The Best Dutch Universities: A Guide for Expats

The Netherlands offers many opportunities, especially when it comes to education. The country has a strong education system and a high standard of teaching quality. You’ll also find affordable tuition fees compared to other countries. An added benefit to studying in the Netherlands is the availability of English-language programs. In short, it’s a smart choice!

Whether you’re considering a degree for yourself, your children, or an MBA to boost your career, there are plenty of choices to make. We’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to the top Dutch universities. We have also provided a short breakdown of the Dutch university system.

Ready to start making choices? Let’s dive in.

A Quick Overview of the Dutch University System

Before we begin our list, let’s review the Dutch university system. The Netherlands has a well-structured higher education system with two main types of institutions:

Research Universities (WO) (Universiteiten)

These focus on academic research and offer Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs. They tend to be more theoretical and are best if you are aiming for careers in academia, science, or business.

Universities of Applied Sciences (HBO) (Hogescholen)

These are more practice-oriented. They offer Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, with a strong focus on preparing you for specific professions. They often include internships and hands-on learning.

A significant advantage for expats is that many programs, particularly at the Master’s and MBA levels, are taught in English. The Netherlands has one of the highest numbers of English-taught programs in Europe. In the Netherlands, you can also study part-time. This allows you to combine courses with your working life.

The Best Universities in the Netherlands

There are many excellent universities to choose from. Here are some of the best, in no particular order. We’ve taken into account the university itself and the international environment. We have also considered location and offered programs.

University of Amsterdam (UvA)

Located in the heart of the Dutch capital, UvA is one of the largest research universities in the country. It offers a wide range of English-taught programs and has a strong global reputation. Its location in the city is a big bonus, especially if you want to combine exploring Amsterdam with your studies! UvA offers strong programs in social studies, law, and business. Its humanities department is also very well regarded.

UvA was founded in 1632 as a school for philosophy and trade. It became an official university in 1877. Today, UvA is also home to Amsterdam Business School, which offers MBA and Executive MBA programs with a strong international focus.

UvA is ranked number 53 in the QS World University Rankings for 2026.

In 2025, UvA’s Media Studies and Communication Science courses have been ranked number 1 worldwide for the 8th consecutive year.

Leiden University (LEI)

Founded in 1575, Leiden is the oldest university in the Netherlands. It has a rich history and a strong reputation in the humanities and social sciences. Some of the most famous names from the Dutch Golden Age have been associated with the university. It also has a strong link with the Dutch Royal Family. Leiden is a popular choice due to its distinguished history and standing in the Dutch university rankings.

The city of Leiden itself is charming and compact, with plenty to see and do. The campus location in the Oude Stad is ideal for combining quiet study with the bustle of a small city. The university also has a campus in The Hague, the political heart of the country.

Leiden University offers solid programs in law, history, and international relations.

In 2024, LEI ranked number 73 on the World University Rankings.

In 2025, archaeology at LEI is ranked at number 4 globally.

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)

TU Delft is the oldest and largest technical university in the Netherlands. It was originally founded in 1842 to train engineers and civil servants for Dutch Colonial possessions. It consistently ranks among the world’s top universities in engineering and technology. The campus is modern, and the atmosphere is very international, with nearly 25% of students coming from abroad. If you’re into innovation, robotics, or sustainable design, this is the place to be. TU Delft is an excellent choice for students interested in engineering, technology, and architecture-focused studies.

In the QS Top University Rankings for 2026, TU Delft is ranked 47 – the only Dutch university to make it into the top 50.

Radboud University (RU)

Located in the city of Nijmegen, Radboud University is recognized as one of the world’s top universities. It has a strong research focus and consistent output. A variety of courses are offered at Radboud across seven faculties. Humanities, law, medical sciences, and social sciences are particular focuses. It also hosts the Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics. The campus is considered one of the most attractive in the Netherlands. It is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability.

The city of Nijmegen is growing in popularity and has a rich history. It is the oldest city in the Netherlands and has a vibrant student scene. From an expat perspective, the city is very livable, especially for young families.

RU is ranked 2nd worldwide for special education, and 5th in the Netherlands overall.

Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR)

Founded in 1913 as the Netherlands School of Commerce, EUR is a favorite among expats, especially those interested in business studies. EUR is home to the Rotterdam School of Management (RSM), which offers one of the best MBA programs in Europe. EUR offers well-regarded courses in business, economics, medicine, and social sciences.

The city of Rotterdam is a modern, diverse, and well-connected hub. It is ideal for international students. It is an increasingly popular choice for expats and offers a big-city feel. Dutch cities are generally smaller, so for those seeking vibrancy and modernity, Rotterdam is a good option.

