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5 Things Expat Parents Should Know When Helping Choose a Study Program in the Netherlands

Categories: Education,Latest News

So, your child is thinking of studying in the Netherlands—and you’re not quite sure how to help them choose a suitable study program. When you haven’t studied in the Netherlands yourself, there’s a good chance you don’t know the ins and outs of the Dutch system. To make sure you and your child don’t get lost in the process, I’ve written this article to help you out!

A woman walking and studying

1. Know the difference between research universities and universities of applied sciences

One of the first things to understand is that the Dutch system has two main types of higher education:

  • Research universities (WO) focus on academic and theoretical learning. These programs are best suited for students who enjoy abstract thinking and may want to pursue a master’s or PhD later.

  • Universities of applied sciences (HBO) are more practical, with internships, group projects, and hands-on learning built into the curriculum. These are geared toward students who want to enter the workforce after earning a bachelor’s degree. However, in the Netherlands, it’s also quite common for students to pursue a master’s after finishing this degree.

Both types are fully accredited and respected, but they serve different goals and learning styles. Don’t assume one is “better” than the other—what matters most is alignment with your child’s strengths and ambitions.

In many countries, the line between theoretical and practical education is more blurred. Colleges in the U.S. often offer more of a mix, and in the U.K., there’s no sharp or official distinction. Only Germany comes close to the Dutch split, with Universitäten and Fachhochschulen, but the separation is often still more flexible.

If your teen is still unsure, consider visiting a program’s taster day or meeloopdag. Many universities offer them, giving students a chance to join real classes and get a feel for the experience.

2. Open admission doesn’t mean low expectations

Many expat parents are surprised to learn how accessible Dutch universities are. There are usually no special requirements, such as essays, SAT-style testing, or recommendation letters. The right diploma and sufficient English proficiency are often enough to gain admission. But here’s the catch:

Getting in is easy. Staying in is hard.

Most programs issue a Binding Study Advice (BSA) at the end of the first year. To continue, students must typically earn at least 50 out of 60 credits. Each subject can usually be retaken once per academic year, but there’s no “safety net semester” or chance to repeat the year. If a student falls short, they must leave the program and often can’t re-enroll for several years.

Anglo-Saxon systems like those in the U.K., U.S., and Canada often allow students to stay enrolled while repeating failed subjects. In countries like Germany or Switzerland, universities may be more lenient, with longer periods to collect required credits. In the Netherlands, universities expect students to be focused and prepared from day one.

3. Why the right study choice matters more than your child’s grades

The Dutch system flips the script on what many expat parents are used to. In some countries, high school GPA or test scores determine everything. But in the Netherlands, academic ability will only take you so far—most programs have a fixed curriculum for 80–90% of the degree.

That’s why it’s essential to choose a program that fits well from the start. Especially for high achievers, a mismatch can lead to burnout—something I’ve seen happen all too often.

Encourage your child to explore:

  • What subjects truly spark their interest?

  • Do they prefer independent reading or hands-on tasks?

  • Are they energized by competition—or collaboration?

There are tools that can help, like the CliftonStrengths for Students assessment, study choice workshops, or a comprehensive study choice package with an expert coach. These steps can help students uncover what motivates them—a crucial ingredient for long-term success in the Dutch system.

4. Take your time, encourage exploration, and support independent decision-making

Choosing a study program is a big decision that deserves time, patience, and space to explore. Rushing your child into a quick choice—especially due to budget or visa pressures—can backfire, leading to frustration, program switching, or even dropout.

Encourage your child to explore low-pressure options such as:

  • Gap year programs with internships or volunteering

  • Part-time jobs or shadowing experiences

  • Online courses in areas of interest

  • Study-choice coaching from someone familiar with the Dutch system

In many systems, taking a gap year is something you must explain or justify when starting your studies. That’s not the case in the Netherlands. A gap year is common and widely accepted. It’s seen as a valuable time for personal development, which fits well with the Dutch emphasis on individuality. Taking a gap year won’t hurt your chances of getting into a program the following year.

5. Plan for the future: career orientation and employability matter

Choosing the right study program is about more than just the next few years. It’s also about setting up your child for a successful career. Dutch higher education institutions often provide strong career support, including internships, career services, and networking opportunities. These are crucial for gaining real-world experience and making professional connections.

Encourage your child to explore how their chosen program aligns with their career goals. Many universities and universities of applied sciences have dedicated career centers where students can get guidance on CV writing, job applications, and interview preparation. Internships are often integrated into the curriculum, giving students hands-on experience and a foot in the door of their future industry.

Also consider how the program prepares your child for the Dutch job market or opportunities abroad. The Dutch government and institutions emphasize employability skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are valuable worldwide.

Final Thought

Helping your child choose a study path in the Netherlands is more than picking a course. It’s about helping them launch a new phase of life with clarity, resilience, and purpose. With warmth, patience, and sufficient insider knowledge, you’ll be well-equipped to support them every step of the way.

About the author

Onno Hart, MA, is a study choice coach with 16 years of experience teaching and coaching in Dutch international higher education. He is dedicated to helping young internationals find their way in the Netherlands. Curious how personalized study coaching could help your child? Visit the StudyCompass website.

A happy graduate of a study program in the netherlands

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