture.

 

- Integration Courses: These courses are designed for immigrants and include studying the Dutch language, culture, and society. The courses often include preparation for the integration exam, which is required to obtain a permanent residence permit.

 

- Entrepreneurship Courses: Many municipalities and organizations, such as Kamer van Koophandel, offer courses on starting and running a business in the Netherlands. 

 

Personal Development and Hobby Courses

 

- Culinary schools, art studios, and music schools: For example, courses at Kookstudio Amsterdam or Creatief Centrum Amsterdam offer classes in cooking, painting, photography, and music.

- Sports and wellness courses: Numerous fitness centers and wellness clubs, such as Fit For Free and Basic-Fit, offer courses in yoga, pilates, dance, and other sports.

 

Regardless of your goals — whether it's integration into the local community, improving professional skills, or simply broadening your horizons — you will be able to find a suitable course or program that will help you achieve success.