EUR is ranked number 6 in the Netherlands and number 99 globally.

EUR’s marketing course is ranked number 12 globally.

Utrecht University (UU)

Utrecht University was founded in 1636, making it one of the oldest universities in the Netherlands. It is consistently ranked among the top universities in the Netherlands and the world. It has a vibrant international student community, in part due to a strong student body and the city itself. Utrecht is a lively, student-friendly city centrally located in the Netherlands. This makes it a hub not only for students, but also for events, art, and music.

The university is particularly strong in multidisciplinary research and sustainability topics. It offers a strong range of life sciences, humanities, and environmental studies courses. UU has a reputation as a research-focused, scientific institution.

UU is number 103 in the QS World University Rankings.

Veterinary Science is ranked 8th worldwide at UU. Geophysics is ranked 22nd.

Maastricht University (UM)

Located in the south of the Netherlands, Maastricht University stands out for the number of courses given in English. About half are English-language. Most Master’s and doctoral programs are in English. The university is renowned for its programs in international law and business. It also offers well-regarded psychology programs and has a growing emphasis on liberal arts.

It’s one of the most international universities in the country. More than 50% of students come from outside the Netherlands. The city of Maastricht is located near the borders of Belgium and Germany. This gives it a truly European feel, with a blend of diverse histories and cultures.

In 2025, UM was ranked number 132 globally.

Education studies and law were ranked 26th and 29th, respectively, in 2025.

University of Groningen (UG)

The University of Groningen is the second-oldest in the country, after Leiden. It was founded in 1614, focusing initially on theology, law, and medicine. It offers one of the broadest selections of programs across eleven faculties. It boasts a strong international student body, comprising both undergraduate and doctoral students. Like Nijmegen, the University of Groningen has a strong research focus. It boasts a high number of PhD candidates and published work.

Groningen itself is an attractive city with a historic center. It is both student and expat-friendly, combining small-town living with a hip city vibe.

In 2025, UG was ranked number 80 globally.

Arts and humanities (66th), psychology (41st), and business and economics (56th) are well regarded globally.

Wageningen University & Research (WUR)

If you’re interested in anything related to sustainability, agriculture, or the environment, WUR is a top choice. WUR was founded in 1918, initially focusing on agricultural sciences. Today, it specializes in life sciences and sustainable development.

It’s globally well ranked and has a very international outlook. Food technology and environmental science courses are offered at Wageningen. These courses are not standard across all Dutch universities. The small town of Wageningen is quiet, but it is a great base for expats. It is also close to the cities of Utrecht and Nijmegen.

WUR is ranked 67th globally.

Life sciences is ranked 16th globally at WUR. Social sciences are ranked 36th in the world.

MBAs in the Netherlands

If you’re already working and want to boost your career, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) might be on your radar. The Netherlands offers several internationally respected MBA programs. They are often flexible, great for working professionals.

Rotterdam School of Management (RSM), Erasmus University

One of the top-ranked MBAs in Europe (number 1 in the Benelux). The full-time program lasts 12 months. There are also Executive MBA and modular options.

Amsterdam Business School (UvA)

Offers part-time and executive MBA programs with a strong emphasis on sustainability and entrepreneurship. UvA is Triple Crown accredited. It was ranked number 65 globally in 2024.

The Hague University of Applied Sciences (THUAS)

Both part-time and full-time MBA programs are on offer at THUAS.

Maastricht School of Management (MSM)

Known for its diverse student body and global partnerships. Offers full-time, part-time, and blended MBA options. Ranked number 1 in the Netherlands and 8th in Europe.

Nyenrode Business University

A private business school near Utrecht with a strong Dutch network. It offers a full-time MBA in Amsterdam, as well as executive and modular MBAs.

Some Top Tips!

• Check for English programs. Most Master’s and MBA programs are offered in English, but always double-check on the university website.
• Look into scholarships. Some universities and the Dutch government offer scholarships for international students.
• Consider location. Cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Maastricht have a lot to offer. But smaller towns can provide a quieter and more affordable experience.
• Be prepared for group work. Dutch universities often emphasize teamwork and discussions over lectures and exams.
• Don’t forget the Open University. The Open Universiteit offers English-language studies. These can be combined with work and life commitments.

The Netherlands is a fantastic place to study, whether you’re pursuing a degree for the first time or getting an MBA. The universities are world-class, and the programs are accessible. The international appeal also makes it easy to feel at home.

The best part? There’s something here for every expat beyond studying. With the right program and location, you’ll not only gain a valuable education. You’ll also build a personal network and take the next steps in your life in the Netherlands.